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Running Cold
Win a free kindle copy of this book!
19 days and 12:26:28
100 copies available
U.S. only
In this heart-pounding story of deception, murder, and survival, a former Olympian retreats to the Canadian wilderness for a fresh start, only to find out that the past will always catch up to her.
Julie Adler’s perfect facade is shattered by grief when her husband commits suicide. His death reveals that their luxurious California life was a house of cards, and his secret business dealings have left Julie penniless.
As she strikes out on her own, Julie feels drawn to her old stomping grounds in Banff, a charming and isolated ski town where she once trained for the Olympics. She finds work as a housekeeper at a luxury resort, but just as she starts to piece together a new life, an eccentric guest turns up dead. And Julie, the last person seen in her hotel room, is the prime suspect.
The evidence is stacked against her, but even in the encroaching blizzard, Julie knows her way around these mountains. She just needs to evade the police long enough to find the truth behind the murder…and before the real killer finds her first.
Julie Adler’s perfect facade is shattered by grief when her husband commits suicide. His death reveals that their luxurious California life was a house of cards, and his secret business dealings have left Julie penniless.
As she strikes out on her own, Julie feels drawn to her old stomping grounds in Banff, a charming and isolated ski town where she once trained for the Olympics. She finds work as a housekeeper at a luxury resort, but just as she starts to piece together a new life, an eccentric guest turns up dead. And Julie, the last person seen in her hotel room, is the prime suspect.
The evidence is stacked against her, but even in the encroaching blizzard, Julie knows her way around these mountains. She just needs to evade the police long enough to find the truth behind the murder…and before the real killer finds her first.
309 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication October 8, 2024
About the author
Susan Walter
4 books444 followersThe winner of the (not terribly) prestigious WIFTS screenwriting award for “All I Wish,” the film she wrote and directed starring Sharon Stone, Susan Walter is excited to add “novelist” to an eclectic resume that includes “failed concert violinist,” “unwatchable TV news reporter,” and “dazed mother to two teenage girls.” A native of Boston, she suppresses her irresistible accent to avoid stink eye from sports fans across Los Angeles, where she now resides. She has an AB in government from Harvard, which she has so far failed to put to good use, and enjoys skiing, lazy bike rides, and wicked strong coffee. Susan’s first two novels, “Good as Dead” and “Over Her Dead Body,” were Amazon First Reads editors’ picks. “Lie by the Pool,” a novel of suspense about a woman who witnesses a murder while stowed away in a Beverly Hills pool house, was published on 9/12/23. All three of Susan's books hit number one on Audible across all categories. For "behind the scenes" content or to join her mailing list, please visit her at www.susanwalterwriter.com, and thanks for stopping by!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 91 reviews
August 14, 2024
Susan Walter just may be one of the BEST authors that you haven’t yet read! SERIOUSLY.
Good As Dead
Over Her Dead Body
Lie By the Pool and soon…
Running Cold -expected publication date : October 8, 2024
Described ACCURATELY as a heart-pounding story of deception, murder, and survival- It’s the story of former Olympian, Julie Adler, who won the Gold 🥇 in the Biathlon-skiing and target shooting, before giving up the limelight and moving to Sunny California with her new husband, Jeff.
Life was good until Julie came home one day to find her husband dead in their bathroom-an apparent Suicide. But, that would not be the only shocking discovery that she would make. The other one-he has left her penniless.
Confused and heartbroken, Julie doesn’t want to admit all of this to her friends, Izzy, Christa and Suki, so she decides to return to the picturesque ski town of Banff, Canada where she trained for the Olympics.
Remy Delatour is an old friend, who happens to be the manager of the historic Banff Springs Hotel, so he is able to give her a room to live in, and a job as a housekeeper, to tide her over until her house in California can be sold.
But her bad luck will follow her.
A “difficult” guest, turns up dead, and Julie was the last person seen in her hotel room, and therefore the first suspect that Detective Monique Montpelier will focus on.
The story unfolds from the alternating first person POV’s of Julie, Izzy, Remy, and Monique, over 4️⃣ parts-beginning with “THE FIRST TO DIE”.
The evidence may be stacked against her, but Julie is determined to prove her innocence and discover the truth about what happened to her husband Jeff. Her only obstacles? Evading police and the real killer-while outrunning a blizzard.
The tension is palpable, and the setting is oozing in atmosphere! I could feel the chill and I even wrapped up in a blanket while reading this despite the 106 F degree temperature outside my door!
You can tell that Susan Walter was a screenwriter as every one of her books could easily translate to movies. I would love to see this one optioned as Banff and the Banff Springs hotel are actual places and there is even a story of a Murder-Suicide taking place in room 873 according to the Author’s Acknowledgments at the end of the book!
Can't you just picture the treacherous snowy mountains and the Castle-like hotel on the big Screen?
I can hear the audience cheering now! 🍿
I can’t wait to read whatever Susan Walter pens next! Four books-all solid 4 star ⭐️ reads!
