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Evidence #6
Cold Evidence
The frigid waters of the Pacific Northwest are about to get hot…
The only thing Navy underwater archaeologist Undine Gray fears more than facing former SEAL Luke Sevick is never scuba diving again. But when a dive on a Cold War-era US Navy submarine ends with an accidental explosion, she’s terrified of going into the deep, forcing her to beg the most experienced diver she knows to take her back to the bottom of the cold Salish Sea.
Luke wants nothing to do with the woman who destroyed his career a dozen years ago but finds it impossible to turn his back on her plea. Caught off-guard by an attraction he doesn’t want to feel, he’s eager to be done with this mission of mercy. But when they dive on the wreck, he only gets sucked in deeper. Someone has been digging on the Navy sub…and it appears the explosion that almost killed Undine was no accident.
To find the truth, Undine must navigate murky waters and the unexpectedly hot undercurrents swirling between her and Luke. Worse, divers are searching for something lost in US waters during the Cold War, and they’ll do anything to keep Luke and Undine from finding it first.
The only thing Navy underwater archaeologist Undine Gray fears more than facing former SEAL Luke Sevick is never scuba diving again. But when a dive on a Cold War-era US Navy submarine ends with an accidental explosion, she’s terrified of going into the deep, forcing her to beg the most experienced diver she knows to take her back to the bottom of the cold Salish Sea.
Luke wants nothing to do with the woman who destroyed his career a dozen years ago but finds it impossible to turn his back on her plea. Caught off-guard by an attraction he doesn’t want to feel, he’s eager to be done with this mission of mercy. But when they dive on the wreck, he only gets sucked in deeper. Someone has been digging on the Navy sub…and it appears the explosion that almost killed Undine was no accident.
To find the truth, Undine must navigate murky waters and the unexpectedly hot undercurrents swirling between her and Luke. Worse, divers are searching for something lost in US waters during the Cold War, and they’ll do anything to keep Luke and Undine from finding it first.
396 pages, Paperback
First published February 2, 2016
407 people are currently reading
1050 people want to read
About the author
Rachel Grant
49 books1,643 followersCOMING SOON
AVAILABLE NOW:
USA Today bestselling author Rachel Grant also writes thrillers as R.S. Grant. She worked for over a decade as a professional archaeologist and mines her experiences for storylines and settings, which are as diverse as excavating a cemetery underneath an historic art museum in San Francisco, survey and excavation of many prehistoric Native American sites in the Pacific Northwest, researching an historic concrete house in Virginia (inspiration for her debut novel, CONCRETE EVIDENCE), and mapping a seventeenth century Spanish and Dutch fort on the island of Sint Maarten in the Caribbean (which provided inspiration for the island and fort described in CRASH SITE).
She lives in the Pacific Northwest with her archaeologist husband and demanding cat.
AVAILABLE NOW:
USA Today bestselling author Rachel Grant also writes thrillers as R.S. Grant. She worked for over a decade as a professional archaeologist and mines her experiences for storylines and settings, which are as diverse as excavating a cemetery underneath an historic art museum in San Francisco, survey and excavation of many prehistoric Native American sites in the Pacific Northwest, researching an historic concrete house in Virginia (inspiration for her debut novel, CONCRETE EVIDENCE), and mapping a seventeenth century Spanish and Dutch fort on the island of Sint Maarten in the Caribbean (which provided inspiration for the island and fort described in CRASH SITE).
She lives in the Pacific Northwest with her archaeologist husband and demanding cat.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 165 reviews
July 9, 2023
Cold Evidence by Rachel Grant is the sixth book in her Evidence series. All of these books make one of the best series in romantic suspense with strong and intelligent heroes and heroines, interesting locations and extremely well researched information woven into all of the plots.
Undine Gray is an underwater archeologist working in Neah Bay, Washington looking for the remains of a Cold War era sub that went down for unidentified reasons. When a supposed accident occurs, that she narrowly survives, she finds herself afraid to dive again. Former Navy SEAL Luke Sevick, now working for the NOAA is closest to the explosion and pulls Undine out of the water. He wants nothing to do with Undine, who he believes destroyed his career twelve years ago, but he finds it impossible to reject her plea to get her back into the water.
When the two dive on the wreck, Luke becomes intrigued when they discover someone else is digging on the site that supposedly holds no interest except in a historical sense. When more attempts are made on Undine’s life, Luke can’t walk away and the two are pulled into a twisted international plot with both of their lives on the line.
The romance in this book is so strong because it moves at a realistic pace. Before the H/h can have their HEA there is a lot of old hurt, misunderstanding and lies to get through. Forgiveness, friendship and love are all covered with great empathy. The suspense portion of the plot has spies, murder, and a lot of surprising twists throughout. Ms. Grant has once again written a strong book that makes archeology and history interesting, characters to cheer for and intrigue that keeps you turning the pages.
This is a great addition to the series!
Undine Gray is an underwater archeologist working in Neah Bay, Washington looking for the remains of a Cold War era sub that went down for unidentified reasons. When a supposed accident occurs, that she narrowly survives, she finds herself afraid to dive again. Former Navy SEAL Luke Sevick, now working for the NOAA is closest to the explosion and pulls Undine out of the water. He wants nothing to do with Undine, who he believes destroyed his career twelve years ago, but he finds it impossible to reject her plea to get her back into the water.
When the two dive on the wreck, Luke becomes intrigued when they discover someone else is digging on the site that supposedly holds no interest except in a historical sense. When more attempts are made on Undine’s life, Luke can’t walk away and the two are pulled into a twisted international plot with both of their lives on the line.
The romance in this book is so strong because it moves at a realistic pace. Before the H/h can have their HEA there is a lot of old hurt, misunderstanding and lies to get through. Forgiveness, friendship and love are all covered with great empathy. The suspense portion of the plot has spies, murder, and a lot of surprising twists throughout. Ms. Grant has once again written a strong book that makes archeology and history interesting, characters to cheer for and intrigue that keeps you turning the pages.
This is a great addition to the series!
February 6, 2016
ARC REVIEW:
In the past I have noted that Rachel Grant writes my favorite kind of heroines – intelligent, quirky, courageous, and just this side of dorky. But I also appreciate that Ms. Grant always infuses a sense of history into her stories as well. It’s not the kind of history that focuses on names and dates, but history as the study of human choices.
The story behind the story is heroic. I was sucked right in. The mystery of the Wrasse feels like a treasure hunt, not for gold, but for the truth, and this nugget feels precious. The circumstances surrounding the sinking of the Wrasse is complex. Cold War politics was insidious and the potential nuclear threat against the U.S. very real. It is a very stressful time in our history. To that, the author incorporates more recent events from Russia's struggle to maintain its territories. As an ally, we have a level of culpability to what Russia does to its people. We are engaged in geo-politics. Some might find it highly detailed, but I enjoy the complexity.
It would not be a Rachel Grant book without hot romance. The start of Undine and Luke's relationship is messy and complicated. I had a moment of pause when the circumstance of the initial relationship is revealed. Luke's fury is fully justified. Undine does him wrong. I understand her explanations, but the consequences of her deception could have been profoundly bad for Luke, it takes a while to restore my faith in her. There is a lot of back and forth in this relationship. Both are indecisive on what they want from each other and this continues through most of the narrative. Perhaps for me, this is the weakest part of the book. Nonetheless, given their really rough start, I can understand Luke’s confusion on why he is still attracted to this girl. A relationship with her is a land mine of triggers. I give Undine a lot of credit for her bravery in trying to mend this bridge. The snappy dialogue keeps the relationship moving, and their flirting is intimate like second chance stories should be.
After reading this book, I’m packing my bags and finding a way to get to the Pacific Northwest. Rachel Grant paints a vivid picture of the region that is irresistible. It’s an area filled with gorgeous sunsets, a serene environment, and majestic ocean views. A stay at Hobuck cabins is on my bucket list.
With a compelling fictional history, beautiful environment, tightly written mystery and a complex romance, Cold Evidence is a great addition to Rachel Grant’s evidence series.
Thank you to the author for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
In the past I have noted that Rachel Grant writes my favorite kind of heroines – intelligent, quirky, courageous, and just this side of dorky. But I also appreciate that Ms. Grant always infuses a sense of history into her stories as well. It’s not the kind of history that focuses on names and dates, but history as the study of human choices.
The story behind the story is heroic. I was sucked right in. The mystery of the Wrasse feels like a treasure hunt, not for gold, but for the truth, and this nugget feels precious. The circumstances surrounding the sinking of the Wrasse is complex. Cold War politics was insidious and the potential nuclear threat against the U.S. very real. It is a very stressful time in our history. To that, the author incorporates more recent events from Russia's struggle to maintain its territories. As an ally, we have a level of culpability to what Russia does to its people. We are engaged in geo-politics. Some might find it highly detailed, but I enjoy the complexity.
It would not be a Rachel Grant book without hot romance. The start of Undine and Luke's relationship is messy and complicated. I had a moment of pause when the circumstance of the initial relationship is revealed. Luke's fury is fully justified. Undine does him wrong. I understand her explanations, but the consequences of her deception could have been profoundly bad for Luke, it takes a while to restore my faith in her. There is a lot of back and forth in this relationship. Both are indecisive on what they want from each other and this continues through most of the narrative. Perhaps for me, this is the weakest part of the book. Nonetheless, given their really rough start, I can understand Luke’s confusion on why he is still attracted to this girl. A relationship with her is a land mine of triggers. I give Undine a lot of credit for her bravery in trying to mend this bridge. The snappy dialogue keeps the relationship moving, and their flirting is intimate like second chance stories should be.
