What do you think?
Rate this book
Nick McCarty: Cold Blooded Assassin #1
Cold Blooded
Alternate cover for ASIN B00HEVCJRK
Nick McCarty decides after ten years of black ops assassinations it's time for a change. Against the wishes of his shadow government bosses he has inexplicably managed to become a bestselling author with a string of novels about an assassin named Diego. The novels have made him world famous and provided a cover for his overseas sanctions. He bought a beautiful place in Pacific Grove, California near the ocean where he treks down to his favorite spot at Otter's Point every morning he's not away on assignment. But Nick feels something's missing.
A sometime employer Nick takes on sanctions from when they coincide with the wishes of his government sponsors orders the death of a woman in the witness protection program. Nick sees something in the woman's picture reminding him of someone he knew long ago. After a brief journey up to the restaurant in Northern California where his potential target, Rachel Hunter, works as a waitress, Nick makes a decision to alter his lifestyle. Hayden Tanus, the CEO of Tanus Import/Export looks out the window of his plush office on the Upper East Side of Manhattan wondering briefly if Rachel Hunter was finally dead. The fifty caliber bullet made a small hole in his window and a large one as it exited his head.
In the following days, playing the role of famous author doing research for his new novel, Nick enters Rachel's life. He inadvertently triggers an unforeseen chain of events launching him in a cross country flight with Rachel, her daughter Jean, and Deke the dog. Rachel has secrets. The people still wanting her dead are about to find out a cold blooded killer now stands in their way and body counts mean absolutely nothing to him.
Nick McCarty decides after ten years of black ops assassinations it's time for a change. Against the wishes of his shadow government bosses he has inexplicably managed to become a bestselling author with a string of novels about an assassin named Diego. The novels have made him world famous and provided a cover for his overseas sanctions. He bought a beautiful place in Pacific Grove, California near the ocean where he treks down to his favorite spot at Otter's Point every morning he's not away on assignment. But Nick feels something's missing.
A sometime employer Nick takes on sanctions from when they coincide with the wishes of his government sponsors orders the death of a woman in the witness protection program. Nick sees something in the woman's picture reminding him of someone he knew long ago. After a brief journey up to the restaurant in Northern California where his potential target, Rachel Hunter, works as a waitress, Nick makes a decision to alter his lifestyle. Hayden Tanus, the CEO of Tanus Import/Export looks out the window of his plush office on the Upper East Side of Manhattan wondering briefly if Rachel Hunter was finally dead. The fifty caliber bullet made a small hole in his window and a large one as it exited his head.
In the following days, playing the role of famous author doing research for his new novel, Nick enters Rachel's life. He inadvertently triggers an unforeseen chain of events launching him in a cross country flight with Rachel, her daughter Jean, and Deke the dog. Rachel has secrets. The people still wanting her dead are about to find out a cold blooded killer now stands in their way and body counts mean absolutely nothing to him.
313 pages, ebook
First published November 20, 2011
561 people are currently reading
200 people want to read
About the author
Bernard Lee DeLeo
111 books92 followersBorn and raised in Warren, Ohio, Mr. DeLeo writes Pulp Fiction in many genres. Seventy of his novels are available on the Amazon marketplace and are free for Kindle Unlimited members. He served aboard the USS Ranger (CVA61) from 1969 until November of 1972. After the Navy, he earned an AA degree in Auto Technology from Chabot College in Hayward, CA, and a BA degree in English from Cal State Hayward.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 74 reviews
February 26, 2012
An assassin is given the task of killing a woman who is under witness protection. Instead, something draws him to her emotionally, and he takes on the task of protecting her and her tween-aged daughter from a host of murderers. Who better to save someone from assassins than the coldest blooded killer of them all.
This is an exciting thriller, full of brutal action, but not without a sense of humor. The assassin, Nick, is about the baddest bad ass ever. Good characters, good story, good read.
This is an exciting thriller, full of brutal action, but not without a sense of humor. The assassin, Nick, is about the baddest bad ass ever. Good characters, good story, good read.
March 20, 2018
Good lord this book his horrible. I work in internet marketing, and judging by the outstanding rating combined with the horrible quality of writing I suspect this is some digital marketers business, not some writers work of passion.