Thank You to Lake Union Publishing for the gifted ARC provided through NetGalley. As always, these are my candid thoughts!
Good As Dead
Over Her Dead Body
Lie By the Pool and soon…
Running Cold -expected publication date : October 8, 2024
Described ACCURATELY as a heart-pounding story of deception, murder, and survival- It’s the story of former Olympian, Julie Adler, who won the Gold 🥇 in the Biathlon-skiing and target shooting, before giving up the limelight and moving to Sunny California with her new husband, Jeff.
Life was good until Julie came home one day to find her husband dead in their bathroom-an apparent Suicide. But, that would not be the only shocking discovery that she would make. The other one-he has left her penniless.
Confused and heartbroken, Julie doesn’t want to admit all of this to her friends, Izzy, Christa and Suki, so she decides to return to the picturesque ski town of Banff, Canada where she trained for the Olympics.
Remy Delatour is an old friend, who happens to be the manager of the historic Banff Springs Hotel, so he is able to give her a room to live in, and a job as a housekeeper, to tide her over until her house in California can be sold.
But her bad luck will follow her.
A “difficult” guest, turns up dead, and Julie was the last person seen in her hotel room, and therefore the first suspect that Detective Monique Montpelier will focus on.
The story unfolds from the alternating first person POV’s of Julie, Izzy, Remy, and Monique, over 4️⃣ parts-beginning with “THE FIRST TO DIE”.
The evidence may be stacked against her, but Julie is determined to prove her innocence and discover the truth about what happened to her husband Jeff. Her only obstacles? Evading police and the real killer-while outrunning a blizzard.
The tension is palpable, and the setting is oozing in atmosphere! I could feel the chill and I even wrapped up in a blanket while reading this despite the 106 F degree temperature outside my door!
You can tell that Susan Walter was a screenwriter as every one of her books could easily translate to movies. I would love to see this one optioned as Banff and the Banff Springs hotel are actual places and there is even a story of a Murder-Suicide taking place in room 873 according to the Author’s Acknowledgments at the end of the book!
Can't you just picture the treacherous snowy mountains and the Castle-like hotel on the big Screen?
I can hear the audience cheering now! 🍿
I can’t wait to read whatever Susan Walter pens next! Four books-all solid 4 star ⭐️ reads!
Thank You to Lake Union Publishing for the gifted ARC provided through NetGalley. As always, these are my candid thoughts!
July 21, 2024
Susan Walter. You just made me incredibly homesick!🍁😩
Julie Weston Alder was an Olympic biathlete. (Combination of cross country-skiing and shooting marksmanship.) Perhaps not as popular in the US, but in Canada she was a local hero!
However, when love comes calling, Julie puts her Olympic life behind her and heads for sunny California!
But what ideally should have been a dream life just isn’t panning out.
She and her husband Jeff aren’t happy. And after brunch with her friends Julie returns home to find Jeff dead from a self-inflicted gunshot.
With grief overwhelming her Julie heads back to the happiest place she knows from her past…the town of Banff, Alberta. (One of my happy places too).
She finds herself knocking on the door of her long-time friend, Remy Delatour. (who happens to be the general manager of the Banff Springs Resort), begging for a job so she can hide from her grief.
Try as she might, Julie can’t outrun death as it follows her across the border!
Sometimes it’s the storyline that captures the readers and other times it’s the atmosphere of the background. Susan Walter superbly weaves both effortlessly and I was once again transported back to my happy place in Canada.
Her research on the City of Banff and the enchantment of the historical Banff Spring Hotel was impeccable. I was right there at the Rundle Bar having my Old Fashioned🥃 while the snow swirled outside on the majestic mountain peaks.🗻
So while I was reading this book in sweltering 115*F summer heat, it was a welcome change to turn a page and immerse myself in a blinding blizzard and sub-zero temperatures of -20*C. (The cold may not appeal to some, but brings back fond memories for this Canadian girl! Even if it was that same weather that had me running for warmer climates).😂
If you’re looking for a thriller to cool off your summer…look no further!
Thank you to NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing
Julie Weston Alder was an Olympic biathlete. (Combination of cross country-skiing and shooting marksmanship.) Perhaps not as popular in the US, but in Canada she was a local hero!
However, when love comes calling, Julie puts her Olympic life behind her and heads for sunny California!
But what ideally should have been a dream life just isn’t panning out.
She and her husband Jeff aren’t happy. And after brunch with her friends Julie returns home to find Jeff dead from a self-inflicted gunshot.
With grief overwhelming her Julie heads back to the happiest place she knows from her past…the town of Banff, Alberta. (One of my happy places too).
She finds herself knocking on the door of her long-time friend, Remy Delatour. (who happens to be the general manager of the Banff Springs Resort), begging for a job so she can hide from her grief.
Try as she might, Julie can’t outrun death as it follows her across the border!
