Coldwater

Written by Samuel Parker

Narrated by Dean Gallagher

Having forfeited his youth to the state prison system, Michael moved back to the only home he'd ever known. An empty shell of a man how now lived – if it could be called living – in the still vacant house of his parents in a town with one stoplight. A town that hated him.  Had always hated him. And was ready to pick up where the prison system had left off.

Now he's on the run from men who've tried to kill him once; but Michael is more than an ex-con. A powerful, sinister force creeps inside him, threatening and destructive. Who – and what – it will destroy next is the only real question. From the bold voice that brought readers down Purgatory Road comes a new pulse-pounding, spine-rattling tale of vengeance and justice that will have them up all night.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Oasis Audio
• Release date: Jan 2, 2018
• ISBN: 9781621887560

Samuel Parker

Samuel Parker is the author of Purgatory Road, named one of Library Journal's Best Books of 2017, and Coldwater. Born in Michigan, he was raised on a never-ending road trip through the US.

Reviews for Coldwater

[Joyce Harout · Rating: 2 out of 5 stars]

Couldn't finish. Waaay too "out there" for me. Hard to follow.

[Melissa A Kocsis · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Wow!!! As a Christian, I love the parallel in the book to THE BOOK!!!!
Please keep writing!!!
In Christ, Melissa A Kocsis MA

[Jeanne Nichol · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Interesting plot. Kept me wanting more listening time. Surprise ending

[lcjohnson1988_1 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Title: Cold WaterAuthor: Samuel ParkerPages: 320Year: 2018Publisher: RevellMy rating is 5 out of 5 stars.Samuel Parker’s second novel, Cold Water, is a heart-pounding, engaging mystery that captures the mind of the reader from beginning to end. To me, it is a very unique story as the characters have no last names and very slowly and methodically the author reveals the interesting history behind the town’s inhabitants. As I read, I was drawn into the mystery behind Michael’s uniqueness in that it seems wherever he goes death is the result be it nature or sicknesses in others.Michael grew up in the town of Cold Water and returned after spending time in prison. Readers will get an intriguing look in to what happens to Michael while incarcerated and how the warden deals with him to protect Michael and the other inmates. When Michael entered prison, he was a boy. When he returns to Cold Water, he is a man who just wants to be left alone. But the town’s head honcho won’t let him be, which sets Michael on the run for his life.I really was captured by how the author flashes back to Michael’s prison experiences and then back to the current day, as well as how he flashes back into Michael’s past when he is introducing a character and if that character is somehow related to him. The story appears to me to show what is in a man’s heart will show itself in the actions taken. Even deeper still, we get a picture of the spiritual world and the spirit that inhabits the characters, which can influence thoughts, feelings and actions.Unlike other writers who write to show us the reality of the spiritual realm, Samuel Parker does a marvelous job of showing the reality of evil and demons without scaring this reader. I am not a fan of horror and Samuel’s book isn’t like horror at all, even though in my view it shows the truth of how people can be possessed or controlled by demons if they aren’t inhabited by the Holy Spirit of God. Enjoy the tension, mystery, spirits and characters of this new tale and then perhaps consider discussing with others what their views are of the book and its themes.Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. 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.”

[Srsmith1 · Rating: 3 out of 5 stars]

Too drawn out and not an exciting read. Storyline not feasible...

[Marlan Knighton · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

It was sad,funny,warm and well written.Narrator took me right into their town.

[debs4jc · Rating: 2 out of 5 stars]

Michael has served his time and prison and returns to the only place that he can - Coldwater, the town he grew up in. The problem is the people there know of his past, know of the violence that accompanied him and they aren't happy with his return. But the townspeople may have bit off more than they can chew when they try to eliminate Michael's presence - for a sinister force lurks within him that he has no control over.This book was creepy. And it was hard to fathom the terrible plight that Michael was in where he couldn't live a normal life because of the demon like force that was within him. All who try to exact revenge or justice on him find out that they can't resist it's power. Is there any redemption here or just a sad commentary on the futility of trying to get retribution for the sins of another.

[virginia51-1 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

I did not want to put this book down. This had a lot of twists and turns. At first I wasn’t sure if I cared for any of the characters. Because none of them seemed real likable. This did change and I did end up liking some characters. I liked the suspense and the little bit of paranormal. I received a copy of this book from Revell for a fair and honest opinion that I gave of my own free will.

[cherylk_44 · Rating: 3 out of 5 stars]

I enjoyed this book a lot. Although, what held me back from fully committing 100% was the fact that I found myself not committed to the characters all the way. Which in turn was easy for my attention to be diverted by other things while reading. Yet, this was really the only factor for me. The story was good. Michael was the only strong lead in my opinion. I was on his side all the way. He was not only smart but resilient as well. It was like he could not be killed. No matter how many times the bad guys tried, Michael popped back up. He came back stronger. There is one thing that you can't accuse this book of lacking...action. From the beginning to the end, there was lots of movement. This made me very happy. While, this book did not fully hit the mark for me, I would read another book from this author.