I honestly can't remember the last time I read a piece of shoot-em-up, self-indulgent Bourne-esque piece of fiction that I couldn't finish. This one takes the cake.
Cliche after cliche. Short, blunt, mind-numbingly simple sentences. Zero description. Implausible scenarios (the protagonist agent at apparently carries a fully automatic sub-machine gun, because that's, idk, subtle?).
I don't think I'd be so harsh on this pile of trash if the reviews were more accurate. Like ok, book has 2 stars, go in with a 2-star mentality, not such a disappointment but good lord these high ratings do not reflect reality.
Save yourself some money, go read Barry Eisler instead. He does it right.
I honestly can't remember the last time I read a piece of shoot-em-up, self-indulgent Bourne-esque piece of fiction that I couldn't finish. This one takes the cake.
Cliche after cliche. Short, blunt, mind-numbingly simple sentences. Zero description. Implausible scenarios (the protagonist agent at apparently carries a fully automatic sub-machine gun, because that's, idk, subtle?).
I don't think I'd be so harsh on this pile of trash if the reviews were more accurate. Like ok, book has 2 stars, go in with a 2-star mentality, not such a disappointment but good lord these high ratings do not reflect reality.
Save yourself some money, go read Barry Eisler instead. He does it right.
October 27, 2012
A fast-paced, action packed page-turner filled with wit, romance, and intrigue. DeLeo writes a fantastic cast of characters, led by Nick, the dangerous and cold-blooded assassin with a sense of humor, a heart, and a soft spot for children and dogs. His supporting cast is no less interesting. Rachel is a strong female lead, smart, sexy, and ultimately the perfect complement to the formerly solitary Nick. Their relationship fills the story with witty dialogue and delicious sexual tension. With an intriguing plot that gives nods to the Bourne series, spaghetti westerns, and classic James Bond, this is a clever, well-crafted, and highly entertaining thriller.
I was provided a copy of the book by BTS eMag for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review – all conclusions are my own responsibility.
I was provided a copy of the book by BTS eMag for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review – all conclusions are my own responsibility.
July 19, 2019
assassin for hire with cover as a best selling author falls in lust and love with a potential target and her daughter...switches targets, kills the contractor and disposed of all her enemies. sarcasm used a lot. Re read, january, 2018! Re-read again in July, 2019. Still a guilty pleasure.
May 2, 2019
Pacific Grove Beach. Nick McCarty (best seller author/writer, sniper, assassin, retired US Army Delta Force, DoJ) was enjoying his breakfast at the Monte Café (Lighthouse Ave).
Dan Lewis, Carol Lewis (Dan’s wife), & Joe Montenegro (owner) enjoyed his conversation/company also.
Frank Richert (Pappy) sent Morris, & Jenson after Nick. Jensen didn’t make it, &. Morris got away.
Nick was canvassing Kim Hunnicutt (aka Rachel Hunter, wife/mother, Applebee’s waitress).
Marriott Hotel. Nick invited Kim for dinner/drink.
Tim Reinhold (US Marshall), & Grace Stanwick (US Marshall) invited themselves.
As soon as the 4 left to go home, gunfire everywhere. Grace yelled Code Red.
Otter’s Point Beach. It wasn’t long & Nick met Sarah (7, aka Jean Hunter, daughter), & Deke (Australian Sheppard).
Rachel Hunter (aka Jane Austin, sniper/assassin, spotter, logistics) was part of Nick’s team also.
Joe hired Kim to work as a waitress.
Denver, CO. Senator Anthony “Tony” Ambrose was in bed with his mistress.
He/she won’t be doing the wild thing again.
Concordia, Kansas. Day’s Inn (Route 70). Roscoe Weatherby (aka Nick) got the 4 of them checked in.
Sarasota, FL. Gus (handler), Gillespie Ave home. What did Rene Santora reveal to Nick?
What would Nicks next mission be?
I did not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing this book. While I receive free books from publishers & authors, I am under no obligation to write a positive review. Only an honest one.
