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Perilous reunion at sea

A Coldwater Bay Intrigue story

When shipwreck archaeologist Cora Strand is attacked and the research boat she’s on explodes, her ex comes to her rescue. Years ago, Kirk Higgins forfeited her heart, and now with no memory of who attacked her, Cora must trust him with her life. But at the risk of blowing his cover, can the NCIS agent stop a killer determined to put them both in a watery grave?

224 pages, Mass Market Paperback

Published December 31, 2018

92 people are currently reading
185 people want to read

About the author

Elizabeth Goddard

129 books1,528 followers
Elizabeth Goddard is the PW, ECPA, and USA Today bestselling and award-winning author of over sixty novels, including the Missing in Alaska and Rocky Mountain Courage series. Her books have sold more than 1.5 million copies. She is a Christy Award, Carol Award and Reader's Choice Award winner and a Daphne du Maurier Award and HOLT Medallion finalist. When she's not writing, she loves spending time with her family, traveling to find inspiration for her next book, and serving with her husband in ministry. For more information about her books, visit her website.



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5 stars
85 (52%)
4 stars
45 (27%)
3 stars
22 (13%)
2 stars
6 (3%)
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3 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
Profile Image for Brittany .
2,805 reviews196 followers
January 25, 2019
Distress Signal was a very intense story! It was hard to know who to trust in this fast-paced tale of danger and intrigue.

If you are a fan of suspense, as well as second chance love stories, this book is a good choice. Kirk and Cora blew their chance at a relationship years earlier and they both bear the emotional scars from what happened in the past.

I enjoyed trying to determine who were the bad guys and who were the good guys in this novel! Great action sequences abounded in this story, as well.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.

You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
Profile Image for Michelle Morgan.
254 reviews3 followers
December 29, 2018
Distress Signal by Elizabeth Goddard
Wow what a ride I was taken on. Distress Signal is full of back to back action that will have you turning page after page, never wanting to put it down. I became so engrossed in this book I lost track of time and was almost late for work. The characters are well developed, the storyline is believable and the ending will take you by surprise. I give Distress Signal 5 stars and hope there will be a sequel. You can’t go wrong by joining archaeologist Cora Strand and NCIS agent Kirk Higgins on the Salish Sea. Elizabeth Goddard has done a fantastic job with the Coldwater Bay Intrigue stories.
Profile Image for Carol.
1,641 reviews64 followers
February 9, 2019
Explosions, murder, arson, attempted murder at
sea and on land, cut diving gear breathing lines,
illegal drugs, stolen secrets, a disappearance,
kidnapping, intrigue plus an unpredictable plot
make for an exciting read.
Distress Signal has all of this plus more!!
The main characters are two bold, problem
solving, well developed characters with undeniable
chemistry between them.
Cora Strand is shipwreck archaeologist who has
accepted her dream job on board the research
vessel. She is trying to prove her worth to her
sisters and family. She never suspected her
coworkers were anything other than honest,
hard workers. She is in for a surprise when she
discovers her life is in danger.
But why? What did she see that she can’t recall
to put her in this position?
Kirk Higgins is an undercover NCIS agent and Cora’s
ex-boyfriend. He has come aboard the research
vessel as a sea hand. He ends up saving her life
when her diving gear line gets cut. She almost drown.
Then he saves her life when the research vessel
explodes. What are they up against?? Who can
be trusted?
Can Cora trust Kirk?
It is a real page!! The tension is thick with plenty of
suspense great chills, thrills with unexpected twists.
The story is so well written you will feel as if you are
right there in the midst of the action.
A Highly Recommended read!!!
I volunteered to read Distress Signal. Thanks to the
author for the opportunity. My opinion is my own.
Profile Image for Susan Snodgrass.
2,002 reviews264 followers
December 16, 2018
'Elizabeth Goddard continues her Coldwater Bay Intrigue series here when Cora Strand is attacked. As a shipwreck archaeologist, she is on a research boat when it explodes. Her ex boyfriend comes to her rescue and, in spite of her issues with him, she is forced to trust him with her very life. Can a NCIS agent stop killers who are determined to send both of them to their death?

Goddard begins this story fast paced and the action continues without let up till the end. Christian romantic fiction done well here. Recommended.

