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The Firewall Trilogy #2
A World of Secrets
Taimin and Selena must discover the truth about their world—before it’s too late.
In a world of secrets, Taimin and Selena are desperate for answers. They need to discover the truth about their origins and the firewall that borders the wasteland. If they don’t find the hidden path they seek, the citizens of Zorn will die.
As they make the perilous journey to the distant firewall, Taimin and Selena are joined by three companions: a young healer, a weapons trader, and an old rover. Together the five are in constant danger, unable to rely on Selena’s powers as she has lost the ability to farcast—and she doesn’t know how to get it back.
Now Taimin finds himself hunted by a new enemy—a strange creature on a bloodthirsty quest of his own. Taimin and Selena get ever closer to the answers that are essential to their survival. But will they learn the truth in time to save themselves?
In a world of secrets, Taimin and Selena are desperate for answers. They need to discover the truth about their origins and the firewall that borders the wasteland. If they don’t find the hidden path they seek, the citizens of Zorn will die.
As they make the perilous journey to the distant firewall, Taimin and Selena are joined by three companions: a young healer, a weapons trader, and an old rover. Together the five are in constant danger, unable to rely on Selena’s powers as she has lost the ability to farcast—and she doesn’t know how to get it back.
Now Taimin finds himself hunted by a new enemy—a strange creature on a bloodthirsty quest of his own. Taimin and Selena get ever closer to the answers that are essential to their survival. But will they learn the truth in time to save themselves?
Audio CD
First published July 16, 2020
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About the author
James Maxwell
16 books1,098 followersJames Maxwell is a British-Australian best-selling author of epic fantasy novels, with millions of copies sold in multiple languages worldwide. With over a dozen acclaimed novels, including Enchantress, Golden Age, and A Girl From Nowhere, he is celebrated for his richly imagined worlds and epic, interwoven plots. His books have received multiple award nominations, including the World Fantasy Award, the Aurealis Awards, and three Arthur C. Clarke Award nominations, as well as garnering tens of thousands of reviews on Amazon.
Born in the Bay of Islands, New Zealand, and raised in Brisbane, Australia, James attended Brisbane’s Anglican Church Grammar School and the University of Queensland, where he studied a diverse mix of arts and sciences.
Since becoming a full-time author in 2012, he has made his home on Australia’s Sunshine Coast, where his writing is accompanied by the rumbling sound of the sea and the antics of his capricious white cat.
Blood and Empire, published in March 2025, begins James Maxwell’s latest gripping series, The Gateway Saga.
Born in the Bay of Islands, New Zealand, and raised in Brisbane, Australia, James attended Brisbane’s Anglican Church Grammar School and the University of Queensland, where he studied a diverse mix of arts and sciences.
Since becoming a full-time author in 2012, he has made his home on Australia’s Sunshine Coast, where his writing is accompanied by the rumbling sound of the sea and the antics of his capricious white cat.
Blood and Empire, published in March 2025, begins James Maxwell’s latest gripping series, The Gateway Saga.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 184 reviews
February 7, 2021
The plot thickens! I am satisfied with the plot until now. The answers for Firewall, Zorn being huge, the Suns, the constant reference to Earth were good enough.
Telling instead of showing is a bit less in this. But I still couldn’t feel that much for Ruth/Vance. (Ruth and Lars were such assholes to Vance at the start of the book.)
I still want the explanation for the mystic power and Aurelium.
With the big revelation, I’m excited to see how the author takes the story from here. Surely, the odds for Taimin and co. are very bad. Will all the races return to their respective planets? Will there be an outside rescue? What happens now with Ingren?
I can’t give this a 5 stars because of the introduction of the bonded at the start. I was hoping for a big ‘oh!’
Total time spent: 5h 55min.
Telling instead of showing is a bit less in this. But I still couldn’t feel that much for Ruth/Vance. (Ruth and Lars were such assholes to Vance at the start of the book.)
I still want the explanation for the mystic power and Aurelium.
With the big revelation, I’m excited to see how the author takes the story from here. Surely, the odds for Taimin and co. are very bad. Will all the races return to their respective planets? Will there be an outside rescue? What happens now with Ingren?
I can’t give this a 5 stars because of the introduction of the bonded at the start. I was hoping for a big ‘oh!’
Total time spent: 5h 55min.
May 30, 2020
A World of Secrets is a really great book with a beautifully well built world. I am a really big fan of the third person narrator and of how the author tells this story. The characters are well developed and we can see that they have overcome so much in their journey and they grow through their adventures.
