While skiing deep in Lake Tahoe’s backcountry, private detective Dan Reno finds the first naked body, buried under fresh snow. Reno’s contacted by the grieving father, who wants to know who murdered his daughter, and why? And how could the body end up in such a remote, mountainous location? The questions become murkier when a second body is found. Is there a serial killer stalking promiscuous young women in South Lake Tahoe? Or are the murders linked to a different criminal agenda?
Searching for answers, Reno is accosted by a gang of racist bikers with a score to settle. He also must deal with his pal, Cody Gibbons, who the police consider a suspect. The clues lead to the owner of a strip club and a womanizing police captain, but is either the killer?
The bikers up the ante, but are unaware that Cody Gibbons has Reno’s back at any cost. Meanwhile, the police won’t tolerate Reno’s continued involvement in the case. But Reno knows he’s getting close. And the most critical clue comes from the last person he’d suspect…
Dave Stanton is the author of eight novels in the Dan Reno private eye series. They do not have to be read chronologically to be enjoyed, but for those who want to know, the order is: Stateline, Dying for the Highlife, Speed Metal Blues, Dark Ice, Hard Prejudice, The Doomsday Girl, Right Cross, and The Asylum Thread.
Born in Detroit, Michigan, in 1960, Dave Stanton moved to Northern California in 1961. He received a BA in journalism from San Jose State University in 1983. Over the years, he worked as a bartender, newspaper advertising salesman, furniture mover, debt collector, and technology salesman. He has two children, Austin and Haley, and lives with his wife, Heidi, in San Jose, California.
Stanton's eight novels all feature private investigator Dan Reno and his ex-cop buddy, Cody Gibbons.
DARK ICE is the fourth book, a fast-paced crime thriller in the Dan Reno Novel series by Dave Stanton. This thriller is full of action, adventure, twists and turns and will appeal to a large audience. I have to admit that this is the first novel that I have read by this author, but this novel can definitely be read as a standalone, but it would have been beneficial to come into the story knowing some of the characters already. There are six novels in the Dan Reno private eye series and they include: 1) Stateline 2) Dying for the Highlife 3) Speed Metal Blues 4) Dark Ice 5) Hard Prejudice 6) The Doomsday Girl.
Two murdered girls, and no motive…
While skiing deep in Lake Tahoe’s backcountry, private detective Dan Reno finds the first naked body, buried under fresh snow. Reno’s contacted by the grieving father, who wants to know who murdered his daughter, and why? And how could the body end up in such a remote, mountainous location? The questions become murkier when a second body is found. Is there a serial killer stalking promiscuous young women in South Lake Tahoe? Or are the murders linked to a different criminal agenda?
Reno is confronted by a gang of racist bikers with a score to settle. He also must deal with his pal, Cody Gibbons, who the police consider a suspect.
The bikers are unaware that Cody Gibbons is protecting Reno. The police want Reno off the case. But how can Reno do this when he is getting so close, and the most critical clue comes from the last person he’d suspect.
The author’s writing makes it easy for me to visualize being right there in the moment.
I really like this series. In this episode (book 4) Dan Reno, a private investigator and bounty hunter based in South Lake Tahoe, California, comes across a dead body whilst skiing one morning. The body is of a young woman, and she’s naked. He calls it in and his expectation is that this this is where his involvement with the case will end. But a while later he’s contacted by the girl’s father who hires him to investigate her death – because, he states, he has no faith in the local police force.
Reno is now settled in a home he owns in this picturesque spot and even has a live-in girlfriend. But at heart he’s a workaholic and he’s soon neck deep in the investigation. He has a pretty quick mind, but even quicker fists and you just know it won’t be long before he’ll be actively using the latter. And so it proves to be, ably abetted by his pal, fellow PI, San Jose based Cody Gibbons.
The action involves drugs, biker gangs, a sleazy senior cop, gambling casinos - in fact a similar mix to the previous books. But Stanton still manages to make it feel fresh and fun. I’m somewhere between 4 and 5 stars for this one, but I’m going to go with the lower rating simply because the surprise factor isn’t as strong for me this time around. But no matter, I’ll definitely be back for book 5.
Set in winter time, this is yet another chilling read in the Dan Reno crime series. Even though the story starts off at Christmas time, there is certainly nothing festive about this read!