A very awesome book cover, great font & writing style. A very well written crime thriller book. It was very easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a great set of unique characters to keep track of. This could also make another great crime thriller movie, or better yet a mini TV series. There is no doubt in my mind this is a very easy rating of 5 stars.
Thank you for the free author; RJ Parker Publishing; 1 edition; LisaatManybooks; Amazon Digital Services LLC.; book
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)
Dan Lewis, Carol Lewis (Dan’s wife), & Joe Montenegro (owner) enjoyed his conversation/company also.
Frank Richert (Pappy) sent Morris, & Jenson after Nick. Jensen didn’t make it, &. Morris got away.
Nick was canvassing Kim Hunnicutt (aka Rachel Hunter, wife/mother, Applebee’s waitress).
Marriott Hotel. Nick invited Kim for dinner/drink.
Tim Reinhold (US Marshall), & Grace Stanwick (US Marshall) invited themselves.
As soon as the 4 left to go home, gunfire everywhere. Grace yelled Code Red.
Otter’s Point Beach. It wasn’t long & Nick met Sarah (7, aka Jean Hunter, daughter), & Deke (Australian Sheppard).
Rachel Hunter (aka Jane Austin, sniper/assassin, spotter, logistics) was part of Nick’s team also.
Joe hired Kim to work as a waitress.
Denver, CO. Senator Anthony “Tony” Ambrose was in bed with his mistress.
He/she won’t be doing the wild thing again.
Concordia, Kansas. Day’s Inn (Route 70). Roscoe Weatherby (aka Nick) got the 4 of them checked in.
Sarasota, FL. Gus (handler), Gillespie Ave home. What did Rene Santora reveal to Nick?
What would Nicks next mission be?
I did not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing this book. While I receive free books from publishers & authors, I am under no obligation to write a positive review. Only an honest one.
A very awesome book cover, great font & writing style. A very well written crime thriller book. It was very easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a great set of unique characters to keep track of. This could also make another great crime thriller movie, or better yet a mini TV series. There is no doubt in my mind this is a very easy rating of 5 stars.
Thank you for the free author; RJ Parker Publishing; 1 edition; LisaatManybooks; Amazon Digital Services LLC.; book
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)
December 8, 2017
This is the type of writing that I had a hard time putting down. It was on a current theme about existing professional assassins; It had a likable protagonist; quite well thought out technical details; and a smattering of romance which was well-woven into the main theme, namely, assassination of terrifyingly revolting scoundrels, thieves, liars, and mayhem makers who happen to be very much like members of our current Administration. I welcome follow-on books within this genre by this talented author!
July 13, 2018
Amazing Author- the ability and ease with which Bernard entertained me
I must confess-I’m addicted to reading and am pleasantly surprised with each series that I have read by Bernard. Each series is different and yet well written. Let’s say I’ve been late to work, I’ve stayed up late because I just can’t stop reading. Thank you so much for all the wonderful series. I’m hooked and forever thankful for finding such s wonder author to read all books written. I got to go to read next book!!!!
I must confess-I’m addicted to reading and am pleasantly surprised with each series that I have read by Bernard. Each series is different and yet well written. Let’s say I’ve been late to work, I’ve stayed up late because I just can’t stop reading. Thank you so much for all the wonderful series. I’m hooked and forever thankful for finding such s wonder author to read all books written. I got to go to read next book!!!!
December 23, 2016
ABSOLUTELY POSITIVELY FABULOUS.
This was one of the most amazing books I've read in a long time. It had everything. Never ending excitement, intrigue, blood and guts galore, hysterical humor, romance and a fabulous cast of characters. I would love to see this book made into a movie. What a great action film this would be. I absolutely recommend this book. Do yourself a favor and read it now.
This was one of the most amazing books I've read in a long time. It had everything. Never ending excitement, intrigue, blood and guts galore, hysterical humor, romance and a fabulous cast of characters. I would love to see this book made into a movie. What a great action film this would be. I absolutely recommend this book. Do yourself a favor and read it now.
January 25, 2018
A little confusing
This had the making of a good story but then characters got in the way. They are pretty unbelievable starting right at the beginning with no growth in any of them. The plot, I thought, was a little confusing and the story was a little chunky in some places, maybe because the author tried to include a bit of everything for everybody (assassination, humor, juvenile humor, romance etc) and it didn't really work..
