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Cold Harbor #2
Cold Truth
Want to play a game…
When research chemist Kiera Underwood receives a cryptic phone call about her twin brother, she tries to contact him to no avail. Her twin sense tingles, warning her that something is wrong. When he doesn’t return her call, and the manager at Oceanic Labs claims he didn’t come into work that day, she heads to Cold Harbor. But when she arrives in town to find the door to her bother’s house ajar, she races to the lab to question his fellow employees.
Solve the puzzle and save your brother…
Kiera’s not prepared when an attempt is made on her life and Blackwell Tactical operative and former Army Ranger, Cooper Ashcroft delivers her second shock of the day. Someone killed the lab supervisor and stole a deadly biotoxin. The main suspect? Her brother, and Blackwell Tactical has been hired to bring him in. If that wasn’t shocking enough, she’s suspected of colluding with him. She had nothing to do with the theft or murder, and despite the evidence staring her in the face, she knows that her brother is innocent of all charges. She sets out to prove it, and she’s soon the victim of a near abduction thwarted by Coop. He’s faced with the reality that she’s telling the truth and someone has likely abducted her brother—perhaps killed him—and now Kiera’s very life is in danger, too.
When research chemist Kiera Underwood receives a cryptic phone call about her twin brother, she tries to contact him to no avail. Her twin sense tingles, warning her that something is wrong. When he doesn’t return her call, and the manager at Oceanic Labs claims he didn’t come into work that day, she heads to Cold Harbor. But when she arrives in town to find the door to her bother’s house ajar, she races to the lab to question his fellow employees.
Solve the puzzle and save your brother…
Kiera’s not prepared when an attempt is made on her life and Blackwell Tactical operative and former Army Ranger, Cooper Ashcroft delivers her second shock of the day. Someone killed the lab supervisor and stole a deadly biotoxin. The main suspect? Her brother, and Blackwell Tactical has been hired to bring him in. If that wasn’t shocking enough, she’s suspected of colluding with him. She had nothing to do with the theft or murder, and despite the evidence staring her in the face, she knows that her brother is innocent of all charges. She sets out to prove it, and she’s soon the victim of a near abduction thwarted by Coop. He’s faced with the reality that she’s telling the truth and someone has likely abducted her brother—perhaps killed him—and now Kiera’s very life is in danger, too.
312 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 1, 2017
633 people are currently reading
295 people want to read
About the author
Susan Sleeman
135 books812 followersSUSAN SLEEMAN is the bestselling author of over sixty romantic suspense and mystery novels with more than two million books sold. She writes romantic suspense novels that are clean with inspiring messages of faith. Readers love her series for the well-drawn characters and edge-of-your-seat action. She graduated from the FBI and local police citizen academies, so her research is spot-on and her characters are real.
In addition to writing, Susan also hosts The Suspense Zone. She has lived in nine states but now calls Oregon home. Her husband is a retired church music director, and they have two beautiful daughters, two special sons-in-law, and four amazing grandsons
In addition to writing, Susan also hosts The Suspense Zone. She has lived in nine states but now calls Oregon home. Her husband is a retired church music director, and they have two beautiful daughters, two special sons-in-law, and four amazing grandsons
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 78 reviews
August 8, 2019
Woohoo!!!! Back in Cold Harbor with this second book in the series and it's just as good as the first one! No surprise with Susan Sleeman as the author. I love the way she builds a team full of heroes and heroines so easy for a reader to love. Camaraderie and friendship -- these Blackwell Tactical professionals work well together and they know how to get things done.
The action scenes are a choreography of perfection. I got such a visual of everything happening that it was like watching a movie. And the suspense -- whoa -- complex and twisty-turny and angst-riddled. Totally riveting stuff. Add in a complicated romance and you've got the perfect reading escape for a discerning armchair sleuth.
The action scenes are a choreography of perfection. I got such a visual of everything happening that it was like watching a movie. And the suspense -- whoa -- complex and twisty-turny and angst-riddled. Totally riveting stuff. Add in a complicated romance and you've got the perfect reading escape for a discerning armchair sleuth.
March 17, 2024
When Kiera gets a phone call from a person with a disguised voice claiming to have her twin brother Kevin held hostage she rushes to Kevin's house to find him. It turns out Kevin has disappeared and his work is claiming that he has stolen a biotoxin that he was working on. Blackwell Tactical has been hired to find Kevin. Cooper Ashcroft is on the job when Kiera is almost run over by an ATV. Rescuing her and taking her to their training compound does not mean that they trust Kiera to not be involved in the theft of the biotoxin. Determined to prove both she and her brother's innocence Kiera insists on helping the team play the kidnappers game to free her brother. What neither Coop or Kiera count on is their attraction to each other. But neither one of them have a relationship written in their life-plans, especially with someone they cannot believe or trust.
