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Dead Cold Mystery #9-12
The Dead Cold Series: Books 9-12
** SAVE 33% WHEN PURCHASING THIS BOX SET ** BOOKS 8-10 IN THE USA TODAY BESTSELLING DEAD COLD SERIES FROM 2 MILLION BESTSELLING AUTHOR BLAKE BANNER Books Sebastian Acosta has been gunned down at three AM on a Saturday morning, sitting behind the wheel of a beaten up Toyota. The passenger door is open and a few paces away his pal, Luis Irizarry, lies with his life ebbing away through two gunshot wound in his chest. It should be a red hot case, except that fifteen years earlier, Rosario Rojas was raped and strangled in that self same house, the house Luis was crawling toward, the house that belonged to Angela Rojas, Rosario’s daughter. Rosario, who was like a sister to Marta Flores, Detective Dehan’s mother. Things get more complicated when it emerges that Rosario had started to get involved in a set whose morals Marta had considered a little too lax, a bit too broad-minded; when it emerges that the two boys who just got shot are the sons of two of the couples that made up that set. But then it turns out, this is just the tip of the iceberg, in this old, cold case…
598 pages, ebook
Published September 30, 2018
3114 people are currently reading
66 people want to read
About the author
Blake Banner
151 books392 followersUSA TODAY and Amazon #1 bestselling author of the OMEGA and DEAD COLD MYSTERY series. Learn more about Blake Banner at his website: www.blakebanner.com
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
May 27, 2020
I don't know.... somehow the series is going downhill. Still a decent read but more and more annoying things creep in. Book 9 has seriously bad editing/proof-reading. Lots of typos, name mix-ups etc. One bloke is alternatively called "Stuart" and "Stewart", Paul talks about Paul doing things, and would you believe it, we now have a 31st June! Which, incidentally, is one month after 31st May!
Book 10 teems with unlikely coincidences. For instance, they tell us thousands of women have disappeared during the given timeframe, then they follow up on just TWO and both are connected to the case. Ah yeah. Enough said.
Books 11 is set on a remote Scottish island, and the inhabitants like nothing better than sharing intimate details of their private lives with two foreigners. Ah yeah. Two NYPD officers being able to afford a private luxury hotel, ah yeah. More niggly bad editing. They hear Bee driving off in a car. Later Bee said she walked back. Dehan puts on a sweatshirt but later takes of her blouse. Stuff like that. And where did Stone get the gun from when he finally catches the killer? Surely American detectives don't take their weapons on a honeymoon to Europe, of all places? Or did he nick the gun from the previous crime scene, thus compromising evidence? Equally unlikely.
Book 12, in London. Banner is obsessed with fireplaces. I am sure offices in New Scotland Yard do NOT feature fireplaces. Scotland Yard is paying for, let's digest this: "extending their stay at the honeymoon suite at the Ritz for one week" - dream on! Apart from it probably not being available at short notice. Stone is "up all night", then goes out to beat someone up, then comes back straight to the breakfast table at the Ritz. He surely must have been in a state? Honestly, the Ritz' standards must be slipping. Banner also seem to have a thing about muslims. This is only the second time in the whole series a muslim person features, and on both occasions they turn out to be fanatics. And why did said muslim agree to do a hit job for his "employer" when at the same time he hated him so much for stealing his girlfriend? And some really complicated politics going on, too. And hang on, WHY was Hattie murdered again??? I lost track.
I really enjoyed the first 7, 8 books in the series - clever and witty banter, the tension between the two detectives palpable. Now it boils down to Stone being overly clever, but not sharing with the exceedingly long-legged Dehan who is annoyed but sadly doesn't slap him. They seem to drink an awful lot of booze, too, sometimes followed by a bit of drink driving, ho hey. Then both constantly eating steaks and talking with mouths full, wrecking cars and shooting. Ah no. I think I will abandon ship. It was good as long as it lasted.
Book 10 teems with unlikely coincidences. For instance, they tell us thousands of women have disappeared during the given timeframe, then they follow up on just TWO and both are connected to the case. Ah yeah. Enough said.
Books 11 is set on a remote Scottish island, and the inhabitants like nothing better than sharing intimate details of their private lives with two foreigners. Ah yeah. Two NYPD officers being able to afford a private luxury hotel, ah yeah. More niggly bad editing. They hear Bee driving off in a car. Later Bee said she walked back. Dehan puts on a sweatshirt but later takes of her blouse. Stuff like that. And where did Stone get the gun from when he finally catches the killer? Surely American detectives don't take their weapons on a honeymoon to Europe, of all places? Or did he nick the gun from the previous crime scene, thus compromising evidence? Equally unlikely.