[alekee_1 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

When I first started this book, I felt compelled to keep page turning, the author is a gifted writer and although I was grasping for what the story was about, I had to keep at it.Now I knew this was a Christian book, but there are no bible verses and we do not go to church, but I could quickly sense the undertones, and it wasn’t too far in that I began to understand, and it was so real.This is a very different read, and yet it brought the justice system to light, a ten-year-old in prison, a man buried alive [how do these people sleep at night, they don’t], and then the mysterious deaths.The ending was so awesome, once you read this, I felt justice was done, but then the evil continues, and I believe it does. So, scary, and yet so real!I received this book through the Publisher Revell and their Blogger Program, and was not required to give a positive review.

[lamb521 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Title: Cold WaterAuthor: Samuel ParkerPages: 320Year: 2018Publisher: RevellMy rating is 5 out of 5 stars.Samuel Parker’s second novel, Cold Water, is a heart-pounding, engaging mystery that captures the mind of the reader from beginning to end. To me, it is a very unique story as the characters have no last names and very slowly and methodically the author reveals the interesting history behind the town’s inhabitants. As I read, I was drawn into the mystery behind Michael’s uniqueness in that it seems wherever he goes death is the result be it nature or sicknesses in others.Michael grew up in the town of Cold Water and returned after spending time in prison. Readers will get an intriguing look in to what happens to Michael while incarcerated and how the warden deals with him to protect Michael and the other inmates. When Michael entered prison, he was a boy. When he returns to Cold Water, he is a man who just wants to be left alone. But the town’s head honcho won’t let him be, which sets Michael on the run for his life.I really was captured by how the author flashes back to Michael’s prison experiences and then back to the current day, as well as how he flashes back into Michael’s past when he is introducing a character and if that character is somehow related to him. The story appears to me to show what is in a man’s heart will show itself in the actions taken. Even deeper still, we get a picture of the spiritual world and the spirit that inhabits the characters, which can influence thoughts, feelings and actions.Unlike other writers who write to show us the reality of the spiritual realm, Samuel Parker does a marvelous job of showing the reality of evil and demons without scaring this reader. I am not a fan of horror and Samuel’s book isn’t like horror at all, even though in my view it shows the truth of how people can be possessed or controlled by demons if they aren’t inhabited by the Holy Spirit of God. Enjoy the tension, mystery, spirits and characters of this new tale and then perhaps consider discussing with others what their views are of the book and its themes.Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. 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.”

[harley0326 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

I may be one of the few who really got the meaning of this book. I thought it was brilliant writing and I’m still shaking after reading it. I’ve read a few reviews which said they didn’t like it because it was published by a Christian Publishing company with no scripture reference through the entire book. I’m reviewing the book on the context not what I think should be in there. Being a Christian doesn’t mean you have to only read books that quote scripture or reference God. The book was an awakening to me because out there is evil. It is right beside us everyday, it sneaks into our thoughts and can consume us at anytime. From the beginning of the book, I knew it was going to be a dark almost demonic book. I wasn’t prepared for the depth the author took readers to. I shivered as the book opened with someone realizing they have been buried alive. My heart beat faster as I imagined being that person trapped. I would be going crazy trying to get out. Michael is the one trapped and I felt every scratch he made as he tried to crawl out of what must have felt like hell. I loved Michael because the author wrote him so well. He is a very troubled soul who all his life felt a desperate need to be wanted. The horrific crime he commits as a child is unthinkable. I did find it odd that he would be sent to a prison with adults but as I read the story, I understood the purpose. Do you believe in guardian angels? Are there demonic spirits around waiting to devour us? Michael has known nothing but what it feels like to locked away with just your thoughts for years. What happens when he returns to the town he once lived in? The book is undeniably dark, scary and delivers a message that there is good and evil in this world. Michael must fight from inside him to rid the darkness. Is he strong enough to survive? Can he control the darkness that lives deep inside, or will it destroy anytjung in its path? I must applaud the author for his upfront take on a subject very few write about. I loved his candor and thought the characters were suspenseful and strong. This is one of the best thrillers I have have ever read on this subject. I hope to find more books from this talented author. I received a copy of this book from The Revell Blogging Program. The review is my own opinion.