I'm definitely a fan of the Cold Harbor series. The suspense of Cold Truth is what I expect from Susan Sleeman's books. It keeps the reader on the edge of their seat and keeps them turning the pages late into the night. Kiera was a strong female character, at times bordering on hysterical. I can't imagine having your twin in such danger so would assume that a person would fall apart at times. She pulled herself together with the help of Coop and continued head on into danger. Both Coop and Kiera struggled with their faith in God. I always like the spiritual aspects of Susan Sleeman's books because they show everyday people struggling with honest feelings about God's role in their lives. The Cold Harbor series is definitely one that I recommend if you enjoy suspense and a bit of romance.
I'm definitely a fan of the Cold Harbor series. The suspense of Cold Truth is what I expect from Susan Sleeman's books. It keeps the reader on the edge of their seat and keeps them turning the pages late into the night. Kiera was a strong female character, at times bordering on hysterical. I can't imagine having your twin in such danger so would assume that a person would fall apart at times. She pulled herself together with the help of Coop and continued head on into danger. Both Coop and Kiera struggled with their faith in God. I always like the spiritual aspects of Susan Sleeman's books because they show everyday people struggling with honest feelings about God's role in their lives. The Cold Harbor series is definitely one that I recommend if you enjoy suspense and a bit of romance.
December 13, 2017
Susan Sleeman is the go-to author for Inspirational romantic suspense. Seriously, the woman hits the ground running with the thrills and doesn't let up till the end! I don't know how in the world she keeps coming up with such original story lines and such great characters! The reader is invested in her stories from the first page and the action just keeps racing toward the finale every single moment! Then there's the wonderful inspirational theme also. Love all her books and highly recommend them.
* I received a complimentary copy of this novel and no positive review was expected. My opinion is entirely my own.
* I received a complimentary copy of this novel and no positive review was expected. My opinion is entirely my own.
December 12, 2017
Want to know what I like even better than an alpha hero? A woman who is a good match for him. In the second installment of Susan Sleeman's Cold Harbor series, readers get both.
Kiera Underwood is an intelligent woman, so when she gets a mysterious phone call, she knows something isn't right and heads to the Oregon coast to try and locate her twin brother. There she runs into Cooper Ashcroft, a man who saves her but neglects to tell her he's investigating her brother.
The attraction between Cooper and Kiera is evident from the beginning and something neither of them can ignore for long. But as they are embroiled in a madman's game, can these two individuals learn to trust each other?
Cold Truth has plenty of action to keep the story moving at a fast clip, a hero and heroine you can't help but root for, a supporting cast you can't wait to get to learn more about, and plenty of twists and turns to keep you guessing until the end. Reads like this one are exactly why Susan Sleeman has become one of my must-read authors
Disclosure statement:
I receive complimentary books for review from publishers, publicists, and/or authors, including NetGalley. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
Kiera Underwood is an intelligent woman, so when she gets a mysterious phone call, she knows something isn't right and heads to the Oregon coast to try and locate her twin brother. There she runs into Cooper Ashcroft, a man who saves her but neglects to tell her he's investigating her brother.
The attraction between Cooper and Kiera is evident from the beginning and something neither of them can ignore for long. But as they are embroiled in a madman's game, can these two individuals learn to trust each other?
Cold Truth has plenty of action to keep the story moving at a fast clip, a hero and heroine you can't help but root for, a supporting cast you can't wait to get to learn more about, and plenty of twists and turns to keep you guessing until the end. Reads like this one are exactly why Susan Sleeman has become one of my must-read authors
Disclosure statement:
I receive complimentary books for review from publishers, publicists, and/or authors, including NetGalley. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
May 2, 2020
I liked this book in spite of the fact that I had a hard time liking the female main character. Kiera Underwood’s twin brother is missing and suspected of stealing a chemical mixture from the lab where he works. She gets involved with Blackwell Tactical operative Cooper Ashcroft in the investigation. Kiera is suffering from a childhood where she was coddled by wealthy parents and especially her mother who hovered over her, so now she doesn’t want anyone to tell her what to do. She wants to be independent and make her own life but to me she comes across as being spoiled and wanting her own way. She is always interfering in the investigation. As she and Coop fall in love she wants things her way and gets herself in danger. I enjoyed this as they worked on a complicated puzzle to find her brother, Kevin, before someone kills him. I recommend this book to all Romantic Suspense fans.
December 12, 2017
ADRENALINE RUSH!
From start to finish, Cold Truth (Cold Harbor #2) is an adrenaline rush! Kiera Underwood’s twin brother, Kevin, is missing. She receives an eerie phone call inviting her to play a game. Soon she discovers he has been kidnapped and has been accused of stealing a biotoxin. How can she convince Blackwell Tactical that she is NOT involved in the theft or in the disappearance of her brother. The team is going all in to find her brother and prove his innocence - particularly one of the team members. Readers will be delighted to discover that Sleeman has intricately woven a novel that has twice the thrills on every turn, twice the mysteries involving the twins, twice the power to solve the case (Blackwell Tactical and other Law Enforcement, twice the need to break down barriers and trust people so they can work together and find the missing twin and biotoxin and twice the tortured and torn hearts trying to heal and discover if they can trust and love again. Another Winner!!
