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The Dark Retribution Series #1
Smitty's Calling Card
A cop is in desperate need of help. A serial killer, a true mastermind, has been on the loose for months, leaving no evidence behind. The task force assigned to catch him is at a loss, but the cop knows the killer's next his own sister-in-law. Desperate for a solution, the cop turns to a man with a reputation for getting the job Smitty, a legendary hitman with a hundred different names. As the clock ticks down, the cop and Smitty must team up to take down a killer who has eluded the police for too long. But can they outsmart the elusive serial killer and save the cop's sister-in-law before it's too late? Full of heart-pounding suspense and unexpected twists, B.R. Stateham's 'Smitty's Calling Card' will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.
- GenresThriller
340 pages, Paperback
Published June 1, 2023
42 people are currently reading
62 people want to read
About the author
B.R. Stateham
66 books194 followersI am a soon to be a seventy five year old writer of genre fiction. And yes, my portrait was used in 1931 for the original design of Boris Karloff's Frankenstein (well, maybe I'm stretching the truth just an itsy-bitsy bit).
I write hardboiled/noir. And fantasy. And someday . . . someday I plan to make a buck two ninety-five doing it. But I'm not holding my breath.
I write hardboiled/noir. And fantasy. And someday . . . someday I plan to make a buck two ninety-five doing it. But I'm not holding my breath.
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
October 4, 2019
Check out all of my reviews at: https://www.avonnalovesgenres.com
DARK RETRIBUTION: SMITTY’S CALLING CARD (Dark Retribution Book 1) by B.R. Stateham is a suspense/noir crime fiction book featuring Smitty, a mysterious P.I./hitman/fixer/spook with his own moral code and an almost paranormal ability to appear and disappear. There are several short stories featuring this character, but this is his first full length story and it is easily read as a standalone.
A modern-day Jack the Ripper is brutally killing prostitutes without leaving even the smallest of clues. One of the police officers working the case, Artie Jones knows the women being killed and are related on the job to his sister-in-law who is the leader of this group of working girls. To protect his sister-in-law, Artie decides to request the help of the mysterious Smitty.
Smitty is as much a mystery man as the killer. There is speculation and rumor about whether he is a P.I., a security consultant, a mob hitman or fixer, but no matter which is correct it is an absolute truth that he is a killing machine who never leaves any evidence behind.
As Smitty works the case, the killer becomes aware that he is now the hunted and he looks forward to a showdown with Smitty.
This is a fast-paced suspense crime read with a very intriguing new-to-me main character. I enjoy reading about a character that is as morally ambiguous as Smitty. A dark angel or knight is sometimes needed to fight evil. The plot moves at an increasingly fast pace to a climax that satisfies. This is a noir crime genre book with some stereotypes that may seem out-of-date, but can and should be expected in this type of genre book. I do wish that Mr. Stateham had not given Smitty’s elderly black snitch colloquial dialogue; it was not necessary in my opinion.
Overall, it is a great introduction to Smitty for readers and an interesting crime read. I will be looking for more stories about Smitty from this author in the future.
DARK RETRIBUTION: SMITTY’S CALLING CARD (Dark Retribution Book 1) by B.R. Stateham is a suspense/noir crime fiction book featuring Smitty, a mysterious P.I./hitman/fixer/spook with his own moral code and an almost paranormal ability to appear and disappear. There are several short stories featuring this character, but this is his first full length story and it is easily read as a standalone.
A modern-day Jack the Ripper is brutally killing prostitutes without leaving even the smallest of clues. One of the police officers working the case, Artie Jones knows the women being killed and are related on the job to his sister-in-law who is the leader of this group of working girls. To protect his sister-in-law, Artie decides to request the help of the mysterious Smitty.
Smitty is as much a mystery man as the killer. There is speculation and rumor about whether he is a P.I., a security consultant, a mob hitman or fixer, but no matter which is correct it is an absolute truth that he is a killing machine who never leaves any evidence behind.
As Smitty works the case, the killer becomes aware that he is now the hunted and he looks forward to a showdown with Smitty.
This is a fast-paced suspense crime read with a very intriguing new-to-me main character. I enjoy reading about a character that is as morally ambiguous as Smitty. A dark angel or knight is sometimes needed to fight evil. The plot moves at an increasingly fast pace to a climax that satisfies. This is a noir crime genre book with some stereotypes that may seem out-of-date, but can and should be expected in this type of genre book. I do wish that Mr. Stateham had not given Smitty’s elderly black snitch colloquial dialogue; it was not necessary in my opinion.
Overall, it is a great introduction to Smitty for readers and an interesting crime read. I will be looking for more stories about Smitty from this author in the future.
April 28, 2025
"I'm known by a dozen different names, friend!”
BR Stateman’s noir hit man, “Smitty” makes his full novel debut appearance in “Dark Retributions: Volume One” and to say that he is interesting and unique is a masterpiece of understatement. Consider a man standing in the middle of a square cornered by Isabel Allende’s Zorro, 1980s television’s The Equalizer, Preston and Child’s Aloysius Pendergast and Conan Doyle’s Sherlock Holmes. Add in just a tiny dash of something between preternatural and paranormal, the ability to come and go virtually unseen and unheard, the ability to smell what perhaps has no odor or to hear something that has made no sound, the reputation of being known by all while he remains under everyone’s radar, and you’ll get an idea of Smitty. Like The Equalizer, his services will be charged out at what the market will bear and his understanding of justice resembles Sherlock Holmes canny understanding that justice served is not always the same as justice in law. He is his own judge and jury and, when the situation warrants, the executioner.