Book 12, in London. Banner is obsessed with fireplaces. I am sure offices in New Scotland Yard do NOT feature fireplaces. Scotland Yard is paying for, let's digest this: "extending their stay at the honeymoon suite at the Ritz for one week" - dream on! Apart from it probably not being available at short notice. Stone is "up all night", then goes out to beat someone up, then comes back straight to the breakfast table at the Ritz. He surely must have been in a state? Honestly, the Ritz' standards must be slipping. Banner also seem to have a thing about muslims. This is only the second time in the whole series a muslim person features, and on both occasions they turn out to be fanatics. And why did said muslim agree to do a hit job for his "employer" when at the same time he hated him so much for stealing his girlfriend? And some really complicated politics going on, too. And hang on, WHY was Hattie murdered again??? I lost track.
I really enjoyed the first 7, 8 books in the series - clever and witty banter, the tension between the two detectives palpable. Now it boils down to Stone being overly clever, but not sharing with the exceedingly long-legged Dehan who is annoyed but sadly doesn't slap him. They seem to drink an awful lot of booze, too, sometimes followed by a bit of drink driving, ho hey. Then both constantly eating steaks and talking with mouths full, wrecking cars and shooting. Ah no. I think I will abandon ship. It was good as long as it lasted.
November 15, 2021
Overall this is a great series. The characters are good and it is an easy read. I've read 10 of the books and I am going to continue. Sometimes after a couple books in a series the characters get old or they are unbelievable and I will stop, but I am enjoying this one. The author needs more proofreading though. There are a few typos and in one paragraph the name of the person they were talking about was wrong. But the only thing that really bothered me was when they said something happened on June 31st. I mean, who didn't learn "Thirty days hath September, April, June and November. All the rest have thirty-one" when they were five. They need to change that! Recommended for a easy and fun read.
May 26, 2021
I have (obviously) been binge reading these box sets like they're going out of style. Just had to take a break and update with a review. I love Stone and like Dehan. Like their rapport and the cases, especially the last few in the UK (semi spoiler alert) keep me completely engaged which is why I keep reading (and will continue to do so until I'm done!).
I know I'm a bit late to this series but had to say that I sincerely hope that Banner stops the repetition of certain descriptions that add absolutely no value to the story. At this point they are straight up distracting and annoying. If I have to hear about anyones "Ass - sitting, resting, balancing" on anything again, or Stone "Seeing himself in Dehan's aviators" or them "Staring at each other for long periods of time while thinking although it disturbs" whoever, or Dehan "Reaching back and knotting her long back hair", I may just scream a little bit. Out loud. I mean EVERY. SINGLE. BOOK. I completely understand the need to clarify a relationship or set the stage for an environment, or even as Koontz does in Nameless, reiterate the position and purpose of the protagonist, but the phrases mentioned above are completely irrelevant. Unless of course he has a bet with someone that he can use the word " ass" six times per story? Then I guess I get it.
So if you can handle several repetitive phrases per story, its worth the read! If I can do it, you can. Maybe.
I know I'm a bit late to this series but had to say that I sincerely hope that Banner stops the repetition of certain descriptions that add absolutely no value to the story. At this point they are straight up distracting and annoying. If I have to hear about anyones "Ass - sitting, resting, balancing" on anything again, or Stone "Seeing himself in Dehan's aviators" or them "Staring at each other for long periods of time while thinking although it disturbs" whoever, or Dehan "Reaching back and knotting her long back hair", I may just scream a little bit. Out loud. I mean EVERY. SINGLE. BOOK. I completely understand the need to clarify a relationship or set the stage for an environment, or even as Koontz does in Nameless, reiterate the position and purpose of the protagonist, but the phrases mentioned above are completely irrelevant. Unless of course he has a bet with someone that he can use the word " ass" six times per story? Then I guess I get it.
So if you can handle several repetitive phrases per story, its worth the read! If I can do it, you can. Maybe.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 29, 2020
A little different
The first two books follow the familiar pattern but the last two are set in the UK. For me I like details to be correct and so those two books niggles me. Banner has an excellent knowledge of Britain in the whole but there were glaring mistakes. The daughter of a peer would have the courtesy tittle of last but she would not inherit his tittle and nor could a peer sit in the house of commons. Also, how could a detective inspector in his mid fifties have been the detective inspector who investigate a case 40_years ago, he would have been about 15.
The first two books follow the familiar pattern but the last two are set in the UK. For me I like details to be correct and so those two books niggles me. Banner has an excellent knowledge of Britain in the whole but there were glaring mistakes. The daughter of a peer would have the courtesy tittle of last but she would not inherit his tittle and nor could a peer sit in the house of commons. Also, how could a detective inspector in his mid fifties have been the detective inspector who investigate a case 40_years ago, he would have been about 15.
