What do you think?
Rate this book
Winter Black #22
Winter's Gamble
Swipe right for love. Swipe left for death.
In the aftermath of another harrowing case, FBI agent turned private investigator Winter Black is battling personal demons: guilt, her grandmother’s failing health, a strained alliance with a key detective, and the eerie knowledge that someone has been spying on her family. Amid these trials, Winter’s newest case emerges as a rare glimpse of normalcy, offering a seemingly simple investigation far removed from the deadly threats that have marked her recent past.
Until her new client turns up dead, a knife through his heart.
Even though dead men don’t pay, Winter feels a deep-seated responsibility to solve the murder of her client. Especially when another victim is murdered in the same manner. The common denominators? Both men were on the Wandering Hearts dating app for people looking to cheat, and the killer’s calling card—a gold broken heart charm—was left at the scene of both crimes.
Someone’s out for vengeance. And it’s personal.
In a bold gamble to catch the killer, Winter and her husband set up fake dating profiles for Winter’s office staff, placing them in the crosshairs of a deadly game. But one wrong move could land Winter in trouble with the local police, Noah in hot water with the FBI...and at least one person she cares for exposed to the killer's blade.
The mystery and suspense continue with Winter’s Gamble, the shocking fourth book in the Winter Black Season Two series, a stark reminder that the search for romance can quickly turn into a journey through a minefield, where every click might be your last.
In the aftermath of another harrowing case, FBI agent turned private investigator Winter Black is battling personal demons: guilt, her grandmother’s failing health, a strained alliance with a key detective, and the eerie knowledge that someone has been spying on her family. Amid these trials, Winter’s newest case emerges as a rare glimpse of normalcy, offering a seemingly simple investigation far removed from the deadly threats that have marked her recent past.
Until her new client turns up dead, a knife through his heart.
Even though dead men don’t pay, Winter feels a deep-seated responsibility to solve the murder of her client. Especially when another victim is murdered in the same manner. The common denominators? Both men were on the Wandering Hearts dating app for people looking to cheat, and the killer’s calling card—a gold broken heart charm—was left at the scene of both crimes.
Someone’s out for vengeance. And it’s personal.
In a bold gamble to catch the killer, Winter and her husband set up fake dating profiles for Winter’s office staff, placing them in the crosshairs of a deadly game. But one wrong move could land Winter in trouble with the local police, Noah in hot water with the FBI...and at least one person she cares for exposed to the killer's blade.
The mystery and suspense continue with Winter’s Gamble, the shocking fourth book in the Winter Black Season Two series, a stark reminder that the search for romance can quickly turn into a journey through a minefield, where every click might be your last.
246 pages, Paperback
First published September 20, 2024
1598 people are currently reading
389 people want to read
About the author
Mary Stone
232 books2,188 followersTo download my FREE BOOK, click here: https://authormarystone.com/free-book...
Nestled in the tranquil Blue Ridge Mountains of East Tennessee, Mary Stone has transformed her peaceful home, once bustling with her sons, into a creative haven. As her family grew, so did her writing career, evolving from childhood fears to a deep understanding of real-life villains. Her stories, centered around strong, unconventional heroines, weave themes of courage and intrigue.
Mary's journey from a solitary writer to establishing her own publishing house marks a significant evolution, showcasing her commitment to the literary world. Through her writing and publishing endeavors, she continues to captivate and inspire, honoring her lifelong fascination with the mysterious and the courageous.
Nestled in the tranquil Blue Ridge Mountains of East Tennessee, Mary Stone has transformed her peaceful home, once bustling with her sons, into a creative haven. As her family grew, so did her writing career, evolving from childhood fears to a deep understanding of real-life villains. Her stories, centered around strong, unconventional heroines, weave themes of courage and intrigue.
Mary's journey from a solitary writer to establishing her own publishing house marks a significant evolution, showcasing her commitment to the literary world. Through her writing and publishing endeavors, she continues to captivate and inspire, honoring her lifelong fascination with the mysterious and the courageous.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 68 reviews
April 18, 2024
I fell in love with Mary Stone when I first read Winter Black. Glad she brought her back like a good surprise at the end along with a killer cliffhanger. Cannot wait until the next installment. Strongly recommend this book and the rest of the series.
