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Doyle & Acton #2
Murder in Retribution
Doyle is assisting Acton in investigating a turf war between the Russian mafia and a Sinn Fein splinter group, with the warring sides in a fight to the death over who will control a money-laundering operation at the local race course. The London CID is racking up a body count and Doyle can dredge up little sympathy for the victims—that is, until she notices there is very little forensic evidence at any of the scenes.
In the second book of the Murder series, Doyle and Acton find themselves trying to outwit enemies foreign and domestic as they work to untangle the reason that the underworld war has spun out of control.
In the second book of the Murder series, Doyle and Acton find themselves trying to outwit enemies foreign and domestic as they work to untangle the reason that the underworld war has spun out of control.
304 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 2014
333 people are currently reading
1465 people want to read
About the author
Anne Cleeland
36 books473 followersAnne Cleeland writes a contemporary Scotland Yard mystery series that is featured in the Amazon top 100 best sellers. She also writes a historical series of stand-alone books set in the Regency period. A member of International Thriller Writers, The Historical Novel Society, and Mystery Writers of America, she lives in California and has four children. www.annecleeland.com; @annecleeland.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 236 reviews
April 21, 2014
*SPOILER FREE*
If you remember my review of Murder in Thrall last year, you know that I rated that book one of my best reads of 2013.
Acton and Doyle despite their vague resemblance to Sherlock and Watson are one of the sexiest, most dysfunctional and scariest couple there is in fiction, and that sh*t is only gonna get darker in Murder in Retribution, ladies and gents.
I still have goose bumps thinking about this book. Kathleen and Michael's romance might not have been conventional previously, but now... In some parts of the book it left me speechless. Acton is a psychological dark and twisted pit, the depth of which we're only just starting to uncover along with Doyle. He is a sociopath, there is no doubt of it, maybe a psychopath, and he has an unshakeable fixation on Doyle. God help them both!
On the other hand, their dynamics keep reminding me of Nora Roberts' In Death series, maybe because the sheer magnetism of this couple is akin to Rourke and Eve's?
Murder in Retribution is a sinister book, which is underlined even better by Doyle's peculiar way of handling Acton and by his way of taking care of any threats to his beloved. Even Mundoz and Williams don't make it that much lighter although they are a pair of wonderful secondary characters. As usual, the police investigation into mafia wars in London connects all the dots perfectly in the end and stays secondary to the main focus on Acton and Doyle's personal development.
Perhaps the only thing I was missing here was the insight into Acton's mind which we had in the beginning of each chapter in Murder in Thrall. Please, Anne Cleeland, bring my favorite psycho back! A superb, albeit disturbing read, not for the fainthearted but highly recommended!
If you remember my review of Murder in Thrall last year, you know that I rated that book one of my best reads of 2013.
Acton and Doyle despite their vague resemblance to Sherlock and Watson are one of the sexiest, most dysfunctional and scariest couple there is in fiction, and that sh*t is only gonna get darker in Murder in Retribution, ladies and gents.
I still have goose bumps thinking about this book. Kathleen and Michael's romance might not have been conventional previously, but now... In some parts of the book it left me speechless. Acton is a psychological dark and twisted pit, the depth of which we're only just starting to uncover along with Doyle. He is a sociopath, there is no doubt of it, maybe a psychopath, and he has an unshakeable fixation on Doyle. God help them both!
On the other hand, their dynamics keep reminding me of Nora Roberts' In Death series, maybe because the sheer magnetism of this couple is akin to Rourke and Eve's?
Murder in Retribution is a sinister book, which is underlined even better by Doyle's peculiar way of handling Acton and by his way of taking care of any threats to his beloved. Even Mundoz and Williams don't make it that much lighter although they are a pair of wonderful secondary characters. As usual, the police investigation into mafia wars in London connects all the dots perfectly in the end and stays secondary to the main focus on Acton and Doyle's personal development.
Perhaps the only thing I was missing here was the insight into Acton's mind which we had in the beginning of each chapter in Murder in Thrall. Please, Anne Cleeland, bring my favorite psycho back! A superb, albeit disturbing read, not for the fainthearted but highly recommended!
April 16, 2019
4.75 stars.
I’m on holiday, will write the review after I return home! ❤️
I’m on holiday, will write the review after I return home! ❤️
November 20, 2014
The detective duo New Scotland Yard Chief Inspector Lord Acton and young Detectice Constable Kathleen Doyle braces the underworld to find the killers in a turf war between rival Russian and Irish organized crime syndicates in London.
Wealthy (Lord) Acton and charming Irish girl Kathleen Doyle also were initially secretly married. He is much older than her, to start off with, and then their class difference leads to severe opposition in the ranks of friends and foes alike when the news of their marriage breaks.
