Cold Horizon

Pathway #2

by Kristy McCaffrey

What will it take to survive the Savage Mountain? Lindsey and Ty are about to find out.

Ambition and courage at the top of the world …

Lindsey Coulson likes to scale mountains. With her sister, Alison, she has made a name for herself climbing the tallest and most treacherous peaks in the world. But when Alison dies on a K2 expedition—the second highest mountain on earth—Lindsey stops climbing. Unable to shed her grief, it becomes clear she must return to the wilderness and only one place will do—K2, the Savage Mountain.

Tyler Galloway has finally secured a permit from the Pakistani government to bring an American team to K2. When Lindsey Coulson inquires about joining the expedition, he gladly brings the famed mountaineer on board. Her strong climbing resume precedes her, and she’ll be a welcome addition to the small crew he has assembled.

But K2 is a force unto itself, as is Lindsey. Both will test Ty’s limits. And both will test his heart.

A full-length novel of romance, high-stakes adventure, and suspense.

“Cold Horizon will grab you right out of the gate and keep you turning pages as fast as you can to keep up with the action and adventure and suspense! A spectacular story of determination, courage, and love.” ~ Ann Charles, USA Today Bestselling Author

“What a roller coaster ride! I highly recommend this book.” ~ Dixie Lee Brown, author of the Hearts of Valor series

“If you’re a fan of believable and emotionally gripping romance novels then this is one for you!” ~ Nen & Jen, bloggers

Each Pathway novel can be read as a stand-alone, but don’t miss the other books.

Book 1: Deep Blue (Dr. Grace Mann and Alec Galloway)
Book 2: Cold Horizon (Lindsey Coulson and Tyler Galloway)
Book 3: Ancient Winds (Dr. Tristan Magee and Brynn Galloway)

After reading the novels, enjoy these short stories in The Pathway Short Adventure Series:
Short 1: Deep Blue Australia
Short 2: Deep Blue Réunion Island
Short 3: Deep Blue Cocos Island
Short 4: Cold Horizon Telluride

Related novella:
Blue Sage (Dr. Audrey Driggs and Braden Delaney)

Genres: Contemporary, Romance, Adventure, Contemporary Romance, Sports, Action

338 pages, ebook

Published June 11, 2019

About the author

Kristy McCaffrey writes historical western romances brimming with grit and emotion, as well as romantic contemporary adventures. Her work is filled with smoldering romance, compelling heroes, determined heroines, and her trademark mysticism. Life is a wondrous endeavor, and she strives to bring that sense of awe and joy into the tales she weaves, along with in-depth research into settings and time periods. Kristy holds a bachelor's and master's degree in mechanical engineering, but writing has been her passion since she was very young.

Her first novel, The Wren, was a CAPA winner for Best New Author Traditional, a Texas Gold finalist, and a HOLT Medallion finalist for Best First Book. The Sparrow was a 2012 Winter Rose Winner. The Blackbird won the 2015 Laramie award for Best in Western Romance. Her contemporary adventure, Cold Horizon, was a 2021 National Excellence in Romance Fiction winner, and Ancient Winds was a 2022 HOLT Medallion finalist.

Kristy believes life should be lived with curiosity, compassion, and gratitude, and one should never be far from the enthusiasm of a dog. She also likes sleeping-in, eating Mexican food, and doing yoga at home in her pajamas. An Arizona native, she resides in the desert north of Phoenix with her husband and their rescue dog, Jeb. Sign up for Kristy's newsletter at http://kmccaffrey.com/subscribe/ to receive her latest book news as well as subscriber-only content.

Kristy is a member of Romance Writers of America and Novelists Inc.

Reviews

[InD'tale Magazine · Rating 5 out of 5]

The descriptions of the mountain as well as the logistics of the climb keep one on the edge of their seats and turning the pages. A must read for any lover of adventure laced with spicy romance!

Read full review in the 2019 September issue of InD'tale Magazine.

[Ann Charles · Rating 5 out of 5]

⁠⁠I’ve read Lindsey’s and Ty’s story (Cold Horizon ) twice now. The second time through it was as intense and suspenseful as the first, but I loved it even more because I could focus on visualizing the setting (after checking out images online of K2 and the various landmarks mentioned in the book); and I could enjoy the character development and the buildup to the climb along with Ty and his crew. Cold Horizon gripped me from the start and held me captive page after page. If you are a fan of adventure, action, suspense, and thrills mixed with a blend of spice and dare, you should check out Cold Horizon along with McCaffrey’s other stories in The Pathway Series. FIVE STARS and more for this book!

[Stories of Storm · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cold Horizon took me by complete surprise! While I had been expecting an emotionally-packed story from the premise, this book delivered that along with so much more. It had enough drama to keep me entertained and yet still toed the line of realism that kept me completely invested in the story until its end.

