The Retribution

By: Val McDermid

Narrated by: Gerard Doyle

Length: 12 hrs and 9 mins

Publisher's summary

World-class crime writer Val McDermid has sold millions of copies of her books worldwide. In The Retribution, clinical psychologist Tony Hill and detective Carol Jordan face a terrifying reality: Serial killer Jacko Vance has escaped imprisonment - and appears hell-bent on revenge against those who put him behind bars.

©2012 Val McDermid (P)2011 Recorded Books, LLC

Critic reviews

“Be very afraid as you meet a truly inventive serial killer. Val McDermid’s 25th novel is stunningly good.” ( Times(UK)

Author rips apart my hero, Tony Hill.

The author reduces Tony to a pathetic whimpering castrated man. And Carol? If I had the slightest dislike for her in the past, it's nothing compared to the raging inferno of hate I have now for the character now. Then there's the ending...which appears to end rather quickly. Maybe if the book hadn't dragged along (in some areas) like a two-legged dog, perhaps the climax would have been more interesting or satisfying. If you're going to reinsert Jacko into the Tony Hill universe, then do the guy a bit more justice. Jacko has some great moments, don't get me wrong. I just feel deflated by the ending. The author let me down. This includes her turning Tony into a pansy. (And if anyone remembers the night the warehouse was set ablaze in Seaford, the night Carol decided to NOT join her team, but rather stay searching for Jacko (before he was caught for murdering teenage girls), then you'd find issue with her blaming Tony for what happens in this latest book....can't say for what exactly...no spoilers. But she literally holds Tony at fault for something horrendous that happens to her.) I'm going to rewatch the TV series because I need Tony to matter and be great again.

Great series derailed

This series introduced me to Val McDermid. I was very impressed with her ability to disturb without being graphic. The characters were another plus, diverse and often surprising. This book has undone all those things. Carol Jordan is no longer admirable, just abusive. Dr. Hill isn't brilliant, simply pathetic. The narrator whining Tony's lines don't help that perception. The story, somewhat implausible but interesting, is the only plus. This isn't often the case but for me it was the only bright spot that kept me listening. I'm not sure it will be enough to move on to the next installment.

Great Series

I like to follow series. This is probably the most consistent in quality story to story. Thus far not a dud in the lot. I gave this one a 4 but for me the ending was not the best. I highly recommend this series for extended reading.

The Retribution.

Not Enough Johnny O . My favorite parts of the preceding book, Wire in The Blood., were the outrageous planning and egocentric comments by the protagonist. This book , I felt the best bits were not included. Ok book though. Still a fan .

Best one so far

Been reading all of the TH &CJ in order and this one brings a climax to relationships. Good read, page turner.

Fabulous!

Fantastic mystery – police procedural. Extremely well developed characters, intriguing and byzantine plot… absolutely addictive - highly recommended!

Best yet, but so sad...

Jacko Vance is the most evil creature! As a serial torturer and killer of young women he went undetected for years. Once in prison, he enjoys planning his revenge for the people responsible for his capture and conviction. Murder, disfigurement, and emotional pain are all dished out to his targets. He is truly diabolical.

In another episode with complicated personal and professional relationships, a new serial killer, and the mayhem accompanying Jacko's escape from prison, Tony Hill and Carol Jordan juggle it all. I think this is the best so far in the series.

Having read some of the prior episodes would add depth to much of the emotional pain in The Retribution, but I think it can stand alone as a worthwhile read.

I can't say much more without creating a big spoiler, but I was really sad when the story ended.

Gerard Doyle, as always, does an excellent job of narrating.

Typically good Carol Jordan/Tony Hill book

The serial killer from book #2 in the series — “Wire in the Blood” — escapes from prison and exacts vengeance on the main characters. Kind of a gimmicky, TV-like ending — I would've preferred the showdown between the killer and his final victim to be told in real-time rather than in hindsight and in more detail — but overall it’s a typically good Carol Jordan/Tony Hill book. Bechdel test: pass.

One of her best

Where does The Retribution rank among all the audiobooks you’ve listened to so far?

I am a fan of Val McDermid, and especially the Tony Hill, Carol Jordan works. This is one of her best, continuing the story of Tony, Carol and her team in Bradford.

Did the plot keep you on the edge of your seat? How?

Tony makes one of the worst mistakes of his life!

What does Gerard Doyle bring to the story that you wouldn’t experience if you just read the book?

Wonderful mastery of the characters.

If you were to make a film of this book, what would be the tag line be?

Not your average serial killer, take a friend to see it with you.

Just so wonderfully wicked....

Would you consider the audio edition of The Retribution to be better than the print version?

The audio is great because the narrator draws the listener in to the plot!

What other book might you compare The Retribution to and why?

There is no other writer that can compare to Val McDermid.

What about Gerard Doyle’s performance did you like?

He is gritty. Gerard Doyle is able to use many accents and inflections.

Was this a book you wanted to listen to all in one sitting?

YES!!! I immediately wanted the next book.