They work together like two peas in a pod, each leeching off the other as their needs demand. Apart from teaming up in investigations, they also have a personal situation to resolve, which might sink the shining new marital boat if pure, principled morals would be applied to the situation. Lord Acton's 'condition' demands a skilled tiptoeing through the tulips for Kathleen and leads to a serious dilemma for the young detective.
Comments: Meet Barbara Cartland - gone - Hercule Poirot on an unsuspecting twenty first century London. Kathleen, the fragile Irish rose, who constantly have all the men almost killing each other to protect her, tries to keep her attractive controlling new husband happy by doing what has to be done to keep him relaxed: on the floor, in the shower, on his office desk, in the car - you get the drift. She also has a special gift, probably an ancient Irish gene, which enables her to detect liars.
She constantly has to reprimand herself to not be such a baby, and delight in her own cuteness which have men drooling over her. And yes, with her hand on the Bible, she was a virgin until her marriage. Rejoice! Rejoice!
But don't underestimate her. Oh she can be tough, especially when she demands special privileges by pulling rank as Lady Acton, wife of Scotland Yard Chief Inspector Lord Acton. Let London tremble and shiver in her noble presence, dear old-fashioned Britain!
Well, there you have it. A modern fairy tale for wanna-be Ladies and Lords. The good news is that this book is the second in a series and has a cliffhanger ending, which means the joy will continue ad infinitum.
Overall it is very well-written and has a much more sinister plot than the usual detective dramas. The plot is complex and the characters convincing - if you value this kind of utopia, and can survive the moral dilemma in the book...
It was okay.
August 9, 2014
One of the most thrilling discoveries for a mystery genre reader is that of a new series. That has indeed been my pleasure with the New Scotland Yard series by Anne Cleeland. I was most fortunate to receive an advanced copy of the second in this series, Murder in Retribution, and reading it has cemented my addiction to the characters of Chief Inspector Michael Acton and Detective Constable Kathleen Doyle as they work together both professionally and personally. I think Cleeland's real gift in this series is its unexpected bluntness of events, an original approach that ignores the normal unfolding of life and relationships. I am hopelessly hooked, just as Acton is with Doyle.
In this second novel of the series, the husband and wife team of Acton and Doyle become involved in the underworld murders in London that seem to be a tit-for-tat turf war affair. It's a dangerous matter of investigation, and as seems to be the norm for the anything but normal couple, the investigation turns personal. Acton has his own interests in bringing to justice certain criminal elements, and Doyle becomes a sitting duck for a most callous killer. Even the brilliant Acton can't anticipate the insidious plan of attack that ensues.
Anne Cleeland has created a captivating series full of intrigue and originality. The delightfully witty dialogue of her characters is not limited to the main characters' give and take of intellectual sharpness and Irish good humor. The entire cast is gifted with clever quips and interplay. I find myself rereading dialogue in various scenes just to experience the satisfaction of it again. Doyle is perhaps the most gifted, as even in dire circumstances, she seems to be capable of seeing the irony or insanity of it. And, her understanding of and acceptance of Acton's special problem is most welcome, as the reader doesn't have to spend time wading through misunderstandings and immature relationship issues.
So, it is with unrestrained enthusiasm that I endorse and recommend Anne Cleeland's novel Murder in Retribution, due out the end of July. I encourage pre-ordering it to ensure a quick arrival. And, if the first in the series, Murder in Thrall, hasn't been read, it's a must to enjoy the full impact of the Acton/Doyle partnership. I confess that, even though I'd already read the first book, I went back and reread it before delving into the second. Now, you know just how much I am enraptured by these novels.
In this second novel of the series, the husband and wife team of Acton and Doyle become involved in the underworld murders in London that seem to be a tit-for-tat turf war affair. It's a dangerous matter of investigation, and as seems to be the norm for the anything but normal couple, the investigation turns personal. Acton has his own interests in bringing to justice certain criminal elements, and Doyle becomes a sitting duck for a most callous killer. Even the brilliant Acton can't anticipate the insidious plan of attack that ensues.
Anne Cleeland has created a captivating series full of intrigue and originality. The delightfully witty dialogue of her characters is not limited to the main characters' give and take of intellectual sharpness and Irish good humor. The entire cast is gifted with clever quips and interplay. I find myself rereading dialogue in various scenes just to experience the satisfaction of it again. Doyle is perhaps the most gifted, as even in dire circumstances, she seems to be capable of seeing the irony or insanity of it. And, her understanding of and acceptance of Acton's special problem is most welcome, as the reader doesn't have to spend time wading through misunderstandings and immature relationship issues.
