Cold Blooded

Gia Santella #10

by Kristi Belcamino

Now that her boyfriend is in a Witness Protection program in San Diego, Gia has decided to spend a little more time enjoying perfect weather, endless sunshine, and gorgeous beaches.

Her new tranquility is a stark contrast to her busy San Francisco life.

But beneath the surface of the bucolic California city lurks a deadly presence intent on demolishing any bit of hard-won peace, love, and serenity that Gia has won.

And this time it’s personal.

Gia will risk it all to protect what is most important to her and she won’t hesitate to destroy anyone who stands in her way.

Even if she loses her own life in doing so.

The tenth novel in an intense thriller series authored by USA Today Best Selling Author Kristi Belcamino. Fans of JD Robb, Lisa Gardner, Atomic Blonde, and Killing Eve will love the suspense, romance, and twists of these fast-moving thrillers.

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What readers are

★★★★★ "... powerful..."★★★★★ "...couldn't put it down."★★★★★ "Larger than life characters..."★★★★★ "...gripping from start to finish."★★★★★ "...a thrilling game of cat and mouse..."

Genres: Mystery

186 pages, Kindle Edition

First published April 24, 2020

About the author

Kristi 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.


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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

Reviews

[Denise H · Rating 4 out of 5]

I did enjoy this book, but not as much as the previous in the series. This one is more domesticated, giving us a look into the daily goings-on with Gia, Nico, and Rosalie as they work to settle into their new surroundings and their new role as a family. We get to see a softer side of Gia rather than the full-on kick a** warrior and though I did like seeing this side of her in more of a wife/family role, I was not overly fond of the second-guessing and jealousy side of her that emerged. However, she is new to opening herself up again and making herself vulnerable to love and trust and her new relationship role I guess it was to be expected to have the doubt and worries; it does show great character development on her part.

Nico also seemed more naive and not as understanding of certain situations that you would think a former cartel boss would be. He has dangerous powerful enemies and you would think he would be more willing and open to some of the situations/conversations with Gia regarding Rosalie under those circumstances. Yet he seems to have softened to his domestic lifestyle in WITSEC.

We also get to enjoy Dante’s character as he comes to visit Gia and Nico for support while trying to put his past behind and move forward. There were several touching moments between him and Gia as well as a new love interest for him that was great.

Overall, I did really enjoy this book. I loved the interaction between all the characters and when Gia’s new family is threatened it was awesome seeing her step back into her bad a** role (take no prisoners!!). There were a few shocks and twists as well as action and suspense and a surprise at the end (which I am really excited about!). I am looking forward to the next book in the series, as always.

*I received an arc of this book from the author and I am voluntarily providing my honest review.

[Avid reader Di · Rating 5 out of 5]

OI quite liked the change in focus for this book. Instead of cut throat cartel gang members we have an obsessed next store neighbour. Gia, Nico and Rosie have settled into their new lives in San Diego in the witness protection program.
Gia appears a bit bored just hanging out in the back yard while Nico day trades from home. Rosie has different issues at school with girls bullying and calling her weird because of her horrific artwork. Gia and Nico have to deal with a preteen who wants to grow up faster than her caregivers are comfortable with. Gia suggests Rosie take defensive training so she can protect herself. Of course Nico is not on board with that.
Dante, who we met in earlier books cones for a visit and meets Wayne, one of their neighbours who is lucky he has nine lives since he becomes a victim of an attack because he is gay.
We see the family and Dante bond together as they wait for Wayne to wake up from a severe beating causing his brain to swell.
Rosie has only one friend Julia but Gia does not like her mother and they only let Rosie visit with Julia at their own house which is just next door. Gia helps to investigate who was responsible for Wayne’s injuries and gets herself put in jail. Luckily, she has made a friend with the commander running the case which comes in handy when Rosie goes missing. The story is a quick read, with a very good plot and natural dialogue. Eva appears at the end to take Rosie to Italy for some training and since this book is to be continued maybe the sequel occurs in Italy. I will certainly be looking forward to reading it.

[Antigone Walsh · Rating 2 out of 5]

Although this book is well structured and well written there were aspects and Implausibilities that impaired my enjoyment. Gia, her former cartel boss husband Nico and his traumatized twelve year old daughter Rose are enjoying So Cal life while in Witness Protection. Gia's best buddy Dante, still mourning the murder of is lover on their wedding day in Italy, is talked into a visit. To celebrate the neighbors, a fashion conscious gay man, and the mother of Rose's friend, are invited to dinner. Wayne, the neighbor, and Dante hit it off . while Gia is put off by the "stripper mom", Nico is enchanted. Of course this all leads to murder and mayhem.