The settings for these books are really great. You really get drawn into the story and could easily visual the snowy mountains and surrounding areas. It’s so unlike city living that in a way you kind of yearn to be with the characters.
Cody I felt really sorry for in this book. He is so unlucky in love but then if he went for more than looks, his relationships may last longer but then where would the fun in that be? It’s quite a sombre time for Cody and like Dan, I just wanted to get to the bottom of the murders in the hope of seeing Cody back to his usual cheeky self.
You know things are going to get serious when bikers are involved. I was literally on the edge of my seat seeing how things were going to unfold with these bad boys and as usual the author doesn’t disappoint.
Dark Ice is a dark and gripping read that I didn’t want to put down. I think because Cody is under suspicion it adds a lot more tension to the story and I have to say I loved how the author ended this one leaving me with a huge grin on my face.
My thanks to Bloodhouns Books and NetGalley for an advanced readers copy of this book. All opinions are my own and not biased in anyway.
When private detective Dan Reno decides he wants to escape the woes of the world, he really does go off grid to do it. Not satisfied with the newly snow-covered slopes of Lake Tahoe’s backcountry, he has to go one further to where no-one else has dared to go. That is apart from the murderer who had killed a young woman and buried her in the snow, with presumably the intention of her not to be found until after winter and the big thaw. That was of course before Reno literally stumbles onto her. Now this is really tragic but nothing new to Reno in his line of work. But when things take a turn for the worse and involve his best bud Cody he really must step in. Oh and of course with a pretty decent cash incentive from the father of the dead girl in the snow, that helps too. Looks like Reno and sidekick Cody are going to ruffle some people’s feathers and cause a little pain to get to the bottom of who this potential serial killer is. I just love this twosome that seem to get away with far more than they should but it does make real fast, furious and compelling reading. There is humour, brawls and super sleuth unpredictable can’t believe they just did that investigating. After saying that, getting justice done and the bad guys gone, one way or another, is their prime aim. There are some real close calls for Reno in this story but it is all about pulling the chaff from the wheat to see a clearer picture of what is really going on. This is now book four in the series, although book two for me. Each can be read as a stand alone but I must admit that it was nice to come into the story knowing some of the characters already. I really enjoyed all of the shock waves as it come together at the end. Cracking entertainment!
This is Book 4 in the Dan Reno series but the books do work very well as stand alone.
I was looking forward to this new outing with Dan and Cody I find the pair really interesting reading. Humour and a 'no shit' attitude makes for very good reading.
The story begins when Dan comes across a dead, naked woman while skiiing off-piste. The chances of him getting caught up with her in such a remote spot were very unlikely especially given the heavy snow that Lake Tahoe is experiencing at the time. At first it is thought that the killer assumed the body wouldn’t be found but then Cody's latest arm candy is also found murdered and it appears they have a serial killer on the loose.
With the police making no progress Dan is hired by the father of the first victim to find the murderer.
Not many clues and without access to the crime databases Dan has to resort to calling in favours from Marcus Grier. When it is revealed that Galini had sex with both victims shortly before their deaths Dan and the police are in a race to put the pieces together and uncover the killer.
These books are very descriptive and while it is nice to envisage the scenery and the people it is a bit too much for me and that lost it some marks.
The characters continue to gain depth and I love the way Candi is worked in to the fabric of the book.
A very good read.
Thank you to Bloodhound Books for the advance copy.
Reno continues as a PI, investigating a murdered young woman he find in the snow when skiing..
Another exciting story with awesome characters and such spectacular descriptions of the scenery that you feel like you are watching a film, not reading a book! Our favourite PI, Dan Reno, actually really stumbles upon the body of a young woman while skiing. After calling 911 and giving his account to the police he goes home. Later the girl's father, a general, calls to ask Reno to investigate the murder, saying he has looked Reno up and hopes he is as good as he seems. So Reno starts his work, digging into anything he can to learn about the girl. Of course he messes with some police officers and some jerks, but his best bud Cody is there for him again. These books are very enjoyable, I know what type of story I am going to find and have never been let down!