After reading this book, I’m packing my bags and finding a way to get to the Pacific Northwest. Rachel Grant paints a vivid picture of the region that is irresistible. It’s an area filled with gorgeous sunsets, a serene environment, and majestic ocean views. A stay at Hobuck cabins is on my bucket list.
With a compelling fictional history, beautiful environment, tightly written mystery and a complex romance, Cold Evidence is a great addition to Rachel Grant’s evidence series.
Thank you to the author for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
February 9, 2016
I know that I've said it before: I love Ms. Grant's books! And this one is not an exception! All the contrary!!
As all the other books in this series we have glimpses of characters from the previous books and I've njoyed it very much!
The heroine, Undine, was an excellent one: strong, true, intelligent and absolutely great! I loved that she was able to admit her faults and to reach towards the hero, Luke like a responsible adult ready to make amends for the mess she made dozens of years before! She's not afraid of Luke's anger when he lashes at her. She's not afraid or ashamed to ask for his help when she needs it!
Luke was a great hero too! He's absolutely enraged at her, thinking that she totally destroyed his life that fateful moment twelve years ago. But at the same time he's adult enough to concede that what she asks is a logical and most responsible thinkg to do.
I love, love how Ms. Grant make her characters act and think! never a wrong thought, never a wrong action: everything is so very natual and exactly what I would do! Even when the character is out of his/her mind with rage or sorrow, she's able to make them see reason! That's true art!
But what I enjoyed here, that in the previous books was not present is a passion of mine: diving!
Finally a book where diving is described in an intelligent and responsible way! There's nothing like someone who's been diving coming out in 2 seconds flat for the sake of action! She's described the correct procedures with all the necessary decompression stops and sefety actions during a dive! And that was plain FANTASTIC!
The story is very interesting too: dormant spies, Cold War, small nuclear devices, terrorist... what more would you want?!
The last attack (because there're planty of them!) made me chew my nails immagining what would happen if Luke didn't manage
So, if you've read and enjoyed the previous books, I'm absolutely sure you'll enjoy this one! If not, what are you waiting to read this fantastic series? *wink*
As all the other books in this series we have glimpses of characters from the previous books and I've njoyed it very much!
The heroine, Undine, was an excellent one: strong, true, intelligent and absolutely great! I loved that she was able to admit her faults and to reach towards the hero, Luke like a responsible adult ready to make amends for the mess she made dozens of years before! She's not afraid of Luke's anger when he lashes at her. She's not afraid or ashamed to ask for his help when she needs it!
Luke was a great hero too! He's absolutely enraged at her, thinking that she totally destroyed his life that fateful moment twelve years ago. But at the same time he's adult enough to concede that what she asks is a logical and most responsible thinkg to do.
I love, love how Ms. Grant make her characters act and think! never a wrong thought, never a wrong action: everything is so very natual and exactly what I would do! Even when the character is out of his/her mind with rage or sorrow, she's able to make them see reason! That's true art!
But what I enjoyed here, that in the previous books was not present is a passion of mine: diving!
Finally a book where diving is described in an intelligent and responsible way! There's nothing like someone who's been diving coming out in 2 seconds flat for the sake of action! She's described the correct procedures with all the necessary decompression stops and sefety actions during a dive! And that was plain FANTASTIC!
The story is very interesting too: dormant spies, Cold War, small nuclear devices, terrorist... what more would you want?!
The last attack (because there're planty of them!) made me chew my nails immagining what would happen if Luke didn't manage
So, if you've read and enjoyed the previous books, I'm absolutely sure you'll enjoy this one! If not, what are you waiting to read this fantastic series? *wink*
December 4, 2018
This is my first book from Rachel Grant and it is quite refreshing. I really do love romantic suspense stories but after reading a bunch they all seem to be a bit alike. This one is a little different.
First, I like that the story centres around deep diving and is partly set on the water. This is not your usual catching the serial killer or some Afghanistan-related-terrorist plot. However, I have to admit that the plot is completely improbably and strongly influenced by cold war thrillers. Really, it was a bit like Tom Clancy writes a romance. I wouldn't like to find this kind of scheme in every book I read but once in a time it is nice for sure.
The main characters, Undine and Luke, are pretty likeable. And even though they develop their feelings in just three weeks, I had no problem with that. I also like the idea behind the second chance romance, them making mistakes and trying to forgive each other finally.
I will definitely read some other books from Rachel Grant.
First, I like that the story centres around deep diving and is partly set on the water. This is not your usual catching the serial killer or some Afghanistan-related-terrorist plot. However, I have to admit that the plot is completely improbably and strongly influenced by cold war thrillers. Really, it was a bit like Tom Clancy writes a romance. I wouldn't like to find this kind of scheme in every book I read but once in a time it is nice for sure.
The main characters, Undine and Luke, are pretty likeable. And even though they develop their feelings in just three weeks, I had no problem with that. I also like the idea behind the second chance romance, them making mistakes and trying to forgive each other finally.
I will definitely read some other books from Rachel Grant.
May 26, 2024
Review from 2017
I've given this an A- for both narration and content at AudioGals, so that's 4.5 stars rounded up.
Cold Evidence is number six in Rachel Grant’s seven-book (so far) Evidence series of romantic suspense novels. I’ve yet to read or listen to every instalment, but those I’ve got to so far have proved to be immensely enjoyable, complex and action-packed stories featuring hot-as-hell heroes and feisty (in a good way) heroines who don’t take any crap. The romances are nicely steamy and well integrated into the main storylines, and for me, the balance between romance and suspense is just about perfect. Cold Evidence does feature some recurring characters but like all the books in the series, it can be enjoyed as a standalone – although there is a bit of a cliff-hanger at the end which leads into the next book, Poison Evidence. Don’t worry though, it’s more by way of a teaser; the suspense storyline and HEA are happily resolved, so you can safely listen to this without fear of frustration!
Underwater archaeologist Undine Gray is working on a project to salvage the USS Wrasse, an old US submarine that sank off the coast of Seattle during the time of the Cuban Missile Crisis, taking a number of its former crewmembers with it; men who had served aboard her in World War Two and who had volunteered to take her to her final resting place, not knowing it would become theirs, too.
While down at the wreck with her diving partner, Yuri, Undine develops a problem with her oxygen tank and has no alternative but to ascend, which she does, leaving Yuri on the sea bed while she reaches the decompression point and waits until it is safe for her to break the surface. While she is waiting, however, a massive explosion destroys her boat, equipment and team mates, the shockwave cutting her adrift and leaving her seriously injured. She wakes up in hospital to the face of the one man she’d never expected to see again, Luke Sevick, a former colleague of her father’s and former Navy SEAL who now works for NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration) and who had been among the first to arrive at the scene of the accident.
Luke and Undine have a complicated history stretching back twelve years to when he was a protégé of her father’s and working alongside him at his marine biology institute. Luke is still incredibly bitter over the fact that a teenaged ‘lark’ of Undine’s cost him his job and his career, and even more angry at himself for the emotional turmoil he experiences on seeing her so badly injured. So when she approaches him some six weeks after the explosion, telling him she’s scared of getting back into the water and asking him to dive with her, his immediate reaction is to tell her, in no uncertain terms, where to go. But he can’t do it. He knows how much this means to her and what it must have cost her to have even considered the idea of approaching him, let along actually doing it – and he agrees, at the same time cursing himself for being the world’s biggest idiot.
They dive the next day, with Luke offering Undine support and guidance the whole of the way. On reaching the wreck, Undine notices signs that someone else has been digging at the site, which should hold no real significance for anyone other than historians and archaeologists. Gradually, they start to piece together a picture of espionage and betrayal that puts them both – and Undine in particular – squarely in the sights of a Ukranian fanatic seeking revenge for what he sees as the abandonment of his country by the West.
As has been the case throughout this series, the background to the story is incredibly well researched, and while it has its roots in an event that happened over half a century earlier, the inclusion of some of the political issues of today make it very relevant for the contemporary audience. This is one of the things I adore about Ms. Grant’s books – her stories are incredibly well-thought out and complex; whether she’s writing stories set in the US or, as in her new Flashpoint series, war-torn Africa, she interweaves her plotlines with intrigue and political issues that are both relevant and thought-provoking, and does it seamlessly so that there’s never the sense the listener is being subjected to an info dump or history lesson.
And while all that’s going on, she writes a very complicated and messy romantic relationship between Luke and Undine, both of whom are carrying large amounts of baggage as the result of their ill-advised relationship years ago. When we find out exactly what happened between them, there is no question Luke’s anger is perfectly justified; Undine deceived him in full knowledge of what she was doing and she is responsible for the fact that Luke lost everything he had been working towards. He’s still bitter and it’s not surprising that his initial reactions to her are hostile and that he is determined to have nothing more to do with her once he’s helped her to recover her confidence. Although of course, things don’t quite work out like that. Their gradual rapprochement is perfectly paced; the physical attraction that burned between them years ago has never gone out – if anything, it’s even stronger now – and I really enjoyed listening to them learning more about the people they are now and beginning to deal with the anger, guilt and grief over what happened between them before. They’re both likeable yet flawed characters; both are highly intelligent and dedicated to what they do, and while Luke is perhaps a bit too good to be true, he does at least work to maintain that hot bod of his – and I had to laugh at his mistaken idea that there is anything one can do to Brussels sprouts to make them taste good.