I can't wait to read the last instalment of this trilogy!
Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for this eARC.
I can't wait to read the last instalment of this trilogy!
Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for this eARC.
November 15, 2020
A WAR IS COMING!
So I like where this series is headed. I have to admit, it wasn’t anywhere as good as book one, or as king, to me but still a great adventure.
So I like where this series is headed. I have to admit, it wasn’t anywhere as good as book one, or as king, to me but still a great adventure.
March 15, 2021
That ending really did everything (and more) for me with what book 1 was insinuating. So excited to see where book 3 takes it.
April 29, 2021
Stronger storyline than the first book, this is a great sci-fi dystopian combination. I’ve grown attached to the characters and look forward to the action in the next installment of the series. I especially like the social development of the different “races” coming together to fight a common enemy. Good patterns of unraveling racial injustice...
March 30, 2023
I am still enjoying this series. There are some unexpected turns at the end of this piece. Things have changed dramatically, again, so I kind of want to read the final story.
July 14, 2020
Special thanks to Netgalley and Amazon Publishing UK for providing me with an eARC.
An exciting sequel to The Girl from Nowhere, A World of Secrets is a follow-up readers dream of. The story is interesting and well-paced and isn’t hard to understand if you’ve read the first book (which, in the case of this series is 100% required reading). The first book was an enjoyable read, but the second is only an improvement. It’s a quick read and almost impossible to put down. With much of the world-development laid out in the first book the second takes the time to develop its characters more. With that said there is still more of this world to discover. And though the story at times comes off as predictable, it's predictable in the sense that the events make sense to the story and the reveals are exciting “I knew it!” moments.
There is always room for improvement, of course, in the realm of writing. There are a large number of redundant descriptions as well as unnecessarily ones. Additionally, some developments in character relationships seemed sudden and which added to a disconnect between the reader and the characters. Some revelations could have been handled better, but suffice regardless.
I would recommend this series to any science fiction fan, especially readers who are interested in series that include humans interacting with other species. The first book was good, the second great, and I have high hopes for the conclusion of the series.
The full and final review will be released on Geek Declassified on July 15, 2020.
An exciting sequel to The Girl from Nowhere, A World of Secrets is a follow-up readers dream of. The story is interesting and well-paced and isn’t hard to understand if you’ve read the first book (which, in the case of this series is 100% required reading). The first book was an enjoyable read, but the second is only an improvement. It’s a quick read and almost impossible to put down. With much of the world-development laid out in the first book the second takes the time to develop its characters more. With that said there is still more of this world to discover. And though the story at times comes off as predictable, it's predictable in the sense that the events make sense to the story and the reveals are exciting “I knew it!” moments.
There is always room for improvement, of course, in the realm of writing. There are a large number of redundant descriptions as well as unnecessarily ones. Additionally, some developments in character relationships seemed sudden and which added to a disconnect between the reader and the characters. Some revelations could have been handled better, but suffice regardless.
I would recommend this series to any science fiction fan, especially readers who are interested in series that include humans interacting with other species. The first book was good, the second great, and I have high hopes for the conclusion of the series.
The full and final review will be released on Geek Declassified on July 15, 2020.
August 29, 2020
Interesting
Taimin, Lars, Ruth, Vance and Selena set out to find what was beyond the firewall. Their travels are difficult, especially with Taimin's deformed foot. Lack of water almost ended them, but they survived. They meet races along the way, all the while searching for information on the firewall . Some answers are best to remain hidden.
They encounter two strangers from an unknown origin. They are giants with horns on their heads. The male wants to fight Taimin, but when he sees that he is crippled, turns and leaves. What can that even mean?? I
Others aren't so easy to trade with and certainly not to trust. It's an interesting story with lots of strange antics. Want to know what happens??
Read on my friends
Taimin, Lars, Ruth, Vance and Selena set out to find what was beyond the firewall. Their travels are difficult, especially with Taimin's deformed foot. Lack of water almost ended them, but they survived. They meet races along the way, all the while searching for information on the firewall . Some answers are best to remain hidden.
They encounter two strangers from an unknown origin. They are giants with horns on their heads. The male wants to fight Taimin, but when he sees that he is crippled, turns and leaves. What can that even mean?? I
Others aren't so easy to trade with and certainly not to trust. It's an interesting story with lots of strange antics. Want to know what happens??
