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Dead Cold Mystery #28
Along Came A Spider
It should have been an open and shut case. At forty-something, Bob Walklet was about to make a fortune with his IT company. But he’d made the mistake of falling in love with his assistant, twenty-something Sorka Williams. They were crazy about each other, and Bob had told his wife, Sheila - a thirty-something, ex-cop insurance consultant. He wanted a divorce. And there was a prenup’. When he was found in his bedroom, stabbed in the heart, her DNA was literally all over him, her prints were on the knife and a neighbor had seen her hurrying from the house at the time of death. Not only that, his death saved her from the prenup’, and she cleaned up on the insurance. Open and shut. Except for the small matter that over two hundred guests, including her friend the Boston Police Commissioner, had all seen her deliver a speech at a conference two hundred miles away, right at the time Bob was killed. So the question Detectives Stone and Dehan are asking is, how can a killer be in two places at the same time?
203 pages, ebook
First published October 25, 2021
574 people are currently reading
153 people want to read
About the author
Blake Banner
178 books407 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 - 30 of 60 reviews
October 30, 2021
Another Dead Cold case for Detectives Dehan and Stone, this time a murder which was never solved because there was only one suspect and she could prove she was in another city at the time the murder was committed. This does not deter our trusty duo who set to work immediately to discover how one person can be in two places at the same time - or at least appear to be.
As they investigate they dig up details, possibilities and red herrings galore. The pleasure in these books is the way Stone and Dehan work together. They bounce ideas off each other coming up with sometimes outrageous theories which usually have some truths in them somewhere. Their repartee is often hilarious as is their interview technique. Neither of them take any rubbish from anyone and both can be astonishingly rude. Believe me it is very funny.
Five stars again for good, solid entertainment. Keep the books coming Mr Banner - especially this series!
As they investigate they dig up details, possibilities and red herrings galore. The pleasure in these books is the way Stone and Dehan work together. They bounce ideas off each other coming up with sometimes outrageous theories which usually have some truths in them somewhere. Their repartee is often hilarious as is their interview technique. Neither of them take any rubbish from anyone and both can be astonishingly rude. Believe me it is very funny.
Five stars again for good, solid entertainment. Keep the books coming Mr Banner - especially this series!
December 23, 2025
A friend (Amy I know you’re reading this) recommended this book on her good reads but I’m only just realizing I ordered the wrong version, by a different author.
The entire time reading it I kept thinking how did my friend, or really anyone literate, give this such a strong review. It felt like a single law and order episode stretched into 250 pages. There were moments of good writing but by the end I didn’t really care who did it…I just wanted it all to be over. Always check the author before you order a book on Amazon I guess is the main lesson I extracted from this book.
The entire time reading it I kept thinking how did my friend, or really anyone literate, give this such a strong review. It felt like a single law and order episode stretched into 250 pages. There were moments of good writing but by the end I didn’t really care who did it…I just wanted it all to be over. Always check the author before you order a book on Amazon I guess is the main lesson I extracted from this book.
May 3, 2022
Modern Mr. and Mrs. North
Just the hilarious banter between this dynamic duo is worth every word!…every page! Have gleefully read every Blake Banner book! One more to go…pray he never stops writing!
Just the hilarious banter between this dynamic duo is worth every word!…every page! Have gleefully read every Blake Banner book! One more to go…pray he never stops writing!
December 23, 2023
These used to be just nice filler books in between if I was on a waiting list for something good at the library or whatever but I’ve grown tired of the little weird conservative dog whistles thrown in for no reason that just take away from the story. There’s always some random comment about “the thought police” or an awkward gender comment or inaccurate racial statements. It’s just so silly. What a weird choice, Blake Banner.
Here are some excerpts below of weird statements that don’t advance the story at all.
““Yes, sir. Hope you get your man, well”—he grinned nervously and flushed, glancing sidelong at Dehan—“woman I should say, really, or person. I hope you get your person.” Dehan smiled sympathetically at him. “I guess when you live in all this Californian sunshine, sand, sea, you need to invent things to worry about, huh?” He laughed nervously, like he didn’t want to be rude but he was afraid the thought police might hear him.”
““I worry about female cops,” he said absently, then smiled at me. “I have to be careful saying things like that. The thought police will be after me!”
““Do not”—she wagged a finger at me—“do not ever even dream about talking to me about your feminine side.” “I don’t have one.” “I know. That’s why I married you. But if you retire to California, who knows? You might grow one, like an excrescence, or a fungus.”
Here are some excerpts below of weird statements that don’t advance the story at all.
