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Gabriella Giovanni Mystery #1
Blessed Are the Dead
To catch a killer, one reporter must risk it all …
San Francisco Bay Area newspaper reporter Gabriella Giovanni spends her days on the crime beat, flitting in and out of other people's nightmares, yet walking away unscathed. When a little girl disappears on the way to the school bus stop, her quest for justice and a front-page story leads her to a convicted kidnapper, Jack Dean Johnson, who reels her in with promises to reveal his exploits as a serial killer. But Gabriella's passion for her job quickly spirals into obsession when she begins to suspect the kidnapper may have ties to her own dark past: her sister's murder.
Risking her life, her job, and everything she holds dear, Gabriella embarks on a quest to find answers and stop a deranged murderer before he strikes again.
Perfect for fans of Sue Grafton and Laura Lippman's Tess Monaghan series!
San Francisco Bay Area newspaper reporter Gabriella Giovanni spends her days on the crime beat, flitting in and out of other people's nightmares, yet walking away unscathed. When a little girl disappears on the way to the school bus stop, her quest for justice and a front-page story leads her to a convicted kidnapper, Jack Dean Johnson, who reels her in with promises to reveal his exploits as a serial killer. But Gabriella's passion for her job quickly spirals into obsession when she begins to suspect the kidnapper may have ties to her own dark past: her sister's murder.
Risking her life, her job, and everything she holds dear, Gabriella embarks on a quest to find answers and stop a deranged murderer before he strikes again.
Perfect for fans of Sue Grafton and Laura Lippman's Tess Monaghan series!
304 pages, Unknown Binding
First published June 10, 2014
75 people are currently reading
675 people want to read
About the author
Kristi Belcamino
97 books422 followersKristi Belcamino is a USA TODAY bestselling author, an Agatha, Anthony, Barry & Macavity, award finalist, a newspaper cops reporter, and an Italian mama who makes a tasty biscotti.
Newsletter Sign up: https://www.subscribepage.com/KristiB...
FULL LIST OF BOOKS:
Gia Santella Crime Thrillers:
Related to Gia Santella Crime Thrillers:
Gia (prequel novella)
Lone Raven (novella)
Taste of Vengeance
Queen of Spades Thrillers
Related: Eva (prequel novella)
Vigilante Crime Series:
Stand Alones:
Nonfiction
Gabriella Giovanni Mystery Series:
Blessed are the Dead
Blessed are the Meek
Blessed are Those Who Weep
Blessed are Those Who Mourn
Blessed are the Peacemakers
Blessed are the Merciful
Related:
The Saint (prequel novella)
Misc:
City of Angels
Tomb of the Queen
Crush Your Query
Newsletter Sign up: https://www.subscribepage.com/KristiB...
FULL LIST OF BOOKS:
Gia Santella Crime Thrillers:
Related to Gia Santella Crime Thrillers:
Gia (prequel novella)
Lone Raven (novella)
Taste of Vengeance
Queen of Spades Thrillers
Related: Eva (prequel novella)
Vigilante Crime Series:
Stand Alones:
Nonfiction
Gabriella Giovanni Mystery Series:
Blessed are the Dead
Blessed are the Meek
Blessed are Those Who Weep
Blessed are Those Who Mourn
Blessed are the Peacemakers
Blessed are the Merciful
Related:
The Saint (prequel novella)
Misc:
City of Angels
Tomb of the Queen
Crush Your Query
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Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 81 reviews
June 20, 2021
I really liked the main character overall even if she was a bit of a wreck. She is passionate and mixed up and lonely but she is endearing as well. The ending had me on the edge of my seat. I will definitely read more of this series.
June 26, 2014
A story that's immediately engaging? Check. Terrific pacing and plot structure? A protagonist who's flawed in some ways but for whom we still root? Check, check.
At times I found myself getting angry at Gabriella, but she always redeemed herself later. This is truly the sign of a great author--one who can create a character who, though fictional, can elicit real emotions from me, both good and bad.
Had I not known, I'd have never guessed this was a debut novel. It stands among the best of it's genre. I'm looking forward to the next installment!
July 29, 2014
Blessed Are the Dead by Kristi Belcamino is a 2014 Witness Impulse Publication. I was provided a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review by the publisher and Edelweiss.
Gabriella Maria-Grazia takes her job very seriously. She is a crime reporter for a Bay Area newspaper. She has news in her blood. She lives it, breaths it. She is currently coping with yet another break up and an ambitious newbie who isn't beneath trying to a few underhanded tricks to make Gabriella look bad in front her bosses.
But, when a missing persons case involving a young girl is making headlines, Gabriella takes it personally. She has lost a sister at a young age and this case is hitting her hard. Everything else is on a back burner while she joins in the search to find the missing girl.
Told in first person, this taut suspense thriller follows Gabriella as she follows a creepy serial killer down a dark, twisty road in hopes of finding out what happened to a missing girl, but also in hopes of finding out about her own sister whose killer was never brought to justice. As the suspect, Jack Dean Johnson, plays games with Gabriella she will remind you a great deal of Clarice Starling. Gabriella is spellbound by the suspect as she finds herself feeling some kind of empathy for the trauma he suffered in childhood, and he dangles information in front her making her think he knows something about her sister. But,is he the real killer? Oh, yes , he's killed before, many times. But, is he the one that kidnapped the most recent victim and does he really know anything about what happened to Gabriella's sister? Or is he just toying with her?