Lindsey's internal strength as a character was awe inspiring. The difficult loss of her sister Alison, in combination with scaling a mountain, K2, is not something for the faint of heart. What I truly enjoyed about Cold Horizon was that McCaffrey not only embraced Lindsey's sombre emotional outlook but built upon it with the romantic tension concerning Tyler. This created a believable character development arc for Lindsey's character and highlighted her inner strength in a way that was inspiring to read.

The inclusion of specific terminology and jargon concerning the expedition made this book seem incredibly well researched. I not only enjoyed the story but also learnt a thing or two about the processes involved in an expedition of this kind. I'm also pretty sure I'd never like to go on one personally - it seemed strenuous but to the characters ultimately rewarding.

If you're a fan of believable and emotionally gripping romance novels then this is one for you!

[Shalini · Rating 4 out of 5]

I may not be able to climb the small molehill, but I sure do enjoy the books which tell me the thrill and exhilaratiion that comes with climbing the unattainable mountain face, especially K2, the highest peak on earth. I am quite familiar with the terms used, so this book became an easy read. Add a thrilling story to it, and it is absolute nirvana.

Lindsey not only lost her sister Allison to K2 but her mojo to climb since the past 2 years. But when she got to know of the American group led by Ty on an expedition to climb K2, nothing could stop her. The story was her journey to the peak, if K2 cooperated

My first book by Kristy McCaffrey, and I felt right at home with this. I have to mention the mountain peak K2. To me, she was a living, breathing entity, totally in her glory with all her moods. Some days she was happy with a bright sun and gentle breeze. And then something would awaken her darkness with biting cold winds and avalanches. Knowing how to estimate her moods and understanding when to climb or retreat was what made the characters in this book seasoned players. I loved every line written in the honor of this peak.

Kristy made the thrill come alive. Her writing allowed me to envision every word of the story. There was an additional mystery of what happened on the day when her sister was lost. Romance was also found on the slopes, which was just a facet of the story. Kristy concentrated more on the realities of a climb and the vagaries of nature. These mountaineers were quite a different lot. They faced injuries along with altitude sickness, but their indomitable spirit could not be dampened. They also knew when to quit.

I would be slightly greedy at this point and say I wanted a bit more mystery and thrill weaved into this action adventure thriller. That would uplift it more, for me.

This book would translate into a vidid movie as the imagery was powerful, the characters strong, the setting authentic, and the climb so very exhilarating. I think I would be watching such a movie with my heart in my throat. Read the story and see the prose come alive with Kristy McCaffrey's words.

[TJ · Rating 5 out of 5]

Yikes! This was a surprise treasure! Partly because the subject of mountain climbing didn’t even interest me going in. I only picked up the book because I was checking out a few of the RONE award finalists. Otherwise I doubt I ever would have given it a try. Man, am I glad I did! The author did a spectacular job of plopping the reader right into the middle of the extreme experience of climbing K2, the second highest, but by far the most difficult, mountain in the world.

I not only read on the edge of my seat through the majority of the book but was amazed at how much I learned without even realizing it. And, I turned that last page with a whole new appreciation for the men and women who are crazy enough to climb mountains. They are an amazing breed - one I wouldn’t even dream of wanting to be like.

[Shirl · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cold Horizon was a great read. I couldn't stop reading. It is full of adventure, holding your breath moments. I never knew anything about mountain climbing and this story was very informative and exciting to read. I like the relationships between the different climbers and different personalities. Well written.

[Margaret Watkins · Rating 5 out of 5]

One hears about mountaineering teams reaching the summit of a peak in the news, but very seldom do we have any idea of what makes a climb possible. The plot of this story is suspenseful, enlightening, adventurous and romantic. It also spells out the reality of the risks taken by climbers to reach the summit, the dangers, the loss of life and the interpersonal relationships. This novel is incredibly well written and left me feeling partly horrified that anyone would subject themselves to such an ordeal and yet amazed at the endurance of the human spirit. Ty is a strong and respectful leader of his team and despite his attraction to Lindsey even before she sought him out in her quest to conquer K2, he proves himself to be a caring and considerate lover. Knowing that the dynamics of the team depend on mutual respect, Lindsey is also careful not to show her feelings too strongly. Unlike other teams that they met along the way, Ty's group stand together, despite their different personalities and they make allowances for one another. Each had a part to play, even the jester of the group who continually lifted the spirits of the team. I closed this book with a feeling of awe and respect for those who have pursued their dreams, and even more so for those who are left behind. I received this book for free from eBook Discovery. I voluntarily post this review. This is my honest review.

[Tksurfer · Rating 5 out of 5]

As an avid reader—2, sometimes 4 books a week—I love it when a book grabs me, twists me, and holds me to the very end, although when I started Cold Horizon, Kristy McCaffrey’s awesomely researched novel about sumiting K2, arguably the most dangerous peak in the world, I had to step past one fact....I don’t like even the idea of mountain climbing, especially the cold.