Artie Jones and Joe Gallagher are just regular grunt police officers but they knew their superiors and the detectives assigned to the recent “new Jack the Ripper” serial murders were getting nowhere fast. This grisly killer was simply too good. When Gallagher came to the realization that the sequence of murder victims was pointing directly at Jones’ sister-in-law, a stunning high-priced call girl, he decided to risk his entire career by calling Smitty, admitting the police force’s defeat and asking for his help. As Sherlock would most assuredly have said, “The game was afoot” and the hunt was on.
From time to time, Stateham does gift his readers with moments of atmospheric, picturesque and, indeed, compelling descriptions of Smitty’s gritty, complex urban world. But, for the most part, (I dare say under the assumption that suspense thriller fans come pre-equipped with a stark, clear mental image of the other side of the tracks in a gritty big city like New York or Los Angeles), Dark Retributions focuses on character, dialogue and high-speed action. And it’s gripping stuff, to be sure. I have to admit that Stateham managed to pull me into the story from the very first moment and I devoured the novel in a scant two sittings. The characters are well-developed and, if they’re a little bit over the top, well, name a thriller author whose characters aren’t. Gallagher and Jones’ sister-in-law come alive. Philo Jenks, the nasty pimp and crime lord, is superbly portrayed as beyond evil and readers will definitely find themselves rooting for his demise with the turn of every page.
That’s the good news, but … there are always “buts”, aren’t there?
First, Dark Retributions is in desperate (and I really do mean desperate) need of an editor. Spelling errors, grammatical errors, and errors in sentence construction crop up so often as to be intensely distracting. If BR Stateham wants to take his place as a recognized writer of quality suspense thrillers, he simply has to find a way to make his output professional, clean and error-free.
Secondly, in my opinion at least, the solution to the crime and the plot resolution is problematic. While I managed to identify the serial killer at slightly under half-way through the story, the final key to the crime came as a deus ex machina revelation of a previously unknown player and the fact that virtually every character in the story knew the intimate details of the life of every other character. The only folks fully in the dark seemed to be Smitty, Gallagher and Jones. Ultimately, it worked but it just wasn’t convincing or satisfying.
So here’s the bottom line. Dark Retributions gets 3 stars (given that I found it enjoyable and a quick compelling read, I could hardly give it less) but it gets only a provisional recommendation. I’m pretty certain that Stateham’s plot development skills will improve and I’m anticipating that he’ll find that editor. I’m looking forward to trying out the sequel promised by the brilliant foreshadowing in the closing paragraphs.
Paul Weiss
BR Stateman’s noir hit man, “Smitty” makes his full novel debut appearance in “Dark Retributions: Volume One” and to say that he is interesting and unique is a masterpiece of understatement. Consider a man standing in the middle of a square cornered by Isabel Allende’s Zorro, 1980s television’s The Equalizer, Preston and Child’s Aloysius Pendergast and Conan Doyle’s Sherlock Holmes. Add in just a tiny dash of something between preternatural and paranormal, the ability to come and go virtually unseen and unheard, the ability to smell what perhaps has no odor or to hear something that has made no sound, the reputation of being known by all while he remains under everyone’s radar, and you’ll get an idea of Smitty. Like The Equalizer, his services will be charged out at what the market will bear and his understanding of justice resembles Sherlock Holmes canny understanding that justice served is not always the same as justice in law. He is his own judge and jury and, when the situation warrants, the executioner.
Artie Jones and Joe Gallagher are just regular grunt police officers but they knew their superiors and the detectives assigned to the recent “new Jack the Ripper” serial murders were getting nowhere fast. This grisly killer was simply too good. When Gallagher came to the realization that the sequence of murder victims was pointing directly at Jones’ sister-in-law, a stunning high-priced call girl, he decided to risk his entire career by calling Smitty, admitting the police force’s defeat and asking for his help. As Sherlock would most assuredly have said, “The game was afoot” and the hunt was on.
From time to time, Stateham does gift his readers with moments of atmospheric, picturesque and, indeed, compelling descriptions of Smitty’s gritty, complex urban world. But, for the most part, (I dare say under the assumption that suspense thriller fans come pre-equipped with a stark, clear mental image of the other side of the tracks in a gritty big city like New York or Los Angeles), Dark Retributions focuses on character, dialogue and high-speed action. And it’s gripping stuff, to be sure. I have to admit that Stateham managed to pull me into the story from the very first moment and I devoured the novel in a scant two sittings. The characters are well-developed and, if they’re a little bit over the top, well, name a thriller author whose characters aren’t. Gallagher and Jones’ sister-in-law come alive. Philo Jenks, the nasty pimp and crime lord, is superbly portrayed as beyond evil and readers will definitely find themselves rooting for his demise with the turn of every page.
That’s the good news, but … there are always “buts”, aren’t there?
First, Dark Retributions is in desperate (and I really do mean desperate) need of an editor. Spelling errors, grammatical errors, and errors in sentence construction crop up so often as to be intensely distracting. If BR Stateham wants to take his place as a recognized writer of quality suspense thrillers, he simply has to find a way to make his output professional, clean and error-free.