[vintagebeckie · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

Coldwater by Samuel Parker is an intense, gritty, emotionally-charged read. It definitely ain’t your grandmother’s Christian fiction. More on the lines of Peretti, Dekker, or Dellosso, this novel will stretch your view of sin, justice, and the spiritual implications of both. It is an excellent novel, but it will not be for everyone.Michael Sullian committed a horrible crime while just a child. The justice system didn’t really know what to do with him, so he was sentenced to a super-max jail. Now 20 years later he has been released, but not everyone believes that justice has been served.Coldwater can be described as a supernatural thriller. There are lots of incidents that cannot be explained away by coincidence or natural phenomenon. The short chapters and Parker’s writing style create a fast-paced narrative. The main character is very complex — he wrestles with guilt of his past crime and a fragile hope of a someday redemption. The other characters in the novel vary in their complexity — some being just what you see, while others are on a journey as fraught with danger as Michael. While the novel is action-packed, Michael’s story unfolds slowly. Bits and pieces are revealed in such a way that kept this reader turning the pages to find out just what was going on. There are a number of spiritual themes in the book — justice vs. revenge, redemption vs. condemnation being just a few. There is a lot of demonic activity, yet God is never mentioned. I’m not sure how I feel about that. On the one hand the novel is a strong statement on how human choice is the opening for sin. On the other, the release Michael receives hinges on forgiveness, but forgiveness by whom is the question. There are a lot of things left unsaid in Coldwater, leaving me feeling like there should have been more. But that may have been the aim of the author all along. This book certainly left me thinking of things I haven’t thought before.There are certain elements of Michael’s life following his crime that reminded me of Cain’s judgment by God. I don’t want to go into specifics due to spoilers, but if you read Coldwater, make sure to go back and read Genesis chapter 4 as well. On the subject of sin, there is one quote that resonated with me — We gloss over our own sins, softening their edges, while assuming the sins of other are forever razor sharp and at the ready to slash our throats. Coldwater will have you looking at sin in a new way, especially the consequences.So should you read Coldwater? If you are not a fan of darkly intense suspense novels with supernatural elements, I would say you need to give this one a pass. I found Coldwater to be chilling, disturbing and riveting. It gets a recommended rating from me.Recommended.Audience: adults.(Thanks to Revell for a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are mine alone.)

[grammy57 · Rating: 3 out of 5 stars]

This book is published by Revell Publishing, a company that supposedly publishes Christian books. That is the reason I requested to read and review this book, I expected it to be a Christian story. It is not. I am deeply disappointed in Revell.Now, on to the book itself. It is a dark story. It is mostly about a man and the demon that lives within him. The author has talent and is very good with words.The characters in the book are fairly well developed. You see mostly their emotions and the good or evil within, depending on which character. I do not want to give away the plot or ending. It is a story about Michael living with a decision he made and how it affected him and those around him. Michael is well developed in the story.The story flows well, it does keep your interest. It is quite well written and the editing is fairly well done. There were a few word errors, but not enough to make the book hard to read. The most prominent one seems to be a left out word sometimes in conversation. I guess it was meant to be like that, but I'm not sure.The synopsis on the back of the book ends "From the bold voice that brought readers down Purgatory Road comes a new pulse-pounding, spine-rattling tale of vengeance and justice." Yes, it kept me reading. Did it keep me on the edge of my seat, so to speak, no. Is it a page turner, somewhat. Would I recommend this book. No, I would not, for Revell Publishing readers. For others, maybe, as it was a clean book, just too dark for me.  The reason being that I like a Christian book, one that at least shows the goodness of God. Not a preachy book, but one where God and righteousness prevail.  It was mainly about the demon and how it affected those in the story. It wasn't an occult type book. It did not glorify the darkness, but,  it never, in my mind, showed redemption. Mercy was mentioned towards the end, but not God's mercy. 

[polarmath · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

This book really gets to you as you read about Michael and see all the emotions he has and what he has to endure as he has moved back home and is trying to live again. I kept reading to find out what would happen and who all would be involved . I received this book as a gift and the review is my own.

[beverlylynnt · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Have you ever read a book where you are not sure where it is going? Where there seems to be no certain protagonist or antagonist? Where the plot is undetermined except to move forward in a perpetual chase? Have you ever read a book where the driving question seems to be, "What is going on?" That is what reading this book by Samuel Parker made me feel. I'm not saying this in a negative sense. Some authors make their plots and characters easy to figure out and predict to varying degrees. That is not true with this story. There's a looming question mark hovering over the events as you read on. Yet the action drives the reader to continue if for no other reason than to try to make sense of what the characters were doing. The author is determined to show rather than tell what is occurring. Dotted throughout the tale were rare "Ah ha!" moments of insight, motive or reasons. But for the most part, the action moves forward relentlessly without explanation or narrative. It caused me to pause once in awhile and reflect back to a writing style used in the '50's and '60's in programs where they used only words and the unknown to develop expectations without special effects. The Twilight Zone and possibly Outer Limits were examples of this. Alfred Hitchcock, writer/producer of thrillers and melodramas, could produce the same effects. The results were often unpredictable and sometimes left the viewer pondering. I'll be the first to admit this would not be a book I would have chosen to read for myself. That is the consequences of entering a review program and trusting someone else's choices. But ultimately, it worked out well. This book stretched my tolerance for suspense since suspense is the main driving force in this story. The events are strange, creepy and dark. And there is a message, but it's subtle. And even though the book is dark, it is not a horror story, nor gruesome or filled with blood lust. There is definitely some kind of spiritual warfare going on, but the author does not comment on it. There is a resolution of a sorts for this story. The events do come to an end. This is not a happy book, so you can't really call the ending a happily ever after (HEA). Rather, it is a serious book with suspenseful momentum. Eventually it resolves but leaves the reader in a pondering state where we are allowed to come to our own conclusions. I'd like to offer kudos to the superb writing talent of author Samuel Parker.