““Yes, sir. Hope you get your man, well”—he grinned nervously and flushed, glancing sidelong at Dehan—“woman I should say, really, or person. I hope you get your person.” Dehan smiled sympathetically at him. “I guess when you live in all this Californian sunshine, sand, sea, you need to invent things to worry about, huh?” He laughed nervously, like he didn’t want to be rude but he was afraid the thought police might hear him.”
““I worry about female cops,” he said absently, then smiled at me. “I have to be careful saying things like that. The thought police will be after me!”
““Do not”—she wagged a finger at me—“do not ever even dream about talking to me about your feminine side.” “I don’t have one.” “I know. That’s why I married you. But if you retire to California, who knows? You might grow one, like an excrescence, or a fungus.”
February 14, 2023
Hope there are more books.
I generally do not leave reviews since I'm really not good at them but I have to say that I have enjoyed every one of the books in this series. I read other books in between reading each of these just because I wanted to stretch out the series and not have an end but unfortunately I did come to the end. Sometimes when there's so many books in a series it gets a little boring but I have not found that at all with these. I'm just hoping that this is not the last one and that they will be plenty more to read.
I generally do not leave reviews since I'm really not good at them but I have to say that I have enjoyed every one of the books in this series. I read other books in between reading each of these just because I wanted to stretch out the series and not have an end but unfortunately I did come to the end. Sometimes when there's so many books in a series it gets a little boring but I have not found that at all with these. I'm just hoping that this is not the last one and that they will be plenty more to read.
January 8, 2024
A fast paced whodunit that keeps you on the edge right from the first page!
Detectives Stone and Dehan have a cold case at hand which on the surface seems like an open-and-shut case but one crucial fact renders them clueless and scratching their head for answers. Evidence suggests that Sheila committed the crime but she has an airtight alibi to prove otherwise.
Will the detective duo be able to get to the bottom of the mystery? Or is it already too late?
Its for you to find out.
A well written mystery novel that'd keep you guessing till the very end.
Detectives Stone and Dehan have a cold case at hand which on the surface seems like an open-and-shut case but one crucial fact renders them clueless and scratching their head for answers. Evidence suggests that Sheila committed the crime but she has an airtight alibi to prove otherwise.
Will the detective duo be able to get to the bottom of the mystery? Or is it already too late?
Its for you to find out.
A well written mystery novel that'd keep you guessing till the very end.
October 27, 2021
Great story line
The Stone/Dedham series I love. They just don’t come fast enough. My only complaint is that Mr Banner seems to want it both ways. He has dead cold, which is a Sherlock Holmes story line and then the James Bond type series that EVERYONE does. The first, in my opinion, works. The 2nd doesn’t because it’s done to death.Everybody seems to want to write that American conspiracy spy story. Fashionable, but not workable. Just my opinion.
The Stone/Dedham series I love. They just don’t come fast enough. My only complaint is that Mr Banner seems to want it both ways. He has dead cold, which is a Sherlock Holmes story line and then the James Bond type series that EVERYONE does. The first, in my opinion, works. The 2nd doesn’t because it’s done to death.Everybody seems to want to write that American conspiracy spy story. Fashionable, but not workable. Just my opinion.
October 27, 2021
Along Came Spider. Blake Banner
This is another excellent whodunnit murder mystery with the likely suspect falling prey to a unhinged and highly intelligent killer. A women , the lover of the deceased who feels cheated and betrayed. The initial list of suspects are all willing to turn on each other. None of them are saints. This read is extremely fast paced and has you guessing until the very last page!! Enjoyed immensely!!
This is another excellent whodunnit murder mystery with the likely suspect falling prey to a unhinged and highly intelligent killer. A women , the lover of the deceased who feels cheated and betrayed. The initial list of suspects are all willing to turn on each other. None of them are saints. This read is extremely fast paced and has you guessing until the very last page!! Enjoyed immensely!!
November 4, 2021
In the Name of Love.
While the love between Dehan and Stone is well established and understood, Book 28 gives insight into a more convoluted and deluded love. The lovers in Along Came a Spirited take the reader into twisted plot scenarios until they finally lead to the culpable spider. As always, Banner has created characters who call into question our beliefs on sanity and normality.
While the love between Dehan and Stone is well established and understood, Book 28 gives insight into a more convoluted and deluded love. The lovers in Along Came a Spirited take the reader into twisted plot scenarios until they finally lead to the culpable spider. As always, Banner has created characters who call into question our beliefs on sanity and normality.