Racist bikers, murdered young women and a police officer with a dubious record. That's just a few of the things Dan Reno private detective is in the middle of in Dark Ice by Dave Stanton. I can't say why I made a pause reading this series. It is actually very good and filled with suspense and humor. The books are set in an environment not often used in detective stories and I like variation as long as it's some kind of smalltown setting.
Dave Stanton in his new book, “Dark Ice” Book Four in the Dan Reno series published by LaSalle Davis Books gives us another adventure with Dan Reno.
From the back cover: Two murdered girls, and no motive…
While skiing deep in Lake Tahoe’s backcountry, Private Eye Dan Reno finds the first naked body, buried under fresh snow. Reno’s contacted by the grieving father, who wants to know who murdered his daughter, and why? And how could the body end up in such a remote, mountainous location? The questions become murkier when a second body is found. Is there a serial killer stalking promiscuous young women in South Lake Tahoe? Or are the murders linked to a different criminal agenda?
Searching for answers, Reno is accosted by a gang of racist bikers with a score to settle. He also must deal with his pal, Cody Gibbons, who the police consider a suspect. The clues lead to the owner of a strip club and a womanizing police captain, but is either the killer?
The bikers up the ante, but are unaware that Cody Gibbons has Reno’s back at any cost. Meanwhile, the police won’t tolerate Reno’s continued involvement in the case. But Reno knows he’s getting close. And the most critical clue comes from the last person he’d suspect…
I have not read the previous Dan Reno adventures so I had no idea of what was in store for me. Let me tell you this book begins with a bang and just keeps on going. Dan Reno is skiing and, literally, skis over a dead girl. He is a very observant person and he provides lots of details which will come in useful later. Later another girl is discovered leading to the possibility of a serial killer. The father of the first girl hires Dan to find the killer. Easier said than done. There are those that do not want him to succeed. Danger, mayhem, thrills and murder all figure into this highly complicated plot. Dan is a lot of fun and a highly interesting character. “Dark Ice” is loaded with twists and turns and red herrings that will leave you guessing all the while you are flipping pages to find out what happens next. Mr. Stanton has provided us with a fairly exciting book. I am glad I found this talented unique author and am so looking forward to the next book in this series.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Partners In Crime. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
This is the fourth book in the Dan Reno series and the fourth that I have read.
I really enjoyed one, it is fast paced and gritty and I was hooked after the first few pages!
I love the characters in this series and it is one of my favourite series that is out at the moment and I love reading the next instalment in the series - Reno is a fantastic character and I love the action he brings to the stories.
Four stars from me for this one - highly recommended and a thoroughly good read!!
Reading "Dark Ice" was like watching a blockbuster action flick. The friendship between the hard boiled PI with a soft center, and his hell raising ex army buddy was reminiscent of buddy bonding in American movies where two polar opposites are brought together as partners. The spectacular scenery, and the fast and furious action was as awe-inspiring as viewing it in 3D on the silver screen. The ending as satisfactory with the good guys bringing the perpetrator to justice. Dark Ice was a cinematic experience. The only thing missing was the popcorn. Bring on the sequel
Ice ice baby – this author never disappoints! What a chilling, fast paced and severely addictive novel! I’m surprised I didn’t turn into an ice-cube what with all the chilling scenarios and all!! Sorry, I’ll stop with the ice anecdotes….
Once again, Dave Stanton writes about murder in an incredibly realistic manner, whilst also managing to engage the reader every step of the way. ‘Dark Ice’ is exceptionally dark, with gruesome elements merely being the tip of the iceberg (sorry!).
The only irk I had about this novel was the constant references to drugs. I understand that that is what Dan Reno and Cody are about, but for me, ‘Dark Ice’ seemed to contain more of that than the other novels. It didn’t put me off per se, it just made me go ‘hmmm’ once or twice.
I loved how Cody appeared on the scene when he was needed the most, especially given the nature of his character and how much he actually brings to the storyline itself. He has become a large part of the ‘Dan Reno’ series, even if his actions do leave a lot to be desired at times!
A ballsy, intense novel with more action in it than a scene of ‘Top Gun’!
Private investigator Dan Reno has gone out into no man’s country for a good, private ski. But of course trouble has to find him when he stumbles over a buried, murdered young lady. Clearly someone else wanted to be out where no one would find them too. Then another body is found. It seems there may be a serial killer in Tahoe. But there are several leads; one is Dan’s friend Cody Gibbons.