July 16, 2021
No reason to stop
Loving this series. I would like to say exactly why but frankly, this review is delaying my plunge into the next series. This should not be a surprise grasshopper. The clues are all there in front of you. Consider the inability to put the book down even for meals. Consider the motive for reading to the end. Consider the low cost of buying the boxed set. Consider the twist you never saw coming. That is correct. I had written this review even as the download kicked off. Book 13 awaits. I’m outta here.
Loving this series. I would like to say exactly why but frankly, this review is delaying my plunge into the next series. This should not be a surprise grasshopper. The clues are all there in front of you. Consider the inability to put the book down even for meals. Consider the motive for reading to the end. Consider the low cost of buying the boxed set. Consider the twist you never saw coming. That is correct. I had written this review even as the download kicked off. Book 13 awaits. I’m outta here.
August 31, 2020
spoilers , spoilers!!
i enjoyed this series until the first line in book 10. i really get disgusted when the cops who are partners fall in love. i don't know why some author's feel they have to satisfy some readers by ruining a police procedural. i pretty much knew Banner was headed in that direction, as they were getting closer to intimacy. but i kept hoping Banner would have enough class to not ruin the series. oh well, at least i didn't have to pay for them.
i enjoyed this series until the first line in book 10. i really get disgusted when the cops who are partners fall in love. i don't know why some author's feel they have to satisfy some readers by ruining a police procedural. i pretty much knew Banner was headed in that direction, as they were getting closer to intimacy. but i kept hoping Banner would have enough class to not ruin the series. oh well, at least i didn't have to pay for them.
October 9, 2020
Unstoppable read! Divorced!
Not much on doing book reviews. I read A LOT! As kindle reminds me. 300+ days lol. This series is the most entertaining And captivating. He just simply puts a twist on life in the real world. The jag! Lol! Is the only repetitive tidbit that I find over the top. Silly but really? Love my corvette second longest relationship in my life.
Obviously best series I've ever had the pleasure to read.
Not much on doing book reviews. I read A LOT! As kindle reminds me. 300+ days lol. This series is the most entertaining And captivating. He just simply puts a twist on life in the real world. The jag! Lol! Is the only repetitive tidbit that I find over the top. Silly but really? Love my corvette second longest relationship in my life.
Obviously best series I've ever had the pleasure to read.
July 21, 2021
I have now read all 12 of the books and all but a couple have been great. There an easy/quick read with always an excellent plot. When it comes to the two main characters (Stone and Dehan) after 12 books they almost seem like part of your family.
Though you don't have to it would help to start with book 1 and read forward as there some story lines that move from book to book.
So your not taking a chance with these books they are the perfect read!!
Though you don't have to it would help to start with book 1 and read forward as there some story lines that move from book to book.
So your not taking a chance with these books they are the perfect read!!
March 28, 2020
Same as the first 2 box sets. Absolutely brilliant. The sad thing is that I have been reading crime and thriller books for over 30 years and only just learned about this great author.
I like the fact that there are no pages filled with too much unnecessary detail about car journeys etc. I feel that the descriptions of areas is sufficient
I like the fact that there are no pages filled with too much unnecessary detail about car journeys etc. I feel that the descriptions of areas is sufficient
Read
August 9, 2020Sometimes I have to reread just to make sense of the plot. I am always disappointed at misspellings, typographical errors and incorrect punctuation. Doesn't anyone read these before they are published? I'm enjoying the stories because I like to read books that don't have a lot of descriptive nonsense about colors of leaves, etc. Just give me the plot and the story.
March 30, 2021
Best Mystery Books EVER
I am an avid reader. I love all types of books. I am addicted to this Dead Cold Mystery books. I love these two detectives, they will make you laugh out loud and sometimes cry a little. Great books, awesome reads. Try the first in the series, you will be an addict also!!!!
I am an avid reader. I love all types of books. I am addicted to this Dead Cold Mystery books. I love these two detectives, they will make you laugh out loud and sometimes cry a little. Great books, awesome reads. Try the first in the series, you will be an addict also!!!!
May 8, 2021
Dehan deserves better treatment from author
Why is Dehan made to look slow? It's like beautiful sidekick who can kick ass, but can't solve a mystery. She is a detective too, which means she had to have solved cases before she teamed with Stone. Give her some credit once in a while, can't you Banner?
Why is Dehan made to look slow? It's like beautiful sidekick who can kick ass, but can't solve a mystery. She is a detective too, which means she had to have solved cases before she teamed with Stone. Give her some credit once in a while, can't you Banner?
February 2, 2019
A great set of stories with a super surprise ending of each story
Three great stories told in a slow deliberately vague way so at what you think is the conclusion is not and the real solution throws you for a loop
Three great stories told in a slow deliberately vague way so at what you think is the conclusion is not and the real solution throws you for a loop
August 8, 2019
Exciting and believable!