Read on my friends
July 7, 2020
This is my first book by James. Maxwell. His descriptive writing is done really well. My favorite characters in this book are Taimin and
Selena. I missed the first book in this series so I think I missed a lot. I would recommend reading that first. In some parts of this book the flow was really well in others it didn't flow so good. It took me a while to get into the story and unfortunately for me it didn't grip me as much as I thought it would.
Selena. I missed the first book in this series so I think I missed a lot. I would recommend reading that first. In some parts of this book the flow was really well in others it didn't flow so good. It took me a while to get into the story and unfortunately for me it didn't grip me as much as I thought it would.
November 21, 2020
I feel the storyline and characters are really good and full of promise. However, it drags. Just ended up going and reading something else as I was bored
Overall, I am disappointed due to the very slow pace
Overall, I am disappointed due to the very slow pace
February 27, 2025
In this second installment of The Firewall Trilogy, Selena and Taimin make a game-changing discovery: beyond the firewall lies a land of lush forests, a temperate climate, and—most crucially—abundant water. Determined to reach this paradise, they set off with their companions, Lars, Ruth, and Vance, on a dangerous journey to find a way past the firewall. Meanwhile, a deadly new threat emerges—a pair of hunters from a mysterious race beyond the firewall, who enter the Wasteland on a gruesome mission to collect the heads of one member from each of the five species that inhabit it.
Upon arriving at their destination, Taimin’s group stumbles upon a massive machine, which they come to believe is the very source of the firewall itself. Destroying it becomes their new goal, but standing in their way are formidable obstacles, including the ruthless hunting party and a group of skalen determined to prevent Taimin from accessing the machine’s secrets.
I appreciated the pacing of this book. The early chapters unfold at a more measured tempo as the group makes its way across the desert, allowing the reader to fully absorb the harshness of the barren landscape and the grueling conditions they must endure. But once they discover the machine, the story picks up considerable momentum. Tension mounts as they face relentless dangers, both natural and sentient, creating an engaging balance of action and intrigue.
The relationships among the characters continue to evolve, though not always in ways I found compelling. Taimin and Selena’s bond remains strained, largely due to Taimin’s internal struggles with self-worth stemming from his physical disability. This dynamic adds some depth to his character, but I wished for more growth and resolution. Meanwhile, a romance develops between Ruth and Vance, though I found their interactions somewhat annoying.
One of the series’ strengths is its willingness to explore heavy themes such as slavery, bigotry, murder, and genocide. While these issues are presented in a relatively straightforward manner—making the books well-suited for middle school readers—they still carry weight and provide opportunities for reflection. Alongside the suffering and moral dilemmas, the novel also highlights themes of courage, loyalty, and perseverance, reinforcing the classic good-versus-evil framework that underpins the story.
That said, I had hoped for deeper character development as the series progressed. While the plot remains engaging, the characters themselves have begun to feel somewhat stagnant, with little evolution beyond their established roles and conflicts. A more nuanced approach to their personal struggles and relationships would have elevated the emotional impact of the narrative.
Despite these reservations, this book serves as a solid continuation of the series. The action, world-building, and ethical dilemmas keep the story engaging, even if some aspects feel underdeveloped. I’m still invested enough to continue reading, but I hope the next installment brings greater complexity to both the characters and the overarching themes.
**Final rating: 3.5 stars.**
Upon arriving at their destination, Taimin’s group stumbles upon a massive machine, which they come to believe is the very source of the firewall itself. Destroying it becomes their new goal, but standing in their way are formidable obstacles, including the ruthless hunting party and a group of skalen determined to prevent Taimin from accessing the machine’s secrets.
I appreciated the pacing of this book. The early chapters unfold at a more measured tempo as the group makes its way across the desert, allowing the reader to fully absorb the harshness of the barren landscape and the grueling conditions they must endure. But once they discover the machine, the story picks up considerable momentum. Tension mounts as they face relentless dangers, both natural and sentient, creating an engaging balance of action and intrigue.
The relationships among the characters continue to evolve, though not always in ways I found compelling. Taimin and Selena’s bond remains strained, largely due to Taimin’s internal struggles with self-worth stemming from his physical disability. This dynamic adds some depth to his character, but I wished for more growth and resolution. Meanwhile, a romance develops between Ruth and Vance, though I found their interactions somewhat annoying.
One of the series’ strengths is its willingness to explore heavy themes such as slavery, bigotry, murder, and genocide. While these issues are presented in a relatively straightforward manner—making the books well-suited for middle school readers—they still carry weight and provide opportunities for reflection. Alongside the suffering and moral dilemmas, the novel also highlights themes of courage, loyalty, and perseverance, reinforcing the classic good-versus-evil framework that underpins the story.