So, it is with unrestrained enthusiasm that I endorse and recommend Anne Cleeland's novel Murder in Retribution, due out the end of July. I encourage pre-ordering it to ensure a quick arrival. And, if the first in the series, Murder in Thrall, hasn't been read, it's a must to enjoy the full impact of the Acton/Doyle partnership. I confess that, even though I'd already read the first book, I went back and reread it before delving into the second. Now, you know just how much I am enraptured by these novels.
July 14, 2015
I didn't read the first book, so maybe I am missing something, but I thought this book was awful. I abandoned it after the first couple of chapters. Hated the female characters and thought they were just too deferential to the feelings of the make characters.
The female leads just were not strong, and it irritated the crap out of me. Not plausible and some of the scenes were so poorly done it was laughable.
The female leads just were not strong, and it irritated the crap out of me. Not plausible and some of the scenes were so poorly done it was laughable.
October 18, 2019
I absolutely love the heroine of this book. She is funny, intelligent, intuitive and discerning. While Acton is not funny, cunning and is a law on to himself. They make a good team as crime fighters and as a husbsnd & wife. The writing and the mystery is well crafted and very engaging and entertaining to read.
February 16, 2015
Anne Cleeland continues one of the best mystery series around today with her second novel following the introduction of Chief Inspector Michael Sinclair and rookie detective Kathleen Doyle in Murder in Thrall. The two main characters are the most engaging couple I have met in a long time. The two are married after a cataclysmic meeting when Doyle was shot and her wayward father murdered. Now, they must let the rest of the team in on their secret. Office politics quickly become secondary when a rash of underworld murders disturbs the austereness of London's upper crust. Doyle is Irish and her youthfulness belies her innate ability to see beyond the façade of others, while Lord Acton is proper, purposeful, and obsessed with Doyle. The chemistry between the two is electrifying!
Doyle is not appreciated by her husband's family, but sets out to solve the mystifying case of a turf war that turned up dead bodies at an alarming rate. She is genuine and has a unique way of voicing her opinions. She discovers members of a Russian Mafia and an Irish terrorist group are fighting for control of a lucrative underground business and their retaliating acts of revenge are almost too much for Scotland Yard.
Anne manages to set the private lives of Michael and Doyle apart from the whirlwind of death and destruction that lies in wait at every corner. In one scene, a fellow detective is lured to a bridge and stabbed, falling into icy waters. Doyle doesn't hesitate, but empties her backpack and using it as a floating device, rescues her friend. The undercurrent, however, is the abiding love between Lord Acton and Doyle. When she realizes that there is a seam in her husband that metes out his own brand of justice, she must recognize there is Murder in Retribution. This is a compelling series and one of the best reads I have enjoyed for quiet awhile.
Doyle is not appreciated by her husband's family, but sets out to solve the mystifying case of a turf war that turned up dead bodies at an alarming rate. She is genuine and has a unique way of voicing her opinions. She discovers members of a Russian Mafia and an Irish terrorist group are fighting for control of a lucrative underground business and their retaliating acts of revenge are almost too much for Scotland Yard.
Anne manages to set the private lives of Michael and Doyle apart from the whirlwind of death and destruction that lies in wait at every corner. In one scene, a fellow detective is lured to a bridge and stabbed, falling into icy waters. Doyle doesn't hesitate, but empties her backpack and using it as a floating device, rescues her friend. The undercurrent, however, is the abiding love between Lord Acton and Doyle. When she realizes that there is a seam in her husband that metes out his own brand of justice, she must recognize there is Murder in Retribution. This is a compelling series and one of the best reads I have enjoyed for quiet awhile.
April 5, 2018
** 3.5 Stars **
I didn’t like this book quite as much as the first book, sometimes the heroine can be a tad annoying with the way she reprimands herself constantly in her head for doing normal things and how she is portrayed as a devout Catholic but seems to have no issue with her husband killing people and doing illegal things.
I didn’t like this book quite as much as the first book, sometimes the heroine can be a tad annoying with the way she reprimands herself constantly in her head for doing normal things and how she is portrayed as a devout Catholic but seems to have no issue with her husband killing people and doing illegal things.
February 14, 2016
4.25 stars
Acton does not play when it comes to avenging his wife. I do love that. Acton & Doyle make a good pair. Mystery was good. I enjoy the closeness between them (sex still fade to black).
Acton does not play when it comes to avenging his wife. I do love that. Acton & Doyle make a good pair. Mystery was good. I enjoy the closeness between them (sex still fade to black).