*My thanks to the publisher and author for a preview copy of this book. All opinions here are my own.
1,303 reviews8 followers
February 6, 2019
Action was there but romance was totally blah. They both committed the same mistakes again and again.
Profile Image for Katrina Epperson.
615 reviews
January 10, 2019
This is the third installment in the Coldwater Bay Intrigue series, but it's easily a stand alone book in my opinion.
For me, this was a spectacular read!
From the first page I was drawn in and captivated until the last page was turned.Once I got started, I didn't want to put it down. So for that to me, I classified it as a one sitting read. Cora Strand is a young woman who accepted a job 2 months ago as a shipwreck archaeologist on board the research vessel Sea Dragon. Being a member of the science team is her dream job. She has a passion for the sea and what she can find and learn from ships that have gone down. Some do this for treasure hunting, but for her the treasure is in finding and researching history.
Kirk Higgins was hired on the Sea Dragon as part of the dive team. With his impressive archaeological credentials, diving skills, and having served in the Navy getting the job was not the problem, but keeping his real purpose for being there a secret might be. He's looking for answers to the disappearance of his childhood friend, Drake Jackson.
Both are strong characters that will pull on your heart strings. I liked that Cora has a strong faith and isn't afraid to lean on God for guidance for strength and guidance. Kirk has to face the fact that he has always had feelings for Cora and that he had literally pushed her away years ago. He has a tough exterior, but also a softer side.

This book has elements of faith, trust issues, crisis of faith, romantic tension, spine tingling suspense, unexpected twists, turmoil, and love. It's a book I would recommend to anyone who loves suspense.

*I received this book from the author. I was not expected to write a review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Kara.
798 reviews
January 6, 2019
I was really impressed with the use of water in this story, can be a nightmare or a place of discovery.

I loved how Cora has her dream job on board this research ship, it's just too bad so much goes wrong so fast. The title is mentioned towards the end of the story, made me smile to see that :)

DO NOT blink while reading this, the action picks up FAST and will keep you turning pages until the very end!!

I could not figure out who was bad or why Cora is a target throughout the story, she would've been dead five times over if not for Kirk's heroics. Really loved how they liked each other in college and are reunited on the ship. They work out a lot of emotional hurts escaping dangerous situations. I was genuinely sad when Kirk has to face off with someone he cares for.

This book has two scenes underwater and the rest above water, but mostly in a boat or on the island. Really cool descriptions, danger at EVERY turn, lots of betrayal, accurate facts about diving, Cora gets REALLY good at defending herself with a lamp (made me proud), and two characters who find the strength to forgive one another even while escaping the bad guys. And then the brother shows up at the end, WHAT, and they get some real closure with him also. Really enjoyed it!

I was given a complimentary copy of this book, but was not required to give a positive review. All opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Elizabeth.
1,189 reviews
January 2, 2019
Distress Signal ( Coldwater Bay Intrigue )
By: Elizabeth Goddard
Distress Signal is a Coldwater Bay Intrigue. This is a Love Inspired Suspense book that has action , suspense, mystery, second chances, and a riveting Inspirational romance. The author drew me in right at the start. This is one of those page turners that when you start you do not want to put it down. It will have you on the edge of your seat trying to read faster to see what is going to happen next. I caught myself holding my breath several times. This is Archeologist Cora and NCIS Agent Kirk’s story. Cora is in danger and Kirk her ex comes to her rescue. Can he keep both of them safe? They cannot trust anyone. Action on top of action and safe no where. The author does a great job of keeping you guessing till the end.
I was given a complimentary copy off this book, but was not told that I had to give a positive review. All opinions are my own.
1,704 reviews31 followers
January 5, 2019
I love books that happen on the water! This book has a lot of action and a lot of twists and turns. You never knew who was a good guy and who was the bad guy! It really kept you guessing, which for me meant I couldn't put it down! I've really enjoyed this series and the characters. Every book has been quite different, which is a big plus for me. Although the two main characters (Kirk and Cora) had a previous relationship, it's been awhile so when they end up on the same research ship, they have to figure out how to be on a ship together which is uncomfortable for them. However, incidents begin happening that put Cora's life in danger and thank goodness Kirk is there to save her! He's an undercover NCIS agent but Cora doesn't know that! Things begin to spiral out of control and soon, Kirk and Cora don't know who to trust and where to turn for safety. They really don't want to trust each other but now it's a matter of survival! I think readers will love this book, the characters and the story! Step into the world of shipwreck archeology! Who knew there was such a thing? I didn't but it's fantastic!
***I received this book from the author but was not required to leave a review. These opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Rachel DeVaughn.
1,065 reviews31 followers
April 9, 2019
This book was included in my monthly Harlequin Love Inspired suspense subscription box and was released January 1st. I was first introduced to this author when I read “Uncommon Justice Book” earlier this year. She is an AMAZING suspense author-I highly recommend reading any book she writes!