That said, I had hoped for deeper character development as the series progressed. While the plot remains engaging, the characters themselves have begun to feel somewhat stagnant, with little evolution beyond their established roles and conflicts. A more nuanced approach to their personal struggles and relationships would have elevated the emotional impact of the narrative.
Despite these reservations, this book serves as a solid continuation of the series. The action, world-building, and ethical dilemmas keep the story engaging, even if some aspects feel underdeveloped. I’m still invested enough to continue reading, but I hope the next installment brings greater complexity to both the characters and the overarching themes.
**Final rating: 3.5 stars.**
July 22, 2020
(I was given a free copy of this book through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review)
A World of Secrets is the sequel to A Girl from Nowhere and is the second book in the Firewall trilogy. The first thing I am going to say is that you must read the first novel before you read the second one! I know most people typically will, but if you don't read book 1 first you'll miss some major character growth from the first story. The two novels are also too tightly woven together to be treated as independent novels! With that being said, it's time to give you some opinions on the book.
When I read A Girl from Nowhere (book 1) I have to be honest and say I didn't like it all that much. It wasn't because the story was bad, but rather the writing style was difficult to connect with. The biggest issue with the first book was that the author would 'tell' us everything that was happening instead of 'showing' us, which made me feel too disconnected from the novel. Well, I'm happy to say that this book was so much better!
One of my favourite things about this novel is that the overall story arch is very intricate. It's evident that everything had been planned out from the beginning as the story perfectly tied books 1 and 2 together and it seems like it will seamlessly flow into book 3! I also loved the characters a lot and I was very pleased with how James Maxwell connected the different races in this novel. They bothered me a little at first but he definitely took some turns in the right direction in this book!
As you can see, I overall gave this book a 4 stars. In reality it's closer to a 3.5 or a 3.75 but I've rounded up to a 4. It's definitely a solid novel and an exciting addition to the trilogy! I can't wait to see how the series concludes!
A World of Secrets is the sequel to A Girl from Nowhere and is the second book in the Firewall trilogy. The first thing I am going to say is that you must read the first novel before you read the second one! I know most people typically will, but if you don't read book 1 first you'll miss some major character growth from the first story. The two novels are also too tightly woven together to be treated as independent novels! With that being said, it's time to give you some opinions on the book.
When I read A Girl from Nowhere (book 1) I have to be honest and say I didn't like it all that much. It wasn't because the story was bad, but rather the writing style was difficult to connect with. The biggest issue with the first book was that the author would 'tell' us everything that was happening instead of 'showing' us, which made me feel too disconnected from the novel. Well, I'm happy to say that this book was so much better!
One of my favourite things about this novel is that the overall story arch is very intricate. It's evident that everything had been planned out from the beginning as the story perfectly tied books 1 and 2 together and it seems like it will seamlessly flow into book 3! I also loved the characters a lot and I was very pleased with how James Maxwell connected the different races in this novel. They bothered me a little at first but he definitely took some turns in the right direction in this book!
As you can see, I overall gave this book a 4 stars. In reality it's closer to a 3.5 or a 3.75 but I've rounded up to a 4. It's definitely a solid novel and an exciting addition to the trilogy! I can't wait to see how the series concludes!
April 26, 2022
Oh Mr. Maxwell, I really really tried to get into this one. A Girl From Nowhere had such great potential, and the battle scenes were masterfully choreographed, but what we got in A World of Secrets is the story-bridge equivalent of Back to the Future Part II.
Yes, we did get to see a bit more of the relationship between Taimin and Selena grow, and a pretty big character roadblock was “fixed” in a cheeky way that, in my opinion, was an insult to the character.
I will say, I did enjoy the last quarter of the book, but the first three-quarters felt, to me, like a bit of a drudge. There was some slight character development, and the story slightly pushed along, but much as in Back to the Future Part II, this was just a platform to bridge book one to book three without really adding much to the bigger story other than a pivotal twist at the end.
Yes, the pivot was practically genre-jumping, and a real game-changer in what is going on, but we had to get through a lot of what basically gets flashed into irrelevancy in the final pages of the book.
I do understand that there was a bigger journey that was important to what was built up in book one, but the transition to the “big reveal” came across, again, in my opinion, as mildly insulting.
Sadly, I just don’t have the motivation right now to continue on to book three.