From start to finish, Cold Truth (Cold Harbor #2) is an adrenaline rush! Kiera Underwood’s twin brother, Kevin, is missing. She receives an eerie phone call inviting her to play a game. Soon she discovers he has been kidnapped and has been accused of stealing a biotoxin. How can she convince Blackwell Tactical that she is NOT involved in the theft or in the disappearance of her brother. The team is going all in to find her brother and prove his innocence - particularly one of the team members. Readers will be delighted to discover that Sleeman has intricately woven a novel that has twice the thrills on every turn, twice the mysteries involving the twins, twice the power to solve the case (Blackwell Tactical and other Law Enforcement, twice the need to break down barriers and trust people so they can work together and find the missing twin and biotoxin and twice the tortured and torn hearts trying to heal and discover if they can trust and love again. Another Winner!!
August 12, 2022
The hero, Coop, was not likeable. He had serious trust issues. Fine for those who like enemy to lovers trope. Just like I didn't like Gage in the first book of the Cold Harbor series.
I'm reading her Nighthawk Security series simultaneously, and I like all the characters and story lines better.
I'm reading her Nighthawk Security series simultaneously, and I like all the characters and story lines better.
February 12, 2019
Absolutely LOVING this series!
January 14, 2020
Kiera’s brother goes missing. What could have happened to him? Who would take a chemist and why? Read more to find out the mystery!
December 11, 2017
Cold truth has chemistry in more ways than one!
It's a game nobody wants to play...a stolen biotoxin, her twin brother 's disappearance, and now threats against her! Chemist, Kiera Underwood leans on Blackwell Tactical member Cooper Ashcroft to help her find her brother. Lots of twists and turns. A great series on special ops/law enforcement trainers ( Blackwell Tactical) that step in as a team when needed. I loved the twin chemists storyline. These could be read as standalone books, but start with book one for a better background. Looking forward to learning more about this team.
It's a game nobody wants to play...a stolen biotoxin, her twin brother 's disappearance, and now threats against her! Chemist, Kiera Underwood leans on Blackwell Tactical member Cooper Ashcroft to help her find her brother. Lots of twists and turns. A great series on special ops/law enforcement trainers ( Blackwell Tactical) that step in as a team when needed. I loved the twin chemists storyline. These could be read as standalone books, but start with book one for a better background. Looking forward to learning more about this team.
September 10, 2025
With a villain who likes to play games, and set up evidence and leads that you do not know who to trust, this was an engaging and thrilling story.
I love this team and how they support each other.
I love this team and how they support each other.
December 12, 2017
This series just keep getting better and better! It's only the second book in the series and I can't imagine how good the next books will be! Susan is a fantastic writer and her story lines and characters keep you on the edge of your seat! Her books are THAT good! I loved revisiting Blackwell Tactical - the group of men and women who are former law enforcement personnel or military with some kind of injury which forced them to "retire" from that service so they now provide "crime fighting" in other ways. This book is about Coop and Kiera. A chemical biotoxin is taken from a lab that is very dangerous. Kiera's twin brother, Kevin, (who worked at that lab) is kidnapped. Coop and the rest of the team at Blackwell Tactical have been hired by the lab to find the missing biotoxin but they first believe that Kiera has something to do with it AND the disappearance of her brother. They feel the twins are in this together. Kiera ends up working with Coop to try to convince him she is not hiding anything and just wants to find her brother. There are big trust issues between the two. There is a lot of action as the team and Kiera try to find Kevin. Someone is giving Kiera clues & puzzles by a distorted phone message with a timer.
I enjoyed all the characters, especially the back stories on Kiera and Coop. I would highly recommend this book. You don't have to read the first one to know what is happening in this one but that book is a great read also so you should read it!!!
I enjoyed all the characters, especially the back stories on Kiera and Coop. I would highly recommend this book. You don't have to read the first one to know what is happening in this one but that book is a great read also so you should read it!!!
November 22, 2020
COLD TRUTH is the 2nd book in this exciting series and even if you missed book one, this stands alone.
Coop is a man's man, gruff, grunt-y, and more than a little abrupt. It's his way, no highway option. Kiera, as a chemist, is super smart, scientifically, bur not so much otherwise. The two made for an interesting couple. Both of them needed to learn people skills.
The premise was good, unique, and page-turning. I can't wait to catch up with this team again in book three. Ms. Sleeman is a favorite romantic suspense author of mine for good reason.