But, along with Lindsay’s search to resolve her sister’s death and her drive to reach the top of K2, I was into it for the climb, and especially the inescapable romance between Lindsay and team leader Ty Galloway.

Cold Horizon will introduce you to the essence of mountain climbing, surprise you with its ascents and descents, and leave you literally hanging, as on a mountain cliff, while Lindsay and Ty reach to find each other, and stand on top of the world, in love, together.

Just like an epic mountain, Cold Horizon is more than worth the effort; and like a nearly insurmountable mountain, the book will lift you to new heights.

[Rachel Hartmann · Rating 5 out of 5]

I didn’t think I would love book 2 in the Pathways series as much as the first one because my beloved great white’s aren’t in it but I was wrong! I loved Cold Horizon! The research and details in this book make it 5 stars! I felt like I was in the story. The adventures in the series are so exciting, I cannot wait to see what kind of adventure awaits in book 3!

[Sara Williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

Vicarious Adventure

I appreciated the details since I am not a climber, and it made the adventure very realistic. Tells a very interesting and believable story of determination and commitment, love and loss. Enjoyed it and recommend..

[Judy Esposito · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cold Horizon!

I had no idea if I would like a book about mountain climbing, but I knew I loved and enjoyed anything Kristy McCaffrey wrote, so I downloaded it to read. Well let me tell ya, I found it hard to put this book down. I was drawn very quickly into the world of mountain climbing, the hardships of the climb, the excitement of reaching the top, and the sadness when someone didn't make it safely off the mountain. I loved the characters, each one perfect in their parts, and I came to care about each one. Well written as I come to expect from this author, it was a fantastic read. I'm afraid of heights, but she had me climbing that mountain with my heart in my throat, afraid to look down as I followed alongside each climber. Add the romance and the suspense woven throughout the storyline, I was happy that out all the books on my tbr list, I bought this one to travel to another place and adventure. Highly recommended. JudyE

[Andrea · Rating 3 out of 5]

Well written and fun quick read. Can't believe the detail about mountain climbing from someone who doesn't climb! It was written so fluidly!

[Jane Hunt · Rating 5 out of 5]

After reading 'Deep Blue' the first book in the Pathway series, I looked forward to reading book two, 'Cold Horizon', and it is just as adrenaline-fuelled, believable and emotional as the first book. The second book is a standalone read, although characters from the first book are mentioned, this is Lindsey and Tyler's adventure.

Tyler is an adventure writer, surfer and mountain climber, and Lindsey, a dedicated climber too, has to be on his next expedition, to climb the savage mountain K2. Not because she wants to conquer it, but to try and assuage the crippling grief of her sister's death. They always climbed together, this time they didn't and Alison didn't come back.

Beginning with a climbing incident, the book backtracks to the beginning of the climb. The details are well-researched, and make the story interesting. Add in the believable personalities of the various climbers, and it is impossible not to be drawn into their adventure. I've never understood why people endanger themselves to climb mountains, but now I do.

The dynamic between the climbers making up Lindsey and Tyler's team is authentic, and the characters realistic. The camaraderie between the different climbing teams, wars with their rivalry, making this story, an insightful study of human nature, as they take on the elemental forces around them.

The developing romance between Lindsey and Tyler gives the story a romantic edge. The setting is dynamic and forbidding and full of vivid imagery. The writing style engages you from the first page, and takes you on a wild, emotional adventure, to the edge of the abyss and back. Lindsey's emotional and physical journey is difficult, as she faces her guilt and finds inner peace with her sister's fate.

I received a copy of this book from the author in return for an honest review.

[Jessica Belmont · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed Deep Blue, so I could not wait to read Cold Horizon! Krist McCaffrey knows how to create atmosphere. Cold Horizon explores mountain climbing, particularly, climbing K2, which is the highest peak on Earth. Whoa. I’m no mountain climber – I’m terrified of heights…so this novel had me holding my breath!

Similarly to Deep Blue, it’s clear Kristy McCaffrey did her research, because this felt super realistic. I love the descriptions and the plot line. The thrill was wonderful and I really enjoyed the mystery as well.

One thing that impresses me about Kristy McCaffrey’s writing is that while the romance is there and it’s important, it doesn’t take away fromt he rest of the novel. Climbing a mountain face such as K2 is likely going to come with some ups and downs and it was nice to see how realistic the plotline was.

I enjoyed Cold Horizon quite a bit and I would definitely recommend it!