Also, on the case is a veteran detective, named Donovan who has a bad reputation, but who also finds himself drawn to Gabriella and she to him. However, the relationship appears doomed from the start as their respective careers clash.
The atmosphere is dark and gritty, and this crime thriller is not for the faint of heart. It is always tense when a child is involved in a crime and this book is not only riveting but heart wrenching as Gabriella begins to remember the sadness and grief she and her family suffered when her sister died. Plagued by vivid and horrendous flashbacks of her sister's funeral and her own sense of helplessness and guilt, this case has Gabriella throwing caution to the wind and stepping out into some really dangerous territory. I liked Gabriella from the start to the finish. She was often hard on herself and took blame when she shouldn't have, but she is very easy to understand despite keeping herself closed off to people. Donovan is also a dark and mysterious character that I didn't quite know how to take. Was he using Gabriella? Was he a rogue cop? I just couldn't get a good read on him.
The secondary characters fleshing out the story with Gabriella finding out just who her real friends were and a big dose of karma will see Gabriella coming out a winner in the end. There are lingering questions about some things, but since this is a series I think we will probably get the answers to some of these questions sooner or later. In the meantime, I have found a new mystery/ thriller author to add to my “Must Read” list.
If you like dark suspense thrillers be sure to check this one out. Five stars!
Gabriella Maria-Grazia takes her job very seriously. She is a crime reporter for a Bay Area newspaper. She has news in her blood. She lives it, breaths it. She is currently coping with yet another break up and an ambitious newbie who isn't beneath trying to a few underhanded tricks to make Gabriella look bad in front her bosses.
But, when a missing persons case involving a young girl is making headlines, Gabriella takes it personally. She has lost a sister at a young age and this case is hitting her hard. Everything else is on a back burner while she joins in the search to find the missing girl.
Told in first person, this taut suspense thriller follows Gabriella as she follows a creepy serial killer down a dark, twisty road in hopes of finding out what happened to a missing girl, but also in hopes of finding out about her own sister whose killer was never brought to justice. As the suspect, Jack Dean Johnson, plays games with Gabriella she will remind you a great deal of Clarice Starling. Gabriella is spellbound by the suspect as she finds herself feeling some kind of empathy for the trauma he suffered in childhood, and he dangles information in front her making her think he knows something about her sister. But,is he the real killer? Oh, yes , he's killed before, many times. But, is he the one that kidnapped the most recent victim and does he really know anything about what happened to Gabriella's sister? Or is he just toying with her?
Also, on the case is a veteran detective, named Donovan who has a bad reputation, but who also finds himself drawn to Gabriella and she to him. However, the relationship appears doomed from the start as their respective careers clash.
The atmosphere is dark and gritty, and this crime thriller is not for the faint of heart. It is always tense when a child is involved in a crime and this book is not only riveting but heart wrenching as Gabriella begins to remember the sadness and grief she and her family suffered when her sister died. Plagued by vivid and horrendous flashbacks of her sister's funeral and her own sense of helplessness and guilt, this case has Gabriella throwing caution to the wind and stepping out into some really dangerous territory. I liked Gabriella from the start to the finish. She was often hard on herself and took blame when she shouldn't have, but she is very easy to understand despite keeping herself closed off to people. Donovan is also a dark and mysterious character that I didn't quite know how to take. Was he using Gabriella? Was he a rogue cop? I just couldn't get a good read on him.
The secondary characters fleshing out the story with Gabriella finding out just who her real friends were and a big dose of karma will see Gabriella coming out a winner in the end. There are lingering questions about some things, but since this is a series I think we will probably get the answers to some of these questions sooner or later. In the meantime, I have found a new mystery/ thriller author to add to my “Must Read” list.
If you like dark suspense thrillers be sure to check this one out. Five stars!
February 10, 2014
This weekend I finished a fantastic book called "Blessed are the Dead" by Kristi Belcamino. I was lucky enough to have connections in the writer world (thanks Owen Laukkanen) and obtained an early draft to read as this novel isn't available to the public til June. I'm looking forward to reading the final published copy for comparison! But I do have to say that I think this novel is poorly categorized as being about a serial killer. To me I found, at least in this version, the serial killer was a sub plot to the dynamic and interesting star character. I couldn't put this book down because I loved Gabriella Giovanni. Intensely well written. Interesting characters and exploits. A storyline that keeps you interested from start to finish. I am definitely hooked and looking forward to the next adventure! I highly recommend you put this book on your to-read list and pre-order the digital version today! It's a great deal (price will likely go way up when they announce the hardcover publish date) and you won't regret it. 2-click order: http://www.amazon.ca/gp/aw/d/B00GLS4V...
February 16, 2020
A solid debut novel for Kristi Belcamino who used her real-life experience as a crime reporter to create this fictional account of a missing child and a serial killer. I was easily drawn into the story and the final chapters and ending were exciting and played out quite well. There were a few parts where it seemed to drag and I wanted less of what seemed like filler and wished it would get to the point a little quicker. There were a few things I felt were editing flaws (she hangs up the phone but the conversation continues) and a few Stephanie Plum-type moron moves (asking your favorite news photographer to act as back up in an extremely dangerous-and stupid-move) that kept this from earning 5 stars but....Knowing the core plot was based on her personal experience and having met and very much enjoyed meeting and talking with the author, I can easily award 4-stars and look forward to reading the next novel in this series. For more on the actual murderer that inspired this story: https://murderpedia.org/male.A/a/ande...