HIGHLY RECOMMEND!!
HIGHLY RECOMMEND!!
March 10, 2024
I’ve been a fan of Winter from the beginning. But this new chapter in her PI business isn’t the same. The stories are lacking something that was there in the FBI era. The plot of this seems rushed and disconnected. Some parts were exciting and kept my attention but other chapters seemed silly. Just doesn’t seem like the same Winter I grew to love in the earlier books.
May 30, 2024
WINTER'S GAMBLE is the fourth installment in Season 2 of the Winter Black Mystery Series by Mary Stone. The development of the main characters and depth of depravity in the criminal(s) is just as good/chilling as ever and will keep you on the edge of your seat to the end. While not as intense or chilling as the first season, this is still a chilling look-over-your-shoulder story, this season follows Winter and Noah's new life in Austin.
After resigning from the FBI, Winter moved to Austin and opened her own Private Investigation business and her husband Noah transferred to the local FBI office.
Winter has discovered that someone has been spying/stalking her, putting her on high alert, but she also has a job to do. She accepts a new client who insists his boss is denying his workers comp claim. The next morning her client is dead and the police tell her another man was murdered earlier with the same MO, then another murder. All have been stabbed in the heart and a golden heart charm with a scratch down the middle left on the victim’s forehead.
So much is going on around Winter: hidden cameras, undetectable spyware, an app luring those that want to cheat anonymously. Besides the killer reveal, this story ends with Winter's handyman revealing his true relationship to Winter.
My introduction to Mary Stone books goes back to the first Winter Black book and I haven't missed one of her books since, no matter which series. I'm sure you will be guessing the WHO/WHY all the way to the end. If you enjoy stories with drama, fear, horror, regret, suspense, along with those twists and turns that keep you guessing Mary Stone is your author, or should be.
I did receive a copy from the author and the above is my honest review.
After resigning from the FBI, Winter moved to Austin and opened her own Private Investigation business and her husband Noah transferred to the local FBI office.
Winter has discovered that someone has been spying/stalking her, putting her on high alert, but she also has a job to do. She accepts a new client who insists his boss is denying his workers comp claim. The next morning her client is dead and the police tell her another man was murdered earlier with the same MO, then another murder. All have been stabbed in the heart and a golden heart charm with a scratch down the middle left on the victim’s forehead.
So much is going on around Winter: hidden cameras, undetectable spyware, an app luring those that want to cheat anonymously. Besides the killer reveal, this story ends with Winter's handyman revealing his true relationship to Winter.
My introduction to Mary Stone books goes back to the first Winter Black book and I haven't missed one of her books since, no matter which series. I'm sure you will be guessing the WHO/WHY all the way to the end. If you enjoy stories with drama, fear, horror, regret, suspense, along with those twists and turns that keep you guessing Mary Stone is your author, or should be.
I did receive a copy from the author and the above is my honest review.
December 31, 2025
4.5 Stars
‘Everything’s bigger—and deadlier—in Texas...
Finally free from the claustrophobic worry caused by her psychotic baby brother’s bloodthirsty reign, former Special Agent Winter Black—newly Mrs. Winter Black-Dalton—is ready for a fresh start in Austin, Texas. With her husband and former partner, Noah Dalton, at her side, she’s hoping to shed the skin of her past and return to hunting down criminals, but in a very different way...’
Winter's Gamble is Book #22 in the Winter Black Series (Winter Black: Season Two Book #4) by Mary Stone. These books follow Special Agent Winter Black, whose life was shattered when her parents were murdered, and her little brother was believed to have been killed by a serial killer known as The Preacher. Years later, she’s not only chasing down dangerous criminals but also searching for the truth about her brother - a thread that runs through the entire series.
Here, you get the adrenaline rush of intense investigations - serial killers, twisted motives, and plenty of edge-of-your-seat moments - but also the personal side of Winter’s life. She’s tough and determined, but she’s also human, dealing with grief, trust issues, and complicated relationships.
Mary Stone’s writing is easy to sink into. The chapters are short and snappy, which made it really hard to put the books down. Each installment has its own case to solve, but there’s always that bigger mystery in the background, so you’ll probably want to read them in consecutive order to get the full picture and impact.
