Retribution

by L.A. Burch

Dead bodies are starting to pile up in cities all across North Carolina. The killer is establishing a M.O. that even the most junior officer can see. Because of the grizzly nature behind these murders, the SBI sends in its super team to bring these executions to a stop. Sergeant Detective Walter Rogers is the best of the best. A former Army MP, he takes his job seriously and personally. As the senior partner of his team, he has vowed to do anything to bring this killer to justice. When things take a more personal turn for the detective, he might be hard-pressed to keep his morals intact. For Detective Ann Grace, this case is just about another gifted killer who hasn’t made a mistake yet. The smart and beautiful detective will soon come to realize that the killer was actually waiting for Walter or Ann to make the mistake. Det. Grace, even with all her talent, starts to think that her super team might be out-matched; playing a game that they don’t even know the rules to.

286 pages, Paperback

Published December 1, 2024

Reviews

[Book_withquotes · Rating 5 out of 5]

Murder, mystery, and psychological warfare—this novel delivers all three in a fast-paced, edge-of-your-seat thriller. The story follows Sergeant Detective Walter Rogers and Detective Ann Grace, two seasoned investigators from the North Carolina SBI (State Bureau of Investigation), as they chase a ruthless serial killer who seems to be several steps ahead of them.

From the very beginning, the tension is palpable. The killer's pattern is so obvious that even rookie cops can spot it, yet the brutality behind the murders calls for the best minds in law enforcement. Enter Walter Rogers, a former Army MP who operates with a deep sense of duty and a personal vendetta against criminals. His expertise, however, is soon tested in ways he never expected. Detective Ann Grace, equally brilliant but pragmatic, quickly realizes that this is not just another case of a meticulous murderer evading capture. Instead, they are being toyed with, led into a deadly game where they might unknowingly make the wrong move.

One of the strongest aspects of this novel is the character development. Walter Rogers is not your typical hard-boiled detective; he is layered, burdened by his past, and driven by an unshakable moral compass—until the case threatens to break him. Ann Grace, on the other hand, serves as a perfect counterbalance. Her sharp instincts and ability to analyze situations with a level head make her an indispensable partner. The dynamic between the two is not only engaging but also crucial to the story’s progression.

The plot is relentless, with no unnecessary detours. Every chapter adds to the suspense, making it impossible to put the book down. The killer is more than just a shadowy figure; they are a calculated mastermind who seems to anticipate every move the detectives make. This adds a psychological layer to the novel, making it more than just a crime procedural—it's a mind game where the stakes keep rising.

The setting of North Carolina adds an extra dimension to the story, grounding the high-stakes investigation in a real and believable world. The detailed descriptions of crime scenes, investigative procedures, and the toll such cases take on detectives make the narrative feel authentic.

As the novel reaches its climax, the tension escalates dramatically. Just when you think you have the killer figured out, the story takes a sharp turn, leaving you questioning everything. The final showdown is intense, emotionally charged, and delivers a satisfying yet thought-provoking conclusion.

Final Verdict:
This book is a must-read for fans of detective thrillers, particularly those who enjoy stories where the hunter becomes the hunted. With strong characters, a gripping plot, and a villain that keeps you guessing, this novel is an exhilarating ride from start to finish. If you love crime fiction with psychological depth, this one should definitely be on your list.

[_sassy_39 · Rating 5 out of 5]

RETRIBUTION: The First Installment of the Masterminds Series" by L.A. Burch is a thrilling novel that dives deep into the hunt for a serial killer. The lead investigators, Sergeant Detective Walter Rogers and Detective Ann Grace, are racing against time as they track a murderer who has claimed 12 victims. For over three years, this killer has been targeting officers and inmates without leaving a trace.

Among the victims, all but two had numerous enemies, leaving investigators to suspect that these two were merely caught in the crossfire. The killer's motives become chillingly clear when Sgt. Marshall Oakland is attacked, sending a brutal message to law enforcement: any harm to inmates will not go unpunished. The killer goes so far as to torture Oakland’s family and shares the horrific footage with a reporter, leaving officers to wonder—will this grisly warning be enough to stop the abuse of prisoners? Or will more lives be lost in the wake of this violent spree?

Fans of psychological thrillers will find this novel captivating from start to finish. The plot is not only intense but also refreshingly unique, focusing on a killer seeking vengeance against the system itself. The writing is sharp and engaging, making it a highly recommended read for anyone looking for a suspenseful page-turner.