September 19, 2019
This little book gets 5 stars because I read the first half of it yesterday. On the couch. While the window installers made the most unholy racket with drills and a sawzall. With all that’s going on in this chaotic house this book was an oasis.
At first I wasn’t into it. Wasn’t sure where the story was going. I totally solved the murder out the gate. But Acton’s actions were much more interesting than any murder. Truth be told - I thought Cleeland would rein him in. I’m insatiably curious about where things go from here since she didn’t.
Bit of an anti-hero isn’t he?
At first I wasn’t into it. Wasn’t sure where the story was going. I totally solved the murder out the gate. But Acton’s actions were much more interesting than any murder. Truth be told - I thought Cleeland would rein him in. I’m insatiably curious about where things go from here since she didn’t.
Bit of an anti-hero isn’t he?
October 25, 2023
Still loving this series!
We pick up not long after the last book. Acton is at his Machiavellian best in this one! Pulling strings and doing dirty deeds behind the scenes.
Doyle is pregnant and has a lot of morning sickness (except all day... not just mornings). But her sickness takes a turn for the worst
Doyle and Acton are pretty quirky characters and not perfect. But they are also very engaging and are so devoted to each other that for me, the stories just swim in a romantic fog. And this is despite Acton's dark side that still remains mostly in secret.
So there's a rash of Irish/Russian mob violence and then there's also Doyle's illness driving this book.
There's an other man interested in Doyle, but I never doubted Doyle's devotion to Acton. There's a woman interested in Acton too of course... she gets dealt with ; )
So violence safety is pretty good
Romance safety is fine
We pick up not long after the last book. Acton is at his Machiavellian best in this one! Pulling strings and doing dirty deeds behind the scenes.
Doyle is pregnant and has a lot of morning sickness (except all day... not just mornings). But her sickness takes a turn for the worst
Doyle and Acton are pretty quirky characters and not perfect. But they are also very engaging and are so devoted to each other that for me, the stories just swim in a romantic fog. And this is despite Acton's dark side that still remains mostly in secret.
So there's a rash of Irish/Russian mob violence and then there's also Doyle's illness driving this book.
There's an other man interested in Doyle, but I never doubted Doyle's devotion to Acton. There's a woman interested in Acton too of course... she gets dealt with ; )
So violence safety is pretty good
Romance safety is fine
May 12, 2014
I was a big fan of "Murder in Thrall" so couldn't wait to get my hands on book #2. Police procedurals are my favourite genre & the ones I've enjoyed the most have a couple of things in common: a smart, complex plot & characters that are interesting & fully realized. This series delivers.
DC Kathleen Doyle & DCI Michael Acton are the most compelling pair/detectives I've come across in a while. In this instalment, news of their quicky wedding is out & the reaction from her colleagues is just one more thing for Doyle to deal with. She's pregnant & for her, morning sickness is a 24/7 occupation. She's also worried about the effect motherhood will have on her career. Acton yanked her off the last case when things became a little too hot. As a result, one of her coworkers got the glory & a promotion.
Now, London is in the middle of a turf war between Russian & Irish gangs & the body count is rising. There are rumours it's related to the murder of an Irishman a few months ago (1st book) but Doyle has her doubts & with good reason. She killed the man responsible. After Acton disappeared the body, no one was the wiser.
This aspect of the plot is very complex & has its' roots in the previous novel. The cast is large with many of the characters concealing hidden agendas & relationships. Doyle was not completely honest with Acton during that case & now worries a little white lie has led to murder. After all, she's the only one aware of his "condition".
Most of the characters have returned. Williams is now a DS & strangely disproving of Doyle's marriage. Munoz, pissed about that & his promotion, continues to hone her ambition while hunting for a wealthy boyfriend. And DCI Drake is still the king of smarm. My favourite new character has to be Reynolds, Acton's house keeper/butler. He is immediately thrown into dramatic circumstances but maintains a stiff upper lip & delivers droll, understated lines that are hilarious.
There are several subplots involving these characters but the two main story lines are the police investigation & our newlyweds' relationship. In terms of the investigative angle, it's almost impossible to summarize. This author plays the long game & seeds of current events were planted in the first book. Names that were casually mentioned & affiliations that seemed insignificant are suddenly in the spotlight, putting a different spin on what you thought you knew.
It also bleeds over into Doyle & Acton's home life. These are two people who led solitary lives 'til now & they're still feeling their way in this marriage thing. Doyle is young, smart but naive in many ways. Her Irish heritage "gifted" her with an internal lie detector which comes in handy on the job but can be overwhelming in social situations. She takes her Catholic faith seriously which leaves her conflicted over some of Acton's activities. But she never doubts he loves her deeply.
