Retribution by Wendy Whitman

Release: July 25, 2023
Format: Paperback
Publisher: Post Hill Press
Source: Suzyapproved Book Tours
Find it at: Goodreads, Amazon, Kindle

After the shattering conclusion of Cary’s quest for justice for the victims of a suspected serial killer in Premonition, Retribution picks up with her cohorts continuing their own investigation to hunt down the person responsible for the heinous murders. The man the media has dubbed the “Deer Killer” continues to haunt bucolic Connecticut—but now, his true agenda has been revealed. As more innocents fall victim to his prey, Detective Hank Nowak’s father enters the picture, only to become entangled in the murderer’s diabolical plot. The past informs the present as Hank, private detective Vito Loggia, and Sergeant Joseph O’Malley race against the clock to stop the killings. Who will be next? More importantly, who will come out on top in this deadly game of vengeance?

About the Author:

Wendy Whitman has a unique background through her decades-long work as an executive and producer for Court TV and HLN, covering almost every major high-profile murder case in America. Through her knowledge of the most detailed aspects of the crimes, Ms. Whitman has become an expert on the subject of murder in America. Before attending Boston University School of Law, Whitman worked for comedians Lily Tomlin and George Carlin. After graduating from law school, the author embarked on what turned out to be a twenty-year career in television covering crime. She spent fifteen years at Court TV and another several at HLN for the Nancy Grace show, where she appeared on air as a producer/reporter covering high-profile cases. Whitman received three Telly Awards and two GLAAD nominations during her tenure at Court TV.

Wendy Whitman attended Tufts University, graduating with a degree in English and Photography. Her first book, Premonition, was published in 2021.

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Retribution Review:

Firstly, I want to express my appreciation for the captivating cat-and-mouse game the author has woven. Brandon, our sly antagonist, always stays one step ahead of Hank, Vito, and the rest, making their pursuit seem futile. I genuinely admire Brandon’s portrayal as the villain, mainly how the author paints him as the sharpest tool in the shed, a master of the game. The author also keeps us hooked with some genuinely astonishing moments, such as the discovery of the Driver’s License, the events at the funeral, and Brandon’s decisions concerning Cary. As the story unfolds, a sense of apprehension lingers as we witness Brandon’s next target.

Secondly, I appreciate how the author has portrayed Hank. Hank’s unique connection with Cary, one of Brandon’s victims, is beautifully depicted, and its impact on her is palpable. The introduction of characters like O’Malley, with whom Hank shares a tense professional relationship, and Vito, who exhibits a protective nature, adds depth to the story, infusing it with a range of emotions that Hank experiences.

Thirdly, I found Nowak’s role in the story to be intriguing. It’s fascinating to observe how Hank’s father plays a significant part in the narrative, and my heart goes out to him as we witness his internal conflict in doing what’s right. The author adeptly balances the emotional journeys of these characters, leaving us wondering about the story’s future trajectory. There are some shocking moments that I did not anticipate. The book concludes with an exhilarating cliffhanger that leaves me eagerly anticipating the release of the next installment.

In summary, “Retribution” is a welcome addition to “The Deer Killer” series. I admire the author’s skill in advancing the narrative.