This had the making of a good story but then characters got in the way. They are pretty unbelievable starting right at the beginning with no growth in any of them. The plot, I thought, was a little confusing and the story was a little chunky in some places, maybe because the author tried to include a bit of everything for everybody (assassination, humor, juvenile humor, romance etc) and it didn't really work..
September 6, 2017
Cold blooded assassin
Another multi killer tale with no socially redeeming value but still a fascinating read as a result of good character definitions and continuous action in response to variety of challenges. Will be interesting to see if a book 2 will follow that would be as interesting.
Another multi killer tale with no socially redeeming value but still a fascinating read as a result of good character definitions and continuous action in response to variety of challenges. Will be interesting to see if a book 2 will follow that would be as interesting.
January 21, 2018
4 Stars really
One of the worst books I have ever read. Who thinks of a plot with an assassin that involves a "family" including a seven year old and a dog. Every other page is them laughing and joking even right after the assassin completes a killing. Senseless plot unless you are a preteen. My first and last of this mindless series
One of the worst books I have ever read. Who thinks of a plot with an assassin that involves a "family" including a seven year old and a dog. Every other page is them laughing and joking even right after the assassin completes a killing. Senseless plot unless you are a preteen. My first and last of this mindless series
May 7, 2018
I really enjoyed this story even though I would have preferred a little more graphic descriptors in all the scenes and not just the killing ones. Clean editing, fast moving plot, and a story that combines an assassin with a romantic twist and a touch of humor. Right up to the end I kept expecting a bullet to take out one of the main characters. A fun read.
January 2, 2019
If someone is looking for an assassin tale with some meat to it, this is not the read you are looking for.
Sophomoric writing, poor character dialogue, way too many cliches. Just borders on awful.
Maybe something to read on a long plane ride where one doesn't really have to pay attention to the story. Otherwise, give it a pass and try something else.
Sophomoric writing, poor character dialogue, way too many cliches. Just borders on awful.
Maybe something to read on a long plane ride where one doesn't really have to pay attention to the story. Otherwise, give it a pass and try something else.
October 3, 2021
Pure fun
There are a lot of ways to describe whom or ones reaction to a book, but for me this was a really fun read. As improbable an diaper Bond like the character may be, or even like Flint, this was just a fun bok to read. Interesting characters, lots of action, fast paced, and a book you surely do not want to put down.
There are a lot of ways to describe whom or ones reaction to a book, but for me this was a really fun read. As improbable an diaper Bond like the character may be, or even like Flint, this was just a fun bok to read. Interesting characters, lots of action, fast paced, and a book you surely do not want to put down.
July 17, 2017
The terminator family
This book was really special in the story line. Murder,humor and great Murder plots ,all the characters are one of a kind.
I enjoyed this book.I've read a lot of books that are murder mysteries , never read one like this.
This book was really special in the story line. Murder,humor and great Murder plots ,all the characters are one of a kind.
I enjoyed this book.I've read a lot of books that are murder mysteries , never read one like this.
September 4, 2017
If you like danger, intrigue and cold hearted killer in love you will love this book!
Danger and Deke give the story such humor it is MARVELOUS! Gus is the best of the bunch, when Nick needs him he is tough as nails!
Danger and Deke give the story such humor it is MARVELOUS! Gus is the best of the bunch, when Nick needs him he is tough as nails!
September 11, 2017
Cold Blooded Assassin Book 1
I read this book in one day. It kept my interest throughout the entire book. Recommend this book to anyone looking for well written and great plot that keeps you at the edge of your chair.
I read this book in one day. It kept my interest throughout the entire book. Recommend this book to anyone looking for well written and great plot that keeps you at the edge of your chair.
November 24, 2017
Action packed and full of surprises.
5 Star and full of who's next. I choose this book because I enjoy action packed, fast pace novels that has one lead player. You won't be disappointed in the Assassin.
5 Star and full of who's next. I choose this book because I enjoy action packed, fast pace novels that has one lead player. You won't be disappointed in the Assassin.
