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FBI: Houston #1
Firewall
After a whirlwind romance, Taryn Young is preparing to board a plane at Houston International Airport, bound for a dream honeymoon, when a bomb decimates the terminal. Injured but still alive, she awakens to discover her husband is missing and they're both considered prime suspects in the attack. Further, the FBI is convinced her husband isn't who he appears to be.Agent Grayson Hall's number-one priority is to catch those responsible for the day's act of terror. All evidence is pointing to Taryn and her new husband. But his instinct tells him her pleas of innocence are genuine. Is her naivete just for show, or could she truly be another victim of a master scheme, possibly linked to the software she recently developed for her company?With both their lives and reputations on the line, and the media outcry for justice increasing with each passing minute, Taryn and Grayson have no choice but to trust one another . . . and pray they can uncover the truth before they become two more casualties.
391 pages, Paperback
First published June 20, 2014
453 people are currently reading
1878 people want to read
About the author
DiAnn Mills
128 books1,971 followersDiAnn Mills is a bestselling author who invites her readers to step into stories where suspense meets adventure and romance warms the heart. Known for crafting unforgettable characters tangled in unpredictable plots, DiAnn believes every breath we take unfolds a story waiting to be told—so why not make it thrilling?
Her novels have consistently landed on bestseller lists including CBA, ECPA, and Publishers Weekly, and have won prestigious awards such as the Christy, Selah, Golden Scroll, Inspirational Readers’ Choice, and Carol awards.
DiAnn is a founding board member of American Christian Fiction Writers and Conference Advisor for the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers. She actively participates in Advanced Writers and Speakers Association, Mystery Writers of America, the Jerry Jenkins Writers Guild, International Thriller Writers, Outliers Writing University, and The Christian Pen. DiAnn passionately invests in helping fellow authors succeed through mentoring, book coaching, and editing. She travels nationwide speaking and teaching engaging writing workshops.
A proud coffee snob who roasts her own beans, DiAnn also enjoys diving into good books, experimenting in the kitchen, and unabashedly spoiling her grandchildren—whom she insists are the smartest kids in the universe. She and her husband make their home under the sunny skies of Houston, Texas.
Connect with DiAnn online for behind-the-scenes glimpses, writing tips, and lively discussions on any of the following social media platforms:
Website: https://diannmills.com/
Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/diann...
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/diannmills
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/diannmillsa...
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/diannmills/
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/diannmills/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/diannmills
X: https://twitter.com/diannmills
Her novels have consistently landed on bestseller lists including CBA, ECPA, and Publishers Weekly, and have won prestigious awards such as the Christy, Selah, Golden Scroll, Inspirational Readers’ Choice, and Carol awards.
DiAnn is a founding board member of American Christian Fiction Writers and Conference Advisor for the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers. She actively participates in Advanced Writers and Speakers Association, Mystery Writers of America, the Jerry Jenkins Writers Guild, International Thriller Writers, Outliers Writing University, and The Christian Pen. DiAnn passionately invests in helping fellow authors succeed through mentoring, book coaching, and editing. She travels nationwide speaking and teaching engaging writing workshops.
A proud coffee snob who roasts her own beans, DiAnn also enjoys diving into good books, experimenting in the kitchen, and unabashedly spoiling her grandchildren—whom she insists are the smartest kids in the universe. She and her husband make their home under the sunny skies of Houston, Texas.
Connect with DiAnn online for behind-the-scenes glimpses, writing tips, and lively discussions on any of the following social media platforms:
Website: https://diannmills.com/
Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/diann...
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/diannmills
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/diannmillsa...
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/diannmills/
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/diannmills/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/diannmills
X: https://twitter.com/diannmills
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 334 reviews
April 10, 2015
Software developer Taryn Young has just become Mrs Francis Shepherd after a whirlwind courtship. She is about to board a plane with Shep for their island honeymoon when a bomb rips through the airport, and Taryn wakes up in hospital to find she and Shep are the prime suspects.
FBI Special Agent Grayson Hall has been assigned to interview Taryn to find the truth behind the fatal bombing. He and his partner are initially convinced she is guilty, but while she manages to convince them of her innocence, it soon becomes apparent that Shep is intimately involved in the crime. As the investigation progresses, Greyson finds himself developing feelings for Taryn.
There is something slightly ‘off’ about a romance plot in which one of the partners has only recently come out of a serious relationship (as in, serious enough that she married the guy). Even as teenagers we understood that rebound relationships never work, and while I’ve read some excellent novels about second relationships (Somebody Like You by Beth Vogt springs to mind), Firewall is not one of them.
Taryn’s emotions towards Grayson felt more like a bizarre kind of Stockholm Syndrome than real caring, and I didn’t think her naïve genius-level IT geek came across well (Ted Dekker’s Hacker on the other hand … brilliant). Bluntly, I found it difficult to care for her as a character. She felt more like a mash-up of clichés than a real person. Yes, I know this is fiction, but the beauty of great fiction is it makes me feel like I’m reading about real people. Firewall didn’t.
Despite the relative failings of the romance, the suspense side of the plot was definitely up to standard. It was chilling to watch the FBI investigation progress and see how thoroughly Taryn had been duped, and Mills did an excellent job in that I never saw Taryn as stupid or naïve (let’s face it, even the most intelligent of women can make bad choices in marriage, Christian or not). The finale was excellent, as it pulled of a huge plot twist that tied up all the ends of the suspense plot. However, this was not enough to squelch my ‘yuk’ factor around the ‘romance’ side of the plot. Firewall is not a book I’ll be rereading.
Thanks to Tyndale and NetGalley for providing a free ebook for review.
FBI Special Agent Grayson Hall has been assigned to interview Taryn to find the truth behind the fatal bombing. He and his partner are initially convinced she is guilty, but while she manages to convince them of her innocence, it soon becomes apparent that Shep is intimately involved in the crime. As the investigation progresses, Greyson finds himself developing feelings for Taryn.
There is something slightly ‘off’ about a romance plot in which one of the partners has only recently come out of a serious relationship (as in, serious enough that she married the guy). Even as teenagers we understood that rebound relationships never work, and while I’ve read some excellent novels about second relationships (Somebody Like You by Beth Vogt springs to mind), Firewall is not one of them.
Taryn’s emotions towards Grayson felt more like a bizarre kind of Stockholm Syndrome than real caring, and I didn’t think her naïve genius-level IT geek came across well (Ted Dekker’s Hacker on the other hand … brilliant). Bluntly, I found it difficult to care for her as a character. She felt more like a mash-up of clichés than a real person. Yes, I know this is fiction, but the beauty of great fiction is it makes me feel like I’m reading about real people. Firewall didn’t.
Despite the relative failings of the romance, the suspense side of the plot was definitely up to standard. It was chilling to watch the FBI investigation progress and see how thoroughly Taryn had been duped, and Mills did an excellent job in that I never saw Taryn as stupid or naïve (let’s face it, even the most intelligent of women can make bad choices in marriage, Christian or not). The finale was excellent, as it pulled of a huge plot twist that tied up all the ends of the suspense plot. However, this was not enough to squelch my ‘yuk’ factor around the ‘romance’ side of the plot. Firewall is not a book I’ll be rereading.
Thanks to Tyndale and NetGalley for providing a free ebook for review.
July 27, 2015
I enjoyed reading Firewall. It was an exciting story and kept my interest. I really did like these characters and thought the book kept up a nice, quick pace. There seemed to always be something happening, or a new piece of information being discovered.
My favorite parts of the story involved the mystery running through the book. There were multiple villains and it was not until the very end of the book that all of my questions were answered. The author completely floored me with the twists and turns the story took and with the ultimate “bad guy reveal”!