Sometimes it’s the storyline that captures the readers and other times it’s the atmosphere of the background. Susan Walter superbly weaves both effortlessly and I was once again transported back to my happy place in Canada.
Her research on the City of Banff and the enchantment of the historical Banff Spring Hotel was impeccable. I was right there at the Rundle Bar having my Old Fashioned🥃 while the snow swirled outside on the majestic mountain peaks.🗻
So while I was reading this book in sweltering 115*F summer heat, it was a welcome change to turn a page and immerse myself in a blinding blizzard and sub-zero temperatures of -20*C. (The cold may not appeal to some, but brings back fond memories for this Canadian girl! Even if it was that same weather that had me running for warmer climates).😂
If you’re looking for a thriller to cool off your summer…look no further!
Thank you to NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing
September 1, 2024
Engaging mystery!
Julie's life is turned upside-down and she has to navigate many hurdles to figure out what/why things have gone so so wrong! That is okay though because Julie is a a former Olympian. 🥇
She ends up in a fight for her life and runs someplace far far away in the middle of the night. She can't seem to escape the feeling of "someone watching" her.
Things get dicey, secrets spill, Julie will need to find out the truth before she loses her life.
I enjoyed this one and was invested in the characters and guessing what was happening. It wasn't a "I must read one more chapter" pace (for me), but I always enjoyed picking it up and following the clues. The killer was revealed pretty early (which I guessed) and that took away some of the surprise element.
Still a solid mystery with some characters to LOVE and HATE!!
Thanks to NG for my ARC! OUT Oct 8, 2024
Julie's life is turned upside-down and she has to navigate many hurdles to figure out what/why things have gone so so wrong! That is okay though because Julie is a a former Olympian. 🥇
She ends up in a fight for her life and runs someplace far far away in the middle of the night. She can't seem to escape the feeling of "someone watching" her.
Things get dicey, secrets spill, Julie will need to find out the truth before she loses her life.
I enjoyed this one and was invested in the characters and guessing what was happening. It wasn't a "I must read one more chapter" pace (for me), but I always enjoyed picking it up and following the clues. The killer was revealed pretty early (which I guessed) and that took away some of the surprise element.
Still a solid mystery with some characters to LOVE and HATE!!
Thanks to NG for my ARC! OUT Oct 8, 2024
September 15, 2024
Holy cow! Having read several of Susan Walter’s books already, I knew even before diving into Running Cold that I was in for a treat. Let me tell you, this intoxicating thriller did not disappoint. From the atmospheric setting to the ever present foreboding, the swiftly moving plot quickly pulled me in deep. Not only did the Hallmark-esque town of Banff come alive before me, but the multiple POVs felt undeniably well-drawn. But the gasp-inducing twists were what drove this book home. Turning the story on its head, it just couldn’t have been better no ifs, ends, or buts.
The characters were, in a phrase, simply sublime. Running the gamut from someone you’ll love to hate to a resourceful, strong protagonist that you’ll happily cheer on, I was easily swept up in her deadly ordeal. I especially loved the shocking revelations that exposed weaknesses that made them all oh so genuine and true. As much as I loved each of them in turn, though, it was the naturally unfurling plot that made this book sing. It’s no wonder all of my colleagues at Thriller Book Lovers: The Pulse couldn’t put this one down.
All said and done, with short, cliffhanger chapters that escorted me handily through the heart-pounding climax and soul-satisfying conclusion, I was easily bowled over by this unputdownable novel. My absolute favorite piece to the puzzle, however? That would be how we learned the who in this magnificent whodunnit earlier than expected. Far from ruining the rising suspense, it instead elicited an addictive game of cat-and-mouse that kept me utterly spellbound from beginning to end. Needless to say, you have GOT to order this book now. A slam dunk success, Walter has clearly done it again. Rating of 5 stars.
SYNOPSIS:
Julie Adler’s perfect facade is shattered by grief when her husband commits suicide. His death reveals that their luxurious California life was a house of cards, and his secret business dealings have left Julie penniless.
As she strikes out on her own, Julie feels drawn to her old stomping grounds in Banff, a charming and isolated ski town where she once trained for the Olympics. She finds work as a housekeeper at a luxury resort, but just as she starts to piece together a new life, an eccentric guest turns up dead. And Julie, the last person seen in her hotel room, is the prime suspect.
The evidence is stacked against her, but even in the encroaching blizzard, Julie knows her way around these mountains. She just needs to evade the police long enough to find the truth behind the murder…and before the real killer finds her first.
Thank you to Susan Walter and Lake Union Publishing for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
PUB DATE: October 8, 2024
Trigger warning: suicide, death of a spouse, infidelity
The characters were, in a phrase, simply sublime. Running the gamut from someone you’ll love to hate to a resourceful, strong protagonist that you’ll happily cheer on, I was easily swept up in her deadly ordeal. I especially loved the shocking revelations that exposed weaknesses that made them all oh so genuine and true. As much as I loved each of them in turn, though, it was the naturally unfurling plot that made this book sing. It’s no wonder all of my colleagues at Thriller Book Lovers: The Pulse couldn’t put this one down.