I was given a copy free. All opinions are my own.
Coop is a man's man, gruff, grunt-y, and more than a little abrupt. It's his way, no highway option. Kiera, as a chemist, is super smart, scientifically, bur not so much otherwise. The two made for an interesting couple. Both of them needed to learn people skills.
The premise was good, unique, and page-turning. I can't wait to catch up with this team again in book three. Ms. Sleeman is a favorite romantic suspense author of mine for good reason.
I was given a copy free. All opinions are my own.
March 31, 2022
This second book in the Cold Harbor series once again focuses on one of the Blackwell operatives, Cooper Ashcroft. Kiera Underwood disccovers her twin brother, Kevin, is missing and is being accused of stealing a biotoxin from the Lab where he worked and authorities suspect the Kiera may have colluded with him. Blsackwell Tactical has been hired by the company to find out the truth. Will romance bloom as Cooper and Kiera work together to find Kevin along with the toxin?
Fast moving, page turn suspense with well written characters.
Fast moving, page turn suspense with well written characters.
June 7, 2020
This book may be read alone but the series is best understood when read in order
I read this on #KindleUnlimited
I read this on #KindleUnlimited
December 21, 2017
My review today is on the thriller, Cold Truth. This is the second book in the series Cold Harbor. I really enjoy Susan's writing and I thought this was one of her best stories. The story is well written, action packed, and full of suspense. As always Susan weaves her faith throughout the story like a well woven tapestry. I know you are going to love it. I really enjoy how we visit characters from the first book. That's something Susan usually does and I really like that.
Chemist Kiera Underwood gets a phone call. "Want to play a game?" The caller's voice is disguised and he tells her she must play the game or her twin brother will die. She immediately calls her brother but there's no answer on his cell. His lab said he wasn't there and no one knew where he was. That is so unlike him so she heads for Cold Harbor. She finds her brother has not only been kidnapped but is framed for the theft of a deadly bio-toxin. She is almost ran over by a SUV but a man swoops in to save her. He and his team are investigating the theft. They have video of her brother stealing the toxin. They don't really believe her story until the puzzles start coming in.
Ex-Army Ranger Cooper is part of the team Blackwell Tactical. They have been hired to find the stolen bio-toxin and the man who stole it. He recognizes the beautiful girl that was almost run down. She could lead him to her brother. He is intrigued when she tells him of the call. They soon find that she is the only one that can solve the puzzles. As close as he gets to this beauty he is unable to trust her. He has been betrayed by those he loved before. His last girl friend was a spoiled rich girl and that's exactly what this women appeared to be. But they are forced to protect her. Can he keep her safe without getting in over his head?
A deadly journey to find Kevin Underwood before the clock runs out. God has a plan for these two, a good plan for a hope and a future. God has a plan for you too. A plan for good and not for evil. Trust Him with your heart, give Him control, and watch Him turn your life around.
Chemist Kiera Underwood gets a phone call. "Want to play a game?" The caller's voice is disguised and he tells her she must play the game or her twin brother will die. She immediately calls her brother but there's no answer on his cell. His lab said he wasn't there and no one knew where he was. That is so unlike him so she heads for Cold Harbor. She finds her brother has not only been kidnapped but is framed for the theft of a deadly bio-toxin. She is almost ran over by a SUV but a man swoops in to save her. He and his team are investigating the theft. They have video of her brother stealing the toxin. They don't really believe her story until the puzzles start coming in.
Ex-Army Ranger Cooper is part of the team Blackwell Tactical. They have been hired to find the stolen bio-toxin and the man who stole it. He recognizes the beautiful girl that was almost run down. She could lead him to her brother. He is intrigued when she tells him of the call. They soon find that she is the only one that can solve the puzzles. As close as he gets to this beauty he is unable to trust her. He has been betrayed by those he loved before. His last girl friend was a spoiled rich girl and that's exactly what this women appeared to be. But they are forced to protect her. Can he keep her safe without getting in over his head?
A deadly journey to find Kevin Underwood before the clock runs out. God has a plan for these two, a good plan for a hope and a future. God has a plan for you too. A plan for good and not for evil. Trust Him with your heart, give Him control, and watch Him turn your life around.
August 6, 2018
I love reading books in a series because you get to know the characters better. In this second installment we are introduced to Kiera. She is one fierce person. When she receives a mysterious call about her brother, she goes into full rescue mode. She doesn't believe what he is being accused of and sets out to find him.
Coop was one of my favorites from the first book and he is front and center in this story. Coop and Kiera don't see eye to eye on things and she sure knows how to hold her own with him. This makes for an intriguing relationship as they work together to stop the threat against Kiera's brother. I liked how Kiera is a bit unsure of Coop and wants to check him out first. I know if I went to the compound I would be overwhelmed.