I also enjoyed the romance. It could be argued that Taryn is falling into another quick relationship, like the whirlwind courtship before her marriage. I don’t think it was unreasonable in this setting for Taryn and Grayson to develop feelings for each other and with Taryn’s lack of much romantic background, she might be susceptible to falling for another man quickly.
Two things required me to “suspend reality” and just enjoy the story, but they were minor as they related to my enjoyment of reading an exciting suspense novel. First, Taryn has a fairly monumental conversion from atheist to believer. Not unheard of, but she does become very solidly focused and knowledgeable about God quickly. Second, the villains seemed to be “super villains”. The various bad guys had everything covered and planned out, always seeming to outsmart the good guys. They were just so good at what they did! It was hard for me to believe that they could always be so many steps ahead of the FBI and Taryn. But, then again, it made the story very exciting and unpredictable.
This was my first book by DiAnn Mills and it will definitely not be my last. It was an exciting and engaging story.
You can read my review on the Suspense Sisters review page:
http://suspensesistersreviews.blogspo...
My favorite parts of the story involved the mystery running through the book. There were multiple villains and it was not until the very end of the book that all of my questions were answered. The author completely floored me with the twists and turns the story took and with the ultimate “bad guy reveal”!
I also enjoyed the romance. It could be argued that Taryn is falling into another quick relationship, like the whirlwind courtship before her marriage. I don’t think it was unreasonable in this setting for Taryn and Grayson to develop feelings for each other and with Taryn’s lack of much romantic background, she might be susceptible to falling for another man quickly.
Two things required me to “suspend reality” and just enjoy the story, but they were minor as they related to my enjoyment of reading an exciting suspense novel. First, Taryn has a fairly monumental conversion from atheist to believer. Not unheard of, but she does become very solidly focused and knowledgeable about God quickly. Second, the villains seemed to be “super villains”. The various bad guys had everything covered and planned out, always seeming to outsmart the good guys. They were just so good at what they did! It was hard for me to believe that they could always be so many steps ahead of the FBI and Taryn. But, then again, it made the story very exciting and unpredictable.
This was my first book by DiAnn Mills and it will definitely not be my last. It was an exciting and engaging story.
You can read my review on the Suspense Sisters review page:
http://suspensesistersreviews.blogspo...
July 28, 2014
A book comes along only once in a while that excites you and keeps you on the edge of your seat…Firewall is absolutely one of those books!!!
Literally at the end of almost every chapter I was like “oh, my gosh!”
Who puts their characters through this much torture? Diann Mills- that’s who!
Seriously, the book starts with a bang and doesn’t let up. I really liked Taryn from the beginning- with everything she is going through, everything that’s being tossed her way, she is such a strong heroine…I LUV her!
I really didn’t know which of the other characters to trust, who was being honest, who was lying, who was on her side, who was against her and I loved being taken on the wild ride with her, trying to unravel the mystery of it all.
If you are a fan of high action, suspense do not miss Firewall!!!
***THIS IS ONE OF MY 2014 FAVES***
Literally at the end of almost every chapter I was like “oh, my gosh!”
Who puts their characters through this much torture? Diann Mills- that’s who!
Seriously, the book starts with a bang and doesn’t let up. I really liked Taryn from the beginning- with everything she is going through, everything that’s being tossed her way, she is such a strong heroine…I LUV her!
I really didn’t know which of the other characters to trust, who was being honest, who was lying, who was on her side, who was against her and I loved being taken on the wild ride with her, trying to unravel the mystery of it all.
If you are a fan of high action, suspense do not miss Firewall!!!
***THIS IS ONE OF MY 2014 FAVES***
August 26, 2017
After a whirlwind romance, Taryn Young is preparing to board a plane at Houston International Airport, bound for a dream honeymoon, when a bomb decimates the terminal. Injured but still alive, she awakens to discover her husband is missing and they’re both considered prime suspects in the attack. Further, the FBI is convinced her husband isn’t who he appears to be. Agent Grayson Hall’s number-one priority is to catch those responsible for the day’s act of terror. With both their lives and reputations on the line, and the media outcry for justice increasing with each passing minute, Taryn and Grayson have no choice but to trust one another . . . and pray they can uncover the truth before they become two more casualties.
DiAnn Mills suspense novels never disappoint. This one maintains her mastery of crime suspense from start to finish keeping me up reading past my bedtime. The characters, both major and minor, are complex and well-developed. Taryn is the typical genius geek who is trying hard to learn to relate to other people and come out of her self-imposed isolation. Grayson is a hard-working, caring FBI agent who has his own past to deal with. The bad guys are typical of today's evil that poses itself around the world. My favorite part was her interaction with the stray dog, Buddy, and how he appears just when she needed him. Light Christian thread included.
Recommended for those that like Irene Hannon and Lisa Harris.
DiAnn Mills suspense novels never disappoint. This one maintains her mastery of crime suspense from start to finish keeping me up reading past my bedtime. The characters, both major and minor, are complex and well-developed. Taryn is the typical genius geek who is trying hard to learn to relate to other people and come out of her self-imposed isolation. Grayson is a hard-working, caring FBI agent who has his own past to deal with. The bad guys are typical of today's evil that poses itself around the world. My favorite part was her interaction with the stray dog, Buddy, and how he appears just when she needed him. Light Christian thread included.
Recommended for those that like Irene Hannon and Lisa Harris.
April 18, 2018
3.5 stars.
Yikes, this was intense! Lots of crazy twists and turns, and action scenes. The main reason I docked a few stars was the main characters. I just felt very "Meh" about them the whole time. They felt flat. I actually liked the background characters (JOE!) better than the MCs.
Overall, I did enjoy the story, and finished this in less than a day. Mills' writing style is very engaging and definitely keeps you on the edge of your seat.
CONTENT: Recommended for ages 16+ for mature themes and violence.
Yikes, this was intense! Lots of crazy twists and turns, and action scenes. The main reason I docked a few stars was the main characters. I just felt very "Meh" about them the whole time. They felt flat. I actually liked the background characters (JOE!) better than the MCs.
Overall, I did enjoy the story, and finished this in less than a day. Mills' writing style is very engaging and definitely keeps you on the edge of your seat.
CONTENT: Recommended for ages 16+ for mature themes and violence.
June 4, 2015
Wow, talk about a book that keeps you guessing! I never saw the big reveal coming and never guessed who the mastermind-villain was. Quite a shock. There's nonstop action, twist after twist, and plenty of danger to the plucky heroine. Add to it a strong representation of Christian faith, as her troubles draw her to consider her need for a personal God Who cares what happens to her.
I've already got book two on hold at the library and am eager for a chance to read it!
I've already got book two on hold at the library and am eager for a chance to read it!
July 2, 2017
What a ride! This book is full of twisty-turny...twists and turns, actually. And I loved getting to read a book set in my area.
My gut reaction was to rate this book a 4. So, I did. So when you read my nit-pickiness here in a bit, know that overall, I truly did enjoy the book. **edit** The more I remembered, the more I realized that I should knock off another star for some things I forgot until I delved further into it, and went back to the beginning.
I genuinely liked Grayson and Taryn. And who COULDN'T love Joe???? Tell me this. He was absolute GEM of a character. The level of detail in this mystery was truly amazing, and I loved how Mills referenced that Grayson and his team were a small part in solving the crime. So many times I read suspense novels that has a small group of people that seem to solve a huge case, when really, there are sooo many people "off set", as it were, working multiple angles of it. I must admit to catching on to the final plot twist about halfway through the book, but I couldn't figure out how it was going to be revealed, so it didn't detract from the suspense. At any rate, it was a good, engrossing read. I hesitate to go into too much detail here, as there's just SO MUCH to this book. I don't want to give much away.
