What do you think?
Dead Cold Mystery #10
To Kill Upon A Kiss
When Wayne Harris contacts Detectives Stone and Dehan, of the 43rd Precinct’s cold case unit, and tells them he has information relating to the Westchester Angel murder two years earlier, they agree to go and see him – at Rikers Island.
It soon becomes clear that Wayne has genuine information about the murder, information he could only have if he had been there. But it is also clear that Wayne is not giving anything away for free. Wayne wants something in return. He wants his liberty.
Stone believes Wayne Harris belongs where he is, behind bars, but as he and Dehan begin to look into the case they soon realize the horrific truth: they are dealing with a psychopathic serial killer who will stop at nothing to sate his lust for blood. And the only clue they have to his identity lies with Wayne Harris.
Yet, doing a deal with him, may be the worst mistake of their careers…
It soon becomes clear that Wayne has genuine information about the murder, information he could only have if he had been there. But it is also clear that Wayne is not giving anything away for free. Wayne wants something in return. He wants his liberty.
Stone believes Wayne Harris belongs where he is, behind bars, but as he and Dehan begin to look into the case they soon realize the horrific truth: they are dealing with a psychopathic serial killer who will stop at nothing to sate his lust for blood. And the only clue they have to his identity lies with Wayne Harris.
Yet, doing a deal with him, may be the worst mistake of their careers…
148 pages, ebook
Published May 31, 2018
About the author
Blake Banner
193 books422 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 72 reviews
May 31, 2020
These books are such good value and I have not been disappointed by one yet. I have been buying the boxed sets from Amazon - the only problem being that as I finish each book my Kindle opens up the next one and it is so tempting just to keep reading them one after another!
Anyway, another book, another cold case although this one was not as cold as usual. The team finds themselves up against a criminal who is trying to bargain his way out of prison with information about a murder and Stone is the only one who has a problem with it. I am not sure why anyone bothers to argue with John Stone actually since he is always right.
A huge amount of action in this book plus some very clever clues along the way. Stone and Dehan both get into dangerous situations which cause Stone to make a very important decision. Exciting, fun and easy reading. Highly recommended!
Anyway, another book, another cold case although this one was not as cold as usual. The team finds themselves up against a criminal who is trying to bargain his way out of prison with information about a murder and Stone is the only one who has a problem with it. I am not sure why anyone bothers to argue with John Stone actually since he is always right.
A huge amount of action in this book plus some very clever clues along the way. Stone and Dehan both get into dangerous situations which cause Stone to make a very important decision. Exciting, fun and easy reading. Highly recommended!
June 18, 2018
The Dead Cold Mystery Series
I have read the first 10 books of this series. I have enjoyed each and every one. I like that the protagonists are not stupid, that there isn’t hidden information - it’s always there, you may just have missed it as some of the characters do.
I like the relationship that has developed between the characters - it’s important to the story arc but doesn’t take over the narrative, and doesn’t supersede the mystery.
I am now waiting for book 11 and can hardly wait. I highly recommend this series to anyone who likes cold cases, twisty mysteries, and the Bronx.
I have read the first 10 books of this series. I have enjoyed each and every one. I like that the protagonists are not stupid, that there isn’t hidden information - it’s always there, you may just have missed it as some of the characters do.
I like the relationship that has developed between the characters - it’s important to the story arc but doesn’t take over the narrative, and doesn’t supersede the mystery.
I am now waiting for book 11 and can hardly wait. I highly recommend this series to anyone who likes cold cases, twisty mysteries, and the Bronx.
June 6, 2018
Officially obsessed with Blake Banner
This is book 10 in the series and it keeps getting better and better. You get all the pieces to the mystery but will still never figure it completely out. I love John and Carmen. The dynamic is perfect, older experienced detective partnered up to the bright tough young detective. Mr Banner is an impressive writer, just wonderful. Over this series he has delivered everything I love in good books- great writing, great story, great characters.