Secondly, in my opinion at least, the solution to the crime and the plot resolution is problematic. While I managed to identify the serial killer at slightly under half-way through the story, the final key to the crime came as a deus ex machina revelation of a previously unknown player and the fact that virtually every character in the story knew the intimate details of the life of every other character. The only folks fully in the dark seemed to be Smitty, Gallagher and Jones. Ultimately, it worked but it just wasn’t convincing or satisfying.
So here’s the bottom line. Dark Retributions gets 3 stars (given that I found it enjoyable and a quick compelling read, I could hardly give it less) but it gets only a provisional recommendation. I’m pretty certain that Stateham’s plot development skills will improve and I’m anticipating that he’ll find that editor. I’m looking forward to trying out the sequel promised by the brilliant foreshadowing in the closing paragraphs.
Paul Weiss
October 4, 2019
Check out all of my reviews at: https://www.avonnalovesgenres.com
DARK RETRIBUTION: SMITTY’S CALLING CARD (Dark Retribution Book 1) by B.R. Stateham is a suspense/noir crime fiction book featuring Smitty, a mysterious P.I./hitman/fixer/spook with his own moral code and an almost paranormal ability to appear and disappear. There are several short stories featuring this character, but this is his first full length story and it is easily read as a standalone.
A modern-day Jack the Ripper is brutally killing prostitutes without leaving even the smallest of clues. One of the police officers working the case, Artie Jones knows the women being killed and are related on the job to his sister-in-law who is the leader of this group of working girls. To protect his sister-in-law, Artie decides to request the help of the mysterious Smitty.
Smitty is as much a mystery man as the killer. There is speculation and rumor about whether he is a P.I., a security consultant, a mob hitman or fixer, but no matter which is correct it is an absolute truth that he is a killing machine who never leaves any evidence behind.
As Smitty works the case, the killer becomes aware that he is now the hunted and he looks forward to a showdown with Smitty.
This is a fast-paced suspense crime read with a very intriguing new-to-me main character. I enjoy reading about a character that is as morally ambiguous as Smitty. A dark angel or knight is sometimes needed to fight evil. The plot moves at an increasingly fast pace to a climax that satisfies. This is a noir crime genre book with some stereotypes that may seem out-of-date, but can and should be expected in this type of genre book. I do wish that Mr. Stateham had not given Smitty’s elderly black snitch colloquial dialogue; it was not necessary in my opinion.
Overall, it is a great introduction to Smitty for readers and an interesting crime read. I will be looking for more stories about Smitty from this author in the future.
DARK RETRIBUTION: SMITTY’S CALLING CARD (Dark Retribution Book 1) by B.R. Stateham is a suspense/noir crime fiction book featuring Smitty, a mysterious P.I./hitman/fixer/spook with his own moral code and an almost paranormal ability to appear and disappear. There are several short stories featuring this character, but this is his first full length story and it is easily read as a standalone.
A modern-day Jack the Ripper is brutally killing prostitutes without leaving even the smallest of clues. One of the police officers working the case, Artie Jones knows the women being killed and are related on the job to his sister-in-law who is the leader of this group of working girls. To protect his sister-in-law, Artie decides to request the help of the mysterious Smitty.
Smitty is as much a mystery man as the killer. There is speculation and rumor about whether he is a P.I., a security consultant, a mob hitman or fixer, but no matter which is correct it is an absolute truth that he is a killing machine who never leaves any evidence behind.
As Smitty works the case, the killer becomes aware that he is now the hunted and he looks forward to a showdown with Smitty.
This is a fast-paced suspense crime read with a very intriguing new-to-me main character. I enjoy reading about a character that is as morally ambiguous as Smitty. A dark angel or knight is sometimes needed to fight evil. The plot moves at an increasingly fast pace to a climax that satisfies. This is a noir crime genre book with some stereotypes that may seem out-of-date, but can and should be expected in this type of genre book. I do wish that Mr. Stateham had not given Smitty’s elderly black snitch colloquial dialogue; it was not necessary in my opinion.
Overall, it is a great introduction to Smitty for readers and an interesting crime read. I will be looking for more stories about Smitty from this author in the future.
September 17, 2019
Smitty is a character the author has written over thirty stories with, and this first longer novel is a great introduction for readers who haven't read anything yet. The story is classic crime fiction with a dash of noir, a generous helping of action adventure and great interactions between some really unsavory people.
I'll be going back to read the previous stories, and look forward to the next book in this series!
I'll be going back to read the previous stories, and look forward to the next book in this series!
December 30, 2018
This book always kept me guessing, even when I wasn’t reading it, I was always wondering who was who. Edge of your seat reading the whole way through. I loved it and would highly recommend you read it if you are looking for a thrill.
December 29, 2018
Really good action and pacing. It also seemed self-aware of exactly where it fell on the thriller/camp spectrum. A caveat: If you do not like tropes about (a) young, white, beautiful, female sex workers being bumped off by serial killers, (b) a self-effacing African-American sidekick or two who are the only characters who speak in eye dialect ("So, so very sorry fo' all dis. But I gots to go now. I gots to go!"), then this is not a story for you. Given that premise, though, this is overall a fun, light read. The scenario was carefully detailed, and the story takes off immediately.