Ok, so here's me being on the picky side.
First of all, there are some references and content that could make some younger inspirational fiction readers uncomfortable, as well as language that made ME uncomfortable at times, so heads up on that.
Second, there are A LOT of abbreviations with zero explanation. I still don't know some of what she was talking about. There were also several sentences that I read, re-read, and re-read again, because I couldn't figure out what she meant. The tenses would mix, and sometimes I couldn't tell if she was talking about one thing, or two separate things. Anyway, there were several moments that left me thoroughly confused as to what she meant.
Ok, last thing. SOMEONE FINALLY SAYS SOMEONE HAS TYPE 1 DIABETES. Like, specifically TYPE 1. And mentioned how he required insulin. Which is awesome, 'cause #advocacy. Except then he didn't take care of himself, and was obese. He had other issues too, but they are immaterial to my discussion. The thing is, I DO give props to Mills for not saying he had diabetes due to his weight. Yay! Unfortunately, most people automatically make that connection, and it serves to perpetuate a stereotype that we, as people with type 1, are trying to eradicate from public mindset. She didn't state anything incorrect...it's just an inference I know that a lot of people make. Because we hear the comments. And it's old.
*sighs* I just wish that an author would portray someone with type 1 as a productive, healthy person, because we CAN be that (aside from our lazy pancreases). I know, I know. I should write something. But if authors would just...either do a little more research, or just leave it out..
My gut reaction was to rate this book a 4. So, I did. So when you read my nit-pickiness here in a bit, know that overall, I truly did enjoy the book. **edit** The more I remembered, the more I realized that I should knock off another star for some things I forgot until I delved further into it, and went back to the beginning.
I genuinely liked Grayson and Taryn. And who COULDN'T love Joe???? Tell me this. He was absolute GEM of a character. The level of detail in this mystery was truly amazing, and I loved how Mills referenced that Grayson and his team were a small part in solving the crime. So many times I read suspense novels that has a small group of people that seem to solve a huge case, when really, there are sooo many people "off set", as it were, working multiple angles of it. I must admit to catching on to the final plot twist about halfway through the book, but I couldn't figure out how it was going to be revealed, so it didn't detract from the suspense. At any rate, it was a good, engrossing read. I hesitate to go into too much detail here, as there's just SO MUCH to this book. I don't want to give much away.
Ok, so here's me being on the picky side.
First of all, there are some references and content that could make some younger inspirational fiction readers uncomfortable, as well as language that made ME uncomfortable at times, so heads up on that.
Second, there are A LOT of abbreviations with zero explanation. I still don't know some of what she was talking about. There were also several sentences that I read, re-read, and re-read again, because I couldn't figure out what she meant. The tenses would mix, and sometimes I couldn't tell if she was talking about one thing, or two separate things. Anyway, there were several moments that left me thoroughly confused as to what she meant.
Ok, last thing. SOMEONE FINALLY SAYS SOMEONE HAS TYPE 1 DIABETES. Like, specifically TYPE 1. And mentioned how he required insulin. Which is awesome, 'cause #advocacy. Except then he didn't take care of himself, and was obese. He had other issues too, but they are immaterial to my discussion. The thing is, I DO give props to Mills for not saying he had diabetes due to his weight. Yay! Unfortunately, most people automatically make that connection, and it serves to perpetuate a stereotype that we, as people with type 1, are trying to eradicate from public mindset. She didn't state anything incorrect...it's just an inference I know that a lot of people make. Because we hear the comments. And it's old.
*sighs* I just wish that an author would portray someone with type 1 as a productive, healthy person, because we CAN be that (aside from our lazy pancreases). I know, I know. I should write something. But if authors would just...either do a little more research, or just leave it out..
February 23, 2016
About this book:
“In a matter of minutes, Taryn Young’s happily ever after turns into her waking nightmare.
After a whirlwind romance, software developer Taryn Young is en rote to a dream honeymoon when a bomb decimates the terminal, killing dozens. Injured, she awakens in the hospital to discover her husband is missing, and they're both considered prime suspects in the attack. Further, the FBI is convinced her husband isn't who he appears to be.
Agent Grayson Hall's first priority is to catch those responsible for the bombing. Despite the evidence pointing Taryn’s guilt, Grayson’s gut tells him she’s innocent…and in danger. With a possible mole in the FBI office, Grayson and Taryn fight to stay ahead of her pursuers, especially when they learn what the bombers are really after: Taryn’s latest high-security software project. In the wrong hands, it could leave the US vulnerable to massive attacks.
With national security on the line, Taryn and Grayson must unravel the plot and find the architect before their firewall is breached.”
Series: Book 1 in the new series “FBI: Houston”. {The next book “Double Cross” is coming out in April of 2015.}
Spiritual Content- Taryn says she was a “Once-a-Month believer”, only going to Claire’s Messianic church once a month; Grayson is Protestant; Prayers.
Negative Content- Minor and Medium Cussing including: an unfinished ‘b----‘ (written just like that), a ‘cr*p’, a b*ll’, a ‘crude’, a p*ss*nts, a ‘h*ll-r*isin’’, and two ‘suck it up’s; The sayings “All h*ll broke loose”, “crawing up your r*ar”, and “p*ts of h*ll” are all said at least once; People curse & almost curse but it’s not written; Drinking; a little girl gets kidnapped (not in her P.O.V. but is semi-detailed)
Sexual Content- two ‘s*xy’s; A few not-detailed kisses; Taryn blushes remembering her and Shep’s wedding night (no-details); Different people says “such slept with such” (like Taryn says Kinsley slept with Haden); Taryn says when she was three, quote, “My mother found me standing in her bathroom sink rummaging through her medicine cabinet. I’d eaten all if her birth control pills.” “What did you do?” “Had my stomach pumped. I’ve been hormonal ever since”; Taryn had to flirt with Murford to get him to talk; Iris knows she’s pretty & uses it to her advantage.
-Taryn Young
-Grayson Hall
P.O.V. switches between them & Iris {though, Taryn & Grayson is in third person while Iris is in first.}
390 pages
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Pre Teens- One Star
New Teens- One Star
Early High School Teens- Two Stars
Older High School Teens- Two Stars (and a half)
My personal Rating- Two Stars
**The cover?! Taryn described with having auburn hair with green eyes—not black hair with blue eyes! Maybe that’s supposed to be Iris? That’s the only thing I can figure. Also, Grayson is a blonde…? Maybe that’s Shep? I don’t know…
While I thought this book was okay, and I liked where it was set {but not really, ‘cause when I think about it and all that happens, it’s way too close to some of my family} this would not be a book for teens, it’s pretty rough.
Link to review:
http://booksforchristiangirls.blogspo...
*BFCG may (Read the review to see) recommend this book by this author. It does not mean I recommend all the books by this author.
*I received this book for free from the Publisher (Tyndale Publishers) for this review.
“In a matter of minutes, Taryn Young’s happily ever after turns into her waking nightmare.
After a whirlwind romance, software developer Taryn Young is en rote to a dream honeymoon when a bomb decimates the terminal, killing dozens. Injured, she awakens in the hospital to discover her husband is missing, and they're both considered prime suspects in the attack. Further, the FBI is convinced her husband isn't who he appears to be.