[Falak · Rating 4 out of 5]

Review: A Killer Always One Step Ahead

This novel is a gripping crime thriller that keeps readers on edge from start to finish. A serial killer is terrorizing North Carolina, leaving behind gruesome crime scenes and a pattern too obvious to ignore. But as Sergeant Detective Walter Rogers and Detective Ann Grace investigate, it becomes clear that the killer isn't just leaving clues—he's toying with them.

Walter Rogers, a hardened former Army MP, takes the case personally, pushing himself beyond limits in pursuit of justice. Meanwhile, Ann Grace, sharp and methodical, starts to fear that their elite team might be walking straight into a trap. The deeper they dig, the more they realize that they aren’t just hunting the killer—he’s been waiting for them to make a move.

With strong characters, relentless pacing, and a plot full of unexpected turns, this book delivers everything a great thriller should. The tension builds with every chapter, making it impossible to put down. If you love crime stories where the detectives are as vulnerable as their prey, this one is a must-read.

[Sneha · Rating 5 out of 5]

This gripping psychological thriller immerses readers in a tense pursuit of a cunning serial killer. The murderer is operating across various cities in North Carolina, but unlike most, this killer leaves no trace, no missteps—just a disturbing pattern of calculated killings.

Leading the investigation is Sergeant Detective Walter Rogers, a seasoned investigator with over 15 years of experience with the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation. Known for his patience and expertise, Rogers is paired with the sharp and confident Detective Ann Grace, who brings her own impressive 13-year law enforcement background to the case. Together, they’re determined to uncover the killer's pattern and catch him before he strikes again.

The plot is intricately crafted, filled with twists that kept me engrossed from the first page. The characters are deeply developed, with the detectives’ contrasting approaches adding depth to their chase.

The killer’s calculated methods and the detectives' relentless pursuit make for a riveting story, leaving readers on edge and eager to see justice served. This novel is a thrilling read that offers suspense, tension, and unforgettable moments.

Rating: 4.5/5

[The Book Readder · Rating 5 out of 5]

Review of Retribution: Book One of The Masterminds Series by L. A. Burch

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

L. A. Burch delivers a gripping psychological crime thriller with Retribution. The chilling murders across North Carolina set the stage for an intense cat-and-mouse game between Sergeant Detective Walter Rogers and Detective Ann Grace. Their dynamic—Walter’s emotional depth and Ann’s sharp intellect—adds tension as they hunt a cunning mastermind. With razor-sharp twists and immersive writing, Burch masterfully keeps readers on edge. The high-stakes investigation and unsettling realization that they may be outmatched make Retribution a must-read for thriller lovers. The suspense lingers, leaving you eager for the next installment.

[Readers Choice · Rating 5 out of 5]

Have you ever come across a story about a serial killer targeting prison guards as a form of twisted justice?

“Retribution” by L.A. Burch instantly captured my interest. Right from the beginning, Sergeant Detective Walter Rogers and Detective Ann Grace stood out as compelling and relatable characters, winning me over from their first introduction. For three years, a ruthless serial killer has been a pain in their ass, evading capture despite their relentless pursuit.

This killer is highly intelligent and hasn't slipped up once. The detectives are anxiously waiting for the day he makes a mistake, but so far, he has stayed one step ahead. In fact, some of his victims are mere distractions, designed to throw the detectives off his trail. Two particular murders left me shaken: Officer Mario Ford’s fiery execution and the tragic death of Sgt. Marshall Oakland’s family. The killer is ruthless, sparing no one as he continues his deadly campaign against prison guards. Will the detectives finally outsmart him? You'll have to read it to find out.

I devoured this book in one sitting. It’s a gripping, nail-biting thriller that kept me glued to the pages from start to finish. The cover grabbed my attention, and the title alone made me eager to dive in. With every twist and turn, I found myself constantly guessing what would happen next. If you’re a fan of crime fiction that challenges your mind, this book is a must-read.

[bookhaven__ · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was my first time reading a book by L.A. Burch, and I can confidently say I’ve become a fan. The author has crafted a brilliant plot that keeps you on your toes, making you constantly wonder about the serial killer's next move and how he’ll eventually be caught.