All said and done, with short, cliffhanger chapters that escorted me handily through the heart-pounding climax and soul-satisfying conclusion, I was easily bowled over by this unputdownable novel. My absolute favorite piece to the puzzle, however? That would be how we learned the who in this magnificent whodunnit earlier than expected. Far from ruining the rising suspense, it instead elicited an addictive game of cat-and-mouse that kept me utterly spellbound from beginning to end. Needless to say, you have GOT to order this book now. A slam dunk success, Walter has clearly done it again. Rating of 5 stars.
SYNOPSIS:
Julie Adler’s perfect facade is shattered by grief when her husband commits suicide. His death reveals that their luxurious California life was a house of cards, and his secret business dealings have left Julie penniless.
As she strikes out on her own, Julie feels drawn to her old stomping grounds in Banff, a charming and isolated ski town where she once trained for the Olympics. She finds work as a housekeeper at a luxury resort, but just as she starts to piece together a new life, an eccentric guest turns up dead. And Julie, the last person seen in her hotel room, is the prime suspect.
The evidence is stacked against her, but even in the encroaching blizzard, Julie knows her way around these mountains. She just needs to evade the police long enough to find the truth behind the murder…and before the real killer finds her first.
Thank you to Susan Walter and Lake Union Publishing for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
PUB DATE: October 8, 2024
Trigger warning: suicide, death of a spouse, infidelity
August 15, 2024
Love her books! Review to come
August 27, 2024
Running Cold is a read-in-one-day kind of book that pulls you in from the opening pages and won’t let go. Thrilling, fast-paced, atmospheric, and with a heroine you’ll cheer for, this story will keep you entertained until the satisfying ending. Highly recommended.
July 29, 2024
This was an absolutely brilliant read. It was atmospheric and seriously tense. At times, the story felt a little slow, especially when describing the day to day work of the hotel room cleaners, but once the story picked up, it was action packed and didn't slow down. I have a few of this authors books on my tbr and now I can't wait to give those a shot.
June 5, 2024
Running Cold starts with a memorable protagonist: a former Olympian put to the ultimate test in the wake of her husband's death. What begins as a fight for answers turns into a fight for survival -- but through it all, she's tough as nails, easy to believe in, and fun to cheer for. Susan Walter delivers a satisfying race to the finish.
September 8, 2024
Running Cold grabbed me from the very beginning. It is so immersive it completely transported me to Banff. The setting was so amazing, it made me, a die hard summer lover, want to go to Banff and learn to ski.
I loved the multi POV writing, it was so well done. Susan Walter really allowed to get us into the characters' mind. Julie, the MC, was absolutely amazing. She was a total girl boss and I loved everything about her.
Susan Walter is truly one of my favorite writers. Her books are fast paced and addictive. This one is no exception.
I loved the multi POV writing, it was so well done. Susan Walter really allowed to get us into the characters' mind. Julie, the MC, was absolutely amazing. She was a total girl boss and I loved everything about her.
Susan Walter is truly one of my favorite writers. Her books are fast paced and addictive. This one is no exception.
July 8, 2024
Former Olympic biathlete Julie Weston Adler made a huge sacrifice when she left her sport for love, so when she finds her husband dead and learns their savings have vanished, there’s only one place to go: home. But back in Banff, Canada, where Julie secures a housekeeping job thanks to an old friend, a hotel guest she locks horns with is murdered and her problems snowball.
This captivating thriller is packed with both action and compelling female characters whose complex relationships will appeal to fans of great psychological suspense. Settle in for a murder mystery/thriller mashup you won’t want to put down.
This captivating thriller is packed with both action and compelling female characters whose complex relationships will appeal to fans of great psychological suspense. Settle in for a murder mystery/thriller mashup you won’t want to put down.
May 13, 2024
I finished this book in a single day and loved every minute of it! It was exciting and engrossing with a couple of good plot twists, but I also loved that the characters were imperfect, but in a way that still had me cheering for them.
There was so much detail about the specifics of different types of skiing that could have easily been boring to someone not interested in that subject, but it wasn’t boring at all and added to story in a necessary way. It made what the main character was able to do and survive much more believable.
I’m not familiar with this author but would definitely read her again
There was so much detail about the specifics of different types of skiing that could have easily been boring to someone not interested in that subject, but it wasn’t boring at all and added to story in a necessary way. It made what the main character was able to do and survive much more believable.
I’m not familiar with this author but would definitely read her again
June 10, 2024
After Julie loses her husband to suicide, she realizes that he has drained their accounts. She had no clue they their finances were null.
She ends up back int eh town of Banff, were she trained in the Olympics. She has left her posh lifestyle in California and needs a fresh start.