I received a free copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
I received a free copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
October 2, 2019
Dark Retribution: Smitty’s Calling Card is the first book I’ve read by B.R. Stateham. As a Noir Crime novel, Mr. Stateham delivers everything I like about the genre, a Hardboiled Private Eye exposing the Seedy Underbelly of urban life filled with immoral characters driven by greed, lust, jealousies, revenge, and in Stateham’s novel a killer with a mental illness that taunts and spurs the murderer’s bloody crime spree reminiscent of Jack the Ripper. The novel revolves around one of the oldest professions, run by Charlene a beautiful, intelligent blond bombshell men lust for and some hate, especially the maniacal killer who’s targeted her as the next kill.
The police department is baffled by a string of brutal murders aimed at local prostitutes. The killer leaves no evidence or motive for the grisly murders. The murderer is literally a ghost. But after Artie Jones, an honorable cop discovers his sister-in-law, Charlene, who runs the prostitution ring to pay for medical school, is the killer’s next target, he’ll do anything to save her life. He believes “it would take a ghost to find a ghost. A killer to stop a killer.” But if the police force discovers he’s asked Smitty for help, he could lose his job.
Smitty, a security consultant/private detective, is as much a mystery on the street as the killer. Artie is desperate but torn with his decision to hire a man rumored to have mob connections. But who is Smitty? There are many unfounded rumors but no concrete answers about this elusive detective.
“Whenever a victim of a contract killing was found there wasn’t a single piece of evidence linking Smitty to anything. No video. No witnesses. No prints. No residual evidence. No one could pin anything illegal on this guy. All anyone could say for sure was the guy was an absolute merciless killing machine. He somehow could slip in, silence his victim, victim, and slip out and no one would know until hours later.”
Smitty swoops onto the local scene, finds a trustworthy sidekick, interrogates suspects, checking each off his list until he unearths the killer. And like a Navy seal, he seamlessly and brutally delivers justice, then eases out of the scene, unseen, and forever an enigma.
This Fast-Paced novel is filled with Action and Suspense and is never slow. The tone, typical of noir crime fiction, is Dark and Brooding, sometimes Atmospheric. I enjoyed Dark Retribution. It was a fun, fast read with a hard-boiled detective leaving me wanting more, to learn more about this man named Smitty. Well, I guess I’ll have the opportunity with Book 2.
https://edenisebillups.com/2019/10/02...
The police department is baffled by a string of brutal murders aimed at local prostitutes. The killer leaves no evidence or motive for the grisly murders. The murderer is literally a ghost. But after Artie Jones, an honorable cop discovers his sister-in-law, Charlene, who runs the prostitution ring to pay for medical school, is the killer’s next target, he’ll do anything to save her life. He believes “it would take a ghost to find a ghost. A killer to stop a killer.” But if the police force discovers he’s asked Smitty for help, he could lose his job.
Smitty, a security consultant/private detective, is as much a mystery on the street as the killer. Artie is desperate but torn with his decision to hire a man rumored to have mob connections. But who is Smitty? There are many unfounded rumors but no concrete answers about this elusive detective.
“Whenever a victim of a contract killing was found there wasn’t a single piece of evidence linking Smitty to anything. No video. No witnesses. No prints. No residual evidence. No one could pin anything illegal on this guy. All anyone could say for sure was the guy was an absolute merciless killing machine. He somehow could slip in, silence his victim, victim, and slip out and no one would know until hours later.”
Smitty swoops onto the local scene, finds a trustworthy sidekick, interrogates suspects, checking each off his list until he unearths the killer. And like a Navy seal, he seamlessly and brutally delivers justice, then eases out of the scene, unseen, and forever an enigma.
This Fast-Paced novel is filled with Action and Suspense and is never slow. The tone, typical of noir crime fiction, is Dark and Brooding, sometimes Atmospheric. I enjoyed Dark Retribution. It was a fun, fast read with a hard-boiled detective leaving me wanting more, to learn more about this man named Smitty. Well, I guess I’ll have the opportunity with Book 2.
https://edenisebillups.com/2019/10/02...
October 16, 2019
Dark Retribution is my first read from B.R. Stateham, and what a first impression! This novel delivers everything I look for in a Noir crime novel! Greed, lust and revenge with a unique main character and a killer that isn’t easy to guess. This novel reminded me of the story of Jack the Ripper, which I think was really intriguing.
The killer leaves no evidence or motive behind during a string of brutal murders aimed at local prostitutes. I found this aspect compelling because it made the killer that much more terrifying. B.R. Stateham’s writing is fast-paced, detailed and intriguing. I love the plot-line and am really impressed by the realism of this novel. Everything felt possible.
Smitty is a security consultant and private detective. He is about as elusive as the killer in the beginning with many rumors and no answers. I love him though. He keeps his mystery through the novel and still does his job.
Fast-paced, action-filled and suspenseful, Dark Retribution never slowed down. I love the dark atmosphere of the novel, and I thought it was super well-written. I’m looking forward to book two!
*I received a copy of this book as part of a blog tour with Blackthorn Book Tours. All opinions are my own.*
Find this review and more on my blog: https://www.jessicabelmont.wordpress.com
The killer leaves no evidence or motive behind during a string of brutal murders aimed at local prostitutes. I found this aspect compelling because it made the killer that much more terrifying. B.R. Stateham’s writing is fast-paced, detailed and intriguing. I love the plot-line and am really impressed by the realism of this novel. Everything felt possible.