May 26, 2014
Kristi Belcamino's Gabriella Giovanni has the sharp wit of a seasoned beat reporter and the tragic past of a truly complex heroine.
As Gabriella delves into the complicated mind of a beguiling criminal to report on a case about the kidnapping of a young girl that is eerily similar to that of her deceased sister, she approaches the source of what makes a killer kill with a refreshing amount of pragmatic compassion.
Fans of acclaimed shows like The Killing and True Detective will devour BLESSED ARE THE DEAD. Belcamino is a strong female voice in a genre dominated by men. I can't wait for the next installment in this thrilling series!
As Gabriella delves into the complicated mind of a beguiling criminal to report on a case about the kidnapping of a young girl that is eerily similar to that of her deceased sister, she approaches the source of what makes a killer kill with a refreshing amount of pragmatic compassion.
Fans of acclaimed shows like The Killing and True Detective will devour BLESSED ARE THE DEAD. Belcamino is a strong female voice in a genre dominated by men. I can't wait for the next installment in this thrilling series!
June 12, 2018
You know how a good scary movie has you constantly looking over your shoulder, under the bed, behind the doors, just waiting for someone to jump out and you, well this is how I felt after reading Blessed Are the Dead, it was engrossingly spine tingling good and grabbed me from the very first page, I could not put it down or look away until I finished it.
Getting into the mind of a serial killer is just freaky but I guess as a crime reporter you just have to go for it but wow they really are sneaky bastards because they can get into your mind just as easy without you even knowing it Gabriella was lucky this time, I can't wait to see what she gets up to next.
Getting into the mind of a serial killer is just freaky but I guess as a crime reporter you just have to go for it but wow they really are sneaky bastards because they can get into your mind just as easy without you even knowing it Gabriella was lucky this time, I can't wait to see what she gets up to next.
April 8, 2016
When a series comes highly recommended from people whose opinions you value and trust about great reading, it’s both exciting and a bit daunting to finally start reading it. There’s the anticipation that it is going to be thrilling, but there’s also the fear that you might not like it when those trusted friends do. Of course, I had the advantage of meeting the author Kristi Belcamino before reading the Gabriella Giovanni series, and it was hard to imagine anything but dynamic being her style in writing. It feels so good to be right, because dynamic is the word that perfectly captures my feelings about this book
The mood of Blessed are the Dead is intense and the action is fast paced in the best possible way. There is quite literally never a dull moment in this story. Kristi Belcamino moves the reader from scene to scene with a brilliant deftness, engaging you so completely that it’s impossible to stop reading. The action compels you to keep moving with the characters to the conclusion. And, the characters are wonderfully flawed, beautifully brave, and filled with witty dialogue.
Gabriella Giovanni is a twenty-eight-year-old crime reporter for the Bay Herald, a San Francisco newspaper. She’s been on the job for seven years and is good at what she does with her great instincts and ability to put people at ease to talk to her. Not much shakes this Italian dynamo. But, the disappearance of a young girl that comes across the police scanner presents Gabriella with a sense of déjà vu from a terrible event in her past, the kidnapping and death of her seven-year-old sister when Gabriella was six-years old. It has been 22 years since Caterina was taken and left dead on the side of a road. The killer was never found.
Gabriella isn’t the type of reporter to sit and wait for the news to come to her. She immediately becomes involved in the case of the missing eight-year-old Jasmine, running down leads and putting herself in danger. She also has to contend with the police and the lead detective, Sean Donovan, someone she’s both attracted to and easily annoyed with. Gabriella’s track record with men is lousy, and this case brings home the reason she can’t let a guy get close. Of course, her defense is always that her job comes first, and she is indeed as dogged a pursuer of the truth as they come. When a suspect is brought in, the story becomes glaringly personal. Jack Dean Johnson will only talk to Gabriella and knows just what buttons to push with her about her sister. As Gabriella is desperate to discover if the little girl Jasmine is still alive and try to save her, she is willing to suffer through the mind games of a sociopath. Gabriella is all too aware that time is of the essence.
Kristi Belcamino was herself a crime reporter, which lends great credibility to the character and work of Gabriella and to the interaction with police departments. I suspect that like her character, Belcamino was quick to appreciate the issues involved in and the significance of crimes to the larger picture of humankind. That this book had its beginnings in actual tragic cases of missing children with which the author was familiar again adds authenticity to the story and the emotions experienced by the characters. It’s an important story to tell, the crime perpetrated upon these children, and Kristi Belcamino uses fiction to tell it well.
The mood of Blessed are the Dead is intense and the action is fast paced in the best possible way. There is quite literally never a dull moment in this story. Kristi Belcamino moves the reader from scene to scene with a brilliant deftness, engaging you so completely that it’s impossible to stop reading. The action compels you to keep moving with the characters to the conclusion. And, the characters are wonderfully flawed, beautifully brave, and filled with witty dialogue.