November 25, 2017
Cold
I read this the first time in a book about John. I reread it because I enjoyed it so much the first time. I can't wait to read the next one. If DeLeo wrote it, it has to be good.
I read this the first time in a book about John. I reread it because I enjoyed it so much the first time. I can't wait to read the next one. If DeLeo wrote it, it has to be good.
November 28, 2017
Fantastic read , highly recommend !!!
Fantastic , fast paced action thriller , thoroughly enjoyed this book and I'll be reading his next book with glee !! Best assassin book I have ever read , great characters and great plot !! 5 stars ☆☆☆☆☆
Fantastic , fast paced action thriller , thoroughly enjoyed this book and I'll be reading his next book with glee !! Best assassin book I have ever read , great characters and great plot !! 5 stars ☆☆☆☆☆
March 17, 2018
The beginning....
The 5th time reading this. Gotta go back to the beginning every so often to remind myself where this series started. One of my favorite authors who never disappoints. Nick evolves in amazing ways as the series progresses.
The 5th time reading this. Gotta go back to the beginning every so often to remind myself where this series started. One of my favorite authors who never disappoints. Nick evolves in amazing ways as the series progresses.
March 29, 2018
Interesting, Dark and Humorous
Dark scenes of a ruthless killer, intermixed with good humor...several plot twists to keep one guessing; it does appear that Nick McCarty is unstoppable, so if there is any downside, this villain hero, never gets a scratch on him!
Dark scenes of a ruthless killer, intermixed with good humor...several plot twists to keep one guessing; it does appear that Nick McCarty is unstoppable, so if there is any downside, this villain hero, never gets a scratch on him!
October 14, 2018
Happy endings work out
I loved the dialogues throughout. So natural and teasingly testy. The examples of nicks thoughts after a dialogue are often hilarious. I kept waiting for Deke poor maybe Jean and Rachel to get killed off at the end, but it was a happy ending, the best kind.
I loved the dialogues throughout. So natural and teasingly testy. The examples of nicks thoughts after a dialogue are often hilarious. I kept waiting for Deke poor maybe Jean and Rachel to get killed off at the end, but it was a happy ending, the best kind.
June 10, 2019
Weird, funny book
One of the few truly funny crime novels I’ve read. It’s hard to believe I laughed all during a book in which multiple murders happened but I did. This book is not for the faint of heart but I couldn’t put it down.
One of the few truly funny crime novels I’ve read. It’s hard to believe I laughed all during a book in which multiple murders happened but I did. This book is not for the faint of heart but I couldn’t put it down.
April 23, 2020
Great story line
Great read, story moved fast and kept me involved with all characters. The story plot took a few good turns. Being that I am an Army veteran (light infantry) was glad the hero was not a Marine or another Navy SEAL.
Great read, story moved fast and kept me involved with all characters. The story plot took a few good turns. Being that I am an Army veteran (light infantry) was glad the hero was not a Marine or another Navy SEAL.
December 7, 2025
Great read
Fast moving, lots of action. Nick is an assassin and falling for the woman he was once hired to kill, wasn't in the plan. Rachel and Jean her daughter have accepted what Nick is and don't care. Once you get started you can't put the story down.
Fast moving, lots of action. Nick is an assassin and falling for the woman he was once hired to kill, wasn't in the plan. Rachel and Jean her daughter have accepted what Nick is and don't care. Once you get started you can't put the story down.
August 15, 2017
Oh my, what a dysfunctional fun cast of character's
Romance, adventure, and great twist to the story with dog and little girl.
Can't wait to read the next book!
Romance, adventure, and great twist to the story with dog and little girl.
Can't wait to read the next book!
August 30, 2017
A very good book that I would highly recommend for consideration.
September 6, 2017
Interesting read
A humorous twist on serious violence. Characters were borderline fantasy but that's what makes it a fun read. Can't wait to read the next one.
A humorous twist on serious violence. Characters were borderline fantasy but that's what makes it a fun read. Can't wait to read the next one.
September 27, 2017
Excellent!
Enjoyed from start to finish, hard to put down nice mix with humor, violence and everything else. Looking forward to next book.
Enjoyed from start to finish, hard to put down nice mix with humor, violence and everything else. Looking forward to next book.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 74 reviews