The pace is fast and the writing good. I can't believe the Witness Protection would place a Mexican cartel leader so close to Mexico. Apparently Gia shared all thin info with her BFF. The kid has serious problems and has serious troubles in school. Ever heard of home schooling? The motive for hurting Wayne is weak and unbelievable. He didn't even know Gia until the dinner. Hard to believe no one checked out the neighbors. And though Rose has serious problems their resolution seemed extreme, especially considering her age. But the thing that was most irritating was portraying a notorious cartel leader as a softie with a heart of gold and not holding him responsible for the tragedy he caused. Sure he loves HIS kid and wants her to have a" normal American childhood". He thought nothing of destroying other peoples lives. Sorry I am with the killer on this one.

[Rosemary · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cold Blooded - a review by Rosemary Kenny

Book 10 in the amazing Kristi Belcamino's outstanding Gia Santella Crime Thrillers series is Cold Blooded - which is an apt description for the covert 'viper in their (neighborhood) bosom', who has resolved to kill the former drug cartel boss 'El Jefe', (as Gia's lover and WitSec newbie, Nico was formerly), in revenge for the loss to overdose of her son.

The couple and Nico's daughter Rosalie have become complacent in their San Diego refuge, so when Gia's gay bff Dante comes to stay and things soon take a turn for the (much) worse, they're 'caught napping'.

Can the little family survive all that a cruel Fate seems determined to throw at them?
Will their friends and loved ones pay for the 'sins of the fathers' (& lovers)?

Don't miss this edge-of-your-seat, read-all-night, (4am in my case!) thriller, with a foxy, feisty, female MC, who never retreats from danger or a challenge when her loved ones are in need of her assassin's skills. Gia Santella's a lover, a fighter, a stepmom, a saviour - and endearingly human. With her four-legged friend Django by her side and love in her heart, you're sure to love Gia as much as I do.

Get your copy of this riveting sure-fire bestseller, Cold Blooded, by Kristi Belcamino as soon as possible - then thrill to the next, (& rest of) the 5 star, Gia Santella Crime Thrillers series - you'll be enchanted!

[Tom Hart · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed seeing a somewhat different side of Gia as she, Nico, and Rosalie settle in to an almost idyllic lifestyle in San Diego.

Almost!

Nico - former cartel head - is in the witness protection program.

Gia’s best friend, Dante, comes to visit, and meets his new love interest. The next-door neighbor.

Meanwhile, Gia is very unsettled about the neighbor on the other side who is also the mother of Rosalie’s best friend.

We also experience further character development in Gia, Nico, their relationship, and Rosalie - especially Rosalie.

All is well until Dante’s new love is beaten and is hospitalized with a very uncertain prognosis - his life hanging by a thread.

Is anyone else in danger? Nico? Dante? Gia herself? Rosalie?

Gia once again becomes the avenger of anyone who harms or attempts to harm her family and friends.

She also has an interesting relationship with the police commander heading the investigation of the brutal attack on Wayne.

A rapid read that you simply cannot put down.

[Elouise · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gia's back! And so is crime. Now that Nico is in a witness protection program, we catch up to Nico, Gia and young Rosalie in beautiful San Diego. New neighbours move in next door and Gia and Nico meet them. Everything seems nice, friendly and above board, But Gia's sixth sense is not quite ready to accept the total friendliness of the wife, Gloria. something strikes her as being a bit off, not quite as friendly as she appears. With Julia and Rosalie becoming close friends, it was only natural that the mothers would get to know each other. She seems like a nice person, and a good mother, but something is just a little off. What follows is pure action, there is an attempted murder, a mysterious secret about a boat, a boat chase and a bit of shooting too. When Gia comes upon the neighbour's true intentions, it leads to a very action packed traumatic and violent ending. Great mystery with lots of action, drama and violence.

[Judy Johnson · Rating 5 out of 5]

If actions, thrills, mystery, and intrigue are on your must-have list for a crime thriller, this book will hit the mark (no pun intended) perfectly. If you haven't yet read any of the books in this series, that's okay, you can jump in here, for the descriptions and the details of each character will let you enjoy this book as a stand-alone, however, you will want to go back and read the others for the backstory on the characters. Innocent people are targeted solely for being in the life of a former cartel leader, and a mother is seeking revenge for what she sees as a personal injustice to her son. Bullying also rears its ugly head and is woven wonderfully into this page-turner that shows us so many different sides each character in the book, and there's even a car chase scene. I told you this book had it all! Get it now, now only will you be glad you did, you'll be hooked! I received a complimentary copy and this is my honest review.