As Dan digs, he is warned off of the investigation by the police. Of that is not enough he also manages to stir up the local biker gang that is out for trouble. He has to be getting close to the killer when things start getting seriously dangerous. But that is how Dan Reno likes it.
I love this series. Dan is a bad ass guy that is willing to walk into the lion’s den to find the killer. As an added bonus that reward for finding the killer from a victim’s father helps too. The story is going to twist and turn with lots of clues and a killer ending. Plus I love reading books based in Tahoe since I’m just forty five minutes away and know how beautiful this area is.
I absolutely love the Dan Reno series and can’t wait to get my grubby little hands on the next book.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. I voluntarily chose to read and post an honest review.
Dan Reno is a private investigator. One day he is out skiing in an out of the way area beyond the normal ski trails. His ski gets caught on something and he stops to see what kind of tree stump or other obstacle he get ripped up on. Turns out to be a dead body of a girl dumped out in this remote area. How did she get here? Only an experienced outdoorsman could have hauled a body out this way and dumped it there. Turns out the woman was a 21 year old party girl. Her father hires Dan to find out who killed her and bring the killer to justice. Meanwhile, Dan has gotten into a fight with a biker in the bar that Dan owns and the biker is out for revenge. But Cody, Dan's best friend, has DAn's back on that one. Lots of action and interesting characters all set in the backdrop of Lake Tahoe.
This is another gripping book in the Dan Reno series. Dan discovers a body in the snow and later find out that she’s been strangled to death. A few days later another woman is found dead, also strangled. Dan is asked to investigate by one of the victims fathers and soon finds himself knee deep in trouble. Cody is in hand to help out and between them they upset a few biker gangs and as usual get tangled up in their business. The investigation takes a few turns before Dan realises who is to blame for the murders and his girlfriend Candi comes up with a crucial piece of information to help him. Thanks to Bloodhound Books for the opportunity to read this book.
I love this series so much. Thank you for the signed book. Its between my signed Bel Canto and Star Island by Carl Hiaasen. I owe you a drink. come by Effies and I'm buying. Dan Reno reminds me of Jack Reacher without the wandering. Highly recommend.
This is a fast moving, high action Private Investigator story. It was very interesting to me as it is set in South Lake Tahoe and it's fun to recognize the places they are talking about. Two young women were murdered and Dan Reno, PI is instrumental in solving the cases. It's a quick read.
Loved this book, the characters, the plotting, the writing, the story AND can’t wait to read more by this author. I have to also say that as a reader/reviewer of books it is always a joy to read a new-to-me-author and find one that I immediately want to read his or her work again and I feel just that way as I write this review.
As I read I thought the character reminded me a bit of Lee Child’s Reacher but the story also reminded me a bit of Robert Parker’s Spenser and yet Reno was also a man that I just liked and would actually like to know as a person and perhaps be able to call friend. I am definitely looking forward to reading more books by this author!
This story was fast paced, beautifully descriptive, action-packed, kept me on the edge of my seat and left me truly satisfied with a smile on my face when I closed the book. I loved the skiing sequences, was truly worried at times, enjoyed the action, liked the relationship between Reno and Candi and thought Cody was also someone I would like if I were to meet him. As I read I realized that being a private investigator or policeman means not taking a quick look, seeing easy clues and determining who the murderer is in minutes. The many people to investigate who may be evil in their own right but not necessarily the “one” bad guy would be hard to leave behind to stay on the trail to find the person one is seeking.
Well, I could write more BUT I will just say that this is a book I highly endorse and hope that if you do decide to read it that you will enjoy it as much as I did.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bloodhound books for the ARC – This is my honest review.
An easier read than the earlier books in the series. To me if had more sex and drug like talk in it, which isn't needed. Still a simple story that I found had to put down. Certainly worth it.
PI Dan Reno is out skiing just before Christmas when he discovers a young woman”s body. The local police seems to be getting nowhere with the investigation. Then Dan is contacted by the victim’s father who asks him to investigate on his behalf. Dan’s best friend Cody visits Tahoe for New Year with his new girlfriend. The double date doesn’t go well and the following day the girlfriend is found dead - she’s been murdered and the mo is very similar to the first murder. The only link between the two victims is that they slept with the same man shortly before they were killed and he’s a police officer. Dan has the added complication of a feud with a biker gang to occupy him during the investigation. Really good read from start to finish.