July 4, 2023
He did it again
Now I usually only click the 5 star button and go on to the next book. I wanted to take a minute to say how much I love these books. They always have a great plot and as a bonus not one but two of the best detectives on the case. And I love the "banter" which seems to come naturally. Too bad someone has to die to make the story come alive but considering the state of the world it's a small price to pay, an imaginary death.
Now I usually only click the 5 star button and go on to the next book. I wanted to take a minute to say how much I love these books. They always have a great plot and as a bonus not one but two of the best detectives on the case. And I love the "banter" which seems to come naturally. Too bad someone has to die to make the story come alive but considering the state of the world it's a small price to pay, an imaginary death.
October 27, 2021
Twisty Turney
This is one of the best in this series so far. The story line kept me engaged 100%. The last person I would have suspected turned out to be guilty! Amazing problem solving skills used by both Detective Stone and Detective Dehan in the midst of non circumstantial clues, unexpected twists and turns, more murders, and lots of mehem!!
This is one of the best in this series so far. The story line kept me engaged 100%. The last person I would have suspected turned out to be guilty! Amazing problem solving skills used by both Detective Stone and Detective Dehan in the midst of non circumstantial clues, unexpected twists and turns, more murders, and lots of mehem!!
November 2, 2021
the impossible made possible
This author amazes me. His ability to write, divine plots and great characterisations leave me wanting the next book in the Cold Case series.
Along Came a Spider, is a great read. Trying to determine who the murderer is and especially why’ , is a futile exercise. Just read and enjoy the book.
This author amazes me. His ability to write, divine plots and great characterisations leave me wanting the next book in the Cold Case series.
Along Came a Spider, is a great read. Trying to determine who the murderer is and especially why’ , is a futile exercise. Just read and enjoy the book.
December 4, 2021
another a great one
Another great book in the series. Dehan is finally ahead of Stone. lol This one had me thinking from the beginning but then had me confused as to who was the killer but then it all feel into place. Dehan and Stone are great detectives and great husband and wife team.
Another great book in the series. Dehan is finally ahead of Stone. lol This one had me thinking from the beginning but then had me confused as to who was the killer but then it all feel into place. Dehan and Stone are great detectives and great husband and wife team.
March 22, 2022
Spoilers
It was good but not fantastic. Was missing a bit of the Dehan and Stone spark in my opinion.
There was little banter and it was clumsy.
Also I Called it from the start. I don't know how I knew but I know. I will say though I Didn't expect the brother to be involved but it was a twist that didn't really surprise me at all.
It was good but not fantastic. Was missing a bit of the Dehan and Stone spark in my opinion.
There was little banter and it was clumsy.
Also I Called it from the start. I don't know how I knew but I know. I will say though I Didn't expect the brother to be involved but it was a twist that didn't really surprise me at all.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 4, 2024
4 - 4.5 stars
Along Came A Spider is Book #28 in the Dead Cold Mystery series by Blake Banner.
Great series. Cold Cases. Crime and investigation. Mystery. Suspense. Detectives. Police procedural. Intrigue. Tension. Dramatic developments. Action. Engrossing.
Would make a great TV series.
Full Review to come.
Along Came A Spider is Book #28 in the Dead Cold Mystery series by Blake Banner.
Great series. Cold Cases. Crime and investigation. Mystery. Suspense. Detectives. Police procedural. Intrigue. Tension. Dramatic developments. Action. Engrossing.
Would make a great TV series.
Full Review to come.
May 13, 2025
Just as good.....
I have read 28 of the 30 in the Dead Cold series and not one has disappointed. I, like 99% of the readers are in love with Dehan but Mr. Banner has made sure we know it is hands off, she is John's partner and wife. If anyone wants a good series to get hooked on, this is it!!!! I have purchased th last two and will get started soon. A BIG THANK YOU to Blake.
I have read 28 of the 30 in the Dead Cold series and not one has disappointed. I, like 99% of the readers are in love with Dehan but Mr. Banner has made sure we know it is hands off, she is John's partner and wife. If anyone wants a good series to get hooked on, this is it!!!! I have purchased th last two and will get started soon. A BIG THANK YOU to Blake.
October 27, 2021
Brilliantly story. Love detectives Dehan and Stone
The series is compulsive reading. The two cold case detectives as husband and wife just brilliant Can’t wait for the next one. Thank goodness the author writes quickly!
The series is compulsive reading. The two cold case detectives as husband and wife just brilliant Can’t wait for the next one. Thank goodness the author writes quickly!
October 29, 2021
Fast-paced and twisty
Love the interplay between Stone and Dehan: kick-ass repartee, competitive case solving, deep connection. I also like Stone’s internal dialogues and the depth knowing Dehan has added to him.