[Anima · Rating 4 out of 5]

Gia and Nico have entered witness protection and moved to San Diego. Wanting Rosalie to have friends they invited the closest neighbors for a BBQ. Something quickly smells fishy and Gia is on the hunt. I'll admit it seems Gia has gotten a bit soft since being involved with Nico, his cartel days behind him but not forgotten. Until someone messes with her family then it's no holds barred. This seemed like a space filler until the next thrill, more of a closure piece for her and Nico so we know they are okay. I have a feeling we'll be seeing lots of Eva and Rosalie as she matures and comes into her own. This is a continuing series with many connections to the previous books. I always enjoy a good read with powerful women and a strong story line, this series fits the bill. I received an early copy from the author and wrote my review without bias.

[Sherie Lundmark · Rating 5 out of 5]

While Gia may be soaking up the sun in a new location, she's as intense and driven to protect her family and friends as she's ever been. Gia is so confident in her warrior skills and relies on her gut to keep herself and those she loves safe. But this time, it may not be enough. Gia has to take down evil out to destroy her new family and face her own insecurities that could damage her relationships. With each book in this series, I love Gia a little more. The author continues to evolve Gia with each new book, leading us on a fast-paced, attention grabbing journey that leaves me counting the days until the next book. If you love a thriller with a fierce female who takes on anyone that threatens her family and friends, you need to check out Gia.

[Leslie Whitaker · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved it! I love Gia first of all, but I also love Dante and love when he is a large part in her books. We join Gia and Nico and Rosalie in San Diego in witness protection. It’s the anniversary of Bobby and Matt’s death and Gia has Dante come to San Diego for a vacation. While there, Nico and Gia invite the neighbors over for dinner. Wayne and Dante hit it off right away. Gloria and her daughter are a different story. Gloria’s daughter, Julia, and Rosalie are becoming best friends, but Gia has a bad feeling about Gloria. When Gia’s family is threatened and one person is attacked, she will go all out to find out who, what and why. This is a great read and I couldn’t put it down!

[Jay Williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

This starts with Gia and Nico in a domestic setting, but quickly develops into a suspenseful thriller. Nico is now living in San Diego, in witness protection, and Gia, Nico and Rosalie love the location and weather. All is not as it seems however. The writing is beautiful and takes the reader into the scenery. Nico and Gia spar in domestic issues as they try to be great parent for Rosalie. A number of new characters come into play, and the situation quickly turns sour. The book begins like a visit with old friends, but quickly becomes suspenseful and emotionally grabbing. Set aside some time when you start to read because you will not be able to set the book down until you reach the end.

[Jennifer Soppe · Rating 5 out of 5]

A thrilling game of cat and mouse

Gia, the vigilante with heart, is enjoying retirement with Nico and Rosalie now that Nico is in witness protection in the United States. As the story progresses it’s time to meet the neighbors, a senseless crime draws her back in, and all they have gained could be lost in an instant if she does not think on her toes. Kristi Belcamino’s Cold Blooded is a thrilling game of cat and mouse where you are not entirely sure which person is which. It will definitely be interesting to see where Gia and crew go from here.

I received a free copy of the book from the author. I had the opportunity to review or not.

[Fred · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thrilling and scary, while being filled with joy and wonder

This is a a thriller like no other. This time we finally get to see the world from Rosalie’s point of view. Kristi gives us this world as a child sees it. We see the pain, the fear, the bullying, along with the joy and wonder. You also get to see the parents’ greatest joys and fears along with new happiness for Dante. As a crime reporter, Kristi has undoubtedly seen some of what she writes about and to bring that to her story telling has to at times be scary. But for the reader it also brings truth to the story and enlightenment to the reader.

[Joanne · Rating 5 out of 5]

From page 1, word 1, I was mesmerized by this story. Gia and Nico along with Rosalie, are living an apparenyly idyllic life in San Diego, courtesy of the witness protection plan. Unfortunately, problems arise (Rosalie, due to the horrors she has seen, has troubles in school) and (Dante's new love is attacked). Gia, with her usual panache and suspicious mind jumps into action. This book was non-stop action from beginning to end. Gia's character continues to develop as she experiences love and trust and vulnerability. I think this might be one of my favorites!

[K Huskić · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this! An emotional rollercoaster for sure, though.

Gia, Nico and Rosalie seem happy in their new house in Witness Protection. However, when meeting people from around town, Gia gets strange vibes from some. Not enough to make her do anything, but enough to be a little suspicious.

Her happy new life changes in an instant, when someone she cares about is badly injured, bringing back a lot of past memories. She won't stand back and let others solve the case, choosing to risk her own safety, but not caring one bit. Gia is nothing, if not protective of those she loves.

This was a great read, I couldn't put it down! I look forward to what happens from here, too, after that ending.

[Tara Stapledon · Rating 5 out of 5]

My favourite heroine is back kicking ass and taking names.