Yes, we did get to see a bit more of the relationship between Taimin and Selena grow, and a pretty big character roadblock was “fixed” in a cheeky way that, in my opinion, was an insult to the character.
I will say, I did enjoy the last quarter of the book, but the first three-quarters felt, to me, like a bit of a drudge. There was some slight character development, and the story slightly pushed along, but much as in Back to the Future Part II, this was just a platform to bridge book one to book three without really adding much to the bigger story other than a pivotal twist at the end.
Yes, the pivot was practically genre-jumping, and a real game-changer in what is going on, but we had to get through a lot of what basically gets flashed into irrelevancy in the final pages of the book.
I do understand that there was a bigger journey that was important to what was built up in book one, but the transition to the “big reveal” came across, again, in my opinion, as mildly insulting.
Sadly, I just don’t have the motivation right now to continue on to book three.
February 11, 2021
They are not alone
The second installation finds Taimen, Selena, Lars, Ruth, and Vance on their trek to try to find a way through the firewall to the verdant world beyond that Selena and Taimen glimpsed at the end of the first book.
The group get to the desert and encounter a pair of the bonded, one a warrior on a quest to prove himself worthy of being a marshal, the other his mate and advisor. The quest is to take trophies in the Wastelands: the head of the fiercest fighter of each of the five races.
While Taimen's group works their way to the place marked on the map they copied in Zorn, the bonded track them and the warrior takes on Taimen, only to find his lameness a detriment to the quest. Taimen survives because of his crippled leg, and the group hurries away, spreading the news of the "giants" that are the bonded.
Follow along as Taimen and Selena try to find a way to get to the green world on the other side of the firewall. Their paths bring them to new, unexpected friends and enemies. And finally to the source of the firewall itself. Can they figure out the mystery in the desert to realize their dream on the other side?
The second installation finds Taimen, Selena, Lars, Ruth, and Vance on their trek to try to find a way through the firewall to the verdant world beyond that Selena and Taimen glimpsed at the end of the first book.
The group get to the desert and encounter a pair of the bonded, one a warrior on a quest to prove himself worthy of being a marshal, the other his mate and advisor. The quest is to take trophies in the Wastelands: the head of the fiercest fighter of each of the five races.
While Taimen's group works their way to the place marked on the map they copied in Zorn, the bonded track them and the warrior takes on Taimen, only to find his lameness a detriment to the quest. Taimen survives because of his crippled leg, and the group hurries away, spreading the news of the "giants" that are the bonded.
Follow along as Taimen and Selena try to find a way to get to the green world on the other side of the firewall. Their paths bring them to new, unexpected friends and enemies. And finally to the source of the firewall itself. Can they figure out the mystery in the desert to realize their dream on the other side?
April 12, 2023
The second book in the Firewall Trilogy follows the unlikely team plus their new friends on an adventure to find the paradise hidden behind the Firewall that Taimin and Selena saw when farcasting when separated from their bodies. They must travel across the wasteland and when they get there, they end up discovering more than they were expecting. They find Selena's father and a giant machine that turns out to control the Firewall. They make it their mission to destroy the machine. On top of that, a couple from a new, unknown gigantic race is out to fight and decapitate the best warriors from each of the 5 races. Unfortunately, Taimin has made quite the name for himself as a fighter and warrior so he is the human that they chose to pursue. Taimin ends up killing the male, capturing the female, and destroying the Firewall machine. Which instead of being amazing news of a better future, unlocks a whole new level of danger from the giant race, named the Bonded who now have no choice but to destroy everyone in the wasteland.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 15, 2020
Solid craftsmanship
I have long been a fan of the genre and I appreciate the play between fantasy and science fiction. The prose is clear and the pace well controlled and to my taste. I think, however, much as I simply enjoy the world craft here, which is indeed interesting, I particularly appreciate the honest, irreducible personal challenges that are not just grafted on to characters For Plot Reasons. They are challenges that make a serious impact on the nature of characters who grow and change and cope and struggle to integrate their bodies and minds into a coherent whole being. I appreciate that solutions don't feel like deus ex machina nonsense that often just feels like the writer has decided the struggle is too much to deal with. To avoid getting spoiler-y, I'll leave it at that; solutions make sense and I appreciate the set up for the next book, which I am very much looking forward to reading.