Love the interplay between Stone and Dehan: kick-ass repartee, competitive case solving, deep connection. I also like Stone’s internal dialogues and the depth knowing Dehan has added to him.
October 30, 2021
Blake Banner never disappoints me in the Dead Cold mysteries
I liked the plot and page turning flow of the mystery. I must say that I suspected who the real murderer was mid-book , but I love the characters. Can't wait for number 29!
I liked the plot and page turning flow of the mystery. I must say that I suspected who the real murderer was mid-book , but I love the characters. Can't wait for number 29!
Read
November 9, 2021Brilliant!
Another fantastic book, I read it in 2 days! The
plot is super well-developed, making you find it impossible to stop reading! I am Carmen and John’s number 1 fan. I cannot wait for the next book!
Another fantastic book, I read it in 2 days! The
plot is super well-developed, making you find it impossible to stop reading! I am Carmen and John’s number 1 fan. I cannot wait for the next book!
November 17, 2021
Romantic mystery and twist to make a great story
An impossible murder suspect with a second lover and a cold case unsolvable by the regular cops, but put a couple of detectives with a very close relationship and they’ll trump the previous. Good suspense with incredible twists.
An impossible murder suspect with a second lover and a cold case unsolvable by the regular cops, but put a couple of detectives with a very close relationship and they’ll trump the previous. Good suspense with incredible twists.
November 21, 2021
good story
The character development is good with attention to detail and I retesting historical facts. Sometimes I fact check and get more definition to parts of the story. They are always curiously accurate.
The character development is good with attention to detail and I retesting historical facts. Sometimes I fact check and get more definition to parts of the story. They are always curiously accurate.
February 20, 2022
Wonderful series
Love this series. Love the characters. Love his smart a__for comments and Dehan's comebacks. Love their conversations. Can't wait for the next book to come out.
Love this series. Love the characters. Love his smart a__for comments and Dehan's comebacks. Love their conversations. Can't wait for the next book to come out.
March 19, 2022
Excellent police procedure book
Blake Banner is an in-depth master of the art of writing police procedure "who done it" books. Along Came A Spider kept me guessing who did it until the very last chapter . Buy this book! You will not be disappointed.
Blake Banner is an in-depth master of the art of writing police procedure "who done it" books. Along Came A Spider kept me guessing who did it until the very last chapter . Buy this book! You will not be disappointed.
May 9, 2022
Along Came A Spider
This is an amazing and interesting story. Not only i s the story extremely detailed but also very inclusive. It's amazing how the story played itself out. I'm extremely happy that Rehab was ok.
This is an amazing and interesting story. Not only i s the story extremely detailed but also very inclusive. It's amazing how the story played itself out. I'm extremely happy that Rehab was ok.
May 10, 2022
More cold case files
John and Carmen need to have that baby so they can retire and have their grandchildren visit them upstate or San Francisco. They need to buy that vineyard in Cali.
John and Carmen need to have that baby so they can retire and have their grandchildren visit them upstate or San Francisco. They need to buy that vineyard in Cali.
August 5, 2022
Murder
People commit murder for many reasons. Sex,money, jealousy, dominant control. Unless its a serial killer. They just kill for the thrill. But when our cold case team take a new case they find this murder is no different just to me variables. Read. Very interesting.
People commit murder for many reasons. Sex,money, jealousy, dominant control. Unless its a serial killer. They just kill for the thrill. But when our cold case team take a new case they find this murder is no different just to me variables. Read. Very interesting.
November 29, 2022
Really an enjoyable series.
Wonderful, believable characters. Fast paced action and seat of the pants thrills.
I enjoyed every word in this series. So much so that I read one book after another until I completed number 28.
Wonderful, believable characters. Fast paced action and seat of the pants thrills.
I enjoyed every word in this series. So much so that I read one book after another until I completed number 28.
December 23, 2022
Great Characters
I just love John Stone and Carmen. They are a great couple who manage to work together and still stay married. They are fun, serious, clever and entertaining. This whole series is terrific.
I just love John Stone and Carmen. They are a great couple who manage to work together and still stay married. They are fun, serious, clever and entertaining. This whole series is terrific.
November 25, 2024
I've written so many reviews for this series, I'm starting to get jaded about it. 😁
Just another great story.. No filler, nicely paced. Not my favorite mystery so far, but it was engaging and I found myself drawn in as usual.
Just another great story.. No filler, nicely paced. Not my favorite mystery so far, but it was engaging and I found myself drawn in as usual.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 60 reviews