As for Acton, well...he's crazy for her. Literally. He's admitted his Section 7 status, meaning that when it comes to Doyle, he's just this side of creepy stalker guy. In this book we get a closer look at his pathology & it's not pretty. Even he wonders if therapy might not be a good idea. After one particular scene near the end that made my jaw drop, I began to agree with him.
He's a fascinating character. Wealthy, respected & sophisticated, he & Doyle might as well be from different planets. Social status alone should guarantee the relationship is doomed & even Doyle's priest has his doubts. What makes it work is their mutual understanding of what it's like to have a secret that renders you an outcast. Separately they are insular people adept at maintaining a facade. Together, they just about make one functional person.
And before it's all over, Doyle will realize it's not the criminals in her day job that are the most deadly.
Just as an aside, in the first book each chapter opened with a short passage in Acton's voice & I missed those here. It was the only time we got to hear his unfiltered & unguarded thoughts & gave the reader great insight into his little problem.
Overall, this is an engrossing & satisfying read. It's darker than book #1 & the continuing character development made me even more invested in these people. I would not recommend it as a stand alone as knowledge of past events is necessary to truly understand what's going on in all aspects of the story.
Because of how it ends, I'm almost afraid to find out what happens next. But I also can't wait.
DC Kathleen Doyle & DCI Michael Acton are the most compelling pair/detectives I've come across in a while. In this instalment, news of their quicky wedding is out & the reaction from her colleagues is just one more thing for Doyle to deal with. She's pregnant & for her, morning sickness is a 24/7 occupation. She's also worried about the effect motherhood will have on her career. Acton yanked her off the last case when things became a little too hot. As a result, one of her coworkers got the glory & a promotion.
Now, London is in the middle of a turf war between Russian & Irish gangs & the body count is rising. There are rumours it's related to the murder of an Irishman a few months ago (1st book) but Doyle has her doubts & with good reason. She killed the man responsible. After Acton disappeared the body, no one was the wiser.
This aspect of the plot is very complex & has its' roots in the previous novel. The cast is large with many of the characters concealing hidden agendas & relationships. Doyle was not completely honest with Acton during that case & now worries a little white lie has led to murder. After all, she's the only one aware of his "condition".
Most of the characters have returned. Williams is now a DS & strangely disproving of Doyle's marriage. Munoz, pissed about that & his promotion, continues to hone her ambition while hunting for a wealthy boyfriend. And DCI Drake is still the king of smarm. My favourite new character has to be Reynolds, Acton's house keeper/butler. He is immediately thrown into dramatic circumstances but maintains a stiff upper lip & delivers droll, understated lines that are hilarious.
There are several subplots involving these characters but the two main story lines are the police investigation & our newlyweds' relationship. In terms of the investigative angle, it's almost impossible to summarize. This author plays the long game & seeds of current events were planted in the first book. Names that were casually mentioned & affiliations that seemed insignificant are suddenly in the spotlight, putting a different spin on what you thought you knew.
It also bleeds over into Doyle & Acton's home life. These are two people who led solitary lives 'til now & they're still feeling their way in this marriage thing. Doyle is young, smart but naive in many ways. Her Irish heritage "gifted" her with an internal lie detector which comes in handy on the job but can be overwhelming in social situations. She takes her Catholic faith seriously which leaves her conflicted over some of Acton's activities. But she never doubts he loves her deeply.
As for Acton, well...he's crazy for her. Literally. He's admitted his Section 7 status, meaning that when it comes to Doyle, he's just this side of creepy stalker guy. In this book we get a closer look at his pathology & it's not pretty. Even he wonders if therapy might not be a good idea. After one particular scene near the end that made my jaw drop, I began to agree with him.
He's a fascinating character. Wealthy, respected & sophisticated, he & Doyle might as well be from different planets. Social status alone should guarantee the relationship is doomed & even Doyle's priest has his doubts. What makes it work is their mutual understanding of what it's like to have a secret that renders you an outcast. Separately they are insular people adept at maintaining a facade. Together, they just about make one functional person.
And before it's all over, Doyle will realize it's not the criminals in her day job that are the most deadly.
Just as an aside, in the first book each chapter opened with a short passage in Acton's voice & I missed those here. It was the only time we got to hear his unfiltered & unguarded thoughts & gave the reader great insight into his little problem.
Overall, this is an engrossing & satisfying read. It's darker than book #1 & the continuing character development made me even more invested in these people. I would not recommend it as a stand alone as knowledge of past events is necessary to truly understand what's going on in all aspects of the story.