The banter between Kiera and Coop is priceless. I love how they each act like they don't like each other, but readers we all know the truth. As they decide to work together and put their differences aside, the race in on to find Kiera's brother and stop a toxin from becoming a deadly weapon. I liked the information about chemicals and how they work. It shows that the author has done research which makes the story more realistic. This story also has a lot of computer technology that fascinated me. The internet is a vast of information but also has a layer of secrets hidden deep within the web. Can Coop help rescue Kiera's brother before it is to late? Who really stole the toxin that could get into the wrong hands? It's a roller coaster ride as the team try to beat a deadline. Trust is a key component in the story and I liked how Kiera and Coop struggled with trusting each other. It is hard to trust someone that you don't really know. Will they learn to trust each other as well as God? Get ready for another bone chilling ending as the deadline draws near.
I received a copy of this book from the author. The review is my own opinion.
Coop was one of my favorites from the first book and he is front and center in this story. Coop and Kiera don't see eye to eye on things and she sure knows how to hold her own with him. This makes for an intriguing relationship as they work together to stop the threat against Kiera's brother. I liked how Kiera is a bit unsure of Coop and wants to check him out first. I know if I went to the compound I would be overwhelmed.
The banter between Kiera and Coop is priceless. I love how they each act like they don't like each other, but readers we all know the truth. As they decide to work together and put their differences aside, the race in on to find Kiera's brother and stop a toxin from becoming a deadly weapon. I liked the information about chemicals and how they work. It shows that the author has done research which makes the story more realistic. This story also has a lot of computer technology that fascinated me. The internet is a vast of information but also has a layer of secrets hidden deep within the web. Can Coop help rescue Kiera's brother before it is to late? Who really stole the toxin that could get into the wrong hands? It's a roller coaster ride as the team try to beat a deadline. Trust is a key component in the story and I liked how Kiera and Coop struggled with trusting each other. It is hard to trust someone that you don't really know. Will they learn to trust each other as well as God? Get ready for another bone chilling ending as the deadline draws near.
I received a copy of this book from the author. The review is my own opinion.
July 17, 2019
Cold Truth, book two in Susan Sleeman’s Cold Harbor romantic suspense series, dives into the world of science, kidnapping, and cold, hard facts. Security firm operative Cooper Ashcroft believes the evidence: an employee of a research company has disappeared with a deadly bio weapon. But when Chemist Kiera Underwood receives a ransom demand, she is determined to prove her brother is actually a victim.
Though unwilling to trust each other, Coop and Kiera must work together to find both her brother and the bio weapon before the casualties begin. Coop thinks Kiera is in on the theft, creating an elaborate ruse to throw his team off her tracks. But Kiera insists she and her brother are innocent.
Puzzles and cryptic messages are the only leads Kiera has to finding her brother. She reluctantly agrees to partner with Coop since she needs his resources. Despite the tentative relationship, Coop and Kiera cannot deny their attraction to each other. But will it be enough to overcome their doubts?
True to form, Susan Sleeman keeps the twists and turns coming throughout the story. Fans of chemistry will enjoy working with Kiera to untangle the clues and those of us who are challenged in that area can look on with Coop as Kiera offers explanations we can understand.
Cold Truth is an another enjoyable read in the Cold Harbor series. So good that I’m anxiously awaiting the chance to visit the Blackwell Security team once again in book number three!
—
I received this book free from the author in order to provide an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
Though unwilling to trust each other, Coop and Kiera must work together to find both her brother and the bio weapon before the casualties begin. Coop thinks Kiera is in on the theft, creating an elaborate ruse to throw his team off her tracks. But Kiera insists she and her brother are innocent.
Puzzles and cryptic messages are the only leads Kiera has to finding her brother. She reluctantly agrees to partner with Coop since she needs his resources. Despite the tentative relationship, Coop and Kiera cannot deny their attraction to each other. But will it be enough to overcome their doubts?
True to form, Susan Sleeman keeps the twists and turns coming throughout the story. Fans of chemistry will enjoy working with Kiera to untangle the clues and those of us who are challenged in that area can look on with Coop as Kiera offers explanations we can understand.
Cold Truth is an another enjoyable read in the Cold Harbor series. So good that I’m anxiously awaiting the chance to visit the Blackwell Security team once again in book number three!
—
I received this book free from the author in order to provide an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
January 4, 2020
The start of this book is perfect in that I love a story to catch my attention quickly. When Kiera gets a phone call from someone disguising his voice and claiming to have her twin brother, Kevin, her immediate response is to think that someone is playing a joke. But after not being able to reach him by phone, she hurries to his house. Nothing. Her next move is to call then go to his place of work.
She discovers that Kevin has disappeared and his work is claiming that he has stolen a biotoxin that he was working on. Quite by accident, she finds that Blackwell Tactical has been hired to locate Kevin.