Gabriella Giovanni is a twenty-eight-year-old crime reporter for the Bay Herald, a San Francisco newspaper. She’s been on the job for seven years and is good at what she does with her great instincts and ability to put people at ease to talk to her. Not much shakes this Italian dynamo. But, the disappearance of a young girl that comes across the police scanner presents Gabriella with a sense of déjà vu from a terrible event in her past, the kidnapping and death of her seven-year-old sister when Gabriella was six-years old. It has been 22 years since Caterina was taken and left dead on the side of a road. The killer was never found.
Gabriella isn’t the type of reporter to sit and wait for the news to come to her. She immediately becomes involved in the case of the missing eight-year-old Jasmine, running down leads and putting herself in danger. She also has to contend with the police and the lead detective, Sean Donovan, someone she’s both attracted to and easily annoyed with. Gabriella’s track record with men is lousy, and this case brings home the reason she can’t let a guy get close. Of course, her defense is always that her job comes first, and she is indeed as dogged a pursuer of the truth as they come. When a suspect is brought in, the story becomes glaringly personal. Jack Dean Johnson will only talk to Gabriella and knows just what buttons to push with her about her sister. As Gabriella is desperate to discover if the little girl Jasmine is still alive and try to save her, she is willing to suffer through the mind games of a sociopath. Gabriella is all too aware that time is of the essence.
Kristi Belcamino was herself a crime reporter, which lends great credibility to the character and work of Gabriella and to the interaction with police departments. I suspect that like her character, Belcamino was quick to appreciate the issues involved in and the significance of crimes to the larger picture of humankind. That this book had its beginnings in actual tragic cases of missing children with which the author was familiar again adds authenticity to the story and the emotions experienced by the characters. It’s an important story to tell, the crime perpetrated upon these children, and Kristi Belcamino uses fiction to tell it well.
June 10, 2014
Kristi Belcamino has just added a fiery Italian bombshell to the pantheon of best selling fictional detectives. Gabriella Giovanni is right up there with Alex Cross, Kay Scarpetta, Kinsey Milhone, and all the big names. She’s like Sophia Loren fighting Clarise Starling’s demons.
And the bad guy, Jack Dean Johnson, is believably creepy. The dialogue in his scenes really sticks with you. Since finishing the book, I’ve been keeping an extra close eye on my kids. (I’ve also been making more pasta.)
I think Blessed are the Dead might have more mainstream appeal than some other mysteries because the characters and relationships are so well done. Also, Belcamino brings the setting to life. While I was reading, I felt like I was in San Francisco and in the news room with Gabriella. I think a lot of readers will fall in love with this series.
I hope to see a lot more Gabriella books after this one!
And the bad guy, Jack Dean Johnson, is believably creepy. The dialogue in his scenes really sticks with you. Since finishing the book, I’ve been keeping an extra close eye on my kids. (I’ve also been making more pasta.)
I think Blessed are the Dead might have more mainstream appeal than some other mysteries because the characters and relationships are so well done. Also, Belcamino brings the setting to life. While I was reading, I felt like I was in San Francisco and in the news room with Gabriella. I think a lot of readers will fall in love with this series.
I hope to see a lot more Gabriella books after this one!
November 8, 2015
I couldn't put this book down. It may be billed as a mystery, but I'd argue it's a brilliantly crafted psychological suspense. The main character--Gabriella Giovani- is an Italian American shoot-first-think-later-vodka-swilling-crime beat newspaper reporter. She's also my newest favorite character ever (move over Valentine Roncalli a la Adriana Trigiani!) as she races around San Francisco & the Bay Area trying to track down leads on a kidnapped girl. All the while, Gabriella has sole contact with an incarcerated self-confessed killer who seems to know a few too many details about her sister's abduction and murder from 20 years before. It was reminiscent of SILENCE OF THE LAMBS, but with a much more relatable protagonist.
And there's great news... this was the first in a series. Can't wait to meet Gabriella again in book #2. Bravo, Ms. Belcamino. You've earned yourself another fan. Me.
And there's great news... this was the first in a series. Can't wait to meet Gabriella again in book #2. Bravo, Ms. Belcamino. You've earned yourself another fan. Me.
July 5, 2014
Author Kristi Belcamino lives up to the promise of a reporter compelled to investigate a story that is uncomfortably close to home. Gabrielle Giovanni is a likable protagonist, and even her bad decisions felt organic. I'm looking forward to more of her and Donovan and Dusty--the whole crew, really--in Blessed are the Meek: A Gabriella Giovanni Mystery (Blessed are the Meek). A really fantastic read and I highly recommend it.
June 13, 2014
A thumping good read about a serial killer and the newspaper reporter who becomes the Clarice Starling to his Hannibal Lecter. Gabriella is a great main character: flawed, relate-able, hard-nosed and Italian Catholic. Loved the details of the newsroom. Her killer, based on a real-life one, is chillingly credible. Plus there's humor, romance, and family drama throughout that elevates this well beyond a by-the-numbers thriller. Can't wait for the sequel, Blessed Are the Meek!
July 19, 2014
A child kidnapper is on the loose. Time is running out. The case is bringing back painful memories for reporter Gabriella Giovanni. Will justice be served?
A fast paced, detailed narrative laden with mysteries, and a hint of romance, lead the reader and characters through twists and turns.
Characters are passionate, varied, develop as the tale progresses, and caring.
Overall, a thrilling read.