I was pleased to see that Nicol Zanzarella had returned to narrate this and Poison Evidence, as I’ve very much enjoyed her work in the earlier books in the series I’ve so far listened to. She has a pleasant, slightly husky voice in the mezzo range, which enables her to portray male characters convincingly and without sounding as though she has to strain to maintain a slightly lower pitch. She differentiates very effectively between characters of both sexes, especially between Luke and his friend Parker Reeves, a member of the coastguard team who helped rescue Undine, and who turns out to have a bigger role to play in the story – and series – than it originally seemed. She does a good job with the accented English spoken by Yuri and his nephews, which is subtle and consistently maintained, and her pacing is spot on; she is very good in the action scenes at conveying just the right degree of urgency and excitement and also in the love scenes, which she performs with conviction.
If you’ve already listened to other titles in the Evidence series, then I’m sure that you’ll need no persuasion from me to pick up Cold Evidence. And if you haven’t, then it’s perfectly possible to start here. Rachel Grant has penned another truly compelling story that has everything any romantic suspense fan could want and I loved it.
Now, as to that cliffhanger…
I've given this an A- for both narration and content at AudioGals, so that's 4.5 stars rounded up.
Cold Evidence is number six in Rachel Grant’s seven-book (so far) Evidence series of romantic suspense novels. I’ve yet to read or listen to every instalment, but those I’ve got to so far have proved to be immensely enjoyable, complex and action-packed stories featuring hot-as-hell heroes and feisty (in a good way) heroines who don’t take any crap. The romances are nicely steamy and well integrated into the main storylines, and for me, the balance between romance and suspense is just about perfect. Cold Evidence does feature some recurring characters but like all the books in the series, it can be enjoyed as a standalone – although there is a bit of a cliff-hanger at the end which leads into the next book, Poison Evidence. Don’t worry though, it’s more by way of a teaser; the suspense storyline and HEA are happily resolved, so you can safely listen to this without fear of frustration!
Underwater archaeologist Undine Gray is working on a project to salvage the USS Wrasse, an old US submarine that sank off the coast of Seattle during the time of the Cuban Missile Crisis, taking a number of its former crewmembers with it; men who had served aboard her in World War Two and who had volunteered to take her to her final resting place, not knowing it would become theirs, too.
While down at the wreck with her diving partner, Yuri, Undine develops a problem with her oxygen tank and has no alternative but to ascend, which she does, leaving Yuri on the sea bed while she reaches the decompression point and waits until it is safe for her to break the surface. While she is waiting, however, a massive explosion destroys her boat, equipment and team mates, the shockwave cutting her adrift and leaving her seriously injured. She wakes up in hospital to the face of the one man she’d never expected to see again, Luke Sevick, a former colleague of her father’s and former Navy SEAL who now works for NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration) and who had been among the first to arrive at the scene of the accident.
Luke and Undine have a complicated history stretching back twelve years to when he was a protégé of her father’s and working alongside him at his marine biology institute. Luke is still incredibly bitter over the fact that a teenaged ‘lark’ of Undine’s cost him his job and his career, and even more angry at himself for the emotional turmoil he experiences on seeing her so badly injured. So when she approaches him some six weeks after the explosion, telling him she’s scared of getting back into the water and asking him to dive with her, his immediate reaction is to tell her, in no uncertain terms, where to go. But he can’t do it. He knows how much this means to her and what it must have cost her to have even considered the idea of approaching him, let along actually doing it – and he agrees, at the same time cursing himself for being the world’s biggest idiot.
They dive the next day, with Luke offering Undine support and guidance the whole of the way. On reaching the wreck, Undine notices signs that someone else has been digging at the site, which should hold no real significance for anyone other than historians and archaeologists. Gradually, they start to piece together a picture of espionage and betrayal that puts them both – and Undine in particular – squarely in the sights of a Ukranian fanatic seeking revenge for what he sees as the abandonment of his country by the West.
As has been the case throughout this series, the background to the story is incredibly well researched, and while it has its roots in an event that happened over half a century earlier, the inclusion of some of the political issues of today make it very relevant for the contemporary audience. This is one of the things I adore about Ms. Grant’s books – her stories are incredibly well-thought out and complex; whether she’s writing stories set in the US or, as in her new Flashpoint series, war-torn Africa, she interweaves her plotlines with intrigue and political issues that are both relevant and thought-provoking, and does it seamlessly so that there’s never the sense the listener is being subjected to an info dump or history lesson.
And while all that’s going on, she writes a very complicated and messy romantic relationship between Luke and Undine, both of whom are carrying large amounts of baggage as the result of their ill-advised relationship years ago. When we find out exactly what happened between them, there is no question Luke’s anger is perfectly justified; Undine deceived him in full knowledge of what she was doing and she is responsible for the fact that Luke lost everything he had been working towards. He’s still bitter and it’s not surprising that his initial reactions to her are hostile and that he is determined to have nothing more to do with her once he’s helped her to recover her confidence. Although of course, things don’t quite work out like that. Their gradual rapprochement is perfectly paced; the physical attraction that burned between them years ago has never gone out – if anything, it’s even stronger now – and I really enjoyed listening to them learning more about the people they are now and beginning to deal with the anger, guilt and grief over what happened between them before. They’re both likeable yet flawed characters; both are highly intelligent and dedicated to what they do, and while Luke is perhaps a bit too good to be true, he does at least work to maintain that hot bod of his – and I had to laugh at his mistaken idea that there is anything one can do to Brussels sprouts to make them taste good.
I was pleased to see that Nicol Zanzarella had returned to narrate this and Poison Evidence, as I’ve very much enjoyed her work in the earlier books in the series I’ve so far listened to. She has a pleasant, slightly husky voice in the mezzo range, which enables her to portray male characters convincingly and without sounding as though she has to strain to maintain a slightly lower pitch. She differentiates very effectively between characters of both sexes, especially between Luke and his friend Parker Reeves, a member of the coastguard team who helped rescue Undine, and who turns out to have a bigger role to play in the story – and series – than it originally seemed. She does a good job with the accented English spoken by Yuri and his nephews, which is subtle and consistently maintained, and her pacing is spot on; she is very good in the action scenes at conveying just the right degree of urgency and excitement and also in the love scenes, which she performs with conviction.
If you’ve already listened to other titles in the Evidence series, then I’m sure that you’ll need no persuasion from me to pick up Cold Evidence. And if you haven’t, then it’s perfectly possible to start here. Rachel Grant has penned another truly compelling story that has everything any romantic suspense fan could want and I loved it.
Now, as to that cliffhanger…
December 5, 2016
OMG! Rachel Grant is one of the very best writers of romantic-suspense producing books today. She is 6 for 6 five-star reads for me. Intelligent characters, hot romance and inventive plots are staples of a Rachel Grant book. I keep expecting that the next book cannot possibly be as good as the last, but they just get better and better.
Undine Gray is an underwater archeologist working in the Strait of Juan de Fuca, northeast of Neah Bay, Washington charting the location of the remains of a sub, the Wrasse that was scheduled for a SINKEX exercise, but went down for unidentified reasons with 7 of her former crew, now retired on board. The sinking occurred at the height of the Cold War during the Cuban Missile Crisis in October, 1962. While diving, a tragic accident occurs and Undine barely survives. She is fished out of the frigid waters by Luke Sevick, someone she never expected to see again.
Former Navy SEAL Luke Sevick is shocked when he realizes that he has just saved Undine Grey, the girl who literally changed his life, and not in a good way. Twelve years ago she lied to him, causing him to lose a career he had been working for and was now completely dead to him. The rage and hate from that time comes rushing back as he realizes who Undine is, but he does everything to save her and stays with her until she regains conscience.
Undine is left with a fear of diving and goes to Luke to help her get back in the water. In spite of everything, he helps her and together they dive on the Wrasse where they discover evidence that someone else has been diving on the wreck.
Something is definitely wrong and although Luke does not want to have anything to do with Undine and her wreck, as a former SEAL and a Lt. Commander in the Navy NOAA he is ordered to pursue the matter. Pursuing Undine was not part of his orders, but you know the old saying: "Hate of just the flipside of Love." When Undine's life is threatened, Luke just can't walk away.
Undine Gray is an underwater archeologist working in the Strait of Juan de Fuca, northeast of Neah Bay, Washington charting the location of the remains of a sub, the Wrasse that was scheduled for a SINKEX exercise, but went down for unidentified reasons with 7 of her former crew, now retired on board. The sinking occurred at the height of the Cold War during the Cuban Missile Crisis in October, 1962. While diving, a tragic accident occurs and Undine barely survives. She is fished out of the frigid waters by Luke Sevick, someone she never expected to see again.
Former Navy SEAL Luke Sevick is shocked when he realizes that he has just saved Undine Grey, the girl who literally changed his life, and not in a good way. Twelve years ago she lied to him, causing him to lose a career he had been working for and was now completely dead to him. The rage and hate from that time comes rushing back as he realizes who Undine is, but he does everything to save her and stays with her until she regains conscience.