Smitty is a security consultant and private detective. He is about as elusive as the killer in the beginning with many rumors and no answers. I love him though. He keeps his mystery through the novel and still does his job.
Fast-paced, action-filled and suspenseful, Dark Retribution never slowed down. I love the dark atmosphere of the novel, and I thought it was super well-written. I’m looking forward to book two!
*I received a copy of this book as part of a blog tour with Blackthorn Book Tours. All opinions are my own.*
Find this review and more on my blog: https://www.jessicabelmont.wordpress.com
October 3, 2019
Dark Retribution (Smitty’s Calling Card) is exactly what “sweet sauce” alludes to in the Noir Crime Fiction Genre.
Beautifully written with full-of-life dialogue and a fast-paced plot, that reflects social evils in which human fallibility is on full display. If Jack the Ripper had an alter ego, it would be none other than Dark Retribution.
Set in the dangerous world dominated by a serial killer who also wears the shadow of a for-hire private detective, Smitty; the author delivers sweeping suspense as a killing spree haunts the local sex workers, which the police are unable to contain.
The innumerable plot twists and mountains of suspense make the novel a must-read thriller!
Beautifully written with full-of-life dialogue and a fast-paced plot, that reflects social evils in which human fallibility is on full display. If Jack the Ripper had an alter ego, it would be none other than Dark Retribution.
Set in the dangerous world dominated by a serial killer who also wears the shadow of a for-hire private detective, Smitty; the author delivers sweeping suspense as a killing spree haunts the local sex workers, which the police are unable to contain.
The innumerable plot twists and mountains of suspense make the novel a must-read thriller!
July 8, 2019
Not a thriller for modern times. Highly repetitive and misogynistic descriptions of the main female character who's presence drives the plot and yet she doesn't have any say or agency in what happens to her or any of the other sex workers being blatantly and horrifically killed. Definitely doesn't pass the 'Sexy Lamp Test'.
August 15, 2019
Book Review
Basic Details:
Book Title: Smitty's Calling Card
Subtitle: Dark Retribution Book 1
Author: B. R. Stateham
Genre: Thriller, Crime
Part of a series? Yes
Order in series: 1
Best read after earlier books in series? No
Available: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/4...
Overall score:
I scored this book 4/5
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
Short Summary of the book:
There is a serial killer on the loose killing high-class prostitutes. Artie Jones is a police officer on the task force to find the killer and senses his sister-in-law is on the killer’s hit list. When he realises they may not bring the killer to justice before she falls a victim, he enlists the help of ‘Smitty’, an assassin. Will they be able to save her or will she become the next victim on the killer’s list?
What I liked about the book:
The book was interesting and a compelling read. The characters were put together well and worked.
What I didn’t like about the book:
The version of the book I read may well have been an early version now improved on. However, the version read contained many spelling and grammatical errors, words missing or words duplicated and was in desperate need of a further edit.
My favourite bits in the book:
This is difficult to decide as the book was enjoyable to a detective fan like me in its entirety.
My least favourite bits in the book:
The bits which annoyed me to no end at times was the poor grammar, spelling and sentences with extra or missing words.
Any further books in the series? Any more planned by this author?
The title suggests this is the first book in the series and I wonder if we will see more of Smitty in books to come. Hopefully, the author will be able to have the benefit of an editor in books to come. Even if this is only in the form of free editing tools available to authors and others.
What books could this be compared to and why?
This book is reminiscent of some of the action films around featuring the assassin as the goodie.
Recommendation:
In summary, I would recommend this book for the following readers:
Children No
Young Adult Maybe
Adult Yes
If you like crime and thrillers this book may be the book for you.
I look forward to reading more books by this author.
Book Description by Author:
He’s desperate. He knows his sister-in-law is the next victim. And even though he’s a cop assigned to the team built to hunt the killer down and arrest him, they’ve had no luck finding him.
How does he save his sister-in-law?
Sometimes to fight evil, you must flirt with the devil. Sometimes you need a killer to find a killer.
From the talented B R Stateham, this is Volume One of Dark Retribution.
About the Author:
Basic Details:
Book Title: Smitty's Calling Card
Subtitle: Dark Retribution Book 1
Author: B. R. Stateham
Genre: Thriller, Crime
Part of a series? Yes
Order in series: 1
Best read after earlier books in series? No
Available: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/4...
Overall score:
I scored this book 4/5
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
Short Summary of the book:
There is a serial killer on the loose killing high-class prostitutes. Artie Jones is a police officer on the task force to find the killer and senses his sister-in-law is on the killer’s hit list. When he realises they may not bring the killer to justice before she falls a victim, he enlists the help of ‘Smitty’, an assassin. Will they be able to save her or will she become the next victim on the killer’s list?
What I liked about the book:
The book was interesting and a compelling read. The characters were put together well and worked.
What I didn’t like about the book:
The version of the book I read may well have been an early version now improved on. However, the version read contained many spelling and grammatical errors, words missing or words duplicated and was in desperate need of a further edit.
My favourite bits in the book:
This is difficult to decide as the book was enjoyable to a detective fan like me in its entirety.
My least favourite bits in the book:
The bits which annoyed me to no end at times was the poor grammar, spelling and sentences with extra or missing words.