Agent Grayson Hall's first priority is to catch those responsible for the bombing. Despite the evidence pointing Taryn’s guilt, Grayson’s gut tells him she’s innocent…and in danger. With a possible mole in the FBI office, Grayson and Taryn fight to stay ahead of her pursuers, especially when they learn what the bombers are really after: Taryn’s latest high-security software project. In the wrong hands, it could leave the US vulnerable to massive attacks.
With national security on the line, Taryn and Grayson must unravel the plot and find the architect before their firewall is breached.”
Series: Book 1 in the new series “FBI: Houston”. {The next book “Double Cross” is coming out in April of 2015.}
Spiritual Content- Taryn says she was a “Once-a-Month believer”, only going to Claire’s Messianic church once a month; Grayson is Protestant; Prayers.
Negative Content- Minor and Medium Cussing including: an unfinished ‘b----‘ (written just like that), a ‘cr*p’, a b*ll’, a ‘crude’, a p*ss*nts, a ‘h*ll-r*isin’’, and two ‘suck it up’s; The sayings “All h*ll broke loose”, “crawing up your r*ar”, and “p*ts of h*ll” are all said at least once; People curse & almost curse but it’s not written; Drinking; a little girl gets kidnapped (not in her P.O.V. but is semi-detailed)
Sexual Content- two ‘s*xy’s; A few not-detailed kisses; Taryn blushes remembering her and Shep’s wedding night (no-details); Different people says “such slept with such” (like Taryn says Kinsley slept with Haden); Taryn says when she was three, quote, “My mother found me standing in her bathroom sink rummaging through her medicine cabinet. I’d eaten all if her birth control pills.” “What did you do?” “Had my stomach pumped. I’ve been hormonal ever since”; Taryn had to flirt with Murford to get him to talk; Iris knows she’s pretty & uses it to her advantage.
-Taryn Young
-Grayson Hall
P.O.V. switches between them & Iris {though, Taryn & Grayson is in third person while Iris is in first.}
390 pages
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Pre Teens- One Star
New Teens- One Star
Early High School Teens- Two Stars
Older High School Teens- Two Stars (and a half)
My personal Rating- Two Stars
**The cover?! Taryn described with having auburn hair with green eyes—not black hair with blue eyes! Maybe that’s supposed to be Iris? That’s the only thing I can figure. Also, Grayson is a blonde…? Maybe that’s Shep? I don’t know…
While I thought this book was okay, and I liked where it was set {but not really, ‘cause when I think about it and all that happens, it’s way too close to some of my family} this would not be a book for teens, it’s pretty rough.
Link to review:
http://booksforchristiangirls.blogspo...
*BFCG may (Read the review to see) recommend this book by this author. It does not mean I recommend all the books by this author.
*I received this book for free from the Publisher (Tyndale Publishers) for this review.
August 2, 2014
What happened the day you left for your honeymoon? For Taryn Young it's a day spent in the hospital waking up to learn she's suspected of terrorism along with her missing husband.
Firewall feels like a meshing of three stories in one. First there's the bombing, then there's the desperate search to find a little girl, and finally the clock is ticking as to who will find the "high-security software project" before it falls into the wrong hands.
Because of these multiple plot lines, which I feel could all stand their own story, it leaves Taryn Young's character caught in a trifecta of goals. Add to that the romantic ideas she begins to feel for Agent Grayson Hall in the midst of the chaos. What's a girl to do?
Taryn fights the trifecta. She wants to clear her name, find the little girl of her best friend, and stop the software program she designed from destroying America. Agent Grayson Hall helps her by rebuilding her trust in men (she did marry a man after only knowing him for three months-how could this tech savvy girl not have done her homework? A simple Google search...I'm just saying), and keeping her safe from the enemy at every turn.
DiAnn does an incredible job showing what role the FBI takes in solving crimes to keep America and her citizens safe. She carefully weaves a story of plot, character, and setting giving the reader a chance to live inside the story.
Firewall is definitely a Romantic Suspense story that will take you on an adventure.
Firewall feels like a meshing of three stories in one. First there's the bombing, then there's the desperate search to find a little girl, and finally the clock is ticking as to who will find the "high-security software project" before it falls into the wrong hands.
Because of these multiple plot lines, which I feel could all stand their own story, it leaves Taryn Young's character caught in a trifecta of goals. Add to that the romantic ideas she begins to feel for Agent Grayson Hall in the midst of the chaos. What's a girl to do?
Taryn fights the trifecta. She wants to clear her name, find the little girl of her best friend, and stop the software program she designed from destroying America. Agent Grayson Hall helps her by rebuilding her trust in men (she did marry a man after only knowing him for three months-how could this tech savvy girl not have done her homework? A simple Google search...I'm just saying), and keeping her safe from the enemy at every turn.
DiAnn does an incredible job showing what role the FBI takes in solving crimes to keep America and her citizens safe. She carefully weaves a story of plot, character, and setting giving the reader a chance to live inside the story.
Firewall is definitely a Romantic Suspense story that will take you on an adventure.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 13, 2014
Taryn's married bliss is cut short when a bomb goes off in one of the airport terminals on the way to her honeymoon--and the bomber/terrorist is her new husband! After the dust clears, Taryn and her husband are the prime suspects in the attack.
Agent Grayson Hall's job is to find those responsible for the, and even though all evidence points to Taryn are her new husband, things just don't seem to add up and Taryn seems genuinely baffled by everything that has just happened. Grayson can't seem to shake the feeling that Taryn is innocent.
With the media out for blood, it is up to Taryn and Grayson to clear her name her name once and for all, while avoiding the forces that will stop at nothing to see that they don't discover the truth.
This is a fast-paced action packed read, with concise chapters that left me wanting more. Great characters, and a terrific plot line, I read this book in record time, and found myself reading it in every spare moment. Hands down, this book is a winner, and probably my favorite DiAnn Mills book to date!
Taryn is thrust into a terrible nightmare of a situation, but she trusts God, and takes everything one step at a time, as she and Grayson work to unravel the conspiracy.
Overall, this is a fantastic read, that I enjoyed every minute of. I had a hard time putting it down and I would highly recommend it to anyone who likes a fast paced action/suspense read, with a touch of romance!
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."
Agent Grayson Hall's job is to find those responsible for the, and even though all evidence points to Taryn are her new husband, things just don't seem to add up and Taryn seems genuinely baffled by everything that has just happened. Grayson can't seem to shake the feeling that Taryn is innocent.
With the media out for blood, it is up to Taryn and Grayson to clear her name her name once and for all, while avoiding the forces that will stop at nothing to see that they don't discover the truth.
This is a fast-paced action packed read, with concise chapters that left me wanting more. Great characters, and a terrific plot line, I read this book in record time, and found myself reading it in every spare moment. Hands down, this book is a winner, and probably my favorite DiAnn Mills book to date!
Taryn is thrust into a terrible nightmare of a situation, but she trusts God, and takes everything one step at a time, as she and Grayson work to unravel the conspiracy.
Overall, this is a fantastic read, that I enjoyed every minute of. I had a hard time putting it down and I would highly recommend it to anyone who likes a fast paced action/suspense read, with a touch of romance!
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."
July 25, 2014
Review on Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/review/R1Q3EQFT...
Review on my blog (to be posted 6/29): http://christianbookshelfreviews.blog...
Firewall is an intense read that, when you're reading it, you don't want to put down! I really enjoyed my time spent reading the story. I thought it was very suspenseful and left you guessing as to what was to happen next.
The plot was really interesting and unique. The characters were great and I thought their individual quirks were neat. One thing I very much enjoyed about Firewall was that just when you thought you knew the guilty party and what was going on, another curveball was thrown.
All in all, another good read from this author. I really liked it and recommend Firewall to fans of romantic suspense novels. I look forward to the next book in the FBI: Houston series, Double Cross, which releases next year.