This is book 10 in the series and it keeps getting better and better. You get all the pieces to the mystery but will still never figure it completely out. I love John and Carmen. The dynamic is perfect, older experienced detective partnered up to the bright tough young detective. Mr Banner is an impressive writer, just wonderful. Over this series he has delivered everything I love in good books- great writing, great story, great characters.
June 21, 2018
Another solid book, my only criticism is that sometimes Stone appears to be too (I want to say pretentious) superior in not sharing his thoughts with Dehan and actually causes adverse situations as a result
January 21, 2019
Another enjoyable mystery.
August 8, 2020
Super Detective Outwits Clever Killer
I enjoy murder mysteries that make me as the reader work to solve the puzzle that has been presented to me. Blake Banner offers enough clues and insight from his leading detective to help the reader link the chain of events to solve the murder. The characters are intelligent, thoughtful and full of humor and mischief. These books in this series can be read out of order and are stand alone but I prefer to read in order to get the feel of the characters and the authors style of writing. A good book to read over a long afternoon. Enjoy
I enjoy murder mysteries that make me as the reader work to solve the puzzle that has been presented to me. Blake Banner offers enough clues and insight from his leading detective to help the reader link the chain of events to solve the murder. The characters are intelligent, thoughtful and full of humor and mischief. These books in this series can be read out of order and are stand alone but I prefer to read in order to get the feel of the characters and the authors style of writing. A good book to read over a long afternoon. Enjoy
February 24, 2021
Super-Sherlock John Stone keeps witless-Watson Carmen Dehan in the dark
2.5 stars
I’ve read many Blake Banner books, but this one isn’t up to the standards of other Dead Cold books. As a crime fiction fan, I chose to read this, because from the synopsis, I figured this cold case would quickly go hot and live. It does, but what I got is solidly middle-of-the-pack in storyline, twists, and believability. Plus, the red herrings are rather pink, and the true villain(s) are predictable. I finished this book in order to discover Stone’s thought processes, and the how and why-dunnits.
This entry is more annoying than usual, because Stone is in ultra-superior-mode and refuses to share investigative thoughts and theories with Dehan. This isn’t the first time, and it’s getting old. Srsly, Stone and Dehan are lovers, live together, and are long-time partners, and yet Dehan is still being treated as the dimmer Watson, the student, a padawan or whatever.
Grrrrr-worthy:
Dehan says she’s half Mexican, and later Stone throws about eyeroll-worthy Spanish words and phrases at her: Ahora. Muy seco. Ándale!
Then there’s this gem: “Rittoo Glasshopper,” Stone says after Dehan calls him Sensei. Jeeeez, Mr. Banner, “kung flu” much?
Suggest a copy editor. One example: “. . . small, thin, cruel mouth that seemed permanently fixed in a thin, cruel smile.”
2.5 stars
I’ve read many Blake Banner books, but this one isn’t up to the standards of other Dead Cold books. As a crime fiction fan, I chose to read this, because from the synopsis, I figured this cold case would quickly go hot and live. It does, but what I got is solidly middle-of-the-pack in storyline, twists, and believability. Plus, the red herrings are rather pink, and the true villain(s) are predictable. I finished this book in order to discover Stone’s thought processes, and the how and why-dunnits.
This entry is more annoying than usual, because Stone is in ultra-superior-mode and refuses to share investigative thoughts and theories with Dehan. This isn’t the first time, and it’s getting old. Srsly, Stone and Dehan are lovers, live together, and are long-time partners, and yet Dehan is still being treated as the dimmer Watson, the student, a padawan or whatever.
Grrrrr-worthy:
Dehan says she’s half Mexican, and later Stone throws about eyeroll-worthy Spanish words and phrases at her: Ahora. Muy seco. Ándale!
Then there’s this gem: “Rittoo Glasshopper,” Stone says after Dehan calls him Sensei. Jeeeez, Mr. Banner, “kung flu” much?
Suggest a copy editor. One example: “. . . small, thin, cruel mouth that seemed permanently fixed in a thin, cruel smile.”