If you like shows like Criminal Minds or enjoy crime series with a mix of action as well as character depth, then this series is a solid choice.
Engaging, bingeable, and packed with both thrills and heart.
Happy Reading…
‘Everything’s bigger—and deadlier—in Texas...
Finally free from the claustrophobic worry caused by her psychotic baby brother’s bloodthirsty reign, former Special Agent Winter Black—newly Mrs. Winter Black-Dalton—is ready for a fresh start in Austin, Texas. With her husband and former partner, Noah Dalton, at her side, she’s hoping to shed the skin of her past and return to hunting down criminals, but in a very different way...’
Winter's Gamble is Book #22 in the Winter Black Series (Winter Black: Season Two Book #4) by Mary Stone. These books follow Special Agent Winter Black, whose life was shattered when her parents were murdered, and her little brother was believed to have been killed by a serial killer known as The Preacher. Years later, she’s not only chasing down dangerous criminals but also searching for the truth about her brother - a thread that runs through the entire series.
Here, you get the adrenaline rush of intense investigations - serial killers, twisted motives, and plenty of edge-of-your-seat moments - but also the personal side of Winter’s life. She’s tough and determined, but she’s also human, dealing with grief, trust issues, and complicated relationships.
Mary Stone’s writing is easy to sink into. The chapters are short and snappy, which made it really hard to put the books down. Each installment has its own case to solve, but there’s always that bigger mystery in the background, so you’ll probably want to read them in consecutive order to get the full picture and impact.
If you like shows like Criminal Minds or enjoy crime series with a mix of action as well as character depth, then this series is a solid choice.
Engaging, bingeable, and packed with both thrills and heart.
Happy Reading…
March 9, 2024
Cheaters Beware
Private Investigator Winter Black is still concerned about her grandmother’s health and the hidden camera found at her grandparent’s home. It was troubling enough to find them at her office. Who is watching Winter? Is Justin involved?
Winter accepts what she thinks will be an easy case. The client, Ernst Wald, wants help keeping his workman’s comp claim. He claims his employer is trying to say he is not injured. Winter finds police at her client’s home and discovers he has been murdered. So much for an easy case. It appears Ernst was stabbed in the heart. Why was he killed?
Winter decides to help find her client’s killer. When another body is found murdered in the same fashion, Winter along with Noah get involved in helping find the killer. How many will die before the killer is caught? What will Winter do to find the killer? Will someone close to Winter die?
Winter’s Gamble is well written and has all the elements needed to keep you entertained. There is drama, fear, horror, regret, suspense, along with those twists and turns that keep you guessing. It ends with Winter finding out information about Kline. Looking forward to book 23.
Private Investigator Winter Black is still concerned about her grandmother’s health and the hidden camera found at her grandparent’s home. It was troubling enough to find them at her office. Who is watching Winter? Is Justin involved?
Winter accepts what she thinks will be an easy case. The client, Ernst Wald, wants help keeping his workman’s comp claim. He claims his employer is trying to say he is not injured. Winter finds police at her client’s home and discovers he has been murdered. So much for an easy case. It appears Ernst was stabbed in the heart. Why was he killed?
Winter decides to help find her client’s killer. When another body is found murdered in the same fashion, Winter along with Noah get involved in helping find the killer. How many will die before the killer is caught? What will Winter do to find the killer? Will someone close to Winter die?
Winter’s Gamble is well written and has all the elements needed to keep you entertained. There is drama, fear, horror, regret, suspense, along with those twists and turns that keep you guessing. It ends with Winter finding out information about Kline. Looking forward to book 23.
March 2, 2026
Auch dieser Fall hat es für die frühere FBI-Agentin ganz schön in sich, und nicht nur sie begibt sich erneut in Gefahr. Dieses Mal sind sogar ihre beiden Angestellten dabei. Werden es Winter, ihr Mann und ihre Angestellten schaffen, den Killer zu stellen? Spannung ist garantiert!
Für Fans der Autorin natürlich ein Muss, aber da jeder Fall auch gelöst von anderen gelesen werden kann, weil er in sich geschlossen ist und ggf. kurze Zusammenfassungen zu vorigen Büchern einfließen, wenn es um Dinge in der Vergangenheit geht, kann man auch mit diesem Roman einsteigen. Ich selbst bevorzuge aber immer, die Romane der Reihe nach zu lesen.