*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/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 and 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.*
Review on my blog (to be posted 6/29): http://christianbookshelfreviews.blog...
Firewall is an intense read that, when you're reading it, you don't want to put down! I really enjoyed my time spent reading the story. I thought it was very suspenseful and left you guessing as to what was to happen next.
The plot was really interesting and unique. The characters were great and I thought their individual quirks were neat. One thing I very much enjoyed about Firewall was that just when you thought you knew the guilty party and what was going on, another curveball was thrown.
All in all, another good read from this author. I really liked it and recommend Firewall to fans of romantic suspense novels. I look forward to the next book in the FBI: Houston series, Double Cross, which releases next year.
*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/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 and 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.*
July 21, 2014
This was my first time reading a book by this author so I didn't really know what to expect but the description of this book really intrigued me from the get go, and the glowing endorsements from two of my favorite authors didn't hurt either! :)
I loved this book! I've read a number of Christian romantic suspense novels and one of the things that struck me about this one was how truly unique all aspects of the storyline were! I loved both Taryn and Grayson, they were such awesome characters! Firewall hooked me at page one and didn't let me go until I reached the end of the epilogue! This book has it all, awesome suspense, sweet romance, a few heart wrenching moments, a very original plot, and a longer chain of villains than I have ever seen in a book before (BTW, I totally did not guess who the true mastermind was. Thinking about it after the fact, that person's identity probably should have been obvious to me but at the time I was totally and completely stumped!) I don't want to risk spoiling anything so I will just say that I absolutely loved Firewall from start to finish! I highly recommend it, and I look forward to reading more books by Diann Mills in the future!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author via CFBA in exchange for an honest review. The above is my honest opinion. All thoughts and opinions are one hundred percent my own.
I loved this book! I've read a number of Christian romantic suspense novels and one of the things that struck me about this one was how truly unique all aspects of the storyline were! I loved both Taryn and Grayson, they were such awesome characters! Firewall hooked me at page one and didn't let me go until I reached the end of the epilogue! This book has it all, awesome suspense, sweet romance, a few heart wrenching moments, a very original plot, and a longer chain of villains than I have ever seen in a book before (BTW, I totally did not guess who the true mastermind was. Thinking about it after the fact, that person's identity probably should have been obvious to me but at the time I was totally and completely stumped!) I don't want to risk spoiling anything so I will just say that I absolutely loved Firewall from start to finish! I highly recommend it, and I look forward to reading more books by Diann Mills in the future!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author via CFBA in exchange for an honest review. The above is my honest opinion. All thoughts and opinions are one hundred percent my own.
May 13, 2017
Taryn is at the airport ready to go on her honeymoon with her new husband. When she ducks into the restroom before her flight a bomb explodes and Taryn's world is turned upside down. When Taryn wakes up in the hospital FBI agent Grayson and his partner are there to question Taryn. She and her new husband are suspected of bombing the airport. Taryn's husband is nowhere to be found though. Video footage shows him leaving the airport before the bomb even exploded.
Taryn is now helping the FBI find out who the terrorist is that bombed the airport. Taryn's trust in men is shattered and all she can worry about is finding her murdered best friends child who has been taken by the people that want Taryn for her computer hacker skills.
Who is behind the bombing, who has Zoey and will Taryn and Grayson be able to stop them before it's too late?
Firewall was so exciting! From the moment the bomb exploded I was hooked and had to find out who was behind all of the destruction and what was their motive. I loved Taryn's determination to make things right and to find her fake husband. The tentative relationship she had with Grayson was sweet, and he was definitely her perfect match. I also loved that Taryn wasn't a wilting violet, she had self-defense skills that were awesome and used perfectly on the right person! I'm definitely a fan of this author and will be reading more of her books!
Taryn is now helping the FBI find out who the terrorist is that bombed the airport. Taryn's trust in men is shattered and all she can worry about is finding her murdered best friends child who has been taken by the people that want Taryn for her computer hacker skills.
Who is behind the bombing, who has Zoey and will Taryn and Grayson be able to stop them before it's too late?
Firewall was so exciting! From the moment the bomb exploded I was hooked and had to find out who was behind all of the destruction and what was their motive. I loved Taryn's determination to make things right and to find her fake husband. The tentative relationship she had with Grayson was sweet, and he was definitely her perfect match. I also loved that Taryn wasn't a wilting violet, she had self-defense skills that were awesome and used perfectly on the right person! I'm definitely a fan of this author and will be reading more of her books!
January 8, 2015
Mix together one fabulous opening chapter with an ending that you will never see coming; add one beautiful heroine, a handsome, courageous F. B. I agent and you have just followed the recipe for one breathtaking romantic suspense novel. "Firewall" has all those ingredients! And more!
With her signature style of fast-paced suspense, and doses of romance, DiAnn Mills has crafted a stand-alone story that will have you turning pages until the very end! A wonderful addition to her collection of novels.
With her signature style of fast-paced suspense, and doses of romance, DiAnn Mills has crafted a stand-alone story that will have you turning pages until the very end! A wonderful addition to her collection of novels.
January 27, 2015
Mills has crafted an intricate suspense tale in Firewall with dozens of fascinating details about computers, the FBI, terrorism, and more. But never does the research bog the story down, which shows her skill. The romance is there in real ways, and readers can't help but root for her heroine. A winner from DiAnn Mills that's sure to please romantic suspense fans!
August 2, 2016
Pretty standard fare - you've read this thriller before, just toss in a few religious comments (not involving exclamations common in other books). A very smart woman has been duped by a charming con to get some extremely explosive information and chaos ensues. Read for Summer Reading Challenge, only one that seemed doable from "Inspirational' category.
May 30, 2024
Great Read
This was an enjoyable read. This is the first book in the FBI: Houston series. In this book, Taryn Young, who was preparing to board a plane for her honeymoon at Houston International Airport, is one of the prime suspects of the bombing that decimated said airport. Her husband is the other suspect and is missing. The FBI think that her husband is not the man he says he is. Agent Grayson Hall takes the case, and helps Taryn find out what happened, and if this is connected to something even bigger. I thought the story was great. I was on the edge of my seat the whole time. It was suspenseful, and I did like that there was a bit of romance in it. Also, I thought Taryn and Grayson were great characters. It kind of gave me a Bones TV show kind of feel because of the FBI stuff…haha. I thought they complemented each other and I liked how their romance developed. Also, I thought Taryn was smart, and interesting. I thought her character was relatable. I thought Grayson Hall was another great character. He was smart, confident, and sexy. He gave me some “Seeley Booth” (Bones TV show reference). I am glad that I picked up this series. I cannot wait to see what book 2 has in store for me. Overall, a great read.
This was an enjoyable read. This is the first book in the FBI: Houston series. In this book, Taryn Young, who was preparing to board a plane for her honeymoon at Houston International Airport, is one of the prime suspects of the bombing that decimated said airport. Her husband is the other suspect and is missing. The FBI think that her husband is not the man he says he is. Agent Grayson Hall takes the case, and helps Taryn find out what happened, and if this is connected to something even bigger. I thought the story was great. I was on the edge of my seat the whole time. It was suspenseful, and I did like that there was a bit of romance in it. Also, I thought Taryn and Grayson were great characters. It kind of gave me a Bones TV show kind of feel because of the FBI stuff…haha. I thought they complemented each other and I liked how their romance developed. Also, I thought Taryn was smart, and interesting. I thought her character was relatable. I thought Grayson Hall was another great character. He was smart, confident, and sexy. He gave me some “Seeley Booth” (Bones TV show reference). I am glad that I picked up this series. I cannot wait to see what book 2 has in store for me. Overall, a great read.