Undine is left with a fear of diving and goes to Luke to help her get back in the water. In spite of everything, he helps her and together they dive on the Wrasse where they discover evidence that someone else has been diving on the wreck.
Something is definitely wrong and although Luke does not want to have anything to do with Undine and her wreck, as a former SEAL and a Lt. Commander in the Navy NOAA he is ordered to pursue the matter. Pursuing Undine was not part of his orders, but you know the old saying: "Hate of just the flipside of Love." When Undine's life is threatened, Luke just can't walk away.
February 2, 2016
Rachel writes with such detail you feel like you are actually there in person watching this unfold. It is a story of coming back together through the worst possible circumstances. Almost a dozen years have passed since Undine has seen Luke, and it was bad when the parted the first time. This time is no better. She ruined his life and now she is doing it again and he is letting her just like the first time and is helpless to stop it. That is until her life is in danger and he realizes just how much she has hurt these past years as well. As a former Seal when she is in danger after someone has tried to kill her not once but three times his protective instincts kick in and there's no stopping him. She is uncovering a secret no one wants known and enemies seem to be everywhere, including her father. But she has powerful friends and Luke. Together they will not only protect her but thousands in the process.
Forgiveness is a powerful thing and so is love. You'll find both in the least expected of places in this story along with loyalty, friendship, and dedication.
Summing it up: Murder, spies, loyalty, explosions and betrayal will all be found as you read this book, but who will be doing what?
I received and ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Forgiveness is a powerful thing and so is love. You'll find both in the least expected of places in this story along with loyalty, friendship, and dedication.
Summing it up: Murder, spies, loyalty, explosions and betrayal will all be found as you read this book, but who will be doing what?
I received and ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
March 4, 2016
4.5 Stars...This is an awesome series! Luke and Undine did not disappoint:)
I'll read anything Grant writes. She does a perfect blend of romance and suspense for my reading pallet. This was well researched and presented...I always learn something about the subject matter while being entertained...win/win!;)
I'll read anything Grant writes. She does a perfect blend of romance and suspense for my reading pallet. This was well researched and presented...I always learn something about the subject matter while being entertained...win/win!;)
June 3, 2016
I really can't say enough good about this series. If you like strong, intelligent characters, stories based on well researched historical events (with liberities taken for the story), outstanding settings, and well written dialog, than you've got to check out these books. Rachel Grant is one of my new favorite romantic suspense authors. Cold Evidence? Another outstanding addition to the Evidence series.
This is a second chance story, but it's not your usual second chance story. Luke and Undine worked together twelve years ago when Luke was interning at her father's marine research institute. Undine wasn't entirely truthful with Luke then which resulted in Luke being blackballed by her father. Luke lost his entire future, his scholarship, and any hope of becoming a research marine biologist. When his life fell apart, he turned to the Navy and became a SEAL. While it wasn't what he had planned, it's what ended up fitting best. Undine had to pay for her deceptions. Little does Luke know that Undine punished herself, she gave up her planned future, too. However, she, too is thoroughly content and happy doing what she's doing, working with the UAB division of NHHC.
Undine is on a mission in the Pacific Northwest when she suffers a tragic accident while diving. She knows she needs to immediately get back in the water, but the first time she tries, she panics and can't do it. She doesn't want to, but she ends up turning to Luke to help her through this initial period of getting her nerve back. Luke totally understands and he knows why Undine has sought him out. He doesn't want to, but he also knows he'll help her. That's all he'll do, once she back on track he's outta there. Except it doesn't quite turn out that way.
There are plots to be uncovered, spies to be exposed, and plans thwarted. Once again, Rachel Grant delivers a well written, non-stop suspense novel with characters you'll totally relate to and love. Have I mentioned how much I love this series?
This is a second chance story, but it's not your usual second chance story. Luke and Undine worked together twelve years ago when Luke was interning at her father's marine research institute. Undine wasn't entirely truthful with Luke then which resulted in Luke being blackballed by her father. Luke lost his entire future, his scholarship, and any hope of becoming a research marine biologist. When his life fell apart, he turned to the Navy and became a SEAL. While it wasn't what he had planned, it's what ended up fitting best. Undine had to pay for her deceptions. Little does Luke know that Undine punished herself, she gave up her planned future, too. However, she, too is thoroughly content and happy doing what she's doing, working with the UAB division of NHHC.
Undine is on a mission in the Pacific Northwest when she suffers a tragic accident while diving. She knows she needs to immediately get back in the water, but the first time she tries, she panics and can't do it. She doesn't want to, but she ends up turning to Luke to help her through this initial period of getting her nerve back. Luke totally understands and he knows why Undine has sought him out. He doesn't want to, but he also knows he'll help her. That's all he'll do, once she back on track he's outta there. Except it doesn't quite turn out that way.
There are plots to be uncovered, spies to be exposed, and plans thwarted. Once again, Rachel Grant delivers a well written, non-stop suspense novel with characters you'll totally relate to and love. Have I mentioned how much I love this series?
January 25, 2016
I've been an avid reader of Rachel Grant's books for awhile now, but COLD EVIDENCE knocked me straight into fangirl stage. It's one of those books that you keep thinking about well after you read it, the kind that has you writing alternate futures for secondary characters... or, you know, writing yourself into a future story with those characters. (You know who you are, future-character-who-is-my-boyfriend).
How does she do it? Let me count the ways: COLD EVIDENCE brings the past right up to the present day with a Cold War-era sub that is far more than what it seems. The history and underwater archaeology elements were OUTSTANDING and I loved every second of the story Grant wove. In addition to being cool all on its own, that sub serves as the focal point for a mystery that slams together a hero and heroine with a LOT of history of their own. A betrayal in their past sets up a deep-seated conflict that carries through the entire tale until a fantastic ending. And then there's the secondary character mentioned above--a twist so awesome I keep refreshing Amazon to see when the next book will go on pre-order. (It's soon, right? RIGHT?)
If you like richly layered historical detail, fantastic underwater archaeology sequences, high-stakes suspense, and sizzling hot romance...then COLD EVIDENCE needs to shoot straight to the top of your TBR pile. My favorite Grant suspense yet!
How does she do it? Let me count the ways: COLD EVIDENCE brings the past right up to the present day with a Cold War-era sub that is far more than what it seems. The history and underwater archaeology elements were OUTSTANDING and I loved every second of the story Grant wove. In addition to being cool all on its own, that sub serves as the focal point for a mystery that slams together a hero and heroine with a LOT of history of their own. A betrayal in their past sets up a deep-seated conflict that carries through the entire tale until a fantastic ending. And then there's the secondary character mentioned above--a twist so awesome I keep refreshing Amazon to see when the next book will go on pre-order. (It's soon, right? RIGHT?)
If you like richly layered historical detail, fantastic underwater archaeology sequences, high-stakes suspense, and sizzling hot romance...then COLD EVIDENCE needs to shoot straight to the top of your TBR pile. My favorite Grant suspense yet!
September 13, 2016
I’ve long been a fan of Rachel Grant’s romantic suspense novels. And while I consider rich settings, exciting suspense and cool science to be her hallmarks, one underlying truth really stuck out in the latest installment of her Evidence series: Rachel Grant is a fabulous storyteller.
Her pacing is spot-on. It’s easy to connect with her (very human) characters. There’s also a satisfying gender equality in her stories, whereby neither hero nor heroine are blameless, both are equally intelligent, and both exhibit strength and vulnerability.
In Cold Evidence, Grant returns us to the bitter cold depths of the sea floor with another exciting tale of underwater archaeology—this time rife with Cold War secrets, spies, Russians, Ukranians, grudges, adventure, excitement, and a healthy dose of scuba expertise. It’s all in there … and it’s awesome!
It started with a little rebellion, and lot of sabotage. Undine Gray is working with a local dive crew in her job to excavate a Cold War-era American submarine, the Wrasse. The crew, for the most part, is capable. But the middle-aged salvage specialist working as her dive partner, Yuri Kravchenko, doesn’t like diving with a celebrity marine biologist’s daughter.
In some ways, Yuri’s stubbornness likely saved Undine’s life. Had she been at the surface when the dive boat exploded, she would’ve been fish food rather than the only survivor of the blast. Dragging her out of the water is the former man of her teenage dreams—the man who’s life she destroyed a dozen years ago, which triggered an altered trajectory in her life, too—Luke Sevick, former Navy SEAL, and current marine biologist and lieutenant in the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Commissioned Officer Corps. Their history is charged and emotional, and even after a decade, still raw.
Being blown up did a number on Undine’s psyche, but she knows she has to get back in the water—to force herself to dive again—if not to finish the archaeological excavation for work, then to conquer the PTSD that’s got her in its grip. So she turns to the strongest, best diver she knows: Luke. It’s an odd olive branch, though a mature one, and forces them both into an uncomfortable situation.
Her knowledgeable, vivid descriptions made me feel like I was plunging into the cold waters of the Salish Sea—pulling myself hand-over-hand along the anchor line, in search of the Wrasse resting on the sea floor. As a suspense, Grant has delivered another treasure. What starts off as a scientific expedition to gather data quickly morphs into a life and death race against time to stop the detonation of a Cold War-era nuclear bomb in a highly populated area. It’s like The Bourne Identity meets Jacques Cousteau.