A fast paced, detailed narrative laden with mysteries, and a hint of romance, lead the reader and characters through twists and turns.
Characters are passionate, varied, develop as the tale progresses, and caring.
Overall, a thrilling read.
August 3, 2016
Can't recommend this book enough. A great debut mystery that doesn't feel anything like a debut. Fantastic plot with an even better heroine, one who absolutely can carry a series. Belcamino's real life experience as a journalist is evident in her skillful, detailed unraveling of the mystery behind a young girl's disappearance. Suspenseful, emotional and smart - just a great mystery in every way.
July 25, 2016
This book was fantastic. I usually don't get to read many real mystery books. So this was a breath of fresh air.
The plot was fantastic. The characters were original. I will not lie, I was stressed till the end. Which must explain why I loved the book. It is thought provoking.
And the book left me hanging. I have to wait for the next book?! I can't wait!
Enjoy it as much as I did!
The plot was fantastic. The characters were original. I will not lie, I was stressed till the end. Which must explain why I loved the book. It is thought provoking.
And the book left me hanging. I have to wait for the next book?! I can't wait!
Enjoy it as much as I did!
November 29, 2014
Loved the first book in the Gabriella Giovanni Mystery series! It dives into the mind of a serial killer, something I've always wanted to do in real life. Thanks to Kristi's real world experience as a crime reporter, her characters come to life on the page and the result is terrifying! A must read! Can't wait to get to Blessed are the Meek next :)
December 15, 2014
I enjoyed this book, maybe partly because I was a long-time resident of SF. I thought the Gabriella was believable--yes, not necessarily prudent or mature, but believable and with lots of room for growth. Her one truly stupid move, at the end of the book, was annoying but not a deal-breaker. That said, if in future books she keeps pulling boneheaded stunts, I'd probably move on.
March 29, 2015
Holy moly, what a ride!! Once I started reading this book, I didn't want to stop! Great job by Kristie Belcamino! I just recently discovered this author and I am SO glad I did. I really like her style, she grabs your attention from the get go and does not let up! I can't wait to read more from this author. So...on to the NEXT Gabriella Giovanni book!!
July 19, 2015
20015 Anthony Award Nomination Best First Novel
First Impression: Judging by the summary and, God-Forbid, the horrible cover, this is residing near the bottom of my pile. The reviews are very good but I don't think it's going to be my cup of tea. Still, I'm trying to read all of the Anthony nominees before October so I'll give it a chance... eventually.
First Impression: Judging by the summary and, God-Forbid, the horrible cover, this is residing near the bottom of my pile. The reviews are very good but I don't think it's going to be my cup of tea. Still, I'm trying to read all of the Anthony nominees before October so I'll give it a chance... eventually.
May 18, 2015
Powerful book! Not a cozy mystery, but a solid mystery grounded in basic human desires to be loved and known. When confronted with suffering and loss, humanity's choices are surprisingly simple: to chose life or death. This choice is examined in sharp first-person prose that moves the story forward with endearing narratives.
July 4, 2015
A gripping mystery about San Francisco Bay Area investigative reporter Gabriella Giovanni. Belcamino had me hooked from the first page, so I kept reading even though this was a bit darker than the mysteries I usually read (missing young girls), and I'm glad I did. I'm really impressed that this is Belcamino's debut novel.
July 2, 2014
Kristi's debut is fantastic! Fast-paced, smart, and full of all the quirks of the journalism world I know are true. I was smiling to myself the whole time at the little insider things only journalists would know.
January 11, 2015
Loved it! I got sucked in very early on and couldn't put it down. It has everything I love...mystery, romance, and complex characters. I details were amazing and brought the story to life for me. I can't wait to read the next one!
September 14, 2014
I read Belcamino's book, Blessed are the Dead, in one day. Think that alone speaks for itself. The plot is gripping and nerve racking. This book is well worth reading!
December 30, 2015
3.5 rounding up - for a seasoned crime reporter Gabriella did some seriously dumb shit
September 20, 2024
Super fast paced read. The ending had me on the edge of my seat. If you like thrillers and true crime, you will love this one!
October 11, 2015
Will Leave You Breathless!!!
The story opens with Gabriella Giovanni, a crime reporter for the Bay Herald, taking a walk along the beach. Her family is with her, and as Gabriella puts it, “Everything I’ve ever wanted is on that beach—Donovan and our daughter, Grace. My own little family. My life.” The words define who Ella is, but what would happen if it were all taken away? When bodies of young women begin turning up, Ella comes face-to-face with that possibility. Bible verses that are identical to the ones sent to her by the serial killer that kidnapped and murdered her sister are stuffed in the women’s pockets. Does it mean her worst nightmare has returned? Unfortunately, she’s about to find out.
Let me get this out of the way: BLESSED ARE THOSE WHO MOURN by Kristi Belcamino is a FANTASTIC read!!! We’re talking uber superb! It will make your teeth rattle, your face screw up into a little ball, and your mouth go dry as you hyperventilate from all the tension that’s locked into this tale. The book starts off quickly, but fair warning, once this story gets going, it STEAMROLLS ahead catapulting you along with it! It just doesn’t stop, and that’s good because we don’t want it to. You simply cannot read fast enough to satisfy the need to find out what happens next. While I was tempted to devour it in one sitting, I held myself back so I could really savor each and every word.