She ends up getting a job as a housekeeper and a resort. One of the guests turns up dead and Julie becomes the suspect. Her past and present collide. Will she find out what truly happened?
Another chilling novel by Walter. This engaging novel had me glued to the page’s way too late.
She is now an auto-buy for me. Thank you Thriller Book Lovers-The Pulse and author Walter for the gifted e-copy.
She ends up back int eh town of Banff, were she trained in the Olympics. She has left her posh lifestyle in California and needs a fresh start.
She ends up getting a job as a housekeeper and a resort. One of the guests turns up dead and Julie becomes the suspect. Her past and present collide. Will she find out what truly happened?
Another chilling novel by Walter. This engaging novel had me glued to the page’s way too late.
She is now an auto-buy for me. Thank you Thriller Book Lovers-The Pulse and author Walter for the gifted e-copy.
Shelved as 'dnf'
June 21, 2024DNF.
There’s just not enough story here. The writing is kind of simplistic, but I can look past that if there’s intrigue. The problem was every chapter was boring, mostly centered on one event or thought/concept (from grief to cleaning rooms), then ended with some version of “if only the reader knew the truth” or “if only the reader and I knew [insert super vague foreshadowing sentence here].
I skipped ahead and it was the same formula, and worse, I was able to keep up with the story, that’s how little had happened since.
Either it should have been a novella, is unfinished, or it’s just not for me.
Format: Advance Reader’s Copy from Lake Union Publishing and NetGalley
There’s just not enough story here. The writing is kind of simplistic, but I can look past that if there’s intrigue. The problem was every chapter was boring, mostly centered on one event or thought/concept (from grief to cleaning rooms), then ended with some version of “if only the reader knew the truth” or “if only the reader and I knew [insert super vague foreshadowing sentence here].
I skipped ahead and it was the same formula, and worse, I was able to keep up with the story, that’s how little had happened since.
Either it should have been a novella, is unfinished, or it’s just not for me.
Format: Advance Reader’s Copy from Lake Union Publishing and NetGalley
July 1, 2024
3.5 rounded up
Julie is a former Olympic gold medalist who goes on a search for answers after her husband’s suicide. Her quest for answers soon turns into a fight for her freedom, and her life. One death, two deaths, three deaths….why are these people dying? Who is going after them?
Although imperfect, I found it super easy to root her Julie, and the detective on the case. They are both strong female leads that know how to kick some ass. I enjoyed both of their POV’s! This is a book you could read in one day, and if you want to know more about skiing, this book is full of info! Susan does a great job describing the scenes so it is easy to visualize!
Julie is a former Olympic gold medalist who goes on a search for answers after her husband’s suicide. Her quest for answers soon turns into a fight for her freedom, and her life. One death, two deaths, three deaths….why are these people dying? Who is going after them?
Although imperfect, I found it super easy to root her Julie, and the detective on the case. They are both strong female leads that know how to kick some ass. I enjoyed both of their POV’s! This is a book you could read in one day, and if you want to know more about skiing, this book is full of info! Susan does a great job describing the scenes so it is easy to visualize!
June 21, 2024
Running Cold is a twisty, fast-paced thriller combined with a family drama that will make you read past your bedtime and taunt you to read…just one more chapter!
This storyline is super suspenseful that only lets up few hints along the way. Told in multiple POVs, I enjoyed seeing the mystery unfold through the eyes of each character. The atmospheric setting in Banff, Canada, truly brought this storyline to life. This is the second book I’ve read by this author and look forward to reading more of her work! 4.5⭐️
Thank you @susanwalterauthor & Lake Union Publishing for my digital copy!
May 13, 2024
What a wild ride of murder, mountains, and a bit of solving the mystery.
Super easy read, not heavy, but keeps you wanting to read more.
From the start this book grabbed my attention, and then it just kept getting more intense. In a good way.
This would be perfect for a rainy day, or a snow day.
Thank you NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing for my E-ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Super easy read, not heavy, but keeps you wanting to read more.
From the start this book grabbed my attention, and then it just kept getting more intense. In a good way.
This would be perfect for a rainy day, or a snow day.
Thank you NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing for my E-ARC in exchange for my honest review.
August 16, 2024
4.5 stars rounded up to 5
I absolutely detest the cold. And I’m no athlete! Yet Susan Walter made me invested in Julie Adler’s journey AND made me year to visit beautiful Banff some day, snow and all! Running Cold will be released just in time to cozy up with a warm beverage, a blanket and get lost in this adventurous read!
After her husband dies by suicide, former biathlon Olympian Julie Adler escapes California for her former stomping ground in Banff. Too proud to let anyone know she’s penniless, she takes a housing-keeping job at a famous local hotel. And there’s a murder…the rest you’ll have to find out for yourself!!!