Thanks to Bloodhound Books and Dave Stanton for the ARC of this book in return for an honest review.
This is book four in the brilliant Dan Reno series I would suggest this series is best read in order as it does make references to previous books in the series.
Yet again I loved and enjoyed reading this story. I am really liking Dan’s character and how nothing at all will phase him or overcome him he will always get the case solved with a little help from Cody. Dark Ice is a fast paced thriller which will keep the reader in suspense until the end… I loved the setting of this story, set in winter with snow and skiing!
I did find that the chapters were long but I devoured this story and cannot wait to read book five. I would highly recommend this series to you all. I am loving it. I also love all the covers of this series and how they all match.
Dave Stanton doesn’t disappoint in this 4th book of the Dan Reno (as in no problemo) mystery series Dan’s personal life has him cutting back on the hard drinking and watching his diet. His live-in girlfriend Candi is delightful. Their growing relationship is another positive aspect of the story.
Dan is working to find out who killed a young woman, and the investigation has him chasing possible motives. He is methodical and thorough with a work ethic that even greater than his previous cases.
Dark Ice is thrilling from the first page to the last. I highly recommend!
Dave Stanton is my favorite detective, mystery, noir writer.
Dark Ice is an edge of the seat mystery thriller with graphic, realistic violence. The action is fast and furious, and there are no slow parts in this novel. Character development is first-rate, and the plot is well put together, plus the red herrings will keep you guessing. It is a hard story to specifically comment on without spoiling it for others, something I am reluctant to do.
A great read and the author's descriptions of Lake Tahoe, Nevada and the night life almost make you feel like you're there.
A very good read equal with the first three. Dan as a character develops nicely along with his relationship with Cody. If I was being hyper critical I found the lucky break to crack the case a little unbelievable.
Looking at all 4 books I do appreciate that the author gives clues as to each character is as they reenter the plot. Thus even if I put the story down for a while I can easily jump straight back in without thinking "Who are we talking about".
So I've already downloaded the 5th and can't wait to get started. Only one request: "Dave get back working on the 6th, please".
Really lazy writing. Introducing the killer after about 85% of the book is complete? And he just happened to be taking a painting class from Reno's girlfriend? Come on! Also, the unending comments about how big every woman's boobs are in all of these books is laughable. Finally, it appears that Stanton is trying to clone James Lee Burke's (fabulous) character Clete Purcell in his own Cody Gibbons character, but he does not-and cannot. There is depth and grace in Purcell's person, but Gibbons is one dimensional joke in comparison.
Dan Reno and his live in girlfriend are enjoying a beautiful day of skiing when he falls and finds a naked young blond girl buried in the snow off the trail. He is hired by the girl's father to find the killer. Cody Gibbons and a female friend have come to join them skiing. Cody's girlfriend goes missing and is found dead. Looks like the same killer. So much for a relaxing day of skiing. They work to find the killer.
Interesting plot twists, and clues, that present an interesting story of revenged grief and betrayal. You’re on the trail of the serial killer but he’s hard to see, until he’s there. I liked this book mostly for the relationship that has brought our main character stability in his life but has not taken anything from his commitment at finding justice. As aways, a good read, especially for a sunny afternoon at the beach.
This series is getting better and better. I really like the way the main character is evolving. This time, he and his sidekick, Cody Gibbons, take on violent motorcycle gangs and other, more "subtle" bad guys. My only 2 criticisms are the misspellings which could be corrected with some decent editing, and the title. It does not connect to the story.
For Dan Reno and Cody too. These books dont disappoint. I enjoy the scraps these detectives find themselves in, and the way they find themselves absolved of any wrongdoing. Another hit with this book. I'm off to download another. Write faster please, lol. Just kidding.
This is a great thriller. As Dan Reno books tend to do starts slowly and then the end you don’t see coming. As thrillers go this is up the there with the best of them. You just cannot put it down. Highly recommended must read.
Very good book. Keeps you glued to your seat. Murderer only becomes obvious in the last couple of chapters. If you start this series, read them in order. Books build on each other. Stanton gives Child a run for his money.