I gotta say that the writing is impeccable; we’re talking flawless. Because of this, the story flows so beautifully. Before I knew it, I was all wrapped up and being sucked by some undertow that kept me riveted. If I had to guess as to why it worked so well, I’d attribute it to there not being one false note struck. It’s an incredible feat, but it’s true. Everything is delivered with such authenticity and realism, and this transforms this fictional story into one we care about. The quote above is an example of how much power there is in what Ms. Belcamino writes. While some would have taken pages to try to convey that sentiment, with the few heartfelt words, we get it. And this holds true for all the characters and action. Everyone and everything is so magnificently fleshed out, especially the character of Gabriella. Ella is kept so vulnerable and so genuine, that we believe the words she speaks and feel her pain. It’s what elevates this story into being great.
The storyline is intricately woven. There are twists and turns, and a confluence in terms of Giovanni putting errant pieces of what’s going on together. That moment is like a dagger to the heart. In that second she took to fall asleep, a giant spider has fashioned a web that she’s trapped in. Everyone begins to look like a suspect as a full-fledged panic builds and leads us to a climactic ending that we never see coming.
It’s one of those books that make you envy people that haven’t discovered it. It’s because you know the immense enjoyment that they’ll get from reading BLESSED ARE THOSE THAT MOURN. If you’re a suspense, thriller, or mystery lover, it’s a must read. Ms. Belcamino has jumped to the top of my list of favorite authors and I really think the next work she comes out with should be entitled, BLESSED ARE THOSE THAT READ MS. BELCAMINO FOR THEY SHALL BE HAPPY CAMPERS INDEED. Five trillion stars.
For the purposes of full disclosure, I received an ARC copy in exchange for an honest review.
The story opens with Gabriella Giovanni, a crime reporter for the Bay Herald, taking a walk along the beach. Her family is with her, and as Gabriella puts it, “Everything I’ve ever wanted is on that beach—Donovan and our daughter, Grace. My own little family. My life.” The words define who Ella is, but what would happen if it were all taken away? When bodies of young women begin turning up, Ella comes face-to-face with that possibility. Bible verses that are identical to the ones sent to her by the serial killer that kidnapped and murdered her sister are stuffed in the women’s pockets. Does it mean her worst nightmare has returned? Unfortunately, she’s about to find out.
Let me get this out of the way: BLESSED ARE THOSE WHO MOURN by Kristi Belcamino is a FANTASTIC read!!! We’re talking uber superb! It will make your teeth rattle, your face screw up into a little ball, and your mouth go dry as you hyperventilate from all the tension that’s locked into this tale. The book starts off quickly, but fair warning, once this story gets going, it STEAMROLLS ahead catapulting you along with it! It just doesn’t stop, and that’s good because we don’t want it to. You simply cannot read fast enough to satisfy the need to find out what happens next. While I was tempted to devour it in one sitting, I held myself back so I could really savor each and every word.
I gotta say that the writing is impeccable; we’re talking flawless. Because of this, the story flows so beautifully. Before I knew it, I was all wrapped up and being sucked by some undertow that kept me riveted. If I had to guess as to why it worked so well, I’d attribute it to there not being one false note struck. It’s an incredible feat, but it’s true. Everything is delivered with such authenticity and realism, and this transforms this fictional story into one we care about. The quote above is an example of how much power there is in what Ms. Belcamino writes. While some would have taken pages to try to convey that sentiment, with the few heartfelt words, we get it. And this holds true for all the characters and action. Everyone and everything is so magnificently fleshed out, especially the character of Gabriella. Ella is kept so vulnerable and so genuine, that we believe the words she speaks and feel her pain. It’s what elevates this story into being great.
The storyline is intricately woven. There are twists and turns, and a confluence in terms of Giovanni putting errant pieces of what’s going on together. That moment is like a dagger to the heart. In that second she took to fall asleep, a giant spider has fashioned a web that she’s trapped in. Everyone begins to look like a suspect as a full-fledged panic builds and leads us to a climactic ending that we never see coming.
It’s one of those books that make you envy people that haven’t discovered it. It’s because you know the immense enjoyment that they’ll get from reading BLESSED ARE THOSE THAT MOURN. If you’re a suspense, thriller, or mystery lover, it’s a must read. Ms. Belcamino has jumped to the top of my list of favorite authors and I really think the next work she comes out with should be entitled, BLESSED ARE THOSE THAT READ MS. BELCAMINO FOR THEY SHALL BE HAPPY CAMPERS INDEED. Five trillion stars.
For the purposes of full disclosure, I received an ARC copy in exchange for an honest review.
July 9, 2014
I can't imagine how difficult it must be for a family to lose a little girl to kidnapping and murder. This novel tackles the issue with an interesting approach.
First reviewed on Literaria http://sede-literaria.blogspot.com
A reporter is trying to get a scoop about the disappearance of a kid. It's a job she takes very seriously. After so many years, she's still haunted by her sister's death.
I was pleasantly surprised by how warmly human this character is. Gabriella Giovanni is a crime reporter with guts and a heart. Twisted by pain and family issues and daily frustration, but she's brave, resilient, and honourable. A good character to relate to and care for. She's a good professional and all the steps she takes in the investigation are laced with reality, grit, accuracy, but also a very touching sense of humanity.