Meine Bewertung: 09/10 Punkte.
https://sunsys-blog.blogspot.com/2026...
Für Fans der Autorin natürlich ein Muss, aber da jeder Fall auch gelöst von anderen gelesen werden kann, weil er in sich geschlossen ist und ggf. kurze Zusammenfassungen zu vorigen Büchern einfließen, wenn es um Dinge in der Vergangenheit geht, kann man auch mit diesem Roman einsteigen. Ich selbst bevorzuge aber immer, die Romane der Reihe nach zu lesen.
Meine Bewertung: 09/10 Punkte.
https://sunsys-blog.blogspot.com/2026...
March 11, 2024
Another good read!
After starting her own P.I. Business, you thought Winter's problems would become easier. No such thing as easy for her though, trouble always finds her. In what should have been a disability claim, turns out to be a full murder investigation, and Winter likes to see any case from beginning to end. With the help of her husband Dalton who will not let Winter be in any danger if he can help it, one murder becomes 3 all because of a dating app and a very clever bitter person. But what an ending, who is watching Winters every move, we will have to wait and see.
Would highly recommend this series.
After starting her own P.I. Business, you thought Winter's problems would become easier. No such thing as easy for her though, trouble always finds her. In what should have been a disability claim, turns out to be a full murder investigation, and Winter likes to see any case from beginning to end. With the help of her husband Dalton who will not let Winter be in any danger if he can help it, one murder becomes 3 all because of a dating app and a very clever bitter person. But what an ending, who is watching Winters every move, we will have to wait and see.
Would highly recommend this series.
March 11, 2024
Is dating a gamble? I love the fact that Winter Black is back. I love her story, her struggles and her accomplishments. And Noah, he is and has been a huge part of Winters life.
I seem to devour, if you can devour a book as soon as I get it, and Author Mary Stone's writing has been a big part of me for the last 4 plus years.
So, dating... I know dating online has been something I have heard of and known people to use. But dating for murder? Winter and Noah have stepped into a dating site that may kill them. Along with murder what other problems will they face.
I loved this book and I'm glad Winter Black is back.
I seem to devour, if you can devour a book as soon as I get it, and Author Mary Stone's writing has been a big part of me for the last 4 plus years.
So, dating... I know dating online has been something I have heard of and known people to use. But dating for murder? Winter and Noah have stepped into a dating site that may kill them. Along with murder what other problems will they face.
I loved this book and I'm glad Winter Black is back.
June 8, 2024
Winter's Gamble:Winter Black Season Two (Winter Black FBI Mystery Series Book 22)
OMG!!!!!!!!!!! This book was amazing. I couldn't put it down. This time Winter is hired by a man, who says his boss is trying to blackmail him into dropping his workman's comp claim, and this is where it gets weird, they are both using an app, that allows you to find people who don't mind if you're married, they are just looking for a hookup. The day after she is hired, the man is killed, and that is when the crazy starts happening, there is to much going on to go into. You will just have to read the series. I am lucky, I already have the next book in the series.
OMG!!!!!!!!!!! This book was amazing. I couldn't put it down. This time Winter is hired by a man, who says his boss is trying to blackmail him into dropping his workman's comp claim, and this is where it gets weird, they are both using an app, that allows you to find people who don't mind if you're married, they are just looking for a hookup. The day after she is hired, the man is killed, and that is when the crazy starts happening, there is to much going on to go into. You will just have to read the series. I am lucky, I already have the next book in the series.
March 2, 2024
Winter Black is the original character in Mary Stone’s writings. The Winter series was the first of my adventures into the author’s incredible writing skill. In Winter’s Gamble Mary Stone teases us with Winter’s past and how it will ever resolve itself so she feels safe. This is a thrilling murder mystery sure to keep you on the edge of your seat. And when someone close to Winter goes missing the tension in this story escalates with each page turned. Nothing like a good surprise at the end along with a killer cliffhanger…HIGHLY RECOMMEND!!