June 5, 2018
TO KILL UPON A KISS
Excellent atmosphere, realistic,engaging two main characters. The best aspect is the plotting which is fair to the reader and is explained satisfactorily at the end. It is a 5 star book as is the series
Excellent atmosphere, realistic,engaging two main characters. The best aspect is the plotting which is fair to the reader and is explained satisfactorily at the end. It is a 5 star book as is the series
June 11, 2018
To Kill Upon A Kiss: A Dead Cold Mystery
I love this series. The partnership, the sharing of ideas. In this one the partners fail to see eye to eye. Stone's instincts tell him not all is as it seems. And it's not. The Antagonist is just a bit too antagonistic. Read it and see.
I love this series. The partnership, the sharing of ideas. In this one the partners fail to see eye to eye. Stone's instincts tell him not all is as it seems. And it's not. The Antagonist is just a bit too antagonistic. Read it and see.
June 13, 2018
First you get to know the characters, then when it picks up speed so that you can't put it down to the very end!
First you get a glimpse into both the professions
and private lives of the characters, even when it picks up speed so that you can't put it down until the end!
First you get a glimpse into both the professions
and private lives of the characters, even when it picks up speed so that you can't put it down until the end!
July 9, 2018
Another great story
I love this series. The characters, their relationship both business and professional , make the stories even better. Words move right along and I'm always sorry when the story ends!
I love this series. The characters, their relationship both business and professional , make the stories even better. Words move right along and I'm always sorry when the story ends!
September 4, 2018
Outstanding!!!
I have been binge reading this series! Not one book has been a letdown!! What a team these characters are! In to book 11😎
I have been binge reading this series! Not one book has been a letdown!! What a team these characters are! In to book 11😎
December 6, 2022
Very Hercule Poirot meets Sherlock Holmes!
This one is an intriguing one. Lots of deductive reasoning and Stone and Dehan being at odds. Stone of course is correct as always.
This book starts out differently. Rather than Stone and Dehan picking a cold case the case picks them. Stone gets a wake up call from the Inspector saying that a convict at Rikers wants to talk to them about a cold case. This in and of itself should trigger alarm bells. And we never find out how it happens. An inmate at Rikers can’t just call up an Inspector at the NYPD.
From the very first meeting Stone is bothered by what is occurring. He and Dehan are at odds because she thinks he won’t see the easy win because he is upset and jealous that the convict keeps talking about her. But Stone just feels something doesn’t fit. The path to the ultimate resolution is a twisty one.
It’s likely you’ll see the end result coming and figure it out before it is revealed. I did and it’s kind of irritating that again Dehan comes off looking rash and as though she’s not thinking things through. She spends a lot of time mad at Stone in this book which just doesn’t jibe for me as she knows how good Stone is and admires him.
There are several pieces of the puzzle that don’t really get explained and that’s annoying. I don’t like the loose ends. This seems to be a pattern with these books. When we get to the conclusion it is rushed and there are elements that never get explained. And of course we again have the editing errors. Every time I get to that author’s note at the end where the author self effacingly talks about the speed at which he writes I snarkily reply back that perhaps he should slow down a tad and do some research and proofread better so lazy, stupid errors don’t remain in his manuscript.
So while these things annoy me and keep the books from being five star/excellent, they are interesting and entertaining four star/very good reads and I’ll keep moving through the series. I’m especially interested in how the final scene in this book changes the dynamics of things going forward.
This one is an intriguing one. Lots of deductive reasoning and Stone and Dehan being at odds. Stone of course is correct as always.
This book starts out differently. Rather than Stone and Dehan picking a cold case the case picks them. Stone gets a wake up call from the Inspector saying that a convict at Rikers wants to talk to them about a cold case. This in and of itself should trigger alarm bells. And we never find out how it happens. An inmate at Rikers can’t just call up an Inspector at the NYPD.