Through the eyes of a journalist who also shares the victims' experience, the reader is able to follow the mystery into the sordid side of the city and the human soul.
As I was reading, I wasn't sure if Gabriella was going so far in the name of duty or if it was a sickening obsession with the past that kept her going. It was really tough for her to be in touch with a murderer, all her feelings of disgust and curiosity, fear and incomprehension, were conveyed perfectly by the author.
Even though it's not overwhelming, the effect of her loss still alters Gabriella's life in different ways. Personal life and her job are both coloured by the powerful memories. She tries to be a good journalist, but sometimes it's hard to draw the line between your duty and the respect owned to the victims.
As she gets deeper and deeper in the story, things become really tough for Gabriella, both at work and in her personal life. I felt really sorry for her. I just wanted her to overcome her obstacles and find some kind of closure. Dealing with a monster and the ghosts from her past was taking a bit toll on her.
There is a bit of romance thrown in the middle of the drama. It's exciting and it fits beautifully into the plot. Another thing that I liked a lot is Gabriella's chess skills which add a unique flavour to her character. It's not a random trait either because it applies to the plot and the character's profile. Though I must admit that all that mental strategy doesn't serve her too well in the end. She's forced to face each and every one of her fears and on the other side of those final 50 pages of frantic life-or-death desperation, lies only one outcome: liberation of past ghosts or evil itself.
I'm peculiar with mystery thrillers. I like to read them once in a while, but they have to match two criteria. The plot must be compelling and the main character should be someone for whom I feel something. In this case, it's double check. Besides, the author's writing style is the perfect vehicle for a good story and a life-like character. I'm very satisfied with the result. And the evil guy in here is no vampire. He's truly the bogeyman.
First reviewed on Literaria http://sede-literaria.blogspot.com
A reporter is trying to get a scoop about the disappearance of a kid. It's a job she takes very seriously. After so many years, she's still haunted by her sister's death.
I was pleasantly surprised by how warmly human this character is. Gabriella Giovanni is a crime reporter with guts and a heart. Twisted by pain and family issues and daily frustration, but she's brave, resilient, and honourable. A good character to relate to and care for. She's a good professional and all the steps she takes in the investigation are laced with reality, grit, accuracy, but also a very touching sense of humanity.
Through the eyes of a journalist who also shares the victims' experience, the reader is able to follow the mystery into the sordid side of the city and the human soul.
As I was reading, I wasn't sure if Gabriella was going so far in the name of duty or if it was a sickening obsession with the past that kept her going. It was really tough for her to be in touch with a murderer, all her feelings of disgust and curiosity, fear and incomprehension, were conveyed perfectly by the author.
Even though it's not overwhelming, the effect of her loss still alters Gabriella's life in different ways. Personal life and her job are both coloured by the powerful memories. She tries to be a good journalist, but sometimes it's hard to draw the line between your duty and the respect owned to the victims.
As she gets deeper and deeper in the story, things become really tough for Gabriella, both at work and in her personal life. I felt really sorry for her. I just wanted her to overcome her obstacles and find some kind of closure. Dealing with a monster and the ghosts from her past was taking a bit toll on her.
There is a bit of romance thrown in the middle of the drama. It's exciting and it fits beautifully into the plot. Another thing that I liked a lot is Gabriella's chess skills which add a unique flavour to her character. It's not a random trait either because it applies to the plot and the character's profile. Though I must admit that all that mental strategy doesn't serve her too well in the end. She's forced to face each and every one of her fears and on the other side of those final 50 pages of frantic life-or-death desperation, lies only one outcome: liberation of past ghosts or evil itself.
I'm peculiar with mystery thrillers. I like to read them once in a while, but they have to match two criteria. The plot must be compelling and the main character should be someone for whom I feel something. In this case, it's double check. Besides, the author's writing style is the perfect vehicle for a good story and a life-like character. I'm very satisfied with the result. And the evil guy in here is no vampire. He's truly the bogeyman.
February 25, 2016
-This is a story that grips you from beginning to end so that it's an effort to pull yourself away from the book.
-Gabriella Giovanni is a young girl of 28 who has suffered through tragedies when she was 6 years. Her sister, who was just a few years older than her, was abducted from in front of their house. Within a few days, the strain of having his daughter abducted caused her father's heart to give way, and Gabriela discovered his lifeless body in her basement. This was followed a few days later by the news of her sister being found dead.
-This memory always hung over Gabriela's head. It is now 22 years later, and Gabriela has earned a position on a local newspaper taking care of reporting on police activity. Her position on the newspaper, which she struggled so hard to achieve, is now shaky because the woman now running the paper, Susan Evans, doesn't like her and is looking to punish her in some way. A young girl, May, whose father is sleeping with Evans, appears to get scoops at Gabriela's expense. While that should be expected, especially since Gabriela is still getting stories, Evans keeps threatening to demote Gabriela because of it.
-A new report comes through of police dealing with another child abduction. Gabriela, despite her past history of losing a sister in that same way, feels she has to cover that story. A suspect is found, and evidence in his car proves that he kidnapped her. The young girl, though is missing. Gabriela becomes engrossed in the case. For some reason, the killer, Jack Dean Johnson, requested to speak to Gabriela and only her, while he is in the prison and plays a game of cat and mouse with her, while giving her an idea of how sick he is.