Any further books in the series? Any more planned by this author?
The title suggests this is the first book in the series and I wonder if we will see more of Smitty in books to come. Hopefully, the author will be able to have the benefit of an editor in books to come. Even if this is only in the form of free editing tools available to authors and others.
What books could this be compared to and why?
This book is reminiscent of some of the action films around featuring the assassin as the goodie.
Recommendation:
In summary, I would recommend this book for the following readers:
Children No
Young Adult Maybe
Adult Yes
If you like crime and thrillers this book may be the book for you.
I look forward to reading more books by this author.
Book Description by Author:
He’s desperate. He knows his sister-in-law is the next victim. And even though he’s a cop assigned to the team built to hunt the killer down and arrest him, they’ve had no luck finding him.
How does he save his sister-in-law?
Sometimes to fight evil, you must flirt with the devil. Sometimes you need a killer to find a killer.
From the talented B R Stateham, this is Volume One of Dark Retribution.
About the Author:
February 3, 2019
How far would you go to protect someone close to you? Would you call on the devil for assistance? When the police are struggling to apprehend a murderer whose signature is reminiscent of London’s Jack the Ripper, one cop does just that. He knows that sometimes, the only way to combat evil is with evil. Enter Smitty: A colder-than-ice assassin, and yet also, the ultimate contradiction. He kills without hesitation or regret, yet does all within his power to protect the innocent and vulnerable.
Prostitutes are being brutally murdered, and their killer leaves no trace and no clues. Smitty is asked to stop this fiend before he kills again. The cop has more of a stake in ending this killing spree than simply doing his job. Sources reveal his sister-in-law may be the killer’s next victim. Smitty works his way through the maze of suspects and potential victims, only to be drawn into a convoluted web of deceit and death. As the body count rises on all sides, no one could have ever imagined where Smitty’s investigation would lead.
In Dark Retribution, B.R. Stateham permits us to shadow the dark and elusive Smitty: Hope to the oppressed and living nightmare to the oppressor. B.R. has created for us a character who is neither superhuman nor supernatural, but who possesses an uncanny ability to sift through miscues and lies, and hone in on his intended target. Dark Retribution is a thriller that will lead you down a twisted and disturbing path, and you will relish every step of the journey.
Prostitutes are being brutally murdered, and their killer leaves no trace and no clues. Smitty is asked to stop this fiend before he kills again. The cop has more of a stake in ending this killing spree than simply doing his job. Sources reveal his sister-in-law may be the killer’s next victim. Smitty works his way through the maze of suspects and potential victims, only to be drawn into a convoluted web of deceit and death. As the body count rises on all sides, no one could have ever imagined where Smitty’s investigation would lead.
In Dark Retribution, B.R. Stateham permits us to shadow the dark and elusive Smitty: Hope to the oppressed and living nightmare to the oppressor. B.R. has created for us a character who is neither superhuman nor supernatural, but who possesses an uncanny ability to sift through miscues and lies, and hone in on his intended target. Dark Retribution is a thriller that will lead you down a twisted and disturbing path, and you will relish every step of the journey.
October 22, 2019
Disclaimer: I voluntarily read and reviewed a copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Thank you to Blackthorn Book Tours and Close to the Bone for this free copy.
Death, Violence
This was a pretty interesting introduction to the noir thriller genre and I’m glad for this opportunity. As a character, Smitty is definitely morally grey, and sometimes it’s hard to tell whether he’s really a good guy, or just good at playing good when he needs to be. Being a hit man would normally mean bad, right? But since he’s had some occasions of actually helping those that need helping. Think of him as a Batman that actually kills people, I guess. Well, not always but when he has to do some good in his life, that’s the vibe I get.
Since this was my first real introduction though, I felt like I didn’t really get into it like I wanted to, and maybe I need to be in a better mindset to understand the story line and all that. I think this was an okay attempt for a first full length novel, and I can’t wait to see how Stateham improves for the next part of the series.
Honestly this review is pretty short because I didn’t have much to say about it, either good or bad. It was pretty average and honestly nothing’s wrong with that. It was a good break from the fantasy that I was reading though.
Death, Violence
This was a pretty interesting introduction to the noir thriller genre and I’m glad for this opportunity. As a character, Smitty is definitely morally grey, and sometimes it’s hard to tell whether he’s really a good guy, or just good at playing good when he needs to be. Being a hit man would normally mean bad, right? But since he’s had some occasions of actually helping those that need helping. Think of him as a Batman that actually kills people, I guess. Well, not always but when he has to do some good in his life, that’s the vibe I get.
Since this was my first real introduction though, I felt like I didn’t really get into it like I wanted to, and maybe I need to be in a better mindset to understand the story line and all that. I think this was an okay attempt for a first full length novel, and I can’t wait to see how Stateham improves for the next part of the series.
Honestly this review is pretty short because I didn’t have much to say about it, either good or bad. It was pretty average and honestly nothing’s wrong with that. It was a good break from the fantasy that I was reading though.
October 16, 2019
A great start to a new series that I'm gonna really like, alot. When no one else seems to be able to solve the latest case, one of a serial killer, one of the cops investigating it puts his job on the line to get some help from a very unconventional source.
Smitty starts uncovering facts that some would rather keep buried and gains himself a new enemy. How many will die before they can stop the killer? Can he figure out who it is and can he stay alive in the process?