Sergeant Detective Walter Rogers and Detective Ann Grace are working hard to catch a serial killer who has left no trace behind. They’ve spent countless hours piecing together clues, and one name always surfaces—Carlton Porter. Released from prison four years ago, Carlton has been completely off the radar since, while the list of victims grows longer. As the detectives' frustration peaks, the story takes a thrilling turn when Ann is captured. What lengths will Walter go to in order to save her?

The killer is undeniably cunning, and I have to say, Burch’s storytelling had me so engrossed I lost track of time. Detective Walter Rogers quickly became my favorite character, and the fast-paced narrative ensures there isn’t a single dull moment. By the time you reach the end, you’ll be hungry for more.

If you're looking for a gripping thriller, this book should be your next pick. I can’t wait to dive into more books in this series.

[Deepika]

For readers craving a sharp, suspenseful thriller, Retribution by L.A. Burch is a must-read. This powerful first installment of the Mastermind series is crafted for those who enjoy a complex, thought-provoking plot. At the heart of the story is a relentless serial killer targeting officers, with no clear motive in sight—a mystery that detectives Walter Rogers and Ann Grace are struggling to unravel.

The detectives attempt to decode the killer’s methods, yet his pattern abruptly shifts. Previously sparing families, the killer now targets them too, leaving Rogers and Grace uncertain of his next move.

The stakes are high, with officers' lives on the line, and the chilling recording of an officer's final moments serves as a warning to others—a brutal reminder that terror has a new face.

With a storyline packed with unexpected twists and challenges, this book will keep you guessing. If you enjoy well-written thrillers that require some mental gymnastics, Retribution deserves a place on your reading list. I’m eagerly awaiting the next book in this series—it’s a journey that thriller fans won’t want to miss.

[thebookaddict25 · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoy reading serial killer stories. This one is totally different. In this, Sergeant Detective Walter Rogers and Detective Ann Grace have no time to rest because the killer always keeps them in action. He is on victim 12. The killer was following a M.O. and the detectives knew it. He wasn't harming the families until he came to Sgt. Marshall Oakland's family. Marshall's whole family was shackled to a wall in a warehouse. Marshall's wife and two children were brutally tortured.

The killer recorded everything in a video and he sent it to a media reporter. He mentioned that when the officers are in their uniforms, they are so tough on inmates. He burnt the warehouse with Marshall inside fighting for his life. The Prison Guard Killer told the reporter that he is the one to record it. This video is a warning and a lesson to other Prison Guards.

What will Detectives Rogers and Grace do? The killer is doing things beyond their imagination and they don't know how they can find him. I had a great time reading this book. I can't tell how excited I am to read the next book by the author. This is a good read. Highly recommended to those who enjoy reading crime fiction.

Rating 4.5/5

[Motivationaldailythoughts · Rating 5 out of 5]

Retribution is my introduction to L.A. Burch’s work, and it’s an impressive start. The story is engagingly crafted, with Sergeant Detective Walter Rogers and Detective Ann Grace as standout characters who are both clever and relatable. They’re up against a relentless serial killer who has been terrorizing the city for three years. His actions are unpredictable—sometimes killing merely to throw the detectives off his trail.

The story diverges from typical thrillers, keeping the reader on edge as the detectives repeatedly go over the case, looking for any clue they might have overlooked. The killer's methods vary—from shootings to arson—each crime meticulously planned to avoid leaving any trail. He’s a few steps ahead, and the detectives can only hope he slips up to leave them a lead.

As a fan of psychological fiction, I thoroughly enjoyed Burch’s skillful plotting and complex narrative. The book's title and cover art perfectly capture its intense, mind-bending nature. The killer’s psychological game with the detectives kept me guessing and made for an intellectually engaging read.

[Jithendra Jithu · Rating 5 out of 5]

Retribution: Book One of the Masterminds Series by L.A. Burch

Rating:5/5

Review:

👉 What a wild ride this was! Retribution by L.A. Burch instantly hooked me with its intense plot and sharp writing. This first installment of the Masterminds Series throws us right into the deep end with a string of gruesome murders taking place across North Carolina. The killer’s targets? Law enforcement officers and inmates—and each killing is more brutal and sinister than the last. 🚔🔪

👉At the heart of the story are two brilliant detectives, Sergeant Detective Walter Rogers and Detective Ann Grace, who have been hunting this elusive killer for three years. Walter is tough, driven, and haunted by his past as an Army MP. He takes every death personally and is relentless in his pursuit of justice. His partner, Ann, is just as sharp and determined, but even she starts to question if their "super team" has finally met their match with this sadistic killer who always seems to be one step ahead. 😍🔥

👉The killer isn’t just random—he’s sending a message, and it’s terrifying. One of the most chilling moments in the book comes when Sgt. Marshall Oakland’s family is tortured, with the brutal footage sent to the media as a warning. The killer is making it clear that no one in the system is safe, and anyone who harms inmates will pay the ultimate price. 😱 The stakes are sky-high, and the detectives are in a race against time to stop this bloodbath before it spirals even further out of control.