I have long been a fan of the genre and I appreciate the play between fantasy and science fiction. The prose is clear and the pace well controlled and to my taste. I think, however, much as I simply enjoy the world craft here, which is indeed interesting, I particularly appreciate the honest, irreducible personal challenges that are not just grafted on to characters For Plot Reasons. They are challenges that make a serious impact on the nature of characters who grow and change and cope and struggle to integrate their bodies and minds into a coherent whole being. I appreciate that solutions don't feel like deus ex machina nonsense that often just feels like the writer has decided the struggle is too much to deal with. To avoid getting spoiler-y, I'll leave it at that; solutions make sense and I appreciate the set up for the next book, which I am very much looking forward to reading.
September 27, 2025
2 stars but
I remember really liking the first book, I even gave it 5 stars. But for some reason I didn't like it enough to start the second as soon as it came out. Specifically 5 years have passed since I read the first book (time really flys). I'm finding myself really having a hard time getting into this book. There's decent world building but It's slow, lots of telling and not enough showing and boring enough that I really just don't want to read book 3. That could be because years have passed and things weren't as fresh in my mind. It could be because I've obviously grown and my taste in books has changed as well. Either way I'm not going to continue the series and would give it 2 stars but will give it 3 since putting off the series for so long is clearly my fault and I'm sure a good reason as to why I'm not a fan.
I remember really liking the first book, I even gave it 5 stars. But for some reason I didn't like it enough to start the second as soon as it came out. Specifically 5 years have passed since I read the first book (time really flys). I'm finding myself really having a hard time getting into this book. There's decent world building but It's slow, lots of telling and not enough showing and boring enough that I really just don't want to read book 3. That could be because years have passed and things weren't as fresh in my mind. It could be because I've obviously grown and my taste in books has changed as well. Either way I'm not going to continue the series and would give it 2 stars but will give it 3 since putting off the series for so long is clearly my fault and I'm sure a good reason as to why I'm not a fan.
June 27, 2020
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for a copy of this eARC
Although I have not read the first book in this trilogy I did not feel that I was missing crucial information when reading the book. The history written of the main characters was enough to be able to create an image of them that helped to give them personalities.
The trails and triumphs that the main characters experienced throughout the book was interesting and I found myself wanting to continue reading. The writing flowed and although some parts were a bit bland it kept my interest until the end. The storyline between Taiman and Selina was good as was The way Tainan saw himself and his disability and how it affected his relationship,with Selena.
Although I have not read the first book in this trilogy I did not feel that I was missing crucial information when reading the book. The history written of the main characters was enough to be able to create an image of them that helped to give them personalities.
The trails and triumphs that the main characters experienced throughout the book was interesting and I found myself wanting to continue reading. The writing flowed and although some parts were a bit bland it kept my interest until the end. The storyline between Taiman and Selina was good as was The way Tainan saw himself and his disability and how it affected his relationship,with Selena.
October 8, 2020
Brilliant follow on
Wow, what a story. At first I thought it was going to be a really slow read, something based in the Stone Age or similar but a real change in the style grabbed my attention and all of a sudden I couldn't put the story down. A great mix of tribal warfare and ancient history affecting the future and then the revelation at the end that they were in fact descendants of travellers from other worlds. A good detailed description of life under a constant threat and a touch of the mystic added to spice it up. Add a bit of the future in the sciences behind the Firewall and the struggle against an unknown enemy and BANG! A really good read. I will now be reading all his other publications.
Wow, what a story. At first I thought it was going to be a really slow read, something based in the Stone Age or similar but a real change in the style grabbed my attention and all of a sudden I couldn't put the story down. A great mix of tribal warfare and ancient history affecting the future and then the revelation at the end that they were in fact descendants of travellers from other worlds. A good detailed description of life under a constant threat and a touch of the mystic added to spice it up. Add a bit of the future in the sciences behind the Firewall and the struggle against an unknown enemy and BANG! A really good read. I will now be reading all his other publications.
July 28, 2022
I am really enjoying this series! It is a really cool mix of fantasy and sci-fi - two of my favorite genres.
I like how this book is introducing the sci-fi elements, where the first book was more focused on fantasy elements. I can only imagine that the next book explores more sci-fi elements. The twists and turns in this book and the creativity makes me one happy reader. I definitely recommend this series!
The one downside for me was the way the narrator portrayed the Bonded's voices... they sound like Cookie Monster. And I could not for the life of me hear anything but Cookie Monster when they spoke. Which was both hilarious and frustrating. A forgiveable downside, but I am wondering if that will also be the case in the next book...