This book is exciting and fast paced and intriguing. With great characters a good story line and it just makes want to have book two in my hands now.
Smitty starts uncovering facts that some would rather keep buried and gains himself a new enemy. How many will die before they can stop the killer? Can he figure out who it is and can he stay alive in the process?
This book is exciting and fast paced and intriguing. With great characters a good story line and it just makes want to have book two in my hands now.
October 5, 2019
Great Read
Stateham pens a great story in Smitty's Calling Card. This is the first book in the author's Dark Retribution Series. First, Smitty is a one-of-a-kind character, dark, and gritty, with the intensity of humanity, even though he is a hitman. It's a very thrilling story, and I enjoyed reading it. The writer has a great writing style, and does a great job of showing there is no black and white between good and evil, sometimes there is that shade of gray that blurs the lines. This book is recommended by Amy's Bookshelf Reviews. I look forward to reading more by this author.
Stateham pens a great story in Smitty's Calling Card. This is the first book in the author's Dark Retribution Series. First, Smitty is a one-of-a-kind character, dark, and gritty, with the intensity of humanity, even though he is a hitman. It's a very thrilling story, and I enjoyed reading it. The writer has a great writing style, and does a great job of showing there is no black and white between good and evil, sometimes there is that shade of gray that blurs the lines. This book is recommended by Amy's Bookshelf Reviews. I look forward to reading more by this author.
November 24, 2024
Riveting
This was one of the best books I've read in a while. Could not out it down until finished in one Sitting. A book about an assassin who only kills bad people. A very compelling story
This was one of the best books I've read in a while. Could not out it down until finished in one Sitting. A book about an assassin who only kills bad people. A very compelling story
August 8, 2025
A very good and extremely interesting story well told.
The story was interesting will good characters providing a nice trip through the story with good characters in a very interesting plot.
The story was interesting will good characters providing a nice trip through the story with good characters in a very interesting plot.
August 3, 2025
A real turner!
Great story and Smitty is a good character. Story was suspenseful and well written. I will be reading next book in this series.
Great story and Smitty is a good character. Story was suspenseful and well written. I will be reading next book in this series.
Read
September 21, 2025Really good, but...
Hits all the right notes, if a bit surreal, ruined by the lack of a competent editor and abysmal ignorance of firearms
Hits all the right notes, if a bit surreal, ruined by the lack of a competent editor and abysmal ignorance of firearms
November 27, 2020
I liked the concept of this series opener-a man who everyone knows lurks on the fringe of society, who can be bought-for a price-as a vigilante cum private detective.
Smitty is an enigma which means he allows each reader to imprint their impression of him on the character, the deliberate act of leaving out specific details is a neat twist in a book which this reader felt was overly expositional.
The chase for a modern day Jack The Ripper who had slaughtered prostitutes in a similar enough fashion is not a new idea. However, I found myself getting frustrated with the pace, the character arcs and lack of a tight editing hand.
There were sentences which were missing words, huge gaps between the chapters of blank pages which made the book feel long than it was, and overly descriptive sentences which I found infuriating. In 3 sentences he explained what could have been achieved in one. This slowed down the pace of the narrative whilst trying to show that this was a noirish work of fiction.
The women were cast as side pieces to the story-the 'tart with a heart' murder victim or busty provocateur-but again, these were tropes that were poorly used and over egged throughout. If I had to read one more description of a woman wearing a dress which just begged to be torn off her, I was going to scream.
The narrative switches between the first person of the killer and third person of Artie -the detective who brings Smitty in when he is drawing a dead end on the investigation. But even then the killer was a cardboard cutout villain who lurked in the shadows and lacked depth.
This was not the worst characterisation, however, that was saved for the elderly black man who spoke in such a way that I winced and cannot bear to bring myself to repeat. It was meant to be street vernacular that reflectd the character's heritage but it came across as hacneyed and possibly racist.
I genuinely wish I could say I enjoyed it more, I really do. With a tighter hand on editing and better representation this could have been a better story. It could do with being perhaps a 100 pages shorter and much more noir than it was. As a series opener, I am not keen on reading any further, I cannot even remember who or how they solved the crime and that, in itself, says it all.
For a true noir read, I would recommend skipping over to any of the books which Fahrenheit13 publish, or stick with the classics like Dashiell Hammett,Raymond Chandler or even Donald E Westlake
I genuinely am so sorry that I am not the receptive reader that either author or publisher was hoping for, it may tick all the boxes for people reading this and if so, I genuinely hope that you enjoy it.
But this is my clear and honest opinion and it's purely mine as a reader-I remain grateful for the tour opportunity, and the gifted ebook.
Smitty is an enigma which means he allows each reader to imprint their impression of him on the character, the deliberate act of leaving out specific details is a neat twist in a book which this reader felt was overly expositional.
The chase for a modern day Jack The Ripper who had slaughtered prostitutes in a similar enough fashion is not a new idea. However, I found myself getting frustrated with the pace, the character arcs and lack of a tight editing hand.
There were sentences which were missing words, huge gaps between the chapters of blank pages which made the book feel long than it was, and overly descriptive sentences which I found infuriating. In 3 sentences he explained what could have been achieved in one. This slowed down the pace of the narrative whilst trying to show that this was a noirish work of fiction.