Cooper Ashcroft, of Blackwell Tactical, is watching Kevin’s workplace when Kiera is almost run over by an ATV. He ends up rescuing her and confiding the reason for surveilling the building. She reluctantly follows him to the Blackwell compound in order to work with with the team. Though at first, and even well into the investigation, many at Blackwell are sure Kiera is also involved with stealing the biotoxin.
What neither Cooper Ashcroft or Kiera count on is the attraction they feel toward each other.
What Concerned Me
I hate to say it but the characters didn’t come to life for me. And without that spark and identifying characteristics to make them stand apart, it managed to bring a good story down a bit.
I was also disappointed with the Blackwell Tactical personnel. For ex-military, they could have offered so much more to the story.
What I Liked Most
The story started out quickly and the plot was interesting.
I also liked the idea of ex-military running Blackwell Tactical.
More Reviews at https://pickagoodbook.com
She discovers that Kevin has disappeared and his work is claiming that he has stolen a biotoxin that he was working on. Quite by accident, she finds that Blackwell Tactical has been hired to locate Kevin.
Cooper Ashcroft, of Blackwell Tactical, is watching Kevin’s workplace when Kiera is almost run over by an ATV. He ends up rescuing her and confiding the reason for surveilling the building. She reluctantly follows him to the Blackwell compound in order to work with with the team. Though at first, and even well into the investigation, many at Blackwell are sure Kiera is also involved with stealing the biotoxin.
What neither Cooper Ashcroft or Kiera count on is the attraction they feel toward each other.
What Concerned Me
I hate to say it but the characters didn’t come to life for me. And without that spark and identifying characteristics to make them stand apart, it managed to bring a good story down a bit.
I was also disappointed with the Blackwell Tactical personnel. For ex-military, they could have offered so much more to the story.
What I Liked Most
The story started out quickly and the plot was interesting.
I also liked the idea of ex-military running Blackwell Tactical.
More Reviews at https://pickagoodbook.com
April 12, 2023
3.5 stars
"Solve the puzzle and save your brother."
Stunned, Kiera Underwood frantically tries over and over again to reach her twin brother Kevin in order to find out why someone would have issued such an enigmatic ultimatum. Both of them were research chemists, so Keira knew about, and understood the value of, her brother's highly secret project for Oceanic Labs; synthesizing a biotoxin carried by seafood in order to create an antidote, but now he is missing and so is some of the lab's biotoxin.
Literally colliding with Blackwell Tactical team member Cooper Ashcroft outside of Oceanic Labs, Kiera learns that Kevin's employers have hired a private investigative unit to find her brother, spreading a cloud of suspicion around her by association. How can anyone believe that she would be involved in something that she knows her brother didn't do in the first place?
Sparks fly as Kiera and Cooper agree to disagree on some things, while moving forward to solve a case that gets stranger and stranger, and more dangerous, with every passing hour. Meanwhile, their growing attraction complicates things, especially when it comes down to one of the most basic building blocks of a lasting relationship; trust.
"When our expectations don't match with what happens, we complicate our lives to no end. Often blaming God, when He's not to blame. We simply need to realize that life is fluid. Always changing. So when God alters the course, we need to move on with Him . . . "
Enjoy this high-speed continuation of a very good series!
"Solve the puzzle and save your brother."
Stunned, Kiera Underwood frantically tries over and over again to reach her twin brother Kevin in order to find out why someone would have issued such an enigmatic ultimatum. Both of them were research chemists, so Keira knew about, and understood the value of, her brother's highly secret project for Oceanic Labs; synthesizing a biotoxin carried by seafood in order to create an antidote, but now he is missing and so is some of the lab's biotoxin.
Literally colliding with Blackwell Tactical team member Cooper Ashcroft outside of Oceanic Labs, Kiera learns that Kevin's employers have hired a private investigative unit to find her brother, spreading a cloud of suspicion around her by association. How can anyone believe that she would be involved in something that she knows her brother didn't do in the first place?
Sparks fly as Kiera and Cooper agree to disagree on some things, while moving forward to solve a case that gets stranger and stranger, and more dangerous, with every passing hour. Meanwhile, their growing attraction complicates things, especially when it comes down to one of the most basic building blocks of a lasting relationship; trust.
"When our expectations don't match with what happens, we complicate our lives to no end. Often blaming God, when He's not to blame. We simply need to realize that life is fluid. Always changing. So when God alters the course, we need to move on with Him . . . "
Enjoy this high-speed continuation of a very good series!
January 1, 2018
This is the second book of Ms Sleeman’s series Cold Harbor, and another engaging Christian romance suspense story .
What I admire about the author is how she gives us not only a complex plot but also characters that have many layers.