I like how this book is introducing the sci-fi elements, where the first book was more focused on fantasy elements. I can only imagine that the next book explores more sci-fi elements. The twists and turns in this book and the creativity makes me one happy reader. I definitely recommend this series!
The one downside for me was the way the narrator portrayed the Bonded's voices... they sound like Cookie Monster. And I could not for the life of me hear anything but Cookie Monster when they spoke. Which was both hilarious and frustrating. A forgiveable downside, but I am wondering if that will also be the case in the next book...
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 16, 2020
Headhunter
Maxwell makes a true and convincing world is the second Firewall novel. A group of desert dwellers have seen a green and lush land on the otherwise of the firewall. After the City of Zorn is taken, they copy a map found on w chamber wall. There is a break in the firewall which may lead to green lands and fresh water. Not only is the path through the desert teaming with danger, now the is a new species who is hunting for heads of warriors to take to his tribe. A quest that puts all in danger. Things do not always appear simple. And a goal achieved could lead not only to death for one, but annihilation for all.
Maxwell makes a true and convincing world is the second Firewall novel. A group of desert dwellers have seen a green and lush land on the otherwise of the firewall. After the City of Zorn is taken, they copy a map found on w chamber wall. There is a break in the firewall which may lead to green lands and fresh water. Not only is the path through the desert teaming with danger, now the is a new species who is hunting for heads of warriors to take to his tribe. A quest that puts all in danger. Things do not always appear simple. And a goal achieved could lead not only to death for one, but annihilation for all.
August 24, 2020
I received this book from a Goodreads giveaway.
Unlike a lot of fantasy and SciFi books; with elaborate scenery, unpronounceable names, and intricate writing, this book was all written and very easy to understand. The landscape Is the same as The Girl From Nowhere. A barren wasteland that's easy to imagine. The characters and creature's appearances are described well. The concept is very unique, and left me guessing what was going on. Although I had many theories, I definitely didn't come close to guessing the ending. The writing is very easy to read. It's a nice book for a beginner into SciFi/fantasy or a quick read. I would recommend this book to just about anyone.
Unlike a lot of fantasy and SciFi books; with elaborate scenery, unpronounceable names, and intricate writing, this book was all written and very easy to understand. The landscape Is the same as The Girl From Nowhere. A barren wasteland that's easy to imagine. The characters and creature's appearances are described well. The concept is very unique, and left me guessing what was going on. Although I had many theories, I definitely didn't come close to guessing the ending. The writing is very easy to read. It's a nice book for a beginner into SciFi/fantasy or a quick read. I would recommend this book to just about anyone.
October 20, 2020
Similar to the previous book, this story shouldn't really work. We spend the bulk of the novel seeing our heroes walk around the wastelands occasionally bumping into other species. It is not until the closing part of the book that we get some tension and drama.
However, the way in which James Maxwell creates his characters and then gradually see them evolve as the trilogy progresses takes the reader with them. Relationships grow, fall apart and then grow again just like in life.
This book did feel like it was establishing the groundwork for the big finale which will hopefully be a great conclusion to this trilogy.
However, the way in which James Maxwell creates his characters and then gradually see them evolve as the trilogy progresses takes the reader with them. Relationships grow, fall apart and then grow again just like in life.
This book did feel like it was establishing the groundwork for the big finale which will hopefully be a great conclusion to this trilogy.
December 3, 2020
Unexpectedly better than first book
I went into this kind of expecting it to be like Age of Ultron to the first Avengers but it was more like Empire Strikes Back to A New Hope. It certainly doesn't diminish the first book, instead of dramatically ramps up the stakes and expands the lore in a wonderful example of "show me don't tell me." Even when exposition happens, it feels natural instead of feeling like a forced " info dump. "
Slight spoiler, I went into this series expecting fantasy but, especially at the end of this book, it's going scifi. And I'm not even mad. It's awesome.
I went into this kind of expecting it to be like Age of Ultron to the first Avengers but it was more like Empire Strikes Back to A New Hope. It certainly doesn't diminish the first book, instead of dramatically ramps up the stakes and expands the lore in a wonderful example of "show me don't tell me." Even when exposition happens, it feels natural instead of feeling like a forced " info dump. "
Slight spoiler, I went into this series expecting fantasy but, especially at the end of this book, it's going scifi. And I'm not even mad. It's awesome.