Highlights:
⛄️ Multiple POV
⛄️ Loved the biting comments from various characters foreshadowing events
⛄️ I dare you not to fall in love with Banff
⛄️ Lots of action especially in the last part of the book
⛄️ I loved Julie’s character in all her prickliness
⛄️ The ending was on point 👌
Make sure to check out reviews of some of my other @thrillerbookloversthepulse peeps - lots of love for Running Cold 🥶 a huge thank you to Lake Union publishing and the author for my ARC in exchange for an honest review!
I absolutely detest the cold. And I’m no athlete! Yet Susan Walter made me invested in Julie Adler’s journey AND made me year to visit beautiful Banff some day, snow and all! Running Cold will be released just in time to cozy up with a warm beverage, a blanket and get lost in this adventurous read!
After her husband dies by suicide, former biathlon Olympian Julie Adler escapes California for her former stomping ground in Banff. Too proud to let anyone know she’s penniless, she takes a housing-keeping job at a famous local hotel. And there’s a murder…the rest you’ll have to find out for yourself!!!
Highlights:
⛄️ Multiple POV
⛄️ Loved the biting comments from various characters foreshadowing events
⛄️ I dare you not to fall in love with Banff
⛄️ Lots of action especially in the last part of the book
⛄️ I loved Julie’s character in all her prickliness
⛄️ The ending was on point 👌
Make sure to check out reviews of some of my other @thrillerbookloversthepulse peeps - lots of love for Running Cold 🥶 a huge thank you to Lake Union publishing and the author for my ARC in exchange for an honest review!
September 15, 2024
Running Cold by Susan Walter. Thanks to @amazonpub for the gifted Arc ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Julie Adler escapes to her old stomping grounds, an isolated ski resort, after her husband unalives himself. She works as a maid and tries to piece her new life together when an eccentric guest is found murdered and Julie is the prime suspect.
Atmosphere was big in this story. You can really feel the cold and environment that adds to the suspense and fear. I figured out the mystery early on, so didn’t get a big reveal. I think I may be at my limit with murders at hotels and resorts, that specially involve maids. Unfortunately I wasn’t as enthralled by this one as other readers, but I’ve enjoyed other books by the author so I will still try her next one.
“Hell is supposed to be all fire and hot lava,
But you don’t know hell until you’ve been as cold as me.”
Running Cold comes out 10/8
Julie Adler escapes to her old stomping grounds, an isolated ski resort, after her husband unalives himself. She works as a maid and tries to piece her new life together when an eccentric guest is found murdered and Julie is the prime suspect.
Atmosphere was big in this story. You can really feel the cold and environment that adds to the suspense and fear. I figured out the mystery early on, so didn’t get a big reveal. I think I may be at my limit with murders at hotels and resorts, that specially involve maids. Unfortunately I wasn’t as enthralled by this one as other readers, but I’ve enjoyed other books by the author so I will still try her next one.
“Hell is supposed to be all fire and hot lava,
But you don’t know hell until you’ve been as cold as me.”
Running Cold comes out 10/8
September 6, 2024
This book started out so good, I could not put it down. The writing and character building kept me engaged! Told in four parts.
Julie came home and found her husband dead in their bathroom, from an apparent suicide. After looking further into her husband's death, secrets spill out and Julie retreats to her past life in Banff, Alberta. She gets a job at a very nice hotel as a housekeeper. One of the hotel guest is found dead and Julie becomes the prime suspect.
"Home. I finally knew what the word meant. Home isn't a place. It's a purpose. Being great is not about breaking records, it's about moving powerfully into your purpose. My purpose, my home, was on the mountain."
Shocking Discovery, Secrets, and Solid Mystery!
3.5 stars!
Thanks to NetGalley for the advanced copy! This book will be released 10/8/24.
Julie came home and found her husband dead in their bathroom, from an apparent suicide. After looking further into her husband's death, secrets spill out and Julie retreats to her past life in Banff, Alberta. She gets a job at a very nice hotel as a housekeeper. One of the hotel guest is found dead and Julie becomes the prime suspect.
"Home. I finally knew what the word meant. Home isn't a place. It's a purpose. Being great is not about breaking records, it's about moving powerfully into your purpose. My purpose, my home, was on the mountain."
Shocking Discovery, Secrets, and Solid Mystery!
3.5 stars!
Thanks to NetGalley for the advanced copy! This book will be released 10/8/24.
June 8, 2024
Thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for an eARC in exchange for an honest review!
Running cold is a thriller set in Banff following a former Olympian, Julie, who is searching for answers in the wake of her husband's suicide. She returns from California to her native Canada where things unravel even further when a fellow hotel guest is found dead and it appears that Julie is the prime suspect.
This was an easy read with lots of suspense from the story alone. The killer is revealed approx. 50% of the way through the book, and I actually enjoyed this at it allowed time to speculate motives etc.
The main issue with this book is that at the end of every chapter is a leading sentence hinting that "things are not as they seem". I think the book would be so much better without all of that as it feels very forced and a lazy way to keep the reader intrigued.
Overall, 2.5 stars.