Gia, Nico and Rosalie are in witness protection and living in San Diego. When Dante comes to visit they throw a dinner party with the neighbours. Dante meets his perfect match in Wayne while Gia struggles with being nice to Gloria. Something seems a bit off with her. When Wayne is attacked Gia jumps into action with no regard to her own safety.
A well written story where we get to see a softer side of Gia before all hell breaks loose, and a surprise at the end. I loved Wayne and hope to see more of him with Dante in future books.

[Beth Birnbaum · Rating 5 out of 5]

When you read a Gia Sanella book, or any book by Kristi Belcamino, fortunately there are a lot of them, you're not getting a formula written book. Each one is an experience that builds on the last, yet stands all on it's own, and beautifully written.
Like in real life, things grow and develop and change.
Some things that don't change, Gia's love for Rosie, and all children, and her commitment to making sure justice is served. She's more than willing to do whatever has to be done to get there.
This is really the perfect book for mother's day! Or any other.

[Meghan · Rating 4 out of 5]

From the start we see the family of three settling down and working out, but quickly things are not as good as they seem Witness protection, jealousy, new love, school bullies, intrigue, crime and family matters balance this story out as one non stop set actions, plans, hope and consequences.

It is great to see Gia happy. I hope she gets to keep this family, love and peace, but the way the ending worked I don’t see that happening. Dante is precious and i am so happy for him and his path in this story.

[Joyce · Rating 5 out of 5]

Heartaches

Gia calls Dante because she has discovered that he hasn't been showing up for work. She tells him to visit her in San Diego. While at her house he meets Wayne. Dante and Wayne are coming close.
Wayne is beating up and in ICU. Can Dante be able to lose someone again. Gia is worried about them. Gia is out of the house and when she returns Rosalie has be taken. Will Gia and Nico be able to find her in time. A well written story with strong and believable characters.

[Roberta s. Cummins · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just keeps getting better and better.

Each book in the series has me sitting on edge in anticipation or that one final book . I love that a family has formed, but know that this excellent writer is going to throw a monkey wrench at anytime to jeopardize their happiness. What an excellent writer! Each book in the series seems to be better than the previous one. I'm certainly not getting anything done. Don't want to put the book down. I'm as hooked on this series as teens on their cells.

[Vicky · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cold blooded

I love all of the GA books I really like this 1 because it's tells about Gia and Nico and Rosalie's homelife there is a bit of a badass Gia but for the most part it's just she's a typical mom sort of Anyway I really like this book and I would recommend it to anybody that I just to read mysteries or thrillers or just playing books about people because this is a book about people I love it thanks christy

[Jen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cold Blooded

After reading all of the Gia books it's hard to find new superlatives to describe how much I enjoy the book, the series and all of its characters.

My only wish, again, is that the books were longer because that means I finish the book within a few hours Nd then have to wait for the next book in the series. Such a first world problem!

I can't wait to do find out about Rosalie and her time with Eva...

[Sue Offenbecker · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow!

Best book ever! I could not put it down! Gia, Rosalie & Nico are in the Witness Protection program and settling in to “norma” family life. New friend and weird neighbors are just the start of it... A must read! Now I have to wait until July for the next one. Waiting is torture! Kristi, I love your books, please keep them coming!

[Kenneth Lingenfelter · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is another page turning thriller. Gia and Nico are living under the witness protection program. Dante comes to visit and meets Wayne and gets romantically involved. Wayne gets beaten at the marina where his boat is docked. Rosalie gets kidnapped. I was hooked from the beginning.

[Sammye · Rating 5 out of 5]

This series continues to entertain. The storylines are always very well developed and interesting. Plenty of action and romance. Lots of twists and turns along the way. Very well done. I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving this review

[Debbie Mcnally · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was lucky enough to have gotten a ARC copy of this book from the author. I am volunteering to leave this review. Fantastic book another nail biting adventure that has you on a roller coaster of emotions.

[Elaine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kristi Belcamino New Released (Gia Santella Crime Thriller Book 10)

Another great book...I love Kristi’s books. They are exciting and interesting, every moment is suspenseful! She never fails to release a great read!

[Tracy Sanderson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fabulous Book and Series

I don’t know what it is about this series. The characters and the stories pulled me in. Like a book a day minimum kind of pulled me in.
Gia is a kick ass boss bit*h and her story needs to continue!

[Dianne Biscoe · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another great book about Gia. All I can say is...do not get in Gia's way if someone is threatening those she loves!!!

[Sue Palmer Crosby · Rating 5 out of 5]

This series just keeps getting better and better. An awesome addition to the Gia series. Definitely keeps you turning the page.