From beginning to end, this story had a great steady pace of drama, suspense, romance, and lots of twists and turns. I liked the main characters Kirk and Cora and how they worked together to figure out what Cora saw when she was attacked but had lost her memory. They continue to run for their lives through out the entire book as they try and figure out who is trying to target them and why. I read this book in one day because I couldn’t put it down and had to find out the ending and who the bad guy was.

Highly recommend! Loved the story, loved the characters!
Profile Image for Suzie Waltner.
Author 10 books146 followers
January 18, 2019
Elizabeth Goddard opens Distress Signal with this line: This was not how she wanted to die. And from there, the speed of this story is set at break-neck.

There is very little breathing room in Goddard’s latest book. Cora is always in danger, even when she (and Kirk) believe they’ve avoided it. And I never knew who to trust, which makes the story that much more intense.

I loved that Kirk and Cora’s history and the doubt both had/have regarding a relationship is authentic, impactful, and relevant.

From the ocean diving to the threats on Farrow Island, Kirk’s one goal is to keep Cara safe. One that becomes more challenging as he tries to unravel the truth and all the players involved.

Disclosure statement:
I receive complimentary books 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.
Profile Image for Toth Jo-Ann.
675 reviews14 followers
March 27, 2019
I really enjoyed this story. Its about Cora Strand who has hidden her innerself, for she has never felt accepted. Then there is Kirk Higgins her ex who thought his family never thought he wasn't good enough for them. Hmm seems there is a theme going on there. It has alot of action in the story and it definitely has a few twists in it. It also has trust in it and it has deception in it. For people you should be able to trust turn around and decieve you as well. You will find yourself turning the pages trying to figure out who is the good guy and who is the bad guy. You might be surprised in the end. Its a great book and worth a read.
Profile Image for Glenda Parker.
Author 14 books21 followers
January 4, 2019
My review today is on the Love Inspired Suspense, Distress Signal. This is the third book in the Coldwater Bay Intrigue. I am a big fan of Elizabeth's work and I'm always thrilled when I get a copy of one of her books in the mail. This story is awesome; it's well written, action packed, and full of intrigue. Faith is interwoven throughout the book like a fine tapestry. You are going to love this book.

Shipwreck Archaeologist Cora Strand has her dream job. She is a part of a team that is researching equipment for finding and bringing up shipwrecks. She is on an underwater dive when she is attacked. One of the team, Kirk, finds her on the shore and saves her. She wakes up on her own bed on the ship with him at her side. She can't just lay there. She finds one of her team members dead. Did Kirk do it? She sees him sneaking out of the man's room. No one else seems to be here. She finds a bomb. Kirk gets her off the ship just as it explodes. Who is trying to kill her? Kirk is a man from her past, is he like his brother, a liar and a cheat? Why did he just hand her over to his brother and not fight for her?

Naval Criminal Investigative Service undercover agent Kirk Higgins is investigating drugs on the ship. Time is running out. He shouldn't have gone into Trip's room but someone had tried to kill Cora. He has loved her for years. She chose his brother but that didn't last long. He has to keep her safe and find out what is going on. How can he show her she can trust him?

A journey of two broken souls that belonged together. Satan had kept them apart but God has a plan for these two; a plan for a hope and a future. God has a plan for you too, a good plan and not for evil. Give Him your heart and watch Him move in your life.
Profile Image for Debora Wilder.
562 reviews2 followers
January 5, 2019
This is a thrilling romantic suspense novel!

I love both of the main characters! Kirk and Cora have come back into each others’ lives while they each carry baggage from how things ended before. They both have deep insecurities that they need to work through. I enjoyed reading their journeys and found it encouraging that they were both praying for God’s help.

The plot was filled with plenty of twists and heart-pounding action. There were a lot of secondary characters. One of the things that kept me guessing along with Kirk and Cora was the question of who were the good guys and who weren’t

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. I have chosen to write this review to express my personal opinion.

Disclaimer: *Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a copy of this book for free in the hope that I would mention/review it on my blog. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions 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.*
Profile Image for Antonio Stark.
326 reviews15 followers
August 24, 2023
It's more a web novel than a proper "novel" and it's the "feel good happily ever after" romance piece than anything more complicated. I picked it up because it was about scuba divers and military (the Naval Criminal Investigative Service) but the interest died at that. Even with the knowledge that I shouldn't have expected much from a publisher that only publishes romance novels (not that they're inherently bad - just that the plot and the ending is quite predictable) the narration was too "descriptive" of "who did this" "who felt that" that was sometimes annoying as it didn't allow me to be actually immersed in the book. The plot and characters sometimes didn't make any sense as it tried to pull the old tricks of "wow a male hero" "wow a helpless female protagonist." I honestly wouldn't have finished it if it wasn't so short.
877 reviews13 followers
January 24, 2019
Distress Signal
(Coldwater Bay Intrigue)
Elizabeth Goddard