Emotion peppers this tale, and pulls the reader in close with the characters. I love how Grant parallels the characters’ emotional states with they action in the story. She’s such a wonderful wordsmith: The world closed above her, reducing the scope of her realm to the only thing she could see with any clarity: Luke.
So prophetic. Falling in love isn’t for the feint of heart. And when you have two characters like Luke and Undine, with an emotionally charged history that ended badly once, it takes a superhero leap of faith.
*This review was originally published at Heroes & Heartbreakers: http://www.heroesandheartbreakers.com...
Her pacing is spot-on. It’s easy to connect with her (very human) characters. There’s also a satisfying gender equality in her stories, whereby neither hero nor heroine are blameless, both are equally intelligent, and both exhibit strength and vulnerability.
In Cold Evidence, Grant returns us to the bitter cold depths of the sea floor with another exciting tale of underwater archaeology—this time rife with Cold War secrets, spies, Russians, Ukranians, grudges, adventure, excitement, and a healthy dose of scuba expertise. It’s all in there … and it’s awesome!
It started with a little rebellion, and lot of sabotage. Undine Gray is working with a local dive crew in her job to excavate a Cold War-era American submarine, the Wrasse. The crew, for the most part, is capable. But the middle-aged salvage specialist working as her dive partner, Yuri Kravchenko, doesn’t like diving with a celebrity marine biologist’s daughter.
In some ways, Yuri’s stubbornness likely saved Undine’s life. Had she been at the surface when the dive boat exploded, she would’ve been fish food rather than the only survivor of the blast. Dragging her out of the water is the former man of her teenage dreams—the man who’s life she destroyed a dozen years ago, which triggered an altered trajectory in her life, too—Luke Sevick, former Navy SEAL, and current marine biologist and lieutenant in the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Commissioned Officer Corps. Their history is charged and emotional, and even after a decade, still raw.
Being blown up did a number on Undine’s psyche, but she knows she has to get back in the water—to force herself to dive again—if not to finish the archaeological excavation for work, then to conquer the PTSD that’s got her in its grip. So she turns to the strongest, best diver she knows: Luke. It’s an odd olive branch, though a mature one, and forces them both into an uncomfortable situation.
Her knowledgeable, vivid descriptions made me feel like I was plunging into the cold waters of the Salish Sea—pulling myself hand-over-hand along the anchor line, in search of the Wrasse resting on the sea floor. As a suspense, Grant has delivered another treasure. What starts off as a scientific expedition to gather data quickly morphs into a life and death race against time to stop the detonation of a Cold War-era nuclear bomb in a highly populated area. It’s like The Bourne Identity meets Jacques Cousteau.
Emotion peppers this tale, and pulls the reader in close with the characters. I love how Grant parallels the characters’ emotional states with they action in the story. She’s such a wonderful wordsmith: The world closed above her, reducing the scope of her realm to the only thing she could see with any clarity: Luke.
So prophetic. Falling in love isn’t for the feint of heart. And when you have two characters like Luke and Undine, with an emotionally charged history that ended badly once, it takes a superhero leap of faith.
*This review was originally published at Heroes & Heartbreakers: http://www.heroesandheartbreakers.com...
February 5, 2016
Another fantastic installment of Rachel Grant's Evidence series! I have read a few other books in the series, but unfortunately I haven't had a chance to read all of them yet. Luckily, each book stands alone so I didn't feel like I was missing anything.
First, I want to touch on the characters. After growing up in her father's shadow, Undine is a smart, determined, and direct woman who is far from the 16 year old who nearly ruined Luke's life. I loved her sense of humor and wit. Luke was pretty much perfect...I mean, a SEAL as well as a scientist? That's a pretty amazing combination, and he is a great blend of strength and intelligence. I did feel that Luke's anger towards Undine was justified, but I love how everything played out. His ultimate forgiveness was really moving.
This book combined a few of my favorite things: second-chance love stories and romantic suspense. I love watching two characters come back together and overcome their previous obstacles. Maturity provided them with an entirely different relationship, and I just loved the banter between them. Undine and Luke have clearly met their match with each other, but can they move on from the pain of the past?
This book also had the perfect blend of romance and suspense. I loved watching their relationship grow, but it was really the action that kept me on the edge of my seat. I couldn't put this book down! The mystery element was great, and I was surprised and delighted by the twists and turns. I actually thought the store was pretty much over at one point...not the case! Some of the suspense scenes were particularly gripping, and the romance balanced everything out perfectly.
It is clear that, as always, Ms. Grant has done her homework. While I don't really know anything about diving or underwater archaeology, it is obvious that everything is very well researched. Honestly, reading this book almost makes me want to gain some additional understanding of archaeology, which is a topic I have always found fascinating.
This story is fantastic, and I think I need to pick up the other stories in this series that I haven't read just to get my Rachel Grant fix. I can't wait for book 7!
First, I want to touch on the characters. After growing up in her father's shadow, Undine is a smart, determined, and direct woman who is far from the 16 year old who nearly ruined Luke's life. I loved her sense of humor and wit. Luke was pretty much perfect...I mean, a SEAL as well as a scientist? That's a pretty amazing combination, and he is a great blend of strength and intelligence. I did feel that Luke's anger towards Undine was justified, but I love how everything played out. His ultimate forgiveness was really moving.
This book combined a few of my favorite things: second-chance love stories and romantic suspense. I love watching two characters come back together and overcome their previous obstacles. Maturity provided them with an entirely different relationship, and I just loved the banter between them. Undine and Luke have clearly met their match with each other, but can they move on from the pain of the past?
This book also had the perfect blend of romance and suspense. I loved watching their relationship grow, but it was really the action that kept me on the edge of my seat. I couldn't put this book down! The mystery element was great, and I was surprised and delighted by the twists and turns. I actually thought the store was pretty much over at one point...not the case! Some of the suspense scenes were particularly gripping, and the romance balanced everything out perfectly.
It is clear that, as always, Ms. Grant has done her homework. While I don't really know anything about diving or underwater archaeology, it is obvious that everything is very well researched. Honestly, reading this book almost makes me want to gain some additional understanding of archaeology, which is a topic I have always found fascinating.
This story is fantastic, and I think I need to pick up the other stories in this series that I haven't read just to get my Rachel Grant fix. I can't wait for book 7!
January 29, 2016
I love second chances where old love becomes new, two hearts that can’t get over the other. This was a highly entertaining read that you won’t want to put down. It is a fast pace action packed read. Just when you think it’s over the author throws a new twist that gets your heart pumping. This is an outstanding romantic suspense full of danger, a sexy hero, and a wonderful smart heroine whose daddy in one night destroyed two people’s lives. There are terrorist on the lose it is kill or be killed. With this action packed read you wonder when they find time for romance I promise you, you will find some wonderful hot passionate scenes between these pages
Undine was a very smart teen by pasting high school and going straight to college. She has been around adults all her life and she became one at a young age. None of the boys her age was what she was looking for. When she met Luke who was working for her father and making his way she just had to have him. One thing lead to another and daddy found out, daddy was not happy at all. Things got a little out of hand and two lives will never be the same. Everyone went their own way until 12 years had passed. Which brought them all around full circle as they are on the hunt for a terrorist and try to bring him down.
Luke is one hot military man who isn’t happy when he comes face to face with the women who tore his world apart. With a killer on the loose he must protect her at all cost. Will they be able to start over or will the past always stand in their way?
I love this story and it is the first I have read from this author. It was a book I could not put down and had to find out what else would happen to these two. The author gives you a wonderful plot with outstanding characters that you will feel you know well before you finish the read. The supporting characters add to the read building a highly entertaining story. If you love suspense, thrills, hot romance and a little mystery this is the book for you.
Undine was a very smart teen by pasting high school and going straight to college. She has been around adults all her life and she became one at a young age. None of the boys her age was what she was looking for. When she met Luke who was working for her father and making his way she just had to have him. One thing lead to another and daddy found out, daddy was not happy at all. Things got a little out of hand and two lives will never be the same. Everyone went their own way until 12 years had passed. Which brought them all around full circle as they are on the hunt for a terrorist and try to bring him down.
Luke is one hot military man who isn’t happy when he comes face to face with the women who tore his world apart. With a killer on the loose he must protect her at all cost. Will they be able to start over or will the past always stand in their way?
I love this story and it is the first I have read from this author. It was a book I could not put down and had to find out what else would happen to these two. The author gives you a wonderful plot with outstanding characters that you will feel you know well before you finish the read. The supporting characters add to the read building a highly entertaining story. If you love suspense, thrills, hot romance and a little mystery this is the book for you.
January 27, 2016
I've yet to read a Rachel Grant book that I didnt immediately want to go to the locations she describes through out the book. Neah Bay, Washington is where the majority of this book takes place with most being underwater looking for a Cold War-era US Navy submarine.
As per her previous books the author immediately captures your attention right off the bat – in this case with the boat exploding while Navy underwater archaeologist Undine Gray is many feet below decompressing from a deep dive. From here the mystery and suspense move along at a steady pace as its slowly revealed that the explosion wasnt an accident and real reasons come to light which continue to put Undine in danger.