Because of how it ends, I'm almost afraid to find out what happens next. But I also can't wait.
May 14, 2014
I won this book from First Reads and this is my honest review:
Anne Cleeland has another winner in the second book in the Scotland Yard Mystery series, Murder in Retribution. The reader is treated to an excellent, multi plot mystery thriller; insights into the crime analysis and detection process; the building relationships of a newly formed “marriage of Detective Chief Inspector Lord Ashley and Detective Constable Doyle and their Scotland Yard team. We see Lord Ashley as a mentor to his new wife and share their intimate moments together in love and life and death struggles. I found this an interesting, well written and most enjoyable read.
Anne Cleeland has another winner in the second book in the Scotland Yard Mystery series, Murder in Retribution. The reader is treated to an excellent, multi plot mystery thriller; insights into the crime analysis and detection process; the building relationships of a newly formed “marriage of Detective Chief Inspector Lord Ashley and Detective Constable Doyle and their Scotland Yard team. We see Lord Ashley as a mentor to his new wife and share their intimate moments together in love and life and death struggles. I found this an interesting, well written and most enjoyable read.
January 15, 2017
oh my....Acton will slay dragons for Doyle....daaaaayyyyuuuummmm.....Love this book and Acton
November 1, 2023
Dark but thrilling read. Very unusual couple both with secrets, his dark hers not so much. Their love life is dramatic and sexy.
June 23, 2014
Having read the first in this new series I was almost desperate to get my hands on an ARC of the second book when I attended Left Coast Crime and saw some book bags included Murder in Retribution. Fortunately my wish was granted and I was able to read this in ARC form.
My feverish desire for this book were rewarded with an excellent read. Lord Acton and Doyle are truly unique characters and that is saying something from someone who has read mysteries for over 50 years. I love how this series seems a police procedural with a touch of thriller about them, yet they are so much more. These books are character driven and the characters, main and secondary, are all vivid and jump off the page.
Murder in Retribution had me on the edge of my seat from first page to last and made me gasp as an action by one character was so shocking I had to go back and read the page again to make sure I had gotten it right. With a strong plot and many twists, this book takes the reader on an emotional ride that not only keeps you turning the page, but makes you feel bereft when the book is over and you know there will be a long wait for the next one.
My feverish desire for this book were rewarded with an excellent read. Lord Acton and Doyle are truly unique characters and that is saying something from someone who has read mysteries for over 50 years. I love how this series seems a police procedural with a touch of thriller about them, yet they are so much more. These books are character driven and the characters, main and secondary, are all vivid and jump off the page.
Murder in Retribution had me on the edge of my seat from first page to last and made me gasp as an action by one character was so shocking I had to go back and read the page again to make sure I had gotten it right. With a strong plot and many twists, this book takes the reader on an emotional ride that not only keeps you turning the page, but makes you feel bereft when the book is over and you know there will be a long wait for the next one.
April 1, 2018
In Anne Cleeland's book, Murder in Retribution, Kathleen Doyle and Lord Acton find out that 'retribution may be best left to fate'. When a rash of underworld murders shatters London's normally austere facade, Doyle sets out to investigate the escalating turf war. Doyle uncovers a seedy world where fractious member of the Russian mafia and an Irish terrorist group are fighting for control of a lucrative underground business. Doyle and Acton's married relationship has now come to light at the CID Headquarters and the gossip is flying. Thank goodness for all the murders as the attention is drawn away from them.
I still am wondering about this relationship between Doyle and Acton. In the first book of the series Acton is stalking Doyle and in this book Acton is murdering those who get in his wife's way. I don't think I will be continuing with this Romantic/Mystery series because of this strange relationship. I think Anne Cleeland needs to rethink this relationship as it may turn off readers. I know it has done that to me but I suggest that you may want to read this series for yourself and see how you feel about it.
I still am wondering about this relationship between Doyle and Acton. In the first book of the series Acton is stalking Doyle and in this book Acton is murdering those who get in his wife's way. I don't think I will be continuing with this Romantic/Mystery series because of this strange relationship. I think Anne Cleeland needs to rethink this relationship as it may turn off readers. I know it has done that to me but I suggest that you may want to read this series for yourself and see how you feel about it.
February 27, 2019
I can't believe how incredibly annoying and dislikable Doyle is. She is an awful h, just awful. I tried so hard to like her but she sucks. As a police officer, she is totally incompetent. As a wife, she does nothing but tell Acton he is overreacting. Her inner musings are painful to listen to because they are just complaints about everything. When you need her to stand up for herself, she does nothing but when she needs to use more finesse, she is blurting out ridiculous and inappropriate comments. I am completely lost as to why Doyle is so blase about Acton's extracurricular activities. She claims to be religious but overlooks so much bad stuff done by her husband without a second thought. The only really attractive woman in the force is selfish, snobby, and uses her looks to get what she wants. The only Middle Eastern person in the force is not written any better either. Can't even tell you what the police investigation was in this one. It was so lost. I have to say Doyle is not a good character for Acton. She possesses no likable qualities. Don't even get me started on the way she talks. I am confused most of the time she says anything.
