Suspended Retribution – Justice on a Razor’s Edge: When a War Veteran Turns into the Executioner

1. About the Author: Rob Ashman

Rob Ashman is a British crime fiction author renowned for his gritty and psychologically rich thrillers. Before becoming a full-time writer, Ashman had a long career in engineering and industry, which influences the methodical and realistic structure of his crime stories. One of his most notable works is the DI Rosalind Kray series, with Suspended Retribution being the third installment.

His writing style is sharp and emotionally intense, often delving into the darkest aspects of human behavior. Readers are drawn to his books for their fast-paced storytelling, deeply flawed characters, and ethical ambiguity. Ashman has steadily built a strong reputation in modern crime fiction.

2. About the Narrator: Nicholas Camm

Nicholas Camm is an experienced British actor and voice artist, well-regarded for his articulate and emotionally resonant performances. He has a naturally commanding voice, with a tone that fits perfectly into dark, suspenseful narratives.

In the audiobook version of Suspended Retribution, Camm delivers a stellar performance, infusing each character with distinct emotional depth. His timing, tone modulation, and ability to convey tension make the audiobook experience immersive and memorable. Camm’s narration is particularly effective in highlighting the psychological nuances of the story.

3. About the Book: Suspended Retribution

Suspended Retribution is the third book in the DI Rosalind Kray series and falls squarely within the psychological crime thriller genre. The novel follows Alex Jarrod, an Afghanistan war veteran suffering from severe PTSD, who takes justice into his own hands by targeting criminals who have escaped the law. Opposing him is DI Rosalind Kray, a resilient and intelligent detective tasked with unraveling a series of brutal murders rooted in personal trauma and vengeance.

Set in a dark, urban landscape, the story explores themes of moral ambiguity, war-induced trauma, and the blurred lines between justice and revenge. The book stands out for its layered characters and emotionally charged narrative.

On Goodreads, Suspended Retribution holds an impressive 4.51/5 rating from over 800 readers, highlighting its widespread acclaim. Though no major awards are listed, it remains one of the most highly rated titles in Ashman’s catalog.

4. Book Review

Suspended Retribution is a deeply compelling crime novel that doesn’t just offer thrilling suspense—it also challenges readers to contemplate justice and morality. One of the book’s greatest strengths lies in its morally complex protagonist, Alex Jarrod. Readers may sympathize with his motivations even as they question his methods.

DI Rosalind Kray is equally captivating—a tough, driven detective battling personal demons while maintaining her sharp investigative edge. Ashman excels at writing multi-dimensional characters, and his use of alternating perspectives enriches the storytelling.

The plot is brisk and filled with twists, though occasionally the pacing may feel rushed in some parts. That said, the novel maintains strong narrative momentum and emotional weight throughout. This is not just a crime story—it’s a human story, wrapped in darkness and ethical complexity.

5. Audiobook Review

The audiobook version of Suspended Retribution, narrated by Nicholas Camm, is a compelling rendition that captures the emotional intensity of the novel. Camm’s delivery is polished and engaging, with each character given a distinct vocal identity. His portrayal of Alex Jarrod’s emotional trauma and DI Kray’s resolve adds an extra layer of realism to the story.

Listeners have praised the audiobook on platforms like Audible and ChirpBooks, with average ratings around 4.5/5. Audio production quality is top-tier, making it easy to listen for long periods without fatigue.

One minor drawback is that Camm’s native British accent may pose a slight challenge for listeners unfamiliar with regional inflections. Nevertheless, his delivery adds authenticity and tension that complements the story perfectly.

6. Who Should Read This Book?

Suspended Retribution is a great fit for:

• Readers who love psychological crime thrillers with a strong emotional core.

• Fans of morally ambiguous characters and anti-hero justice themes.

• Those interested in exploring mental health issues, especially PTSD and trauma recovery.

• Audiobook listeners looking for a high-quality narration paired with gripping storytelling.

• Readers seeking a female detective lead who is complex and emotionally grounded.

If you’re in search of a story that blends crime, ethics, and emotional depth, this book will not disappoint.

7. Conclusion

Rob Ashman’s Suspended Retribution is more than a crime thriller—it’s a psychological exploration of justice, guilt, and redemption. With vivid character development, a tightly woven plot, and a deeply human story at its core, this novel leaves a lasting impression.

The audiobook version, brought to life by Nicholas Camm, adds an immersive dimension that enhances the reading experience. Whether in print or audio, this book deserves a spot on every crime fiction enthusiast’s list.

8. Where to Listen to the Audiobook

You can listen to Suspended Retribution by Rob Ashman on the following platforms:

• Audiobooks.com – Available for direct purchase and streaming.

• Audible – High-quality audiobook featuring Nicholas Camm. Free trial includes one free audiobook.

Become a member of Audible or Chirp to enjoy the audiobook anytime, anywhere.