-Working with the police is a detective, Donavan, and he and Gabriela hit it off, but Gabriela has issues with getting close to people because of what she went through, and true to her pattern, she pushes him away.
-Johnson has a reason for only speaking to Gabriela. He seems to have a plan that will enable him to get out of prison and he intends to target her to be another one of his victims.
-The writing is done extremely well and the reactions of the characters seem true to life. You're gripped by the issues that these flawed characters have to deal with, and sometimes don't deal with very well.
-Loved it.
-Gabriella Giovanni is a young girl of 28 who has suffered through tragedies when she was 6 years. Her sister, who was just a few years older than her, was abducted from in front of their house. Within a few days, the strain of having his daughter abducted caused her father's heart to give way, and Gabriela discovered his lifeless body in her basement. This was followed a few days later by the news of her sister being found dead.
-This memory always hung over Gabriela's head. It is now 22 years later, and Gabriela has earned a position on a local newspaper taking care of reporting on police activity. Her position on the newspaper, which she struggled so hard to achieve, is now shaky because the woman now running the paper, Susan Evans, doesn't like her and is looking to punish her in some way. A young girl, May, whose father is sleeping with Evans, appears to get scoops at Gabriela's expense. While that should be expected, especially since Gabriela is still getting stories, Evans keeps threatening to demote Gabriela because of it.
-A new report comes through of police dealing with another child abduction. Gabriela, despite her past history of losing a sister in that same way, feels she has to cover that story. A suspect is found, and evidence in his car proves that he kidnapped her. The young girl, though is missing. Gabriela becomes engrossed in the case. For some reason, the killer, Jack Dean Johnson, requested to speak to Gabriela and only her, while he is in the prison and plays a game of cat and mouse with her, while giving her an idea of how sick he is.
-Working with the police is a detective, Donavan, and he and Gabriela hit it off, but Gabriela has issues with getting close to people because of what she went through, and true to her pattern, she pushes him away.
-Johnson has a reason for only speaking to Gabriela. He seems to have a plan that will enable him to get out of prison and he intends to target her to be another one of his victims.
-The writing is done extremely well and the reactions of the characters seem true to life. You're gripped by the issues that these flawed characters have to deal with, and sometimes don't deal with very well.
-Loved it.
June 9, 2014
Gabriella Giovanni, the narrator of Kristi Belcamino’s debut novel “Blessed is the Dead,” is the day police reporter at the Bay Herald. At 28 years old, Giovanni—as she’s known in the news room—has survived family tragedy and worked her way up the news room ladder to earn her current beat. Strong, compassionate, vulnerable, and completely dedicated to her career, Giovanni has sacrificed much to achieve her goals.
While lamenting her anemic love life, fending off the challenge of a new, young reporter trying to steal her beat, and struggling to deal with management changes at the newspaper, Giovanni hears of a possible missing child, Jasmine Baker, one nearly the same age as her long-dead sister at the time of her murder.
Chasing murders, suicides, and all things criminal might put a hitch in Giovanni’s dating life, but her determination to find Jasmine alive, and possibly solve her sister Caterina’s murder, put her squarely in the sights of a possible serial killer. Is accused child abductor Jack Dean Johnson the one responsible for the death of her sister decades prior, or is he just another con artist? Did he kidnap Jasmine, and is she alive? As Giovanni struggles to balance the search for justice for both her dead sister and the newly missing Jasmine, find her way through the emotional minefield of her personal life, and hold on to her position at the newspaper, she enters a dangerous game of cat and mouse with Johnson.
The novel reads like a heart-pounding, fist clenching car chase, suspenseful, terrifying, and exciting. Belcamino’s insider knowledge of life as a big city crime reporter, not to mention her experience interviewing a serial killer, bring an unmatched level of authenticity to this story. Gabriella Giovanni is a likeable, believable character. Belcamino adds an authentic supporting cast, sharp dialogue, and key setting details to grab the reader from the very first sentence, and never let them go.
Blessed Are the Dead is scheduled to be released by William Morrow on June 10.
While lamenting her anemic love life, fending off the challenge of a new, young reporter trying to steal her beat, and struggling to deal with management changes at the newspaper, Giovanni hears of a possible missing child, Jasmine Baker, one nearly the same age as her long-dead sister at the time of her murder.
Chasing murders, suicides, and all things criminal might put a hitch in Giovanni’s dating life, but her determination to find Jasmine alive, and possibly solve her sister Caterina’s murder, put her squarely in the sights of a possible serial killer. Is accused child abductor Jack Dean Johnson the one responsible for the death of her sister decades prior, or is he just another con artist? Did he kidnap Jasmine, and is she alive? As Giovanni struggles to balance the search for justice for both her dead sister and the newly missing Jasmine, find her way through the emotional minefield of her personal life, and hold on to her position at the newspaper, she enters a dangerous game of cat and mouse with Johnson.
The novel reads like a heart-pounding, fist clenching car chase, suspenseful, terrifying, and exciting. Belcamino’s insider knowledge of life as a big city crime reporter, not to mention her experience interviewing a serial killer, bring an unmatched level of authenticity to this story. Gabriella Giovanni is a likeable, believable character. Belcamino adds an authentic supporting cast, sharp dialogue, and key setting details to grab the reader from the very first sentence, and never let them go.
Blessed Are the Dead is scheduled to be released by William Morrow on June 10.
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