The hero and heroine had an interesting past that was cause for some serious love/hate (more hate on the hero side) through most of the book. Luke Sevick hatred for Undine was warranted and I worried if it would effect how I felt about him but even with the mean things he said about Undine you could still see he was an honorable man and even with his feelings he would do what was needed to protect her.
As with the slow reveal of the plot of the story the mending of the relationship between Undine and Luke also was a slow burn which I felt added to the realism of it instead of quickly resolving 12 years of hate.
I always look forward to a Rachel Grant book for scenic descriptions, interesting plot and smoking hot romance and I've not been disappointed yet.
As per her previous books the author immediately captures your attention right off the bat – in this case with the boat exploding while Navy underwater archaeologist Undine Gray is many feet below decompressing from a deep dive. From here the mystery and suspense move along at a steady pace as its slowly revealed that the explosion wasnt an accident and real reasons come to light which continue to put Undine in danger.
The hero and heroine had an interesting past that was cause for some serious love/hate (more hate on the hero side) through most of the book. Luke Sevick hatred for Undine was warranted and I worried if it would effect how I felt about him but even with the mean things he said about Undine you could still see he was an honorable man and even with his feelings he would do what was needed to protect her.
As with the slow reveal of the plot of the story the mending of the relationship between Undine and Luke also was a slow burn which I felt added to the realism of it instead of quickly resolving 12 years of hate.
I always look forward to a Rachel Grant book for scenic descriptions, interesting plot and smoking hot romance and I've not been disappointed yet.
February 3, 2016
It was a really good thing we were in the middle of a blizzard because as soon as I received this book, I inhaled it, all in one sitting. I started reading and absolutely could not stop until I had read the last word. This is, without a doubt, one of my favorite series of books and one of my favorite authors.
This continues with characters I've loved in previous books so it was a little like coming home. I have to say that this did remind me of some of my favorite Clive Cussler books -- it had similar action, adventure, intrigue and lust. The good thing here, though, is I got to go beyond the lust to the love (and of course the sweaty sex). And, this was a great second chance romance to boot.
Undine and Luke have a history -- one that changed the courses of both their lives. When they come together again, even though Luke thinks he despises Undine, he does everything he can to comfort her after a maritime tragedy. That's just the beginning as they get pulled back into each other's lives. There is a lot of suspense and twists and turns and along the way Undine and Luke learn to trust and love each other again. You absolutely must read this book!
I received an ARC of this book from the author in exchange for my honest review. All words and thoughts here are entirely my own.
This continues with characters I've loved in previous books so it was a little like coming home. I have to say that this did remind me of some of my favorite Clive Cussler books -- it had similar action, adventure, intrigue and lust. The good thing here, though, is I got to go beyond the lust to the love (and of course the sweaty sex). And, this was a great second chance romance to boot.
Undine and Luke have a history -- one that changed the courses of both their lives. When they come together again, even though Luke thinks he despises Undine, he does everything he can to comfort her after a maritime tragedy. That's just the beginning as they get pulled back into each other's lives. There is a lot of suspense and twists and turns and along the way Undine and Luke learn to trust and love each other again. You absolutely must read this book!
I received an ARC of this book from the author in exchange for my honest review. All words and thoughts here are entirely my own.
December 29, 2018
Literally a ticking time bomb
I read this book out of series order and it didn’t matter. I only realised when a comment was made about another character in the series. It didn’t spoil that story, it’s next on my list. That is one of the things I like about this series, you can read them out of order and it only makes you want to go back and fill in the gaps.
This story was full of a world I know nothing about. I don’t dive and I think it would be quite spooky to dive on wrecks in poor visibility. The descriptions of the dives made me recall documentaries I’d seen on deep, dark dives. I felt like I was there.
The epilogue is very satisfying.
I read this book out of series order and it didn’t matter. I only realised when a comment was made about another character in the series. It didn’t spoil that story, it’s next on my list. That is one of the things I like about this series, you can read them out of order and it only makes you want to go back and fill in the gaps.
This story was full of a world I know nothing about. I don’t dive and I think it would be quite spooky to dive on wrecks in poor visibility. The descriptions of the dives made me recall documentaries I’d seen on deep, dark dives. I felt like I was there.
The epilogue is very satisfying.
April 4, 2016
I love Rachel Grant's books. They're always filled with adventure, suspense and sweet and sexy romance. Her knowledge of the world she writes draws you in and gives you a taste of what it's like as an underwater archeologist, something I hadn't realized was a thing until I began reading the Evidence Series.
Brilliant amount of sexual tension. A misunderstanding and misconstrued perceptions has the reader jumping straight into the story and desperate for more. Non stop action and super hot flirting give the book an extra spark.
A must read.
Brilliant amount of sexual tension. A misunderstanding and misconstrued perceptions has the reader jumping straight into the story and desperate for more. Non stop action and super hot flirting give the book an extra spark.
A must read.
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December 29, 2018I love this USA Today review of COLD EVIDENCE!
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March 4, 2024
Plot-wise this was definitely one of my favorites and I ultimately really liked both characters, but I almost DNFed this given the backstory of the romantic relationship. I'm glad I did keep reading because the plot here is so interconnected to future books, but I really couldn't get past the choice for the characters' backstory.
November 23, 2021
Poco cold en esta novela de suspense, salvo el gélido mar de los Salish en el que Luke y Undine tienen que bucear una y otra vez en busca de secretos olvidados desde octubre de 1962... y conjurar una amenaza muy actual en esta zona de estrechos marinos entre Canadá y los EE. UU. Undine Gray, una arqueóloga de la Marina, es víctima de una explosión, lo que hace que entre en contacto con el ex Navy SEAL Luke Sevick. Él le tiene un poquito de tirria, más que nada porque acabó con su carrera hace doce años. La cosa empieza con un ardiente enemies to lovers, y luego ya de ahí para arriba. Entrelaza muy bien el suspense con la evolución de los personajes, los sexy times y el romance. El único pero que le puedo poner a la novela es que se me hizo un poco larga. Y lamento haber leído antes el 7.º de la serie, pues aquí hay un giro final de esos que no ves venir ni en pintura, y yo ya lo conocía por haber leído Poison evidence. Soy idiota.
Reseña algo más extensa, en mi blog.
Reseña algo más extensa, en mi blog.
March 18, 2016
I received this ARC from the publisher, which in no way impacts the content of my review
Undine Gray was a nautical archeologist and Luke Sevick was a scientist at NOAA and also a former SEAL. They had history years back. They were friends once that parted on a very bad term that filled with anger, guilt and shame. As fate had it, they ‘met’ again 12 years later when Undine badly injured in a boat explosion and rescued by Luke. Following the boat explosion investigation, they were forced by their offices to work and dive together. What they found on their dive triggered another attempted suicide on her life. As they tried to unravel the mystery and dodged a murderer, sparks between them flew high and they reconnect. What did they find? Why did someone try to kill them, several times? Would they survive, both their bodies and hearts?
A glimpse of cold war history, spies, love of a country, love of a family, true love, and BOOM –literally- in the first chapter. Hey, what’s not to love?
This book might not be as heart wrenching as Rachel’s other books (namely Concrete Evidence), but I found it more in tunes to my mood these days. What I felt first when I read this book is that how I love the heroine. Undine was strong, smart, logical, and feisty yet sweet, stubborn at times yet knew when to ask for help, had flaws, human. The romance part of the book was not dragging nor overwhelming. Understanding and love between these two main characters were built steadily throughout the first half of the book. It made readers warmed up to them, understand them as the other characters did, made us invest in their happiness. And if you’re looking for some hot romance, this one is scorching. Watch your seat!
The suspense part felt like riding waves. It came up high fast, settled down, came up higher, pulled back a bit, then crashed… Retreated, then suddenly another big wave crashed without warning before tapered off. Left you breathless, in a good way. I noticed this is a constant pattern to Rachel’s book and one of my main reasons to love them so much. You’d never know what she’d bring up to you next. I also love a fiction book that can actually give me a little knowledge on something, a nautical archeology and deep water diving in this book, though nothing too technical or deep.
In another note, Toni Anderson was mentioned in it! Haha, I like it when one of my favorite authors mentioned another one of my favorite authors in their books. Makes me feel warm and fuzzy inside; don’t ask me why, I’m just sentimental that way.
I would recommend this book to any romance-suspense genre lovers out there as I would recommend all of Rachel’s books.
Undine Gray was a nautical archeologist and Luke Sevick was a scientist at NOAA and also a former SEAL. They had history years back. They were friends once that parted on a very bad term that filled with anger, guilt and shame. As fate had it, they ‘met’ again 12 years later when Undine badly injured in a boat explosion and rescued by Luke. Following the boat explosion investigation, they were forced by their offices to work and dive together. What they found on their dive triggered another attempted suicide on her life. As they tried to unravel the mystery and dodged a murderer, sparks between them flew high and they reconnect. What did they find? Why did someone try to kill them, several times? Would they survive, both their bodies and hearts?
A glimpse of cold war history, spies, love of a country, love of a family, true love, and BOOM –literally- in the first chapter. Hey, what’s not to love?