From the very first meeting Stone is bothered by what is occurring. He and Dehan are at odds because she thinks he won’t see the easy win because he is upset and jealous that the convict keeps talking about her. But Stone just feels something doesn’t fit. The path to the ultimate resolution is a twisty one.
It’s likely you’ll see the end result coming and figure it out before it is revealed. I did and it’s kind of irritating that again Dehan comes off looking rash and as though she’s not thinking things through. She spends a lot of time mad at Stone in this book which just doesn’t jibe for me as she knows how good Stone is and admires him.
There are several pieces of the puzzle that don’t really get explained and that’s annoying. I don’t like the loose ends. This seems to be a pattern with these books. When we get to the conclusion it is rushed and there are elements that never get explained. And of course we again have the editing errors. Every time I get to that author’s note at the end where the author self effacingly talks about the speed at which he writes I snarkily reply back that perhaps he should slow down a tad and do some research and proofread better so lazy, stupid errors don’t remain in his manuscript.
So while these things annoy me and keep the books from being five star/excellent, they are interesting and entertaining four star/very good reads and I’ll keep moving through the series. I’m especially interested in how the final scene in this book changes the dynamics of things going forward.
February 1, 2021
Disclaimer: I am a fantasy fiction fanatic- almost exclusively- and this is the first crime series I've ever read. It definitely hooks you and I haven't been able to stop since I started. I just finished To Kill Upon A Kiss after starting the series only 30 days ago. But after book 10 replayed some of the same themes, I found myself slightly disappointed. The stories are great- they are different and thrilling. Banner adds nuances and details that make each mystery unique and intriguing. But Detective Stone's self satisfied attitude is getting a little old. In all 10 books so far, he has a self proclaimed "intellectual vanity" that prevents him from sharing with Dehan. He also conveniently never has time to explain it to her when she asks. Then inadvertently creates unnecessary tension between them because he starts to act on his own. And I understand that each character has their own personality and charisma- but in the spirit of keeping readers on their toes, Dehan would have some wins by now other than the occasional tackle of a suspect. She's not a rookie out of the academy- she's just not as seasoned of a veteran as Stone. And it's discontenting to see her just follow in his shadow and be the "cute latina detective" or romantic interest and not a whole lot more. At the end of the day though I gave it 4 stars because to me, the quality of a book isn't only defined in its literary depth, but also in these other factors:
I couldn't put it down. Meaning that I was able to unplug from reality and get engrossed in the book.
I want to read more. I'm invested in the characters enough that I want to see what else happens.
It makes me experience different emotions- laugh, cry, annoyed, happy, suspended, etc.
Readability- easy enough to follow and get through but not so easy it was boring or unmemorable.
I'm hoping the next 10 books continues to entrap me into the world of the Dead Cold Mystery Series!
I couldn't put it down. Meaning that I was able to unplug from reality and get engrossed in the book.
I want to read more. I'm invested in the characters enough that I want to see what else happens.
It makes me experience different emotions- laugh, cry, annoyed, happy, suspended, etc.
Readability- easy enough to follow and get through but not so easy it was boring or unmemorable.
I'm hoping the next 10 books continues to entrap me into the world of the Dead Cold Mystery Series!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 16, 2025
“To Kill Upon A Kiss” is the tenth in the 'Dead Cold' series - something I only realised after reading it.
Somehow I had skipped six earlier book and my surprise at the speed at which John Stone and Carmen Dehan had gone from verbal sparring buddies to lovers was explained.
Their focus this time is on a cold case involving the rape and murder of an unidentified Hispanic woman two years ago.
The initial police investigation was botched, incompetent, and incomplete.
The single clue, apart from the photographs of the scene, is a necklace reading 'Angela'.
Everything changes when a convicted felon says he can identify the killer. In return he wants his sentence changed to time served.
Wayne Harris is a nasty piece of goods and Stone takes an instant dislike to him - he believes that he is far more dangerous than he appears.
But his reluctance to deal with Harris is overturned by his superiors when it becomes clear that they are dealing with a serial killer and that his information is correct.
More than in previous books Stone indulges in his inner Sherlock Holmes, annoying the hell out of Dehan with his cryptic replies to his questions.
In fairness, the reader has pretty much all the information needed to understand but I was as much in the dark as Dehan.
It's a solid police procedural most of the way but, towards the end, it does take a leap of faith to understand the reasoning.
Now I've got to go back and wait for Stone and Dehan to transition!
4 Stars.
Somehow I had skipped six earlier book and my surprise at the speed at which John Stone and Carmen Dehan had gone from verbal sparring buddies to lovers was explained.
Their focus this time is on a cold case involving the rape and murder of an unidentified Hispanic woman two years ago.
The initial police investigation was botched, incompetent, and incomplete.
The single clue, apart from the photographs of the scene, is a necklace reading 'Angela'.
Everything changes when a convicted felon says he can identify the killer. In return he wants his sentence changed to time served.
Wayne Harris is a nasty piece of goods and Stone takes an instant dislike to him - he believes that he is far more dangerous than he appears.
But his reluctance to deal with Harris is overturned by his superiors when it becomes clear that they are dealing with a serial killer and that his information is correct.
More than in previous books Stone indulges in his inner Sherlock Holmes, annoying the hell out of Dehan with his cryptic replies to his questions.
In fairness, the reader has pretty much all the information needed to understand but I was as much in the dark as Dehan.
It's a solid police procedural most of the way but, towards the end, it does take a leap of faith to understand the reasoning.
Now I've got to go back and wait for Stone and Dehan to transition!
4 Stars.
December 25, 2019
To kill Upon a Kiss. Blake Banner
Cold case Detectives Stone and Dehan are looking into the case of a young dead women, unsolved, no clues. The original handling detective closed the case quickly. Another dead prostitute. As their investigation begins the suspect pool has one incarcerated inmate, but he points them towards another suspect. The investigation then points towards a serial killer. The last few pages unravels the mysterious suspects identification. I was clueless! Another excellent murder mystery whodunit!!
Cold case Detectives Stone and Dehan are looking into the case of a young dead women, unsolved, no clues. The original handling detective closed the case quickly. Another dead prostitute. As their investigation begins the suspect pool has one incarcerated inmate, but he points them towards another suspect. The investigation then points towards a serial killer. The last few pages unravels the mysterious suspects identification. I was clueless! Another excellent murder mystery whodunit!!
October 21, 2022
This was a very short addition to the series. The plot was aggravating at times. What I liked: generally, I love the dynamic between Stone and Dehan; the idea of a serial killer was new for this series; the very end. What I didn’t like: the author makes Stone seems so smart and in this novel he made Dehan seem slow and dumb; I hated the way the Inspector is portrayed - as if he’s never done police work; the tricks in the plot were very contrived and unbelievable; this author needs a good editor - which I say after every book. Overall, just a so-so book.
August 10, 2019
Detective’s Stone and Dehan had a murder victim
The young woman was killed by strangulation, there were bruises on her face and arms, she had been raped.
But she was not a streetwalker, she was wearing nice clean clothing, she had a crucifix with the name Angel on the back.
Then a prisoner in jail for possession of drugs, contacted the police saying that he knew who killed the woman.
The search is on!
The young woman was killed by strangulation, there were bruises on her face and arms, she had been raped.
But she was not a streetwalker, she was wearing nice clean clothing, she had a crucifix with the name Angel on the back.
Then a prisoner in jail for possession of drugs, contacted the police saying that he knew who killed the woman.
The search is on!
May 18, 2022
Finally a serial killer story in this series and I was waiting when it would happen. Thanks to the author for that. But I would have loved it even more if it would have spanned over 2 or 3 books. And to detective stone please share whatever it is you are thinking and then people will believe you. Because this may have gone any different way and when it happen you will not forgive yourself for not sharing.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 10, 2018
Final book...?