March 2, 2024
I’m always willing to give up sleep, change my weekend plans and plunge into the Mary’s new book, whenever it gets published. Her Every single new book brings more thrills, shocks and unexpected cliff hangers. She pushes the thriller boundaries and made me love the way, she tortures her heroines. I’m thrilled to join Winter (her first original heroine) on the newest dangerous and crazy escapades, knowing, Noah is there to love, support and protect her. Amazing series, with the past and present complicated plots. Bravo
March 3, 2024
I love Winter Black. She is one strong woman. Ex-FBI agent and now a Private Investigator. She takes her job seriously and somehow a simple worker's comp fraud case has turned into murder, and not just one. Winter starts unraveling the clues and then finds a hidden camera watching her and her grandparents. She caught up in sweeping their premises every day while still trying to catch a killer. But, hold on we have a new player in Winter's life. Talk about a twist but that's not all. The ending will floor you! Great book.
March 29, 2024
Mary, you cannot end a book like that! Wow. Good story
I've been reading about Winters life the beginning. But since she left the FBI, the stories have been different. They are still good but I'm frustrated by Winter. Her marriage intertwined with this has definitely changed things and I can imagine that Noah gets pissed at her. I'd like to see her use her gift more and become more useful to the PD. Gave it a 4 because it didn't give me the need to hurry up and get to the end.
I've been reading about Winters life the beginning. But since she left the FBI, the stories have been different. They are still good but I'm frustrated by Winter. Her marriage intertwined with this has definitely changed things and I can imagine that Noah gets pissed at her. I'd like to see her use her gift more and become more useful to the PD. Gave it a 4 because it didn't give me the need to hurry up and get to the end.
June 10, 2024
Surprise, Surprise
A very interesting serial murder mystery, oh Winter are you really cut out to work alone as a PI? You really are use to having a team to back you up. I guess you still do in a way, a loving and devoted FBI agent for a husband and friends on the police force excellent office staff as well. In this modern world if you aren't already a little bit concerned about computers, apps and data collection and sharing of that data you may become so after this read! And what an ending, leaving you so anxious for the next book!
ata
ion
re
A very interesting serial murder mystery, oh Winter are you really cut out to work alone as a PI? You really are use to having a team to back you up. I guess you still do in a way, a loving and devoted FBI agent for a husband and friends on the police force excellent office staff as well. In this modern world if you aren't already a little bit concerned about computers, apps and data collection and sharing of that data you may become so after this read! And what an ending, leaving you so anxious for the next book!
ata
ion
re
March 2, 2024
Winter and Noah are in Austin where her PI business is growing. Grandma Beth’s health isa big concern for Winter and Noah doesn’t appear to be happy with leadership at FBI office.
Winter still feels she is being watched,possibly by her brothers followers.
A new case comes her way, simple, should be a piece of cake to solve, but before she can really get going her client is found dead.
This was definitely a page turner. It gets a thumbs up from me !
Winter still feels she is being watched,possibly by her brothers followers.
A new case comes her way, simple, should be a piece of cake to solve, but before she can really get going her client is found dead.
This was definitely a page turner. It gets a thumbs up from me !
March 3, 2024
The Winter Black series is the best and this next book does not disappoint. A page turner with wonderful characters. Winter, Dalton, and law enforcement are looking for a serial killer when her new client becomes one of the victims. Ends with not one shocker but two. Cannot wait until the next installment. Strongly recommend this book and the rest of the series.
I am an ARC member, and this is my honest opinion.
I am an ARC member, and this is my honest opinion.
March 9, 2024
So Good
Finished this book in one day - could not put it down. The story is excellent but Winter's surprise was definitely a shocker to me. Couldn't hardly believe it! I love every series Mary Stone writes but the Winter Black series is absolutely my favorite. Can't wait for the next book in the Winter series.
Finished this book in one day - could not put it down. The story is excellent but Winter's surprise was definitely a shocker to me. Couldn't hardly believe it! I love every series Mary Stone writes but the Winter Black series is absolutely my favorite. Can't wait for the next book in the Winter series.
April 19, 2024
Another great book put out
Although I totally enjoyed this book as much as all
Of the others in the same series, I am disappointed about having to wait another year to find out who and why this serial killer left us hanging for a whole year to find out what is going on and who is spying on the family?
Although I totally enjoyed this book as much as all
Of the others in the same series, I am disappointed about having to wait another year to find out who and why this serial killer left us hanging for a whole year to find out what is going on and who is spying on the family?