*I received a complimentary copy of this book as part of a blog tour with Love Books Group. All opinions are my own.*

Find this review and more on my blog: https://www.jessicabelmont.wordpress.com

[Christy Hancock · Rating 4 out of 5]

A K2 of adventure, heartbreak and more

I find mountain climbing fascinating, however I have never had the desire to do it or to learn the dynamics of it. For this reason I struggled with this book at first and second guessed finishing. A large part, I'll say the first 12 or so chapters gives us more of the workings of a climb and no real meat of the actual story. I know we need to know that to an extent but for a fictional read, for me, it was just overdone. Once this story picked up though, I was engrossed with the characters and their story. From midway on it was a fast read for me, hard to put down. Reading the ending of the story came with a sense of melancholy that it was over. I would think that having overcome something of that magnitude would forever establish a brother/sisterhood with those that you experienced it with. The thought of them going their separate ways made my heart heart. I felt as if I'd been on this adventure with them and in a way I guess I have. That is the sign of a good book.

[Dixie Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an amazing book. I'm not usually captivated by outdoor winter-time activities, especially high-risk ones, so I was surprised when this story grabbed ahold of me, placing me at 24,500 ft. in waist deep snow and freezing temperatures, climbing dangerous mountains alongside characters obsessed with exactly that. I was breathless when they couldn't get enough oxygen in the thin air. I pulled for every one of the well-developed, unique, strong characters, especially Lindsay Coulson, who was nothing short of inspirational. To the last page, I was terrified they weren't going to make it. What a roller coaster ride! If you're looking for high adventure and non-stop action with a little romance thrown in, I highly recommend this book.

[Deb Diem · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cold Horizon is a contemporary romance by Kristy McCaffrey. Ms. McCaffrey has delivered a well-written book. The characters in this story are outstanding. Lindsey and her sister always climbed together. After the death of their mentor, Lindsey didn’t want to climb K2, where her sister died. She’s now ready for K2 and asks Tyler if she could join his group. Lindsey and Tyler’s story is loaded with drama, humor, action, suspense and sizzle. I enjoyed this book but I now know way more than I ever wanted to know about professional mountain climbing. Cold Horizon is book 2 of The Pathway Series but can be read as a standalone. This is a complete book, not a cliff-hanger.

I voluntarily read a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Dawn · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book! So well written, even if I didn’t understand all the technical mountain climbing stuff. But the author made the climb come alive for me. The love story was also believable to me. Not too rushed. Not too graphic.

[Julia David · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a real page turner. Lots of action, adventure and suspense. I liked most of the characters. There were a couple that were easy to dislike. Lindsay was born with the mountain climbing gene. Her father died climbing a mountain and just two years before, her sister died on K2. Now Lindsey is looking for an introduction to Ty so she can ask to be a part of the team he is putting together to climb K2. There are several teams and a lot of different personalities. Ty is excited to have Lindsey on his team. He has had his eye on her for quite a while. She and her sister had made a name for themselves in the climbing community. K2 tends to chew people up and spit them out. How many of their team will come back?

[Laurie Gommermann · Rating 5 out of 5]

Enter the fascinating world of extreme mountain climbing! Experience the mental anguish and feel the physical pain, as you join Ty and Lindsey's team's trek to reach K2's summit. You'll deal with ever changing variables: extreme temps, unpredictable weather, challenging terrain, individual' s personalities and abilities . The challenges you’ll face may seem overwhelming. Will you survive? Will you succeed? I encourage you to go on this journey. It was an eye opening experience for this mountaineering virgin. l can't wait to read the next book, COLD HORIZON TELLURIDE.

[Mary Carlisle · Rating 3 out of 5]

Missing something

Although I couldn't give enough praises for Book 1, this one was different. It got off to a slow and confusing start and never gained (my) interest for the duration.... and I have done a lot of climbing, high altitude as well as rock and ice. But it was still a good read in.my opinion. So I will give the 3rd book a try and the decision maker.

[Zandro · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is fantastic! I felt like I was really up there on K2. I like the emotional depth of all the characters. Gripping storyline that keeps me on edge. Love it! I received this book for free from eBook Discovery. I voluntarily review this book. This is my honest review.

[Elizabeth Lloyd · Rating 4 out of 5]

Riveting

Even though I know little about climbing the story was written for those like me to understand. I'd only make one change to let Friske survive. It kept me reading, well done!!

[Coco.V]

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[Laura Love · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good combination of atmosphere, technical details, and romance. I actually got cold reading about the conditions at high altitude. I could have done without the open-door intimacy, though.

[Bollydarling · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely loved this. Felt really drawn in to the experience on the mountain. The romance element was well balanced with the plot.

[Tiffanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Adventure and romance

Love her books. They are interesting, adventurous and full of romance. Good solid storylines that make you feel part of that world.

[Didi Ps · Rating 3 out of 5]

Interesting premise, but it wasn't my style of book...

I got this book as an ARC, free as part of New England Readers' Choice Awards.