Running cold is a thriller set in Banff following a former Olympian, Julie, who is searching for answers in the wake of her husband's suicide. She returns from California to her native Canada where things unravel even further when a fellow hotel guest is found dead and it appears that Julie is the prime suspect.
This was an easy read with lots of suspense from the story alone. The killer is revealed approx. 50% of the way through the book, and I actually enjoyed this at it allowed time to speculate motives etc.
The main issue with this book is that at the end of every chapter is a leading sentence hinting that "things are not as they seem". I think the book would be so much better without all of that as it feels very forced and a lazy way to keep the reader intrigued.
Overall, 2.5 stars.
August 15, 2024
4.25/5
Hey hey hey it’s time for #pulsepoint #thepulse recommendations from all my thriller lovers @thrillerbookloversthepulse A huge thank you to @susanwalterauthor @lakeunionauthors for this gifted copy!
I am a HUGE fan of wintery cold books and this one definitely delivered! This one starts out with quite the jaw dropping moment! Julia Adler’s husband commits suicide and if that’s not terrible enough she soon realizes he left her with empty bank accounts. 💸 She is not only grieving but has no idea where all their money went. Feeling embarrassed and lost she leaves quietly in the middle of the night to return home to Banff where she feels most comfortable. Needing to make ends meet she starts working as a housekeeper at a hotel. When one of the guests turns up murdered all fingers point to Julia because she was the last in the room. Talk about bad luck! 😬 She claims she’s innocent and races to try and prove her innocence!
This one was such a wild and twisted adventure! First of all…the setting being in Banff made me envision such a snowy beautiful wonderland! I could picture this fancy hotel on the side of the mountain with snow capped trees and swirling snowflakes! YES PLEASE! ❄️ This book had so many great ideas surrounding deception, forgiveness, murder, survival, grief and thrill! There was not a single moment I felt bored because this was extremely fast paced and had me wondering who the culprit was! Susan does a spectacular job creating several characters that left me questioning if they were the bad guy! The ending unfolded perfectly and was satisfying and complex! I enjoyed this one greatly and can’t wait to see what Susan writes next!
Hey hey hey it’s time for #pulsepoint #thepulse recommendations from all my thriller lovers @thrillerbookloversthepulse A huge thank you to @susanwalterauthor @lakeunionauthors for this gifted copy!
I am a HUGE fan of wintery cold books and this one definitely delivered! This one starts out with quite the jaw dropping moment! Julia Adler’s husband commits suicide and if that’s not terrible enough she soon realizes he left her with empty bank accounts. 💸 She is not only grieving but has no idea where all their money went. Feeling embarrassed and lost she leaves quietly in the middle of the night to return home to Banff where she feels most comfortable. Needing to make ends meet she starts working as a housekeeper at a hotel. When one of the guests turns up murdered all fingers point to Julia because she was the last in the room. Talk about bad luck! 😬 She claims she’s innocent and races to try and prove her innocence!
This one was such a wild and twisted adventure! First of all…the setting being in Banff made me envision such a snowy beautiful wonderland! I could picture this fancy hotel on the side of the mountain with snow capped trees and swirling snowflakes! YES PLEASE! ❄️ This book had so many great ideas surrounding deception, forgiveness, murder, survival, grief and thrill! There was not a single moment I felt bored because this was extremely fast paced and had me wondering who the culprit was! Susan does a spectacular job creating several characters that left me questioning if they were the bad guy! The ending unfolded perfectly and was satisfying and complex! I enjoyed this one greatly and can’t wait to see what Susan writes next!
June 19, 2024
I absolutely loved this book. Susan Walter is such a good story teller. This was a fun murder mystery. I loved the outdoor snowy vibe. The MC is a strong female Olympian. Action packed. I couldn’t put this book down! I also loved Susan Walter’s book, Lie By The Pool.
The team at The Pulse Is always a fan of Susan Walter! Thank you to The Pulse and the author for this early ARC. All opinions are my own.
The team at The Pulse Is always a fan of Susan Walter! Thank you to The Pulse and the author for this early ARC. All opinions are my own.
May 20, 2024
I feel like this started out really strong for me!! The murder mystery had me guessing and I was blowing through the first half. I also felt like the setting was so atmospheric, it was giving Stanley Hotel vibes from The Shining and I loved it. However, I feel like the killer was revealed WAY early without giving the reader a true opportunity to start really piecing things together themself, which in turn made the last ~40% of the book kind of anticlimactic for me.
Thank you to NetGalley for the opportunity to read this ARC!
Thank you to NetGalley for the opportunity to read this ARC!
August 30, 2024
Wow, this was a chilling thriller! No seriously, I could feel the cold wintery setting in Canada though out this heart pounding thrill ride. It starts off with a bang with Julie’s husband commits suicide and it remains a fast paced read that will have you guess the entire way though. If you haven’t read anything by Susan Walter’s I highly recommend this wintery thriller. Be prepared, readers may end up with frostbite if you don’t read it fast enough, lol.