June 9, 2024
How?
How can one person deal with all that Winter Black does? The new casesshe has solved as a P.I. The Electrocutioner caught. Cassie's murders. Her real dad? Secret surveillance. Now a text message from Justin? A real person would be in a psyche ward by now. Not Winter Black. Next.
How can one person deal with all that Winter Black does? The new casesshe has solved as a P.I. The Electrocutioner caught. Cassie's murders. Her real dad? Secret surveillance. Now a text message from Justin? A real person would be in a psyche ward by now. Not Winter Black. Next.
December 30, 2025
*3.5 Stars
This was a fun, fast-paced read that really leaned into the risks and uncertainty of Winter’s PI work. The case kept me engaged, and I enjoyed watching her make tough calls without the safety net she once had. The pacing was strong, and the tension worked well, making this a satisfying and confident installment.
This was a fun, fast-paced read that really leaned into the risks and uncertainty of Winter’s PI work. The case kept me engaged, and I enjoyed watching her make tough calls without the safety net she once had. The pacing was strong, and the tension worked well, making this a satisfying and confident installment.
March 1, 2024
Someone is killing people they’ve tracked using a dating app called Wandering Hearts and leaving a small broken heart as their calling card. Winter’s involvement comes when one of her clients becomes a victim. How far will she go to track down the killer without getting Noah involved?
March 2, 2024
Another great read.
When A delusional person sets up a dating site on the dark web.....BEWARE!
Mary weaves a mystery for Winter that also involves her husband Noah. Winter manages to solve the crime and the perpetrator is caught but surprises are in store.
To be continued
When A delusional person sets up a dating site on the dark web.....BEWARE!
Mary weaves a mystery for Winter that also involves her husband Noah. Winter manages to solve the crime and the perpetrator is caught but surprises are in store.
To be continued
March 3, 2024
As Winter takes on a new client,he is found dead. As she investigates what happened,more bodies start turning up. With Noah's help, she sets a trap involving her 2 willing employees. A real page-turner that will leave you with more questions about Winter's past. This one so t disappoint!
March 3, 2024
Winter's Gamble
This book did not let me down. It is as great as all the rest. I really enjoyed this book. I could not put this book down. The suspense is great. Can't wait till the next book comes out. I highly recommend this book and series.
This book did not let me down. It is as great as all the rest. I really enjoyed this book. I could not put this book down. The suspense is great. Can't wait till the next book comes out. I highly recommend this book and series.
March 4, 2024
This was a great story about Winter looking into who killed her client and with a dating app and seeing who is responsible and also a shocking twist to the man fixing her office. Thank you Mary for this wonderful story.
March 6, 2024
this was a creepy one
A focused, crazed psycho computer wizard targets straying spouses through a cleverly designed fake cheaters’ website - complete with spyware and tracking.
And - is Kline really who he’s claimed to be?
A focused, crazed psycho computer wizard targets straying spouses through a cleverly designed fake cheaters’ website - complete with spyware and tracking.
And - is Kline really who he’s claimed to be?
March 6, 2024
cheaters
Who is killing cheaters using a new hook up app, and why? When a client is killed, winter sees connections fast and helps to solve the cases. Author also reveals who her handyman really is
Who is killing cheaters using a new hook up app, and why? When a client is killed, winter sees connections fast and helps to solve the cases. Author also reveals who her handyman really is
March 11, 2024
Be Prepared
Winter and Noah are trying to adjust to their life in Austin. Be prepared for two very different storylines. There's one that's predictable and one that hits you over the head.
Winter and Noah are trying to adjust to their life in Austin. Be prepared for two very different storylines. There's one that's predictable and one that hits you over the head.
March 31, 2024
Difficult Woman
As good as always. This mystery is to find the person killing these men very gruesome way. But then a woman is killed and all there theories out the window. Winter gets a big surprise at the end
As good as always. This mystery is to find the person killing these men very gruesome way. But then a woman is killed and all there theories out the window. Winter gets a big surprise at the end
April 18, 2024
People are dying. Someone is stabbing them in the heart. Who is Kline is he the killer? What does Winter really know about her contractor? Could he be keeping others faithful or urging them to sin? Is it him!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 68 reviews