January 14, 2021
Pros
-Pace: It's as rapid a page turner as they come but it gives oh so needed breaks to have a breather and contemplate what's next for our heroes
- Religious angle: The majority of books I've read depict religion through a prism of a church as sketchy and corrupt institution. This book views religion through the mind of people who are comforted and empowered by their faith. It's good to see this very hopeful angle being brought to the forefront here.
- The mystery: I like when a book rewards an attentive reader and doesn't just pull the final twist out of thin air. One could guess it pages away but it's still satisfying.
Cons
- The villain POV: The villain itself was great but the choice of first person POV for her a bit strange. Besides, it felt like her chapters didn't really get anywhere at the end. Maybe a full fledged POV or no POV at all would work but not the thing in between.
- The plot armor: Here it wasn't as off-putting as in some other stories and I get it isn't game of thrones but... I was never really scared for Taryn, Grayson or Joe
-Pace: It's as rapid a page turner as they come but it gives oh so needed breaks to have a breather and contemplate what's next for our heroes
- Religious angle: The majority of books I've read depict religion through a prism of a church as sketchy and corrupt institution. This book views religion through the mind of people who are comforted and empowered by their faith. It's good to see this very hopeful angle being brought to the forefront here.
- The mystery: I like when a book rewards an attentive reader and doesn't just pull the final twist out of thin air. One could guess it pages away but it's still satisfying.
Cons
- The villain POV: The villain itself was great but the choice of first person POV for her a bit strange. Besides, it felt like her chapters didn't really get anywhere at the end. Maybe a full fledged POV or no POV at all would work but not the thing in between.
- The plot armor: Here it wasn't as off-putting as in some other stories and I get it isn't game of thrones but... I was never really scared for Taryn, Grayson or Joe
August 11, 2024
This was an amazing story that held my attention from beginning to end. Because it was on audio I found myself sitting in my parking lot just to finish a chapter.
The narrator was really good which made the book even better for me.
This is a good clean read with a mystery and twists and turns that keep coming.
The narrator was really good which made the book even better for me.
This is a good clean read with a mystery and twists and turns that keep coming.
Read
November 3, 2017DNF at 45%. This one wasn't for me.
August 26, 2014
Rating: 4.5 out of 5
This novel, the first in Christy-award-winning novelist, DiAnn Mills new series is definitely a good one; it’s riveting and fortunately for the story, it’s full of characters that don’t get lost in the excitement of the fast-moving plots. Taryn Young is a savvy, brilliant woman, except when it comes to matters of the heart. Today, her whole world is falling apart. It’s the day after her whirlwind romance ended in “I do,” and as she and her new husband, Shep are about to board their honeymoon flight, a bomb explodes inside the airport. Injured and lying in a hospital bed, when Taryn wakes up, it’s to be surrounded by men with FBI badges and the news media calling her a terrorist. Sure this is a horrible dream she’ll wake from to be back in the arms of Shep, Taryn is unable to find her new husband and despite what the FBI are telling her, she’s determined to put an end to the rumors of her involvement, even if it means she has to trust in the stalwart agent – Grayson Hall, who is by her side, with the intention of protecting Taryn at any cost.
Regardless of my love of this genre and all things “mystery,” I can honestly say, this novel is one of the best I’ve read this summer – surprisingly, it’s not all about the nail-biting excitement either (although that doesn’t hurt anything). There’s something very compelling about Firewall’s premise in spite of – or maybe it’s because of, its genre which can sometimes be stereotyped to the point of potential readers assuming there is nothing to the novel beyond the game of back-and-forth danger. It is true that Firewall follows that same path in that it barely takes a moment to catch its breath (the danger and secrets begin before a chapter is gone and doesn’t stop until the epilogue) not to mention letting us do the same, however DiAnn manages to weave in some exceptionally good character traits so that we never feel as if we’re strangers to the characters – its main protagonists are, in fact insanely fun people to know and if we have to be chasing down the bad guys, it’s a roller-coaster ride along with these two.
Part of the reason the plot does such a sensational job putting a slower, genuine tag onto the characters is because it begins with a broken heroine, who is not easily made whole (for the majority of the pages) whereas most books would have written the kinder, happier outcome by using the safer route and letting Taryn’s belief in someone she loved have weight. If there is something that seemed jumbled it was all of the characters involved in the terrorist plotting. All the names kind of ran together for me, though I don’t know that it was a mistake on anyone’s part but my own, since I may not have been totally focused on portions of the book when all the players came into the picture, because of that, I can hardly hold that against the story – and in fact, don’t. On that same line of thinking, the book does run a smidgeon overlong, counting in at 400 pages. A few cuts here and there would have made the plot tighter and a quicker read.
The plotting offered some sweet surprises along the way (one in particular had me smiling like crazy) and the ending was super sweet, all of which helped make this story one of the most fun among its peers. If you’re a fan of law enforcement novels that features easily liked protagonists, check out the first novel in award-winning author, DiAnn Mills brand new series. It’s quite a ride.
A version of this review first appeared on Life is Story.
Sincere thanks to the publisher for providing a complimentary ARC copy of this book for reviewing purposes. My apologies for the delay in posting this review.
This novel, the first in Christy-award-winning novelist, DiAnn Mills new series is definitely a good one; it’s riveting and fortunately for the story, it’s full of characters that don’t get lost in the excitement of the fast-moving plots. Taryn Young is a savvy, brilliant woman, except when it comes to matters of the heart. Today, her whole world is falling apart. It’s the day after her whirlwind romance ended in “I do,” and as she and her new husband, Shep are about to board their honeymoon flight, a bomb explodes inside the airport. Injured and lying in a hospital bed, when Taryn wakes up, it’s to be surrounded by men with FBI badges and the news media calling her a terrorist. Sure this is a horrible dream she’ll wake from to be back in the arms of Shep, Taryn is unable to find her new husband and despite what the FBI are telling her, she’s determined to put an end to the rumors of her involvement, even if it means she has to trust in the stalwart agent – Grayson Hall, who is by her side, with the intention of protecting Taryn at any cost.
Regardless of my love of this genre and all things “mystery,” I can honestly say, this novel is one of the best I’ve read this summer – surprisingly, it’s not all about the nail-biting excitement either (although that doesn’t hurt anything). There’s something very compelling about Firewall’s premise in spite of – or maybe it’s because of, its genre which can sometimes be stereotyped to the point of potential readers assuming there is nothing to the novel beyond the game of back-and-forth danger. It is true that Firewall follows that same path in that it barely takes a moment to catch its breath (the danger and secrets begin before a chapter is gone and doesn’t stop until the epilogue) not to mention letting us do the same, however DiAnn manages to weave in some exceptionally good character traits so that we never feel as if we’re strangers to the characters – its main protagonists are, in fact insanely fun people to know and if we have to be chasing down the bad guys, it’s a roller-coaster ride along with these two.
Part of the reason the plot does such a sensational job putting a slower, genuine tag onto the characters is because it begins with a broken heroine, who is not easily made whole (for the majority of the pages) whereas most books would have written the kinder, happier outcome by using the safer route and letting Taryn’s belief in someone she loved have weight. If there is something that seemed jumbled it was all of the characters involved in the terrorist plotting. All the names kind of ran together for me, though I don’t know that it was a mistake on anyone’s part but my own, since I may not have been totally focused on portions of the book when all the players came into the picture, because of that, I can hardly hold that against the story – and in fact, don’t. On that same line of thinking, the book does run a smidgeon overlong, counting in at 400 pages. A few cuts here and there would have made the plot tighter and a quicker read.