The storyline centers around a brilliant chemist, Kiera Underwood, whose twin brother has disappeared and has probably been kidnapped and former Army Ranger Cooper Ashcroft, who works for Blackwell Tactical group. Blackwell has been hired to find a missing toxin and Kevin, Kiera’s brother. He is thought to be the person who stole the toxin. Kiera is sure her brother is innocent and Coop, trusts no one.
The suspense is non -stop but what I liked best were the characters. They are flawed , which makes them more likable. Coop’s life has been full of losses , mistrusts and little love. Both Coop and Kiera have lost some of their faith in God and both are in a rut.
But as the author reminds us, “life is always changing” and that we should go with God’s flow and let go.
Looking forward to the next book in the series.
I was gifted a copy of this book . The opinions expressed are solely my own.
What I admire about the author is how she gives us not only a complex plot but also characters that have many layers.
The storyline centers around a brilliant chemist, Kiera Underwood, whose twin brother has disappeared and has probably been kidnapped and former Army Ranger Cooper Ashcroft, who works for Blackwell Tactical group. Blackwell has been hired to find a missing toxin and Kevin, Kiera’s brother. He is thought to be the person who stole the toxin. Kiera is sure her brother is innocent and Coop, trusts no one.
The suspense is non -stop but what I liked best were the characters. They are flawed , which makes them more likable. Coop’s life has been full of losses , mistrusts and little love. Both Coop and Kiera have lost some of their faith in God and both are in a rut.
But as the author reminds us, “life is always changing” and that we should go with God’s flow and let go.
Looking forward to the next book in the series.
I was gifted a copy of this book . The opinions expressed are solely my own.
April 29, 2022
I wasn't certain I'd have time to read a book this week, but Tuesday night I just had to read a bit and picked Cold Truth, planning to read just a page or two...at midnight I forced myself to put the book down and get some much-needed rest!
I loved this story. Susan Sleeman did a great job with the characters. I liked Kiera's determination to find her brother and prove he wasn't guilty of murder and stealing the toxin. The villain was very clever, and it was hard to figure out how the theft went down--there was only one way to get into the lab and that was with her brother's fingerprint. The villain figured out a way around the fingerprint, but you'll have to read the story to see what it is.
Cooper was a great hero. Handsome, determined--almost as determined as Kiera, who was not immune to his charming ways. This is the second book in the Cold Harbor series and I have three of the others, but not the next one, so I'll have to remedy that.
I only read at night, and I finished the book the second night at one a.m., not the wisest decision I've made when I needed the sleep. I think romantic suspense readers will enjoy Cold Truth.
I loved this story. Susan Sleeman did a great job with the characters. I liked Kiera's determination to find her brother and prove he wasn't guilty of murder and stealing the toxin. The villain was very clever, and it was hard to figure out how the theft went down--there was only one way to get into the lab and that was with her brother's fingerprint. The villain figured out a way around the fingerprint, but you'll have to read the story to see what it is.
Cooper was a great hero. Handsome, determined--almost as determined as Kiera, who was not immune to his charming ways. This is the second book in the Cold Harbor series and I have three of the others, but not the next one, so I'll have to remedy that.
I only read at night, and I finished the book the second night at one a.m., not the wisest decision I've made when I needed the sleep. I think romantic suspense readers will enjoy Cold Truth.
January 29, 2020
Cooper and Kiera begin as an unlikely match. He's out to find her brother on behalf of his client. She's out to find him because he's her twin and he's missing. While Coop saves her life within the first moments of the book he doesn't come clean that he's working the other side of the case.
Blackwell Tactical is a civilian group of former military heroes. They work hard to help people in their time of need, often providing security, most certainly solving life's mysteries.
I enjoyed this story and the unlikely match of Kiera and Coop. She's a chemist, he's a soldier. They're both black and white thinkers who are struggling to see things in black and white. I would have liked to have been able to see more of Kiera in her natural surroundings (on the personal side not the professional as science isn't my thing). I found myself curious of how she would interact with friends and colleagues. It was a good story as written and I'm anxious to read the rest of this series.
Blackwell Tactical is a civilian group of former military heroes. They work hard to help people in their time of need, often providing security, most certainly solving life's mysteries.
I enjoyed this story and the unlikely match of Kiera and Coop. She's a chemist, he's a soldier. They're both black and white thinkers who are struggling to see things in black and white. I would have liked to have been able to see more of Kiera in her natural surroundings (on the personal side not the professional as science isn't my thing). I found myself curious of how she would interact with friends and colleagues. It was a good story as written and I'm anxious to read the rest of this series.
February 7, 2018
This is book two in the Cold Harbor series. It is a stand alone book, however you get to know the entire Blackwell Tactical team better by reading them all.
Cooper Ashcroft, Coop, is a handsome complicated man, He likes to keep his feelings all inside, yet when Kiera Underwood becomes a suspect/target he finds himself confused.
Kiera is not sure what to make of Coop, but when she must rely on him to help find her brother, she is not sure she is up for the emotional rollercoaster this will bring.