Cora and Kirk find themselves thrown together again after years. This time though they have to trust each other in order to survive unknown killers who are going to extreme measures to snuff them out.
Whom do you trust? Are they friend or foe?
So many twists, turns, and surprises that keep you reading from beginning to end.
Intrigue, romance, betrayal, and courage all supported by faith.
Another great read in the Coldwater Bay Intrigue series.
Profile Image for Hannah.
2,753 reviews1,432 followers
February 14, 2025
This bay definitely has some issues with drug runners...of course, the family's likely going to do their level best to clean them up by the end of the series!

This is Cora's story. She's a diver and her ex-boyfriend has just joined the ship she's working on as an undercover investigator just before folks are murdered and the evidence blown up. They spend the rest of the book in a state of constant running, from one murder attempt to another, as they try to find out who's really behind the criminal enterprise.

Definitely will be wanting to reread this one day.
877 reviews13 followers
January 26, 2019
False Security
(Wilderness, Inc)
Elizabeth Goddard

Brother visits for first time in 3 years, disappears leaving a blood trail, someone shoots at you just as your long ago love shows up. Can anything else happen to make it worse? Better believe it!
Twists, turns, suspense, trust flow throughout this story as Olivia and Zach race against time to find Rich before whoever is after him kill all 3 and anyone else who gets in the way.
Couldn’t put it down until the end.
1,114 reviews7 followers
April 6, 2019
An exciting read. Lots of action and several twists and turns. Cora Strand, a shipwreck archaeologist, is attacked and the research boat she is on explodes, Kirk Higgins comes to her rescue. Years ago Kirk and she dated and left. Will Cora remember what happened under the sea and why someone tried to kill her? Will they eventually be successful? Will Kirk be able to keep her safe and discover what is going on? Who can they trust?
Profile Image for Melissa Henderson.
Author 8 books189 followers
December 24, 2018
A breathtaking, breath holding, fast paced, action story full of twists and turns and scary adventures. Each page had me thinking I had things figured out in the story, only to find another clue to what was happening. Great read. I received a complimentary copy of this story. This is my personal honest opinion. No review was required.
1,377 reviews15 followers
January 8, 2019
Cora hunts for sunken ships, he is an undercover NCIS agent. someone is out to kill her can he save her and still do his job? if you like suspense and romance you will want to read the book, it is well written and very good.
Profile Image for Susan.
393 reviews2 followers
January 30, 2019
This one just kept going! Such suspense and mystery it had me second guessing who was the culprit. I adore books like this that are page turners and keep me on the edge of my seat. This author never fails to deliver! Another bookshelf keeper.
974 reviews18 followers
March 23, 2019
I absolutely loved this book. It was full of suspense and had me guessing all the way. I fell in love with Cora and Kirk. I can't wait for the next book to come out. I was given a copy of the book by the publisher. This in no way had an influence on my review or my opinion of this book.
Profile Image for Melissa.
348 reviews32 followers
January 21, 2019
Distress Signal is the 3rd installment of the Coldwater Bay Intrigue series by Elizabeth Goddard. Like the first 2 books, this one doesn't disappoint. It starts off with shipwreck archeologist Cora Strand waking up to find that she has been rescued by undercover NCIS agent Kirk Higgins when an attempt on her life has been made. They have a history and a lot of unresolved feelings between them, but first they must figure out why someone is after Cora and who that someone is. This story certainly has it all. The moment I picked this book up, I couldn't put it down! Plan on reading it one sitting. It's an intense action-packed mystery with a dash of romance! Each will have to not live in the past so they can survive the present. Will Cora remember what happened to her right before Kirk found her? Will Kirk keep her alive while finding answers that he has been searching for on his own? Will they finally stop letting the past dictate what they both want? Read the book and find out! It's Christian suspense at it's best. It will be a wild ride that you will be so happy you got on!
Profile Image for Melmo2610.
3,480 reviews
January 27, 2019
3.5 stars. I liked the exciting moments and the parts that kept me guessing. It had a good ending. Looking forward to Quinn’s story.
Profile Image for Amanda.
620 reviews
March 23, 2019
The story is fast-paced and well-written and the plot has enough twists to keep you hooked! 4.5 ⭐️ highly recommended read
1,833 reviews4 followers
July 25, 2019
Wow

Action,action and more action,with some mystery,suspense and thrills thrown in.This one starts off fast and doesn't slow down.A really good read.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews

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