The plotting offered some sweet surprises along the way (one in particular had me smiling like crazy) and the ending was super sweet, all of which helped make this story one of the most fun among its peers. If you’re a fan of law enforcement novels that features easily liked protagonists, check out the first novel in award-winning author, DiAnn Mills brand new series. It’s quite a ride.
A version of this review first appeared on Life is Story.
Sincere thanks to the publisher for providing a complimentary ARC copy of this book for reviewing purposes. My apologies for the delay in posting this review.
July 16, 2019
I really wanted to like this book. I was intrigued but by the end of it I found myself skimming or completely skipping pages. I had several issues with it.....
1. The romance aspect just didn't connect with me. There was no spark, no desire. The 2 main characters just didn't seem to connect. She was married the day before they meet (fake married mind you). She saved herself for marriage and finds out the marriage is fake. Then she starts falling for the FBI agent but is worried about trusting herself. Ok, I get that....but he just falls head over heels for her and starts thinking of her in little pet names right after meeting her. Yet no spark. No desire or tension between the two. I know this is a clean romance and I appreciate that however there still has to be chemistry! It's a must for me in a relationship and this one just fell flat.
2. The plot started out interesting with the twists and turns but by the end I was done with it. Apparently there is such a thing as too many plot twists. The guy behind it was completely out there. Never saw it coming which is usually a good thing but it didn't work this time. There were just too many players. Too many bad guys. Essentially 2 separate bad guy groups all working together and against each other. Then other issue I had is they kept locating the main character Taryn. By the 3rd time if then being able to locate you don't you think you'd dump EVERYTHING you had to make sure your not being tracked? This 150 IQ character apparently doesn't think it through. True she throws away her ring which she thinks is it but then they find her again.....REALLY?!? Finally she realizes it's in the pearl earrings she's been wearing the whole time. I honestly rolled my eyes at this time. However even after getting rid of the earrings they still seem to track her down. How? They have the mole, they got rid of the tracking device so how is that possible.
Honestly at this point I started skimming and skipping so I could have just missed this part.
3. Her connection to her best friends daughter also rubbed me wrong. (Spoiler alert). Taryn finds her best (and apparently ONLY) friend murdered and her best friends daughter missing. Her whole drive from then on is to find this little 3 yr old. I get that. Taryn is actually listed as the girls guardian so she loves and feels responsible for her but almost right away she starts referencing her as my little girl. THAT is what bothers me about it. Being a mom I would want someone to love and cherish my children but to automatically start referring to her as mine really bothered me. Not sure why but everytime she thought that I bristled. Yes Taryn loved her best friends little girl but she wasn't hers. Her mother wasn't even laid to rest and it felt like she was already being replaced.
It was just too long, too complex and an unbelievable romance between the two characters.
1. The romance aspect just didn't connect with me. There was no spark, no desire. The 2 main characters just didn't seem to connect. She was married the day before they meet (fake married mind you). She saved herself for marriage and finds out the marriage is fake. Then she starts falling for the FBI agent but is worried about trusting herself. Ok, I get that....but he just falls head over heels for her and starts thinking of her in little pet names right after meeting her. Yet no spark. No desire or tension between the two. I know this is a clean romance and I appreciate that however there still has to be chemistry! It's a must for me in a relationship and this one just fell flat.
2. The plot started out interesting with the twists and turns but by the end I was done with it. Apparently there is such a thing as too many plot twists. The guy behind it was completely out there. Never saw it coming which is usually a good thing but it didn't work this time. There were just too many players. Too many bad guys. Essentially 2 separate bad guy groups all working together and against each other. Then other issue I had is they kept locating the main character Taryn. By the 3rd time if then being able to locate you don't you think you'd dump EVERYTHING you had to make sure your not being tracked? This 150 IQ character apparently doesn't think it through. True she throws away her ring which she thinks is it but then they find her again.....REALLY?!? Finally she realizes it's in the pearl earrings she's been wearing the whole time. I honestly rolled my eyes at this time. However even after getting rid of the earrings they still seem to track her down. How? They have the mole, they got rid of the tracking device so how is that possible.
Honestly at this point I started skimming and skipping so I could have just missed this part.
3. Her connection to her best friends daughter also rubbed me wrong. (Spoiler alert). Taryn finds her best (and apparently ONLY) friend murdered and her best friends daughter missing. Her whole drive from then on is to find this little 3 yr old. I get that. Taryn is actually listed as the girls guardian so she loves and feels responsible for her but almost right away she starts referencing her as my little girl. THAT is what bothers me about it. Being a mom I would want someone to love and cherish my children but to automatically start referring to her as mine really bothered me. Not sure why but everytime she thought that I bristled. Yes Taryn loved her best friends little girl but she wasn't hers. Her mother wasn't even laid to rest and it felt like she was already being replaced.
It was just too long, too complex and an unbelievable romance between the two characters.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 15, 2024
From the bomb at the beginning of the story, till the end, there was a lot happening in this story!
I liked that the heroine was strong and could fight back and did not sit still and wait on others to help her.
I did not expect the ultimate villain until the reveal.
I liked that the heroine was strong and could fight back and did not sit still and wait on others to help her.
I did not expect the ultimate villain until the reveal.
January 23, 2016
FIREWALL by DiAnn Mills was amazing!
I just finished reading NO ONE TO TRUST by Lynette Eason. It was fast-paced and incredible. One of the best books I’ve read this year. Then, I pick up FIREWALL, and again, I found myself sitting on the edge of my seat, exhausted from the fast-paced, thrilling storyline.
Software developer, Taryn Young is on cloud nine. After a whirlwind three month courtship, she has married the perfect man. Francis “Shep” Shepherd is her everything and she can’t wait to start their honeymoon. But when a bomb decimates the airport terminal she’s in and her husband is nowhere to be found, she is terrified thinking he is among the dead. But she soon learns that is only the beginning of her nightmare. When she wakes in the hospital she learns the FBI suspects her and her husband in the airport bombing. Knowing she is innocent and the FBI is grasping at straws, she waits for word on Shep. When surveillance footage shows him leaving the airport minutes before the bomb goes off she’s confused. When she finds out nothing about Shep is real, she id devastated. Taryn is rocked by Shep’s duplicity. Realizing their entire relationship was motivated by his need to get his hands on the high security software she was working on leaves her feeling betrayed and numb. Knowing it is up to her to prove her own innocents, she teams with the FBI to find out what all this means. Why the bombing? And who is after her software?
Agent Grayson Hall is tasked with catching the airport bomber. And even though all evidence points to Taryn Young and her imposter husband, his gut tells him she is innocent. Grayson is determined to help Taryn clear her name, but his first objective is to keep her alive. Grayson and Taryn become the hunted by those who want her software and a mole within the FBI. With their lives and national security on the line, Taryn and Grayson are running out of time.
AMAZING book!! After reading back-to-back thrillers I am mentally exhausted. The action just kept coming. I could barely catch my breath. A must read for anyone who likes action/suspense/romance, because FIREWALL had it all.
I just finished reading NO ONE TO TRUST by Lynette Eason. It was fast-paced and incredible. One of the best books I’ve read this year. Then, I pick up FIREWALL, and again, I found myself sitting on the edge of my seat, exhausted from the fast-paced, thrilling storyline.