[amilligan_13 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

This book interesting from the first page to the last. I could not put it down! The authors words created vivid images. I loved it!

[croknot1 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

This is the best novel I have read in awhile. I kept turning the pages wanting to find out what happens next! Thank you to the author and to Library Thing for sending me this book for my honest review!

[jonnydollar77 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

4.5 starsFrom the very first chapter—even the first few sentences—Samuel Parker had me hooked. The beginning of this book has some of the most compelling and heart-stopping opening scenes that I've read in a very long time. I won't go into too much detail so as not to spoil anything (even if it is the first chapter) but suffice it to say that I could feel my chest tighten and my breathing quicken as I felt the claustrophobia that the main character, Michael, had to be experiencing. Rarely do I have such a visceral and involuntary reaction to a book and I credit Parker's ability to paint a vivid word picture for it happening this time.And the action just continues from the outset and never stops. As more and more of Michael's story is unfolded for the reader, both in the present and via the glimpses into his past, the more curious I became to know just exactly who this guy was and what on earth was going on with him. He is a very compelling character and a complex one too. So much so that I'm not sure if I can say that I really cared for him or even liked him, but I could empathize with him. The rest of the characters were equally well-developed and very believable to me.The pacing of the novel is perfect for a book of the suspense/thriller genre. The chapters are short (some only a couple of pages) and the story moves quickly. The tension continues to build throughout the entire book until everything comes to a culmination in the final pages. The climax does not disappoint. A couple of the plot elements were predictable, but for the most part, it was awesome. There were sufficient twists to keep me guessing and the way in which Parker slowly "dripped out" Michael's backstory kept the pages turning. And I must not neglect to mention that epilogue! What a way to cap off the story!As for content to be aware of, there is a significant amount of violence in this book. There is one particular accident which has a very gruesome and bloody scene. There is a lot of death as well as an attempted violation of a child. There are also some supernatural elements which are not fully explained and are a bit on the nightmarish side. There is no strong language or sexual content. And lastly, although the book is from a Christian publisher there are very few references to God. There is a thin theme of mercy towards the end, but it is a small thread in the overall tapestry of the story.All that being said, I thoroughly enjoyed _Coldwater_ and highly recommend it to fans of the suspense/thriller genre. It is a tale of the folly of vengeance and a warning of the cancerous nature of bitterness and revenge. I will be keeping an eye out for future releases from Mr. Parker.Thanks to Revell (via LT's Early Reviewers) for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.

[utacraft · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

This advanced reading copy was given to me to review by early review..librarything.com.It is a long time since a book started right from the start it was a real page turner.Being in the prison system since the age 10, it really was purgatory when he was released and tried to go back to the house where he grew up. Nobody in his town wanted him there.I will give this book 4 stars

[jenniferrobb · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

At first, I wasn't sure about this book, but the character of Michael was very gripping and I found myself compelled to keep turning the pages.All Michael wanted was to be left alone to live out his life--but his past had at least one townsperson worked up enough to convince others to go along with him in "taking care of" the problem. The book opens with Michael having to dig himself out of a grave. We soon learn that several men from the town are behind it--leaving me wondering what Michael had done to incur the townspeople's hatred even so many years later. (The author does answer this question within the book, but it is one of the plot twists so I won't reveal it here.)At the same time, a woman comes to town, also intent on killing Michael for reasons of her own. Finding out that others are hunting Michael forces her to examine her own motives. Meeting Michael brings out some of her compassion.We also learn that Michael has an odd power by which everything around him slowly dies off (or in some cases quickly dies off). This left me wondering what the source of this power was--hereditary, supernatural, god given gift, demonic etc. The author also answers this question within the book, but again, it is a plot twist, so I won't reveal the answer here.All in all it was a very satisfying read and I would read more by this author.I received a copy of this book via the LibraryThing Early Reviewers Program in exchange for an honest review.