👉The character development is fantastic. Walter Rogers is not just your typical tough-guy detective. His personal journey—his moral struggles, his deep sense of responsibility—adds layers to the story, making him more relatable and giving the book emotional depth. Ann Grace is a perfect match for him, smart and capable, but even she begins to feel the weight of the case, realizing that they may be playing a game they don’t fully understand.

👉What I loved most about Retribution is the way it keeps you guessing. The killer’s motives, the tension between the detectives, the mounting body count—it all builds up to a nail-biting climax that left me on the edge of my seat.

Happy reading😁

[Gee Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Retribution is a psychological crime thriller novel written by the author L.A. Burch, published in June 2024. It’s the debut novel in The Mastermind Series. The narrative plunges us headfirst into a series of horrific killings that occur throughout North Carolina. Who was the murderer’s target? Each murder of law enforcement personnel and prisoners is more heinous and ominous than the one before it. Detective Ann Grace and Sergeant Detective Walter Rogers, two outstanding investigators who have been pursuing this elusive murderer for three years, are at the center of the narrative. Because of his history as an Army MP, Walter is tough, determined, and troubled. He is tenacious in his quest for justice and takes every death personally. Even his shrewd and tenacious partner, Ann, begins to wonder if their “super team” has finally faced this sadistic killer who always seems to be one step ahead. The murderer is not merely acting at random; rather, he is conveying a terrifying message. The detectives are racing against the clock to put an end to this carnage before it gets out of control, and the stakes are extremely high. The character development is excellent. Walter Rogers is not your average detective with a tough exterior. He becomes more relatable and gives the book emotional depth as a result of his personal journey, moral struggles, and strong sense of responsibility. Even Ann Grace, who is intelligent and capable and a perfect fit for him, starts to feel the pressure of the case and realizes that they might be playing a game they don’t fully understand. Retribution’s ability to keep you guessing is what I found most appealing. The tension between the detectives, the killer’s motivations, and the growing number of bodies all build to a suspenseful conclusion that had me on the edge of my seat. At 300 pages, it’s the perfect read for fans of the genre. It’s fast-paced, gripping and engaging. Highly recommended from my side.

[Shaly · Rating 5 out of 5]

From the first page, Retribution puts you in a psychological chokehold rather than merely grabbing your attention! dead bodies. An audacious murderer. A detective super-team. Doesn't it sound familiar? False. This is not your typical thriller about crime. You are mentally, emotionally, and morally manipulated by this book. The scene that most affected me? When Walter Rogers confronts a victim's little daughter and then collapses in his car by himself. No melodramatic music. No consoling companion. Nothing but quiet. and suffering. The man beneath the tough-cop façade was revealed in that one moment—raw, wounded, and real. I was destroyed by it.

This novel moves, though, so don't be fooled by the emotion. Twists are like bullets flying at you. Every chapter has a cliffhanger at the end. It seems like every hint is a trap. Not only are you reading a mystery, but you're also in a race to stay alive. And the murderer? He's killing for more than just pleasure, you know. He is bringing corruption to light, making the decent ones reevaluate the system they defend. And perhaps—just possibly—he's not totally mistaken?

Reasons for Reading This Book:
- It's crisp, intense, and addictive.
- It calls into question your moral compass.
- It demonstrates that heroes are resilient.
- Each and every character counts. Every scene matters.

Takeaways:
- Emotional sensitivity makes a character memorable.
- The legal system isn't clear-cut.
- Chasing monsters might sometimes make you one yourself.

Retribution is your next obsession if you're looking for a gritty, intelligent, and emotionally devastating—in the best way possible) thriller. It's more than just a tale. It's a conflict between hearts, minds, and values. Don't start it late at night though, you will be unable to sleep.