Software developer, Taryn Young is on cloud nine. After a whirlwind three month courtship, she has married the perfect man. Francis “Shep” Shepherd is her everything and she can’t wait to start their honeymoon. But when a bomb decimates the airport terminal she’s in and her husband is nowhere to be found, she is terrified thinking he is among the dead. But she soon learns that is only the beginning of her nightmare. When she wakes in the hospital she learns the FBI suspects her and her husband in the airport bombing. Knowing she is innocent and the FBI is grasping at straws, she waits for word on Shep. When surveillance footage shows him leaving the airport minutes before the bomb goes off she’s confused. When she finds out nothing about Shep is real, she id devastated. Taryn is rocked by Shep’s duplicity. Realizing their entire relationship was motivated by his need to get his hands on the high security software she was working on leaves her feeling betrayed and numb. Knowing it is up to her to prove her own innocents, she teams with the FBI to find out what all this means. Why the bombing? And who is after her software?
Agent Grayson Hall is tasked with catching the airport bomber. And even though all evidence points to Taryn Young and her imposter husband, his gut tells him she is innocent. Grayson is determined to help Taryn clear her name, but his first objective is to keep her alive. Grayson and Taryn become the hunted by those who want her software and a mole within the FBI. With their lives and national security on the line, Taryn and Grayson are running out of time.
AMAZING book!! After reading back-to-back thrillers I am mentally exhausted. The action just kept coming. I could barely catch my breath. A must read for anyone who likes action/suspense/romance, because FIREWALL had it all.
September 24, 2014
3.5 stars
Caught in an explosion at the airport while beginning her honeymoon, Taryn quickly becomes the primary suspect when the FBI see her new husband leaving the terminal before the bomb goes off. She's not content to sit back and let things happen around her, first planning to escape the FBI and then investigate to clear her own name; the media may splash condemnation on the front page, but retractions or admissions of error are rarely publicized, so her career and life are both at stake, but now she doesn't know who she can trust.
Some elements were a little predictable, mainly the romance side. There was a great suspense setup though, which left me wondering who it could be the whole time, and as they kept investigating, it became apparent that there was far more than just Shep's betrayal. It was an enjoyable read, though a few little things jarred. I may be too cynical for softer romantic suspense now.
One more thing: Why does everything seem to have discussion questions at the end?
Disclaimer: I received a free ARC from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Caught in an explosion at the airport while beginning her honeymoon, Taryn quickly becomes the primary suspect when the FBI see her new husband leaving the terminal before the bomb goes off. She's not content to sit back and let things happen around her, first planning to escape the FBI and then investigate to clear her own name; the media may splash condemnation on the front page, but retractions or admissions of error are rarely publicized, so her career and life are both at stake, but now she doesn't know who she can trust.
Some elements were a little predictable, mainly the romance side. There was a great suspense setup though, which left me wondering who it could be the whole time, and as they kept investigating, it became apparent that there was far more than just Shep's betrayal. It was an enjoyable read, though a few little things jarred. I may be too cynical for softer romantic suspense now.
One more thing: Why does everything seem to have discussion questions at the end?
Disclaimer: I received a free ARC from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
September 20, 2024
I haven't read a lot of DiAnn Mill's books, and after reading this one, I have to ask myself why I haven't. Christian suspense/mystery is my favorite genre' to read, and this is one of the best books in that genre' that I have read for a long time. When I read the blurb about the book, I thought it sounded really good, and I was not disappointed.
A good test of how good a book is for me, is if I can't put it down. There are books I can read over a period of a few days, and there are books that I read in one day or evening. Such was the case with this one. Once I started it, I just kept reading until I finished it. It has a terrific plot, great characters, and a lot of nail biting suspense, if you bite your nails. There is a lot happening in this book, but it is easy to keep track of and one doesn't get bogged down in the book.
The author also did a fabulous job on her bad guy. I was very surprised when the identity was revealed.
Firewall is the first book in a new series, FBI: Houston, and if this book is any indication of what the series is going to be like, it is going to be awesome.
A good test of how good a book is for me, is if I can't put it down. There are books I can read over a period of a few days, and there are books that I read in one day or evening. Such was the case with this one. Once I started it, I just kept reading until I finished it. It has a terrific plot, great characters, and a lot of nail biting suspense, if you bite your nails. There is a lot happening in this book, but it is easy to keep track of and one doesn't get bogged down in the book.
The author also did a fabulous job on her bad guy. I was very surprised when the identity was revealed.
Firewall is the first book in a new series, FBI: Houston, and if this book is any indication of what the series is going to be like, it is going to be awesome.
December 19, 2019
Taryn Young has just become Mrs Francis Shepherd (more on that later) but on their way to their honeymoon destination terrorists detonate a bomb at the airport. Taryn is badly hurt but alive, but Shepherd has disappeared. Then the FBI arrive at the hospital to say Shepherd was seen leaving the airport just before the blast, and they arrest Taryn for being part of the plot.
Let me just say that I don't normally read the Christian fiction genre. I read this one for a book bingo card prompt and actually it wasn't that bad. The main character wasn't overly annoying and didn't keep making monumentally stupid decisions, the romance between Taryn and the FBI agent was kept fairly low key, and the plot itself was well thought out. There were a couple of things that bugged me: Mrs Francis Shepherd?! What about her own first name? You don't have to give up your entire identity anymore. Also there was an occasion of what seemed like fat-shaming to me involving an overweight man in Speedos which didn't seem very Christian of the mc. Overall, I enjoyed it but I wouldn't read it again or read the rest of the series. It's just not my thing.
Let me just say that I don't normally read the Christian fiction genre. I read this one for a book bingo card prompt and actually it wasn't that bad. The main character wasn't overly annoying and didn't keep making monumentally stupid decisions, the romance between Taryn and the FBI agent was kept fairly low key, and the plot itself was well thought out. There were a couple of things that bugged me: Mrs Francis Shepherd?! What about her own first name? You don't have to give up your entire identity anymore. Also there was an occasion of what seemed like fat-shaming to me involving an overweight man in Speedos which didn't seem very Christian of the mc. Overall, I enjoyed it but I wouldn't read it again or read the rest of the series. It's just not my thing.
August 9, 2016
I loved this book. From the first few pages this story takes of in a suspense that totally threw me for a loop. I loved Taryn's character and how she uses her brain and wit throughout the book. Reading about a terrorist attack is intense but to be thought of being guilty, that's a unique perspective! Diann Mills takes the reader on the opposite side of the situation and shows how easily things could happen and how the FBI works. There was really never a slow moment and as the ending neared I was trying to figure out the last "clue". By the last page I couldn't believe what I had just read, I had not seen that coming at all.
For a fast paced read this book is a must read!
"I received this book from CFBA for free in exchange for an honest review."
August 31, 2017
Sorry, DiAnn. I recognized your name, and thought I'd enjoyed your books before, but this one just didn't do it for me.
1. The romance angle was really hard to swallow. I understand the fact that Taryn was utterly deceived and used by her fiance/husband, but it's a hard to believe she would emotionally drop him like a hot potato and get the feels for some guy she's known less than a week.
2. Political or international suspense doesn't hold my interest like a murder or abduction thriller, but that's just personal preference.
1. The romance angle was really hard to swallow. I understand the fact that Taryn was utterly deceived and used by her fiance/husband, but it's a hard to believe she would emotionally drop him like a hot potato and get the feels for some guy she's known less than a week.
2. Political or international suspense doesn't hold my interest like a murder or abduction thriller, but that's just personal preference.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 27, 2014
I just finished Firewall and I must say, DiAnn Mills has hooked this "Historical Fiction Only" girl on her modern times suspense!! Loved the action, loved the characters, loved the plot...could not put it down. I was even reading at stop lights & thankful for a train so I could read a few more pages! Definitely an awesome book & can't wait to open the next one! :)
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