September 7, 2014
I'm not sure why I put myself through this. The author clearly thinks she's still writing Regencies. The odd, obsessive relationship of the main characters completely overshadows the "mystery" to the point that you totally lose track of the plot - and I won't even talk about our hero's occasional forays outside the law. There's a third one of these in the works, but I think I've had enough.
February 5, 2021
There is something a little creepy about the relationship between Doyle and Acton in this series. I can’t imagine being married to a man who is totally obsessed by me. I find it hard to believe that the relationship will continue to be as intense, but I am enjoying reading each book to see how things turn out for them. Acton’s secretive nature and Doyle’s intuitive one makes a wonderful combination.
I also enjoy all the other characters – Doyle’s co-worker, Munoz with her jealousy of Doyle’s having landed Acton as a husband, the new butler Reynolds, and Dr. Timothy McGonigal to name a few. The mysteries in each book are also good – in this outing the Russian Mob and an Irish terrorist group are having a turf war. On top of that, someone seems to be after Doyle. Could it possibly be Acton’s mother who despises his new bride? This is a terrific English mystery series with a dash of romance thrown in. Can’t wait for the next book!
I also enjoy all the other characters – Doyle’s co-worker, Munoz with her jealousy of Doyle’s having landed Acton as a husband, the new butler Reynolds, and Dr. Timothy McGonigal to name a few. The mysteries in each book are also good – in this outing the Russian Mob and an Irish terrorist group are having a turf war. On top of that, someone seems to be after Doyle. Could it possibly be Acton’s mother who despises his new bride? This is a terrific English mystery series with a dash of romance thrown in. Can’t wait for the next book!
March 28, 2022
Second book in the series. My thoughts
- the mystery wasn’t as strong in this book as in the first
- Doyle is annoying, but I have to say, I she’s really growing on me.
- Lord Acton is… a sociopath, psychopath, Dexter, all rolled into one
- There’s all sorts of moral and ethical lapses by all the people in this book and 🤷🏾♀️🤷🏾♀️🤷🏾♀️
Doyle and Acton’s marriage is as dysfunctional as you can get, but it works for them and it works for the book.
Munoz and Williams are going to be great secondary characters when they hit their stride.
I’m liking these books so far 😎😎😎
- the mystery wasn’t as strong in this book as in the first
- Doyle is annoying, but I have to say, I she’s really growing on me.
- Lord Acton is… a sociopath, psychopath, Dexter, all rolled into one
- There’s all sorts of moral and ethical lapses by all the people in this book and 🤷🏾♀️🤷🏾♀️🤷🏾♀️
Doyle and Acton’s marriage is as dysfunctional as you can get, but it works for them and it works for the book.
Munoz and Williams are going to be great secondary characters when they hit their stride.
I’m liking these books so far 😎😎😎
October 12, 2019
The books in this series are getting better and better.
July 7, 2021
Another Intruiging Read
These stories are addictive. Very intruiging, and highly interesting characters. Acton and Doyle are not your typical married couple. I'm still not entirely sure what I think of them, but I am ready for book 3!
These stories are addictive. Very intruiging, and highly interesting characters. Acton and Doyle are not your typical married couple. I'm still not entirely sure what I think of them, but I am ready for book 3!
August 23, 2014
I'm so happy this book is out, I'm so happy this book is out!
Second book in the series, and better than the first, which is saying quite a lot. We see more of the relationship between Doyle and Acton while they deal with a rash of murders and a domestic mystery. It's nearly impossible to talk a lot about the book without being very "spoilery", so I'll just say you need to pay very careful attention to what is said by all the characters to figure out the mystery early.
I loved the plot and pacing. Ms. Cleeland did a masterful job of weaving the various story lines together. We had a very nice little sub-plot going with DS Williams, and there was some very nice character development with DC Munoz. The dialogue and relationships between the officers feel very real and I can imagine hanging around the bullpen or having lunch at the deli with them. They come to life and are real in a way that many authors do not manage. They story did not ever drag, and kept a nice drumbeat of action driving to the final resolution.
I am very happy to have read this book and already have the next book, Murder in Hindsight queued up on my auto-buy list.
Would I read it again? Absolutely!