The women were cast as side pieces to the story-the 'tart with a heart' murder victim or busty provocateur-but again, these were tropes that were poorly used and over egged throughout. If I had to read one more description of a woman wearing a dress which just begged to be torn off her, I was going to scream.
The narrative switches between the first person of the killer and third person of Artie -the detective who brings Smitty in when he is drawing a dead end on the investigation. But even then the killer was a cardboard cutout villain who lurked in the shadows and lacked depth.
This was not the worst characterisation, however, that was saved for the elderly black man who spoke in such a way that I winced and cannot bear to bring myself to repeat. It was meant to be street vernacular that reflectd the character's heritage but it came across as hacneyed and possibly racist.
I genuinely wish I could say I enjoyed it more, I really do. With a tighter hand on editing and better representation this could have been a better story. It could do with being perhaps a 100 pages shorter and much more noir than it was. As a series opener, I am not keen on reading any further, I cannot even remember who or how they solved the crime and that, in itself, says it all.
For a true noir read, I would recommend skipping over to any of the books which Fahrenheit13 publish, or stick with the classics like Dashiell Hammett,Raymond Chandler or even Donald E Westlake
I genuinely am so sorry that I am not the receptive reader that either author or publisher was hoping for, it may tick all the boxes for people reading this and if so, I genuinely hope that you enjoy it.
But this is my clear and honest opinion and it's purely mine as a reader-I remain grateful for the tour opportunity, and the gifted ebook.
May 7, 2024
In Smitty's Calling Card: The Dark Retribution Series, B.R. Stateham crafts an intricate narrative threaded through the lives of several compelling characters. At the heart of the plot is Artie, a policeman who controversially enlists the aid of an outsider to solve a particularly perplexing case. This decision intertwines his fate with Smitty, a mysterious figure whose moral alignment is ambiguous, and Sarge, a former soldier entangled in a perilous romance that might endanger his beloved.
Stateham's characters are exceptionally well-drawn, boasting a depth that sustains interest and engagement. Notable among them are the enigmatic Smitty, the intriguing criminal Philo Jenkins, and Artie's affable partner, Joe Gallagher. Even peripheral characters like Doris add a rich layer to the narrative, enhancing the reader's investment in the story. The novel excels in tone and pacing—balancing gritty elements with well-timed levity, ensuring that the narrative propulsion never wanes. Stateham's world-building is equally praiseworthy, creating a setting that is as integral to the story as its characters. The plot is a whirlwind of action, marked by compelling confrontations and tender moments that build to a satisfying crescendo.
Smitty's Calling Card is a tightly woven tale that grips the reader from start to finish, highlighted by its robust character development and dynamic storytelling. It's a compelling addition to the crime thriller genre, and Stateham's skill ensures that the anticipation for subsequent installments is well-founded. I thoroughly enjoyed the book and am eager to continue with the series.
Stateham's characters are exceptionally well-drawn, boasting a depth that sustains interest and engagement. Notable among them are the enigmatic Smitty, the intriguing criminal Philo Jenkins, and Artie's affable partner, Joe Gallagher. Even peripheral characters like Doris add a rich layer to the narrative, enhancing the reader's investment in the story. The novel excels in tone and pacing—balancing gritty elements with well-timed levity, ensuring that the narrative propulsion never wanes. Stateham's world-building is equally praiseworthy, creating a setting that is as integral to the story as its characters. The plot is a whirlwind of action, marked by compelling confrontations and tender moments that build to a satisfying crescendo.
Smitty's Calling Card is a tightly woven tale that grips the reader from start to finish, highlighted by its robust character development and dynamic storytelling. It's a compelling addition to the crime thriller genre, and Stateham's skill ensures that the anticipation for subsequent installments is well-founded. I thoroughly enjoyed the book and am eager to continue with the series.
October 5, 2019
Dark Retribution is one of those murder mysteries that you can’t get out of your head. BK Stateham tells a grisly tale of murder and mayhem that can only be helped by a ghost of a man.
I wanted to love this book. The synopsis had me hooked, but the more I read, the more confused I got. Unsolvable murders are happening in the area, but the police can't figure out who is committing the crimes, even though there are so many strange circumstances surrounding the family of the next target of the murderer.
The novel is dark and violent. If you are into gristle and bloody murder mysteries, this one is for you. Unfortunately, I can’t help but feel as if the story lacked real magic outside of death and hysteria.
The setting was splendid, however. The dark warehouses, the shadows, the whole environment of the town is well written and detailed expertly. I wish I had felt as much pull with the characters.
I award Dark Retribution 3 out of 5 Stars. I think that those who love grisly murders will enjoy this book. I suggest giving it a try!
I wanted to love this book. The synopsis had me hooked, but the more I read, the more confused I got. Unsolvable murders are happening in the area, but the police can't figure out who is committing the crimes, even though there are so many strange circumstances surrounding the family of the next target of the murderer.
The novel is dark and violent. If you are into gristle and bloody murder mysteries, this one is for you. Unfortunately, I can’t help but feel as if the story lacked real magic outside of death and hysteria.
The setting was splendid, however. The dark warehouses, the shadows, the whole environment of the town is well written and detailed expertly. I wish I had felt as much pull with the characters.
I award Dark Retribution 3 out of 5 Stars. I think that those who love grisly murders will enjoy this book. I suggest giving it a try!
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