I always love books by Susan Sleeman. They are full of suspense, mystery, twist and turns, friendship and of course some romance. Her characters are always well thought out and I love their dialogue. The ups, downs, twist and turns are always a fun read. I look forward to book three in this series.
Cooper Ashcroft, Coop, is a handsome complicated man, He likes to keep his feelings all inside, yet when Kiera Underwood becomes a suspect/target he finds himself confused.
Kiera is not sure what to make of Coop, but when she must rely on him to help find her brother, she is not sure she is up for the emotional rollercoaster this will bring.
I always love books by Susan Sleeman. They are full of suspense, mystery, twist and turns, friendship and of course some romance. Her characters are always well thought out and I love their dialogue. The ups, downs, twist and turns are always a fun read. I look forward to book three in this series.
March 8, 2018
This is an intricately woven romantic suspense novel!
The main characters are extremely well developed. They both have issues with trusting others that keep cropping up and causing friction between them. I love the fact that the main characters from book one appear in supporting rolls in this story. We have a chance to peak in and see how their lives are progressing.
The plot is fantastic. There are plenty of twists and turns to keep the reader guessing, and turning pages.
I’m looking forward to seeing what comes up in future books in the series for the rest of the Blackwell Tactical team. I love this type of series because each book is a stand-alone story and yet they give us more chance to see the different characters.
I received a free copy of this eBook from the author. I have chosen to write this review to express my personal opinion.
The main characters are extremely well developed. They both have issues with trusting others that keep cropping up and causing friction between them. I love the fact that the main characters from book one appear in supporting rolls in this story. We have a chance to peak in and see how their lives are progressing.
The plot is fantastic. There are plenty of twists and turns to keep the reader guessing, and turning pages.
I’m looking forward to seeing what comes up in future books in the series for the rest of the Blackwell Tactical team. I love this type of series because each book is a stand-alone story and yet they give us more chance to see the different characters.
I received a free copy of this eBook from the author. I have chosen to write this review to express my personal opinion.
January 5, 2018
Prepare yourself for nonstop intrigue and suspense with a little romance thrown in if you read Cold Truth, which you definitely should do. This book captured my interest from the first page and wouldn’t let go until I’d finished it. Susan Sleeman is very adept at creating multi-layered characters and captivating settings which, combined with her knowledge of law enforcement and detective work, make for a highly engrossing story. The main characters, Coop and Kiera, are engaging, relatable, and vividly drawn. The secondary characters are intriguing, and I’ll be interested in reading some of their stories in the future. I would recommend this book to those who enjoy romantic suspense and intrigue.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
June 1, 2018
I love playing games, but I definitely would not want to play the game that Kiera was forced to play in order to save herself and her twin brother. Kiera does not want to play the game either, but realizes she must if she ever wants to see her brother alive again. What follows is a thrilling story filled action, suspense, sinister twists and turns, and a touch of romance. Both Coopp and Kiera have major trust issues when it comes to relationships, but they both realize that they have to trust in God and fully rely on Him, before they can trust anybody else. I enjoyed reconnecting with the Blackwell Tactical team, and following them as they solved the case.
I received a complementary copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.
I received a complementary copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.
December 19, 2017
Cold Truth, the second in the Cold Harbor series, was just as good as the first. I love how the author integrates all the different characters from each series into each of the books of that series. I feel as though I’m part of a family, not just reading about different individual’s lives and their issues. This book grabbed me from the beginning and held on through the bitter end. I love how it was all wrapped up; yet can see where the third book can begin because I’m already invested in other members of the team. Loved being a part of Hannah and Gage’s life in this book despite it focusing on Kiera, her twin brother and Cooper. Highly recommend this book and this whole series.
June 2, 2020
I love a book that grabs your attention from the beginning and doesn't let up! The suspense is riveting and the chemistry between the two characters is so real you'll think you're watching it play out in front of you! Who could have kidnapped Kiera's twin chemist brother and what kind of game are they playing? Kiera gets help from Blackwell Tactical who was already looking into the disappearance but they aren't convinced that Kiera isn't involved in the kidnapping and theft of a biotoxin. Trust is a learning curve and both characters learn more about that as the book progresses. Be prepared for some twists and turns and don't stay up too late reading this one!
September 19, 2020
Keira and Cooper....I liked the continuation of the cold harbor crew. I didn't fully love these 2 characters. Coop was so hung up on a rich girl who "broke hie heart" bc she choose her money over him. I get that except at one point he even says he was dating her to prove to himself he was good enough or could. That's not love. Not even a little. So for him to be so hung up over it was his pride and how he viewed himself, not a broken heart. Keira was alright. I also didnt quite understand why he was so bent on believing Kevin was guilty when he'd been kidnapped. The story was good I'd probably give it 3.5 and will read the next book.
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