Second book in the series, and better than the first, which is saying quite a lot. We see more of the relationship between Doyle and Acton while they deal with a rash of murders and a domestic mystery. It's nearly impossible to talk a lot about the book without being very "spoilery", so I'll just say you need to pay very careful attention to what is said by all the characters to figure out the mystery early.
I loved the plot and pacing. Ms. Cleeland did a masterful job of weaving the various story lines together. We had a very nice little sub-plot going with DS Williams, and there was some very nice character development with DC Munoz. The dialogue and relationships between the officers feel very real and I can imagine hanging around the bullpen or having lunch at the deli with them. They come to life and are real in a way that many authors do not manage. They story did not ever drag, and kept a nice drumbeat of action driving to the final resolution.
I am very happy to have read this book and already have the next book, Murder in Hindsight queued up on my auto-buy list.
Would I read it again? Absolutely!
June 10, 2014
They're back! The endearing Doyle and the distant and increasingly 'hot, hot, hot' Action. To say that I have been charmed by Doyle is an understatement. Her internal dialogue is amusing, real and shows the vulnerability hidden behind her abilities as a police woman. Her sense of humour is wonderful. The intimate side of their relationship is a fresh approach on obsession. Acton's obsession for Doyle is intense but tender and caring.
Oh, yes, and did I tell you that there is also murder and mayhem? Some in the cases they work on and some way too close to home. This again is a book where the characters stay with you long after you have closed the pages. In fact, yet again, I have immediately started the book again to see just how Anne Cleeland defines her characters so effortlessly. Even minor characters such as Williams and Munoz, leap off the page as complete. I am a total fan of this series, long may they keep coming. Although, I'm not quite sure that I am happy with the direction that Acton seems to be heading.
Oh, yes, and did I tell you that there is also murder and mayhem? Some in the cases they work on and some way too close to home. This again is a book where the characters stay with you long after you have closed the pages. In fact, yet again, I have immediately started the book again to see just how Anne Cleeland defines her characters so effortlessly. Even minor characters such as Williams and Munoz, leap off the page as complete. I am a total fan of this series, long may they keep coming. Although, I'm not quite sure that I am happy with the direction that Acton seems to be heading.
July 14, 2014
A satisfying, exciting followup to Murder in Thrall, Murder in Retribution is a traditional detective story featuring the terrifically appealing duo of New Scotland Yard Chief Inspector Acton and rookie detective Kathleen Doyle. These two characters are complex, sympathetic and have a fresh appeal. With the now-married crime-solving team tasked with solving a set of underworld murders, their personal relationship comes under new pressures from both friends and foe alike. As before, there is some rule-bending behavior which mostly relates to their own unique and individual detecting talents. The multiple plotlines include more psychological focus than the first in the series, allowing the reader a peak at the inner lives of each partner. As in "Murder in Thrall", attractive, wealthy, aristocratic Acton continues to shepherd the charming and determined Doyle through office politics and CID procedures, and in "Murder in Retribution", a shattering personal crisis as well.
December 16, 2016
Murder in Retribution is the second book in the Scotland Yard Mystery series and this second book is as outstanding as the first book, Murder in Thrall. I loved the unique blend of murder mystery and detective procedural that firmly stays focused on the detective skills and relationship between the intriguing main couple, Kathleen Doyle-Sinclair and Michael Sinclair (Lord Acton). No two people could be such polar opposite yet be perfect for each other. The revelation of the killer(s) was a shock and reveal left me speechless and sadden for a major loss for this couple. Nevertheless, I relished every moment spent with Acton and Doyle, as well as some of the secondary characters. I consider myself lucky to have stumbled across such a gem of a series. I hope that nothing happens to force Acton and Doyle apart. I adore them as a team and as perfect partners.
April 1, 2014
So glad I received an ARC for #2. After finishing the first, I immediately opened Murder in Retribution and started reading. Acton and Doyle's unique relationship develops, and so does the over arcing mystery. It will be interesting to see how the story develops, since Acton is not your ordinary Scotland Yard detective. He skirts a very line, in personal and professional. Looking forward to the next in the series!
July 9, 2018
Did not like! Doyle complained the whole book about being sick. There wasn’t much detective work happening just, “I’m sick!”, “Acton adores me.”, “My husband is sexy and weird”. I also hate books where someone really does not want to be pregnant then loses the baby soon after finding out they are pregnant and then whines the rest of the book about losing the baby.
July 31, 2022
It surely is a strange mix of romance, crime and intrigue in these books, and it will certainly continue this way I suspect, however I am totally captivated by all the individual characters and their interactions. Going straight onto the next in series
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