[Naveen Santwani · Rating 5 out of 5]

“”A Gripping Thriller You Can’t Put Down!””
From the very first page, Book hooks you with its intense atmosphere and high-stakes tension. The brutal killings across North Carolina set the stage for a chilling crime thriller, where danger lurks at every turn. The introduction of Sergeant Detective Walter Rogers and Detective Ann Grace adds depth to the story, making it clear that this is no ordinary manhunt. The killer isn’t just ruthless—they’re calculating, always a step ahead. As the plot thickens, you can’t help but feel the pressure mounting, not just for the detectives but for yourself as a reader.

The storyline is masterfully woven, keeping a relentless pace while balancing action, suspense, and psychological intrigue. Author’s writing style is sharp and immersive, bringing both the crime scenes and the detectives’ struggles to life. Themes of justice, morality, and obsession play a central role, forcing characters—and readers—to question how far one should go in the pursuit of righteousness. As Walter’s personal connection to the case deepens, the novel skillfully explores the blurred lines between duty and revenge.

What makes Retribution truly stand out is its unpredictability. Just when you think you have it figured out, the story takes a sharp, thrilling turn. The dynamic between Walter and Ann adds another layer of intrigue, making their pursuit of justice all the more compelling. If you love fast-paced crime thrillers with smart detectives and a formidable villain, this book is a must-read. Author delivers a gripping start to The Masterminds Series, leaving you eager for the next installment!

[Mes Curls Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book grips you from the very start, dragging you into a brutal crime spree that’s leaving bodies across North Carolina. It’s not just about catching a killer—it’s about surviving the game they’ve already started playing. Walter Rogers, the hardened detective with a military background, isn’t just chasing a case; he’s chasing something personal. And Ann Grace, brilliant and determined, starts realizing that maybe they’re the ones being hunted.

The tension never lets up. Every page feels like a step deeper into something dark, something clever. The killer isn’t just reckless—they’re precise, almost surgical in the way they execute each crime. And just when you think you have it figured out, the book pulls you in another direction. Walter’s struggle isn’t just about justice; it’s about control, about not losing himself in the process. Ann, on the other hand, begins questioning if they even have a chance of winning.

The writing doesn’t just tell a story—it makes you feel it. The urgency, the fear, the frustration of a case that seems just out of reach. The dynamic between Walter and Ann feels real, their personalities clashing yet complementing in a way that keeps you invested. And the killer? Chillingly intelligent. There’s no comfort here, no easy victories—just a relentless game where one wrong move could mean another body.

It’s sharp, thrilling, and doesn’t let go. A crime novel that doesn’t just entertain but keeps you looking over your shoulder, wondering what comes next.

[Booklover_rimi · Rating 4 out of 5]

First of all I didn't see any trigger warnings in the opening of the book, but you should know the book is dark and has some very dark scenes, consisting of doing crime and being ruthless.

Apart from that the book is really a thrilling story. This is a story where you would keep questioning what is right and what is wrong. And you wouldn't guess who will win at the end the bad person or the good ones or the good ones will turn to bad.

This is a revenge story where a person is trying to take revenge on some police officers who did wrong to him. But he's not just targeting them only, he's targeting everyone who has the same natures like his victims and most importantly he has no morals left within him. And our two detectives Sergeant Detective Walter Rogers and his assistant , Detective Ann Grace try every way to find this man, but they are failing in every way.

You know the story is good when the criminal in the book makes you in awe of him and you start to support him at times and then you get your reminder how bad a person he is. Also the story frustrates you at times when our intelligent detectives would be defeated by the said criminal again and again, but he's that good. And you won't be able to put the book down for a second.

I highly recommend this gripping story, if you love to read detective, crime thriller with twists and unpredictable plots and dark, grey characters.

[Aditi Goud · Rating 5 out of 5]

okay this book seriously messed with my head
like yeah it’s violent and brutal and dark but the questions it raises??
what would you do if the system failed you
would you kill to protect someone
a stranger even??

i wasn’t expecting to get so hooked but the killer isn’t just a killer
he’s smart and calculated and honestly kind of terrifying because you start to understand him??
not agree maybe but get it

detective walt rogers was great—tough but clearly struggling
denise the journalist?? i didn’t expect to like her so much but she pulled me in
everyone in this book feels real and flawed and complicated

it’s not easy to read because of the violence but i couldn’t stop
chapters are short and punchy and before i knew it i was at the end
and i’m still thinking about it

this isn’t just crime fiction
it’s a moral maze
and i’m already eyeing book 2