****Many thanks to Susan Walter’s for the beautiful signed copy!
****Many thanks to Susan Walter’s for the beautiful signed copy!
May 29, 2024
With "Running Cold," her fourth novel, Susan Walter has become an expert teller of twisty, surprise-packed, enormously entertaining mystery-thrillers. They often involve folks who are least likely to find themselves embroiled in murder and other criminal acts--which makes them that much more relatable, frightening, and fun. This one, set mainly in wintry Banff, Canada, moves like a shot (no pun intended) as it snowballs (pun intended) into an involving tale of crossed allegiances, double-dealings, and startling revelations. The chills--and thrills--you'll feel won't be just from the book's icy Canadian setting as its main character, Julie, an Olympic gold medalist suspected of murder, runs, hides, fights, and skis for her life. Grab a hot beverage and settle in for this first-rate roller coaster of a crime novel.
May 30, 2024
I have been lucky enough to visit Banff and it is indeed a beautiful place.
A thriller set in the World of biathlon does not necessarily sound gripping but trust me, give this a read.
I’m not really a fan of chapters being written from different characters points of view but it works so well here.
The plot bombs along at pace, has many twists and plot revelations, my only quibble is that I thought the killer was revealed too early.
The ending was still satisfactory however and I was completely engrossed in the novel as a whole.
I’m not sure I will ever be able to watch biathlon in the same light.
A thriller set in the World of biathlon does not necessarily sound gripping but trust me, give this a read.
I’m not really a fan of chapters being written from different characters points of view but it works so well here.
The plot bombs along at pace, has many twists and plot revelations, my only quibble is that I thought the killer was revealed too early.
The ending was still satisfactory however and I was completely engrossed in the novel as a whole.
I’m not sure I will ever be able to watch biathlon in the same light.
May 27, 2024
Thanks to #NetGalley and #LakeUnionPublishing for the book #RunningCold by #SusanWalter. This chilling book lis about an ex Olympian whose husband has committed suicide and left them broke. She goes back to Canada, where she was before, to get a job and back on her feet. She then gets arrested for murder, and then keeps getting worse. Who is behind all this and why? Can she figure it all out before it’s too late? I read this book in one sitting and it’s amazing!
May 16, 2024
Thank you Lake Union Publishing and Susan Walter for the gifted digital ARC!
The Pulse Pals are once again super excited about a buzzy upcoming thriller, and this one DELIVERED. I absolutely could not put it down, and the twists and turns were nonstop and excellent. I didn't predict anything!
As a North Dakotan I could definitely resonate with the blizzard/squall/subzero temperature portions of the book. I could almost feel the cold while I was reading.
Suffice to say this was another winner for Susan Walter! Running Cold pub date is October 8.
The Pulse Pals are once again super excited about a buzzy upcoming thriller, and this one DELIVERED. I absolutely could not put it down, and the twists and turns were nonstop and excellent. I didn't predict anything!
As a North Dakotan I could definitely resonate with the blizzard/squall/subzero temperature portions of the book. I could almost feel the cold while I was reading.
Suffice to say this was another winner for Susan Walter! Running Cold pub date is October 8.
August 8, 2024
I found this book to be a mixed experience. If you don't mind a predictable story where much is revealed by the halfway point, you might enjoy it. The pacing is brisk, making it a quick read, which I appreciated. However, I struggled to connect with the characters. They felt somewhat one-dimensional and didn't evoke much empathy or interest from me.
While I don't need to love every book I read, I felt let down by the story in particular. Key events and twists felt rushed, and as a result, the narrative lacked the impact it could have had with more development. Despite these shortcomings, the book has its moments and might appeal to readers looking for something light and easy to get through. However, for those who seek a deeper connection with characters and a more nuanced storyline, this book might fall short.
While I don't need to love every book I read, I felt let down by the story in particular. Key events and twists felt rushed, and as a result, the narrative lacked the impact it could have had with more development. Despite these shortcomings, the book has its moments and might appeal to readers looking for something light and easy to get through. However, for those who seek a deeper connection with characters and a more nuanced storyline, this book might fall short.
September 13, 2024
Fast paced and suspense filled! Julie Adler, a former Olympian, is deep in grief after her husband commits suicide and has left her penniless. Without a lot of options, she heads home to Banff to the luxury hotel run by a friend to work and to heal. But instead, she is caught in a web of intrigue when a wealthy patron is found dead and Julie is the prime suspect. Through a series of unfortunate events, Julie finds herself on the run and she has very little time to figure out who did kill that woman so she doesn’t end up in prison. Adding to her troubles, Julie is also being hunted by the real killer, because her husband’s death is a lot more complicated than she originally thought. This was SO GOOD! I love Susan Walters books, they are addictive and intriguing and so hard to put down! Thank you Netgalley, Lake Union Publishing and the author for this eARC in exchange for my honest review. This book will be available for purchase on October 8, 2024
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