This book might not be as heart wrenching as Rachel’s other books (namely Concrete Evidence), but I found it more in tunes to my mood these days. What I felt first when I read this book is that how I love the heroine. Undine was strong, smart, logical, and feisty yet sweet, stubborn at times yet knew when to ask for help, had flaws, human. The romance part of the book was not dragging nor overwhelming. Understanding and love between these two main characters were built steadily throughout the first half of the book. It made readers warmed up to them, understand them as the other characters did, made us invest in their happiness. And if you’re looking for some hot romance, this one is scorching. Watch your seat!
The suspense part felt like riding waves. It came up high fast, settled down, came up higher, pulled back a bit, then crashed… Retreated, then suddenly another big wave crashed without warning before tapered off. Left you breathless, in a good way. I noticed this is a constant pattern to Rachel’s book and one of my main reasons to love them so much. You’d never know what she’d bring up to you next. I also love a fiction book that can actually give me a little knowledge on something, a nautical archeology and deep water diving in this book, though nothing too technical or deep.
In another note, Toni Anderson was mentioned in it! Haha, I like it when one of my favorite authors mentioned another one of my favorite authors in their books. Makes me feel warm and fuzzy inside; don’t ask me why, I’m just sentimental that way.
I would recommend this book to any romance-suspense genre lovers out there as I would recommend all of Rachel’s books.
February 2, 2016
Cold Evidence by Rachel Grant is the 6th book in her Evidence series and it was AMAZING and engaging. Rachel, an archaeologist herself, has the advantage of her husband, David, who is a former UAB nautical archaeologist, to assist her in the specifics about parts of her books, but that being said, she is a phenomenal author who knows how to weave a story with real facts and creative story telling. Her books are so gripping that you will have a hard time putting them down and you will feel like you are there with the characters, experiencing what they are experiencing as it is happening.
OK, you can read the publishers synopsis of what this book is about, but what I will tell you is that this is a “can’t put it down” type of book. I read it in less than 24 hours, and if I didn’t have to work, I would have been able to read this book in one sitting, because it is that good. You will not want to want to put it down until you are finished with the story.
You are introduced to Undine Gray, an underwater archaeologist who is diving on a Cold War-era US Navy submarine when an explosion almost kills her, but does kill her entire team. Six weeks later, Undine is terrified to dive again so she asks Luke Sevick, the former Navy SEAL who helped rescue Undine, and is her first love from 12 years earlier, to make a dive on the wreck she was exploring when she was almost killed. Luke accompanies Undine, but their history is such that he is not sure he wants to help her over come her fear, when they discover enough evidence to show that the wreck was more that they expected it to be. The wreck is from the cold war era and there is evidence that the the sinking of the former US Navy Sub, and the accident what almost killed Undine, were actually not accidental but a deliberate acts. Will she give up on finding out the truth? You will have to read the book to find out.
This book can be read on it’s own, but reading the entire series will enrich your experience with the characters from former books, who are brought into the story and enrich Undine’s back story.
Rachel is so AMAZING in her story telling that you can see, smell and taste the story as it unfolds. If you are interested in military history, romance, archaeology, and or marine biology, this is the book for you. There is mystery, romance, military history, suspense and a whole lot of excitement as the story unfolds. I am so glad I was chosen to read and review Rachel’s latest book
I received this ARC from the publisher, which in no way impacts the content of my review.
OK, you can read the publishers synopsis of what this book is about, but what I will tell you is that this is a “can’t put it down” type of book. I read it in less than 24 hours, and if I didn’t have to work, I would have been able to read this book in one sitting, because it is that good. You will not want to want to put it down until you are finished with the story.
You are introduced to Undine Gray, an underwater archaeologist who is diving on a Cold War-era US Navy submarine when an explosion almost kills her, but does kill her entire team. Six weeks later, Undine is terrified to dive again so she asks Luke Sevick, the former Navy SEAL who helped rescue Undine, and is her first love from 12 years earlier, to make a dive on the wreck she was exploring when she was almost killed. Luke accompanies Undine, but their history is such that he is not sure he wants to help her over come her fear, when they discover enough evidence to show that the wreck was more that they expected it to be. The wreck is from the cold war era and there is evidence that the the sinking of the former US Navy Sub, and the accident what almost killed Undine, were actually not accidental but a deliberate acts. Will she give up on finding out the truth? You will have to read the book to find out.
This book can be read on it’s own, but reading the entire series will enrich your experience with the characters from former books, who are brought into the story and enrich Undine’s back story.
Rachel is so AMAZING in her story telling that you can see, smell and taste the story as it unfolds. If you are interested in military history, romance, archaeology, and or marine biology, this is the book for you. There is mystery, romance, military history, suspense and a whole lot of excitement as the story unfolds. I am so glad I was chosen to read and review Rachel’s latest book
I received this ARC from the publisher, which in no way impacts the content of my review.
January 29, 2016
You can always count on being taken on an adventure in a Rachel Grant book. Be it facing down a firing squad in North Korea, fleeing across the sands of worn-torn Afghanistan or walking the political halls of Washington D.C., once you turn to page one and start reading you will be unable to put the story down!
Set off the Washington State coast, this adventure begins with a bang! Undine Gray, underwater archeologist working for the US government, is coming up from a dive of a sub that went down off the Washington Coast during the Cuban Missile Crisis. Meant to be sunk as an exercise, the USS Wrasse wound up being taken for a ride by its long-retired captain and some crew. For reasons unknown, this retired, unarmed sub dove to the deep and never surfaced again. Now found, the Navy has decided to explore the wreck to see if the remains of those aboard can be safely brought up from their watery grave. As Undine reaches her decompression stop, an explosion rips apart not just the boat she was diving from, but her mission regarding the wrecked sub and her very life. Undine (her very name means “of the waves) is rescued by Lt. Luke Sevick, a former SEAL now NOAA officer who is well acquainted with her. Twelve years earlier, the actions of a very young, smitten, Undine drastically changed the course of Luke’s, and her own, life. From that opening, the author brings us a tale of lies, betrayal, forgiveness and love that spans decades and countries!
This book is not only well-written, but so engrossing in its explanation of history and archeology. As in her prior books, Ms. Grant brings her and her husband’s experience in those fields into her story. But what blows me away in this book is not just the accuracy in the technical aspects of the story, but how that is woven into a touching story of how repercussions from a youthful lie changed the relationship between a daughter and father, crashed the dreams of a good young man and altered their future. Luke, Undine and Stefan Gray all learn humbling lessons in forgiveness and the power it has over someone. And from a reader’s standpoint, what can be better than a book that has it all: a suspenseful plot, developed characters (one of whom I hope to see more of in a future book), a hero and heroine that are strong yet flawed and an ending leaves you satisfied on every, single level! This an A+ read….
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Set off the Washington State coast, this adventure begins with a bang! Undine Gray, underwater archeologist working for the US government, is coming up from a dive of a sub that went down off the Washington Coast during the Cuban Missile Crisis. Meant to be sunk as an exercise, the USS Wrasse wound up being taken for a ride by its long-retired captain and some crew. For reasons unknown, this retired, unarmed sub dove to the deep and never surfaced again. Now found, the Navy has decided to explore the wreck to see if the remains of those aboard can be safely brought up from their watery grave. As Undine reaches her decompression stop, an explosion rips apart not just the boat she was diving from, but her mission regarding the wrecked sub and her very life. Undine (her very name means “of the waves) is rescued by Lt. Luke Sevick, a former SEAL now NOAA officer who is well acquainted with her. Twelve years earlier, the actions of a very young, smitten, Undine drastically changed the course of Luke’s, and her own, life. From that opening, the author brings us a tale of lies, betrayal, forgiveness and love that spans decades and countries!
This book is not only well-written, but so engrossing in its explanation of history and archeology. As in her prior books, Ms. Grant brings her and her husband’s experience in those fields into her story. But what blows me away in this book is not just the accuracy in the technical aspects of the story, but how that is woven into a touching story of how repercussions from a youthful lie changed the relationship between a daughter and father, crashed the dreams of a good young man and altered their future. Luke, Undine and Stefan Gray all learn humbling lessons in forgiveness and the power it has over someone. And from a reader’s standpoint, what can be better than a book that has it all: a suspenseful plot, developed characters (one of whom I hope to see more of in a future book), a hero and heroine that are strong yet flawed and an ending leaves you satisfied on every, single level! This an A+ read….
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
February 5, 2016
Mrs. Grant who possess the power to captivated me again and again with her complex and fascinating themes that intertwine military history, archeology, underwater archaeology , shipwreck adventures, stolen artifacts, retrieval of human remains during combat, spying, the Cold War and the Second World War.
From the very beginning I was captured by the beauty and mystery of the underwater world, Cold War era submarines, the seven war heroes, the Cuban Missile crisis, espionage and the "drastic-unexpected" past between Undine and Luke whose chemistry and witty sexual energy kept building up with each chapter as well as the suspense.
Cold Evidence is the most recent book in the Evidence series which started with an innocent dive to help Undine Gray, a navy underwater archeologists, overcome her underwater uneasiness after an unfortunate event that led her to face Luke, the man whose life she and her father drastically changed when she was sixteen.
Lt. Luke Sevick, former Navy SEAL, after twelve years of anger and resentment towards the people that cost him his dream job, scholarship, future and almost his freedom at the age of twenty two, resurfaced asking for his help and again changed everything.