I'm an avid reader..with most unusual tastes in stories...from dragons to space ships!! These dead cold stories are very good in every way ..
Thank you for your care and imagination in writing them!!
Annette Graham
I'm an avid reader..with most unusual tastes in stories...from dragons to space ships!! These dead cold stories are very good in every way ..
Thank you for your care and imagination in writing them!!
Annette Graham
November 25, 2020
Pardon need to download the next installment
These characters are becoming old friends. Disappointed that the author didn't remember what he called one of the main players but a having fun
These characters are becoming old friends. Disappointed that the author didn't remember what he called one of the main players but a having fun
Read
October 17, 2021Look Detectives, Great Stories
Totally enjoy the two detectives of the cold case team. Relived a trip to England and Scotland through these "Who dunnits." Looking forward to next Series.
Totally enjoy the two detectives of the cold case team. Relived a trip to England and Scotland through these "Who dunnits." Looking forward to next Series.
July 29, 2022
England and Scotland
While on their honeymoon in Scotland our two detectives have to solve a 40 year old murder. Afterwards they decided to go to England. While there they get roped into helping solve 15 year old murders and a new fresh one. Read it's a fascinating story.
While on their honeymoon in Scotland our two detectives have to solve a 40 year old murder. Afterwards they decided to go to England. While there they get roped into helping solve 15 year old murders and a new fresh one. Read it's a fascinating story.
November 13, 2022
CC+
This was a marvelous box set. With Stone getting married to Dehan finally. The amazing honeymoon. Couldn't have been a better cold case. 10 stars plus!!!!! Thanks, Carl Clause
This was a marvelous box set. With Stone getting married to Dehan finally. The amazing honeymoon. Couldn't have been a better cold case. 10 stars plus!!!!! Thanks, Carl Clause
February 9, 2019
A good mystery - very suspenseful
One oF HIS better books. Didn't want to put it down . Good characters and a little romance too. Enjoyed it very much
One oF HIS better books. Didn't want to put it down . Good characters and a little romance too. Enjoyed it very much
February 17, 2019
Dead cold mysteries
From start to finish books 8 to 10 were terrific and I could hardly put them down. A terrific Author.
From start to finish books 8 to 10 were terrific and I could hardly put them down. A terrific Author.
February 21, 2019
familiar characters but always interesting story lines.
July 7, 2019
Last story
Proof reading is woeful. Story mentions thirty first June!!!!!!!!
This is a stupid error and should not been picked up
Proof reading is woeful. Story mentions thirty first June!!!!!!!!
This is a stupid error and should not been picked up
April 26, 2021
Dead Cold
Books 9 - 12 .... good follow up the previous. Imagination again captured from the start .... really enjoyed this set and am looking forward to the next .....
Books 9 - 12 .... good follow up the previous. Imagination again captured from the start .... really enjoyed this set and am looking forward to the next .....
July 7, 2021
Quick formulaic reads. Terribly misogynistic main character but amusing nonetheless. Nice winter reading during Covid
Read
July 20, 2021Great series
I love the characters. Stone is a great detective so glad that they got together. It was so obvious they belonged with each other.
I love the characters. Stone is a great detective so glad that they got together. It was so obvious they belonged with each other.
February 23, 2022
Exceptionally well written
April 9, 2025
Great fun to read, entertaining, good mysteries, worth your time.
September 20, 2023
Fire From Heaven
Dewan and her off remarks felt was not necessary,
beneath her and her job, she still seems to young for job
The plot was interesting, how they figured it out was good
Better as a short story for got too long
Too Kill Upon A Kiss
Stone an older detective, takes time, looks at all the clues, and questions what is the motive. The motive of why a man in prison contacting him about a killing, having seen it. A case of is it a serial killer, or more then one at the scene. Interesting of how the piece fit for Stone, and has the answers
Murder Most Scottish
The dialog, the plot just seemed to ramble, far fetched
Didn’t finish it.
The Butcher of Whitechapel
Dewan and her off remarks felt was not necessary,
beneath her and her job, she still seems to young for job
The plot was interesting, how they figured it out was good
Better as a short story for got too long
Too Kill Upon A Kiss
Stone an older detective, takes time, looks at all the clues, and questions what is the motive. The motive of why a man in prison contacting him about a killing, having seen it. A case of is it a serial killer, or more then one at the scene. Interesting of how the piece fit for Stone, and has the answers
Murder Most Scottish
The dialog, the plot just seemed to ramble, far fetched
Didn’t finish it.
The Butcher of Whitechapel
January 4, 2022
Surprised as usual. Moving on to the next set. John has the proper attitude of a Jaguar owner. I know can vouch for that.
Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews