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Ellie Kline #11
Cold Judgment
It’s judgment day...
Charleston police detective Ellie Kline has been skating on thin ice since she overrode protocol to stop the Cupid Killer. But when a former drug dealer turned family man is knifed to death, her new boss pulls her in on the case.
The new lead detective is convinced it’s just another gang-related murder. But this was intimate. Savage. Personal. And exactly like the homicide of another low-level gang member who’d recently been released from prison.
There’s a vigilante out there, and he’s not finished crossing names off his list.
Ellie is determined to find the connection between the two victims before the case gets shoved to the backburner and a possible serial killer roams free. But as her own emotional state spirals out of control, Ellie must face her own demons before she loses everything—and everyone—she loves.
The stakes have never been higher than they are in Cold Judgment, the eleventh book in Mary Stone’s bestselling Ellie Kline Series. Justice will be served...one way or another.
Charleston police detective Ellie Kline has been skating on thin ice since she overrode protocol to stop the Cupid Killer. But when a former drug dealer turned family man is knifed to death, her new boss pulls her in on the case.
The new lead detective is convinced it’s just another gang-related murder. But this was intimate. Savage. Personal. And exactly like the homicide of another low-level gang member who’d recently been released from prison.
There’s a vigilante out there, and he’s not finished crossing names off his list.
Ellie is determined to find the connection between the two victims before the case gets shoved to the backburner and a possible serial killer roams free. But as her own emotional state spirals out of control, Ellie must face her own demons before she loses everything—and everyone—she loves.
The stakes have never been higher than they are in Cold Judgment, the eleventh book in Mary Stone’s bestselling Ellie Kline Series. Justice will be served...one way or another.
262 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 19, 2022
967 people are currently reading
341 people want to read
About the author
Mary Stone
216 books2,131 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.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 88 reviews
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May 22, 2022COLD JUDGEMENT is the eleventh installment in the Ellie Kline Cold Case series by Mary Stone and Donna Berdel. This one is just as intense as the other installments to this series. This one is fast paced and thrilling with a wild sea of emotions. The authors Mary Stone and Donna Berdel have done another amazing job capturing your attention in the first few pages of the book. I was hooked from the beginning.
Wow, so much is happening! Ellie’s life seems to be falling apart. Stressed with her new Lead Homicide Detective supervisor's restrictive investigative techniques, Internal Affairs investigating her methods in the Cupid Killer case, her boyfriend FBI Agent Clay Lockwood siding with her superior, even her foster daughter not being happy with her. And now a killing that looks like a drug deal gone wrong. Ellie thinks the killings are too personal for a gang war. But no one wants to her about her thoughts on the case. Even her parents have been keeping secrets from her.
This story and the entire series can be read as stand-alones, but I recommend reading the entire series, your chills will go so much deeper.
I did receive an advance readers copy from the author and the above is my freely given and honest review.
Wow, so much is happening! Ellie’s life seems to be falling apart. Stressed with her new Lead Homicide Detective supervisor's restrictive investigative techniques, Internal Affairs investigating her methods in the Cupid Killer case, her boyfriend FBI Agent Clay Lockwood siding with her superior, even her foster daughter not being happy with her. And now a killing that looks like a drug deal gone wrong. Ellie thinks the killings are too personal for a gang war. But no one wants to her about her thoughts on the case. Even her parents have been keeping secrets from her.
This story and the entire series can be read as stand-alones, but I recommend reading the entire series, your chills will go so much deeper.
I did receive an advance readers copy from the author and the above is my freely given and honest review.
May 23, 2022
Ellie’s Struggles
Ellie is still dealing with the after effects of her last job, the Cupid Killer case. She doesn’t get along with her new supervisor and is being investigated by Internal Affairs for the way she handled her last case. Ellie’s new case appears to be gang related; however, she believes it may be revenge motivated. She goes against her boss which will lead to problems and it appears Clay is against her.
Ellie is having problems with Bethany and Clay. She is struggling to be a good mom to Bethany along with doing her job. Ellie needs to get it together before she loses what is most important to her.
Cold Judgment shows Ellie’s struggles with her job, Bethany and Clay. Will she keep her job? Will her and Clay go their separate ways? Will Bethany get the mom she deserves? What about that ending?
Looking forward to the next book. I really hope Ellie finds a way to balance her life.
Ellie is still dealing with the after effects of her last job, the Cupid Killer case. She doesn’t get along with her new supervisor and is being investigated by Internal Affairs for the way she handled her last case. Ellie’s new case appears to be gang related; however, she believes it may be revenge motivated. She goes against her boss which will lead to problems and it appears Clay is against her.
Ellie is having problems with Bethany and Clay. She is struggling to be a good mom to Bethany along with doing her job. Ellie needs to get it together before she loses what is most important to her.
Cold Judgment shows Ellie’s struggles with her job, Bethany and Clay. Will she keep her job? Will her and Clay go their separate ways? Will Bethany get the mom she deserves? What about that ending?
Looking forward to the next book. I really hope Ellie finds a way to balance her life.
May 19, 2022
Absolute Roller Coaster Ride!!! There were so many ups and downs to this book I could not put down.
Still suffering from the after effects of the evil Kingsley Ellie struggles with motherhood, her love life and a new boss, Rachel Stoddard.
Mary Stone and Donna Berdel have created quite a thriller. So many times in this book I wanted to cry right along with Ellie.
Her boss is totally jealous of everything Ellie has accomplished and tries to undermine her anyway she can. Ellie is constantly aware of the IA investigation against her regarding her last case.
The outcome of this last case is that Ellie manages to succeed and also lose…
I cannot stop thinking about this book! What a wonderful cliffhanger-cannot wait to read the next in this series!!!
Still suffering from the after effects of the evil Kingsley Ellie struggles with motherhood, her love life and a new boss, Rachel Stoddard.
Mary Stone and Donna Berdel have created quite a thriller. So many times in this book I wanted to cry right along with Ellie.
Her boss is totally jealous of everything Ellie has accomplished and tries to undermine her anyway she can. Ellie is constantly aware of the IA investigation against her regarding her last case.
The outcome of this last case is that Ellie manages to succeed and also lose…
I cannot stop thinking about this book! What a wonderful cliffhanger-cannot wait to read the next in this series!!!
May 28, 2022
Cold Judgement was intense. Ellie has a lot on her plate in this book. She has a new lead detective who is out to get her. Detective Stoddard is a total bitch who is determined to discredit Ellie even it cost lives. She turns the case over to the drug task force determined it is drug lords killing each other although Ellie knows it is revenge killings. Just like she knew more than Stoddard during the Cupid murders, Ellie is being investigated by IA for not following protocol. Ellie is trying to save the final victim, a young man trying to turn his life around from the Vigilante Killer, her life with Bethany and Clay is s mess. Her parents are keeping secrets. Can she help anyone including herself? Mary you never disappoint. Thank you
February 28, 2024
More distressing serial murders for Ellie and Charleston
Cold Judgement pits Ellie against two different serial killers and her boss, boyfriend, mother and just about everyone else. Although I am losing a little patience with Ellie pitting herself against almost everyone, she is remarkable when it comes to solving crimes. Ellie does have a lot of baggage to sort through from her first serial killer and is now saddled with the supervisor from he'll who calls Ellie back from suspension to work yet another serial murder case, because her supervisor must realize that only Ellie can close the case, even though that same supervisor blocks every effort that Ellie puts toward solving the crimes!
Cold Judgement pits Ellie against two different serial killers and her boss, boyfriend, mother and just about everyone else. Although I am losing a little patience with Ellie pitting herself against almost everyone, she is remarkable when it comes to solving crimes. Ellie does have a lot of baggage to sort through from her first serial killer and is now saddled with the supervisor from he'll who calls Ellie back from suspension to work yet another serial murder case, because her supervisor must realize that only Ellie can close the case, even though that same supervisor blocks every effort that Ellie puts toward solving the crimes!
May 17, 2022
I couldn’t put the book down. There are several different story lines at play and not all are answered by the end of the book. Ellie is a fascinating character who has multiple layers and they seem to be working against each other in this book. Her trauma is still present, her desire to do good is present, her love and fear of failure is here but they all are not meshing. The case is tough and her new boss seems like the ultimate jerk. I was intrigued by the story and have questions about the issues with her boss, IA, the therapist and of course her relationships! Can’t wait for the next book
May 30, 2022
I have so many questions
Mary and Donna have outdone themselves once again! Cold Judgement was a fantastic read. Ellie solved this murder like a champ even when everyone was against her. What's next for Ellie? I really hope she and Clay can work things out. Something needs to be done with Stoddard, she's impossible to work with and for. I can't help but feel there is some family secret regarding her dad and the psychologist. At least now she can devote her time to Bethany and figure out what is next career wise. In the meantime I'll be waiting somewhat patiently for the next book!!
Mary and Donna have outdone themselves once again! Cold Judgement was a fantastic read. Ellie solved this murder like a champ even when everyone was against her. What's next for Ellie? I really hope she and Clay can work things out. Something needs to be done with Stoddard, she's impossible to work with and for. I can't help but feel there is some family secret regarding her dad and the psychologist. At least now she can devote her time to Bethany and figure out what is next career wise. In the meantime I'll be waiting somewhat patiently for the next book!!
May 19, 2022
Another great book by Mary Stone & Donna Berdel. Still dealing with the aftermath of the Cupid Killer case, Ellie's boss calls her in on a new case even though she is on suspension. Is she ready to solve another crime after everything she has been through? Ellie is determined to catch the Vivgilante Killer despite all the obstacles like family drama, IA investigators, & her new boss. Will Ellie succeed? Cannot wait until the next book to see how Ellie handles the aftermath.
I am an ARC member and this is my honest review.
I am an ARC member and this is my honest review.
May 19, 2022
The Ellie Kline series by Mary Stone and Donna Berdel continues. Charleston Detective Ellie Kline just wants to relax and think about where her life is going. Is she done with being a detective? Just as she reaches her destination the chief of police there needs her help with a case. Was this a drug deal gone bad or was it something more sinister? Can Ellie ever let go of her past? How do Bethany and Clay fit into her life? What is the secret her father is hiding? These and many other questions will keep you intrigued. Highly recommend!
May 19, 2022
In this newest addition to the Ellie Kline series, Ellie is hunting another serial killer in her hometown. As she focuses on the case, the relationships around her are deteriorating and she struggles to keep it all together. While Ellie is doing this, many are at risk, including herself. Ever twisting and turning to keep you invested and interested, these two authors offer nothing but the best thrill ride with this and their other novels. I received this novel as an ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own. I highly recommend this novel and this series!
May 20, 2022
Believe in yourself
Ellie is in the middle of her suspension when her boss calls her to a crime scene. As usual for Ellie she jumps in with both feet. Her boss as on her prior case won't listen to her about what she discovers and tells her to hand off the case to vice. Unfortunately because her boss doesn't listen some else dies. Ellie gets in her face and ends up suspended and not sure what she wants to do now. Bethany loves that she is there more. Can't wait to.see where she goes from here.
Ellie is in the middle of her suspension when her boss calls her to a crime scene. As usual for Ellie she jumps in with both feet. Her boss as on her prior case won't listen to her about what she discovers and tells her to hand off the case to vice. Unfortunately because her boss doesn't listen some else dies. Ellie gets in her face and ends up suspended and not sure what she wants to do now. Bethany loves that she is there more. Can't wait to.see where she goes from here.
May 24, 2022
Cold Judgment ( Ellie Kline Book 11)
I was somewhat disappointed in this book. I love Mary Stone's books, but this left a lot to be desired. Ellie is really a mess, and definitely does not need to be working on the police force. Being a foster mom to Bethany, and recovering from her recent kidnapping has caused her to implode at times. She doesn't seem to understand that Klay cares for her, & continually holds him & others at arms length. At this point, she is never going to get along with her Captain. She definitely needs time out from her job, & help with relationships.
I was somewhat disappointed in this book. I love Mary Stone's books, but this left a lot to be desired. Ellie is really a mess, and definitely does not need to be working on the police force. Being a foster mom to Bethany, and recovering from her recent kidnapping has caused her to implode at times. She doesn't seem to understand that Klay cares for her, & continually holds him & others at arms length. At this point, she is never going to get along with her Captain. She definitely needs time out from her job, & help with relationships.
September 15, 2023
Wow Ellie enough!
Although I love this series I have definitely had enough of Ellie’s obvious privileged status, it’s not always up to her alone to get the bad guys. Come on Ellie lighten up, realize what you have, realistically Clay would be long gone by now. And where is social services checking up on Bethany? Oh yes I forgot there is a law for the rich and then a law for the rest of us. Hope the next book reals in Ellie a bit to act more like a detective and follow police procedures.
Although I love this series I have definitely had enough of Ellie’s obvious privileged status, it’s not always up to her alone to get the bad guys. Come on Ellie lighten up, realize what you have, realistically Clay would be long gone by now. And where is social services checking up on Bethany? Oh yes I forgot there is a law for the rich and then a law for the rest of us. Hope the next book reals in Ellie a bit to act more like a detective and follow police procedures.
May 15, 2022
Mary and Donna did a great job with this newest Ellie Kline book. Things are good with Ellie until the new boss calls her in from suspension to work a case. Ellie has a lot of plates in the air now but can she keep them all spinning? So many mysteries in her life right now, and not just the case. She wants answers but is frustrated because she isn't getting them. Things get heated, with Clay, with Bethany, the new boss, even her parents. Can she stay sane without blowing her top?
May 19, 2022
A new exciting new book from Mary Stone and Donna Berdel. Continuing the Ellie Klein series, I felt I was on a familiar path with Ellie. She has a great personality, with her deductions and wisdom.
I really enjoyed reading this new book, Cold Judgement very much and can't wait for the next book. Thank you Mary and Donna for this great read.
I received this book as an ARC from the Authors for an honest review.
I really enjoyed reading this new book, Cold Judgement very much and can't wait for the next book. Thank you Mary and Donna for this great read.
I received this book as an ARC from the Authors for an honest review.
May 20, 2022
Fast paced thriller with emotional undercurrent . Will Ellie succeed in solving crimes while under IA investigation and bitchy Stoddard undermining her on the every step she takes. Dealing with motherhood, romance and work problem at once she feels unappreciated and not being enough. This excellent story ends up again with the great cliffhanger and makes everybody to want more. Don’t miss on this perfect thriller read
May 20, 2022
Such an unexpected ending, leaves you totally wanting the next book! Ellie is a great detective but her new boss has a vendetta against her & she is being investigated by Internal Affairs for the way she handled the last case. She is in turmoil with her job, Clay, Beth & her parents. Trying to be her best person seems to backfire on every account. How will her life change in the next chapter, can't wait to find out!
May 21, 2022
Here comes the judge
Another great Ellie Kline adventure hits the web. Ellie struggles with recovery from the Cupid Killer Murders and Dr Kingston’s cruelty. As she tries to understand motherhood while raising Bethany, her life is in turmoil. An IA investigation into the last case. An intransigent boss. A new case of revenge or gangland murders. Ellie closes herself off from all she needs. Twists, turns, mystery pepper this 5 star read. Great job Mary Stone.
Another great Ellie Kline adventure hits the web. Ellie struggles with recovery from the Cupid Killer Murders and Dr Kingston’s cruelty. As she tries to understand motherhood while raising Bethany, her life is in turmoil. An IA investigation into the last case. An intransigent boss. A new case of revenge or gangland murders. Ellie closes herself off from all she needs. Twists, turns, mystery pepper this 5 star read. Great job Mary Stone.
May 22, 2022
Problems getting used to being a new mother, problems on the job with her new boss, and problems with her love. Ellie is struggling with her life. She is hunting a serial killer and still dealing with the monumental problems in her life. Can she successfully solve all the problems? Another must read for the lovers of Mary Stone. Not a disappointment., a definite 5 star review. The next one can only be better.
May 22, 2022
I just looked and cannot believe we are up to 11 already in the series. You do really need to start at the beginning and just go on the journey with Ellie as otherwise it doesnt make sense. This book was more about Ellie and her relationships (with a crime that only Ellie solved) and lots of little hooks for the next book, cant wait.
I was given an advance copy by the author but the review is entirely my own.
I was given an advance copy by the author but the review is entirely my own.
May 30, 2022
Brilliant !!!!!
I just love this series of books, you always believe the one you have just read is best, but they just keep getting better. This one has it all, plenty of tension a gripping story line and so much more. What is going on with Ellie Kline is she just trying too hard or is the job too much. Also what's going to happen between her and Clay, I do so hope they sort themselves out. Let us see where the next book leads us. Can't wait.
I just love this series of books, you always believe the one you have just read is best, but they just keep getting better. This one has it all, plenty of tension a gripping story line and so much more. What is going on with Ellie Kline is she just trying too hard or is the job too much. Also what's going to happen between her and Clay, I do so hope they sort themselves out. Let us see where the next book leads us. Can't wait.
April 14, 2023
I suspect most people that are considering reading Cold Judgement have read the previous Ellie Kline stories. The impact of Doctor X in the first 9 books made it almost impossible for me to put the books down. Book 10 and Book 11 have been a lot more focused on Ellie and the residual effects of the impacts Doctor X on herself. I hope future books will explain the changes that were implemented in the police department (Ellie's Boss) and the departments change in attitude toward Ellie.
May 19, 2022
Another stellar addition to the Ellie Kline series. Ellie’s life seems to be falling apart. She has family problems, problems at work, and a new case to solve. There’s so much drama. I was thoroughly hooked from the first to last page. Very well developed plot. *this honest review is based on a complimentary copy*
May 19, 2022
Cold Judgment (Ellie Kline Psychological Thriller Series Book 11) By Mary Stone and Donna Berdel. Another case which hits home .. Ellie Kline is so focus in solving her case , she loses track of her love ones . It’s a fast pace book leaving you wanting more absolutely loved it …I recommend this series…
May 19, 2022
Fanastic
Ellie has been going through so much. Trying to handle it alk by herself. Pushing away friends and family.
Not much help from her new chief. When Ellie has the key to stop the crime Stoddard throws up roadblocks.
When OIA steps in Stoddard throws her under the bus.
What happens next? Can't wait to find out
Ellie has been going through so much. Trying to handle it alk by herself. Pushing away friends and family.
Not much help from her new chief. When Ellie has the key to stop the crime Stoddard throws up roadblocks.
When OIA steps in Stoddard throws her under the bus.
What happens next? Can't wait to find out
May 21, 2022
I am so happy that Ellie Kline's story will continue. I love the characters in this series, ok not all of them. I started this book and could hardly put it down. It was another thrilling ride I can hardly wait for the next book.
Thank you to the author and publisher for my advance review copy. All opinion and thoughts are my own.
Thank you to the author and publisher for my advance review copy. All opinion and thoughts are my own.
May 23, 2022
Another Vicious One
Really liked this one. With Ellie still reeling from Kingsley and Internal Affairs investigating her take down of the Cupid Killer, she is shocked to be pulled out of suspension for a brutal murder. Is it really just gang violence as her boss insists? Ellie thinks they have a serial Killer. And Her boyfriend isn’t helping. What’s going on with Ellie?
Really liked this one. With Ellie still reeling from Kingsley and Internal Affairs investigating her take down of the Cupid Killer, she is shocked to be pulled out of suspension for a brutal murder. Is it really just gang violence as her boss insists? Ellie thinks they have a serial Killer. And Her boyfriend isn’t helping. What’s going on with Ellie?
June 5, 2022
ellie kline has lost her appeal
Gotta say the ending didn’t surprise me. Should’ve happened a few books ago. Ellie is egocentric and really doesn’t care about anything but herself. She doesn’t deserve clay or Bethany. I’ll read the next book to find out what’s up with her dad but other than that I’ll be happy to read another series
Gotta say the ending didn’t surprise me. Should’ve happened a few books ago. Ellie is egocentric and really doesn’t care about anything but herself. She doesn’t deserve clay or Bethany. I’ll read the next book to find out what’s up with her dad but other than that I’ll be happy to read another series
June 7, 2022
good read
I’ve read several Mary Storm book series and love them all. I realize this one is a collaboration with another author. I can’t say this series is up to the levels of Winter, Storm or Autumn. The Ellie series is exciting but it’s hard to like her all that much. Her character is pretty narcissistic and a bit of a b****.
I’ve read several Mary Storm book series and love them all. I realize this one is a collaboration with another author. I can’t say this series is up to the levels of Winter, Storm or Autumn. The Ellie series is exciting but it’s hard to like her all that much. Her character is pretty narcissistic and a bit of a b****.
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June 9, 2022A very good read!
Seems this book is relative to the year 2020. The officers of the law are either governed by politics, the need to exceed or just hampered by the governing body. And, the main character being a woman was a strike against her work and diligence! Mary Stone captured reality with her work of fiction to create an intriguing book!
Seems this book is relative to the year 2020. The officers of the law are either governed by politics, the need to exceed or just hampered by the governing body. And, the main character being a woman was a strike against her work and diligence! Mary Stone captured reality with her work of fiction to create an intriguing book!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 88 reviews