Together, the Mermaid and the SEAL find themselves in the middle of a terrorist plot of vengeance against mother Russia, Canada and the USA. Undine and Luke make you live vicariously through an amazing story full of suspense, action, discoveries, forgiveness and scorching hot romance.
Keep reading and just maybe you will get the answer to the question that ranks high with who killed JFK? Do you know the guy who killed Bin Laden?
And I also hope Lt. Parker Reeves gets his own book soon.
From the very beginning I was captured by the beauty and mystery of the underwater world, Cold War era submarines, the seven war heroes, the Cuban Missile crisis, espionage and the "drastic-unexpected" past between Undine and Luke whose chemistry and witty sexual energy kept building up with each chapter as well as the suspense.
Cold Evidence is the most recent book in the Evidence series which started with an innocent dive to help Undine Gray, a navy underwater archeologists, overcome her underwater uneasiness after an unfortunate event that led her to face Luke, the man whose life she and her father drastically changed when she was sixteen.
Lt. Luke Sevick, former Navy SEAL, after twelve years of anger and resentment towards the people that cost him his dream job, scholarship, future and almost his freedom at the age of twenty two, resurfaced asking for his help and again changed everything.
Together, the Mermaid and the SEAL find themselves in the middle of a terrorist plot of vengeance against mother Russia, Canada and the USA. Undine and Luke make you live vicariously through an amazing story full of suspense, action, discoveries, forgiveness and scorching hot romance.
Keep reading and just maybe you will get the answer to the question that ranks high with who killed JFK? Do you know the guy who killed Bin Laden?
And I also hope Lt. Parker Reeves gets his own book soon.
February 2, 2016
Fans of fast paced suspense filled romance will not want to miss reading this one. Nothing like a Navy Seal to give you thrills and chills followed by the heat. She sneaking it in by innocently having a dive begin this read and when Undine can not get her diving partner to answer you find your hairs on arms starting to rise just a bit. Then bam she has sunk you in to this suspense but she will be rescued by someone who thought never to cross her path again-Luke. This author does not leave you in the dark but gives you all their history. You also find you too are guarded but wanting to see them take a new direction. Then Undine does something even most would not of have the guts to do and it is all about them too. So now you are weighted in with the suspense and the yearning that these two will find their way again but someone is also wanting to finish what they have started. Since it has not been a accident from the get go with the explosion you find that time is somewhat their enemy. This author will also do a sneaky thing like making you think it is just about wrapped up but then boom the best in the drama will be yet to unfold. The thing too with where alot of this action takes place is beautiful but it is also dark and deadly at times I could not imagine doing any of what she does so hence I think why I would get chills and the like. The romance is beau;tifully placed flowing where it needs to be with the suspense that makes this a A one caliber reading.
February 15, 2016
Review of Cold Evidence by Rachel Grant
This is Book 6 in the Evidence series. I love this series. Each standalone book has tough, hunky heroes, but the heroines are always strong and sassy too.
Rachel Grant is a master at writing Romantic Suspense, and her former career as an archaeologist shines through in the detail within each book.
In Cold Evidence we meet Navy underwater archaeologist Undine Gray, and Luke Sevick, a former SEAL. These two have a past history, and the angst once again rears its ugly head when they are reunited.
Whilst diving in the cold frigid waters of the Salish Sea, Undine has an accident which propels her into Luke’s world again. There is plenty of intrigue, based around the Cold War and Russian submarines.
I must admit that the explanation of the weather and cold sea made me shiver, and I didn’t want to rush out and visit Neah Bay in Washington. Although I wouldn’t mind bumping into Luke Sevick.
If I didn’t love him already, this made me fall in love with him a bit more: There were dog people and cat people. Luke was more of a seahorse person. I <3 seahorses
I thoroughly recommend this book, along with books 1-5 in the Evidence series.
Bring on the next one!
I received this ARC from the publisher, which in no way impacts the content of my review.
This is Book 6 in the Evidence series. I love this series. Each standalone book has tough, hunky heroes, but the heroines are always strong and sassy too.
Rachel Grant is a master at writing Romantic Suspense, and her former career as an archaeologist shines through in the detail within each book.
In Cold Evidence we meet Navy underwater archaeologist Undine Gray, and Luke Sevick, a former SEAL. These two have a past history, and the angst once again rears its ugly head when they are reunited.
Whilst diving in the cold frigid waters of the Salish Sea, Undine has an accident which propels her into Luke’s world again. There is plenty of intrigue, based around the Cold War and Russian submarines.
I must admit that the explanation of the weather and cold sea made me shiver, and I didn’t want to rush out and visit Neah Bay in Washington. Although I wouldn’t mind bumping into Luke Sevick.
If I didn’t love him already, this made me fall in love with him a bit more: There were dog people and cat people. Luke was more of a seahorse person. I <3 seahorses
I thoroughly recommend this book, along with books 1-5 in the Evidence series.
Bring on the next one!
I received this ARC from the publisher, which in no way impacts the content of my review.
February 5, 2016
ARC Review- I received an advance copy of this book from the author with the agreement to give an honest review of the work.
Let me start my saying Rachel Grant is one of my favorite authors and I have read all of her books. This book is a prefect example of why I love her work. Grant's attention to details, even the little ones, along with her character development are in a word awesome.
Undine Gray is a strong intelligent leading lady. Undine has her moments of thought (not weakness) but she always straightens her spine of steel and moves forward. I love that all of Grant's leading ladies have intelligence and inner strength that shines through but are still feminine.
Luke Sevick is alpha in very way but like all of Grant's leading men, is intelligent and not threatened by a smart woman! Luke shows his honor and courage numerous times and supports Undine when she needs it.
Wonderful and amazing read as always. Like I said, the little things help make the story and Grant has meaning in everything she adds. Highly recommend this book or any of her others. . .you will not be disappointed!
Let me start my saying Rachel Grant is one of my favorite authors and I have read all of her books. This book is a prefect example of why I love her work. Grant's attention to details, even the little ones, along with her character development are in a word awesome.
Undine Gray is a strong intelligent leading lady. Undine has her moments of thought (not weakness) but she always straightens her spine of steel and moves forward. I love that all of Grant's leading ladies have intelligence and inner strength that shines through but are still feminine.
Luke Sevick is alpha in very way but like all of Grant's leading men, is intelligent and not threatened by a smart woman! Luke shows his honor and courage numerous times and supports Undine when she needs it.
Wonderful and amazing read as always. Like I said, the little things help make the story and Grant has meaning in everything she adds. Highly recommend this book or any of her others. . .you will not be disappointed!
February 2, 2016
This book was very suspenseful and very well written with just the right amount of twists and turns to keep the pages turning. It was really hard to put down and trust me I got mad when my lunch time at work was interrupted. Luke and Undine had a lot of past challenges to work out. I will also say that Luke’s past with Undine is one that I have never read about but working as a crime prevention specialist, and my husband being a retired law enforcement officer, the topic of a person being labeled for life as a sex offender when they did not know that the person they are involved with is underage is a law for some states that should be changed for extenuating circumstances (i.e. when one person is 16 and another is 18.). Politics aside, I also like how this author at the end of her books relates some of the facts vs. fiction of her stories. I always find her books extremely well researched. At times, it may be too technical for some but the story is solid, the action is awesome (definitely with a twist at the end), and the loving was hot.
I received this ARC from the publisher, which in no way impacts the content of my review.
I received this ARC from the publisher, which in no way impacts the content of my review.
February 10, 2016
Review – Cold Evidence by Rachel Grant
Wow ~ absolutely wonderful! Cold Evidence grabbed me from the first page of fast-paced action and I could not put it down.
The intrigue surrounding the deep sea diving and investigation of a Cold War-era US Navy submarine sunk in US waters is unbelievable. The plot twists just keep coming, the hot romanced increased layer by layer and I loved it. The tumultuous roller coaster of emotions, passion, action and suspense will keep you on the edge of your seat!
Both the fear that Undine Gray experiences AND the anguish Luke Sevick feels when Undine unwittingly pulls him into a situation beyond his control is palpable. Their emotions emanate from the page and resonate in the heart of the reader.
Rachel Grant is a romantic suspense author who creates stories with believable characters and storylines that tackle sensitive issues with warmth and depth. I highly recommend reading Cold Evidence!
I received this ARC from the publisher, which in no way impacts the content of my review. It is with great respect for the author and story, as well as my pleasure as a reader, to rate Cold Evidence five stars. Read it!!
Wow ~ absolutely wonderful! Cold Evidence grabbed me from the first page of fast-paced action and I could not put it down.
The intrigue surrounding the deep sea diving and investigation of a Cold War-era US Navy submarine sunk in US waters is unbelievable. The plot twists just keep coming, the hot romanced increased layer by layer and I loved it. The tumultuous roller coaster of emotions, passion, action and suspense will keep you on the edge of your seat!
Both the fear that Undine Gray experiences AND the anguish Luke Sevick feels when Undine unwittingly pulls him into a situation beyond his control is palpable. Their emotions emanate from the page and resonate in the heart of the reader.
Rachel Grant is a romantic suspense author who creates stories with believable characters and storylines that tackle sensitive issues with warmth and depth. I highly recommend reading Cold Evidence!
I received this ARC from the publisher, which in no way impacts the content of my review. It is with great respect for the author and story, as well as my pleasure as a reader, to rate Cold Evidence five stars. Read it!!
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