Is this the last in the series? Hmm...If It is then ok. After enjoying them all this one was a bit of a disappointment I'm afraid. I thought the plot was ridiculous,not up to the usual standard. Ludicrous conclusion. I'll try some more from this author but will miss the Stone & Dehan from the earlier books.
Is this the last in the series? Hmm...If It is then ok. After enjoying them all this one was a bit of a disappointment I'm afraid. I thought the plot was ridiculous,not up to the usual standard. Ludicrous conclusion. I'll try some more from this author but will miss the Stone & Dehan from the earlier books.
November 5, 2018
10 out of 10
Another riveting storytelling of Detectives Stone & Dehan. This tale finds them still working cold cases and Stone seems somewhat distracted in parts of this book. Obviously, this drives Dehan crazy. I won’t say more but you absolutely must read this book. I throughly enjoyed this book & the development of Stone & Dehan’s relationship.
Another riveting storytelling of Detectives Stone & Dehan. This tale finds them still working cold cases and Stone seems somewhat distracted in parts of this book. Obviously, this drives Dehan crazy. I won’t say more but you absolutely must read this book. I throughly enjoyed this book & the development of Stone & Dehan’s relationship.
December 24, 2021
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
August 4, 2024
4.5 stars
To Kill Upon A Kiss is the tenth book 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 superb TV series.
Full Review to come.
To Kill Upon A Kiss is the tenth book 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 superb TV series.
Full Review to come.
February 26, 2025
Not one of the good ones.
Having read all the previous books in this series, I must say I was disappointed. The antagonist was too overboard. Stone was a different person than in any previous story, a nd Dehan gets a little uppity. Do not know if I will continue reading the rest of the books.
Having read all the previous books in this series, I must say I was disappointed. The antagonist was too overboard. Stone was a different person than in any previous story, a nd Dehan gets a little uppity. Do not know if I will continue reading the rest of the books.
June 3, 2018
A wonderful Series.
I am an avid reader and this series has been one of the best that I have read in a long time.
I look forward to reading more of your books in this series.
I would even buy you more coffee.
I am an avid reader and this series has been one of the best that I have read in a long time.
I look forward to reading more of your books in this series.
I would even buy you more coffee.
June 15, 2018
Dead cold case
Gosh, one of the best mystery story tellers! How does one come up with such a a complicated story ! Terrific, please keep this couple going and look forward to the next book.
Gosh, one of the best mystery story tellers! How does one come up with such a a complicated story ! Terrific, please keep this couple going and look forward to the next book.
July 28, 2018
Dead Cold Mystery
I do not like writing reviews. But I can say I love this series period. Like the characters including the Inspector. Why is he named a John also! Anyway, a fun, fast interesting plot.
I do not like writing reviews. But I can say I love this series period. Like the characters including the Inspector. Why is he named a John also! Anyway, a fun, fast interesting plot.
March 23, 2019
What a belter of a story
Have read all of this series so far and can honestly say is the best in my opinion twists turns belter of a story and finally Stone gets his woman at last👍🏻
Have read all of this series so far and can honestly say is the best in my opinion twists turns belter of a story and finally Stone gets his woman at last👍🏻
May 5, 2019
Once again Blake Banner has got me hooked. Another really good one with Stone and Dehan.
I am very much enjoying this series. These two have such a unique relationship it is such a pleasure to read. Also a good plot makes it even better. To be recommended.
I am very much enjoying this series. These two have such a unique relationship it is such a pleasure to read. Also a good plot makes it even better. To be recommended.
May 29, 2020
Great Detective Work!!!
Well developed story and characters. Mr Banner does a good job of bringing you into the story with his characters! Stone and Dehan make a great team! I just love all the back And forth of those two through the adventures!!! On to the next adventure!!!
Well developed story and characters. Mr Banner does a good job of bringing you into the story with his characters! Stone and Dehan make a great team! I just love all the back And forth of those two through the adventures!!! On to the next adventure!!!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 72 reviews