January 21, 2021
a refreshing meld of sci-fi and fantasy
This series of books is unexpectedly enjoyable. Not knowing annoying about the first book, A girl from nowhere, I was dismayed to find that it had strong fantasy overtones - a genre that I rarely take pleasure reading. The books are well written, and I have enjoyed every moment of the two available books so far. Part sci-fi, part fantasy, these books are a refreshing change from the average sci-fi novels available and we'll worth the read. I will be purchasing the final book in the trilogy in February, and will attempt some of the other books from James Maxwell.
This series of books is unexpectedly enjoyable. Not knowing annoying about the first book, A girl from nowhere, I was dismayed to find that it had strong fantasy overtones - a genre that I rarely take pleasure reading. The books are well written, and I have enjoyed every moment of the two available books so far. Part sci-fi, part fantasy, these books are a refreshing change from the average sci-fi novels available and we'll worth the read. I will be purchasing the final book in the trilogy in February, and will attempt some of the other books from James Maxwell.
July 3, 2021
Amazing work of sci-fi!
This is a the 2nd book in The Firewall Trilogy and it does not disappoint. It's, probably, more captivating than the first one. James Maxwell has hit the ball way out of zone, scoring a real "homer". If you are a science fiction lover, you've got to add this to your reading list. If you just, simply, like to read, then add this book. It will feed your hunger for a good storyline and rich character development that have you forging relationships that have you thinking that full acceptance of diversity is possible(probable). Can't wait to start reading the third in this series.
This is a the 2nd book in The Firewall Trilogy and it does not disappoint. It's, probably, more captivating than the first one. James Maxwell has hit the ball way out of zone, scoring a real "homer". If you are a science fiction lover, you've got to add this to your reading list. If you just, simply, like to read, then add this book. It will feed your hunger for a good storyline and rich character development that have you forging relationships that have you thinking that full acceptance of diversity is possible(probable). Can't wait to start reading the third in this series.
July 19, 2021
The sequel to The Girl from Nowhere is full of even more action and adventure for Taimin and his companions as they try to cross the firewall. Along the way they, they learn more and more about their world and where the five races came from. A sixth giant race is also revealed. The change in attitude of the members of one race near the end of the story was a bit sudden, and the giant race telling them all that they were fighting a consortium of the other five was like an enemy telling our heroes how to defeat him. This book answers many of the questions posed by the first book in the Firewall series. I’ll read on to find out what happens to the characters next.
October 11, 2021
Though the gears of the plot grind audibly on occasion, "A World of Secrets" is a fine volume two in James Maxwell's Firewall Trilogy. As always, of course, it's best to start with volume one ("A Girl from Nowhere"), as Maxwell has built a complex world that gets more complex and more interesting with each revelation.
And note too that this is a young adult series, though that's not made clear, so there are certain limitations in narrative and expectations that would be noticeable weaknesses in an adult effort.
Still, "A World of Secrets" was page-turning fun, and I'm looking forward to finishing the series.
And note too that this is a young adult series, though that's not made clear, so there are certain limitations in narrative and expectations that would be noticeable weaknesses in an adult effort.
Still, "A World of Secrets" was page-turning fun, and I'm looking forward to finishing the series.
September 3, 2020
I really wanted to like it
I really wanted to like it, the story itself had it’s intriguing moments but it would just get so.bogged.down. And though a relatively small book- it just was bogged down in so much Unnecessary stuff, it just made reading it a total drag. It had potential though, especially initially. But to be prisoners trapped in a world with little to no - and diminishing hope is just bleh. I really wanted to like it, but this is one of the few far and between book series that-I just couldn’t do it.
I really wanted to like it, the story itself had it’s intriguing moments but it would just get so.bogged.down. And though a relatively small book- it just was bogged down in so much Unnecessary stuff, it just made reading it a total drag. It had potential though, especially initially. But to be prisoners trapped in a world with little to no - and diminishing hope is just bleh. I really wanted to like it, but this is one of the few far and between book series that-I just couldn’t do it.
October 4, 2020
Love the series!
I picked the first book in the series up on a whim. This book I pre-ordered immediately when I finished the first one. I enjoy the world building that the author does how he describes details of the world as well as the various flora and fauna that one might find on a foreign world. If I have one complaint about the writers style it is that he is occasionally heavy handed with explanation- especially when something is obvious. Still a ready great read! Highly recommend
I picked the first book in the series up on a whim. This book I pre-ordered immediately when I finished the first one. I enjoy the world building that the author does how he describes details of the world as well as the various flora and fauna that one might find on a foreign world. If I have one complaint about the writers style it is that he is occasionally heavy handed with explanation- especially when something is obvious. Still a ready great read! Highly recommend
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