‘Retribution’ by Craig Vannan

Independently Published,
23 June 2025.
ISBN: 978-1-03692588-6 (PB)

We meet briefly James Reid, born in Glasgow’s East End and the son of one of the notorious criminal gangs. He has a secret he has learned to hide by building a reputation of unpredictable violence, money and power. Having docked his thirty-foot motor cruiser at Invercord Marina he settled for the night. Seeking breakfast, the following morning he is gunned down and killed.

Detective Chief Inspector Mitchell, known as Mitch, has the unenviable task of breaking the news of his son’s death to the unpleasant John Reid. Unfortunately, he also runs into the volatile unpredictable Junior Reid.

They are of course not the only criminal gang operating in Glasgow.  Colin Marr, born in Dublin during the troubles created his own kingdom focusing on smuggling, extortion and drug trafficking, and was arising star in the underworld. After the Good Friday agreement Colin moved to Glasgow which proved to be fertile ground for his ventures.

The two criminal gang Lord’s rub along and keep out of each other’s way. Until one of Colin Marrs low level runner’s is murdered. At this point matters escalate, and the story moves along at a terrific pace.

Mitch and his team seek to cool matters, before the underworld erupts into a full-blown gang war.  But the peace was always fragile and old rivalries flare up. 

While the situation between these two drug Lord’s is the main interest in the story, we meet Mitch’s team.  DI Devendra Kapoor, DI Trevor Clark, and DS Fiona MacLeod, who all play a part as the story unfolds.  Also, which becomes apparent the Reid’s have some police on their payroll. But who are they?

This is an excellent crime thriller that keeps one on the edge of one’s seat.  And the twist was a surprise I didn’t see coming.

Cleverly plotted, this is a compelling read, and I look forward to the next book from this new writer. Most highly recommended.
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Reviewer: Lizzie Sirett

Craig Vannan had over 30 years of experience as a police officer, having served in various crime units within the Metropolitan Police and a range of roles in Police Scotland. His debut book offer’s genuine insights drawn from real-life experiences. The stories and characters he creates reflect the gritty realism of his time on the front lines, catering to readers who appreciate raw, authentic crime fiction rooted in the realities of street life and law enforcement.