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FBI: Houston #3
Deadlock
Two murders have rocked the city of Houston. Are they the work of a serial killer, or is a copycat trying to get away with murder?
That is the question facing Special Agent Bethany Sanchez, who is eager for her new assignment in violent crimes but anxious about meeting her new partner. Special Agent Thatcher Graves once arrested her brother, and he has a reputation for being a maverick. Plus, their investigative styles couldn't be more opposite: he operates on instinct, while she goes by the book.
When hot leads soon fizzle out, their differences threaten to leave them deadlocked. But an attempt on their lives turns up the heat and brings them closer together, and a third victim might yield the clue that will help them zero in on a killer. This could be the case of their careers . . . if they can survive long enough to solve it.
That is the question facing Special Agent Bethany Sanchez, who is eager for her new assignment in violent crimes but anxious about meeting her new partner. Special Agent Thatcher Graves once arrested her brother, and he has a reputation for being a maverick. Plus, their investigative styles couldn't be more opposite: he operates on instinct, while she goes by the book.
When hot leads soon fizzle out, their differences threaten to leave them deadlocked. But an attempt on their lives turns up the heat and brings them closer together, and a third victim might yield the clue that will help them zero in on a killer. This could be the case of their careers . . . if they can survive long enough to solve it.
350 pages, Paperback
First published September 17, 2015
About the author
DiAnn Mills
147 books1,797 followersDiAnn Mills is a bestselling author who believes her readers should expect an adventure. She combines unforgettable characters with unpredictable plots to create action-packed, suspense-filled novels. DiAnn believes every breath of life is someone’s story, so why not capture those moments and create a thrilling adventure?
Her titles have appeared on the CBA and ECPA bestseller lists; won two Christy Awards; and been finalists for the RITA, Daphne Du Maurier, Inspirational Readers’ Choice, and Carol award contests. You can download a list of her published titles by clicking here.
DiAnn is a founding board member of the American Christian Fiction Writers, a former director of Blue Ridge Christian Writers, and a member of Advanced Writers and Speakers Association, Mystery Writers of America, Sisters in Crime, and International Thriller Writers. She shares her passion for helping other writers be successful by teaching writing workshops around the country.
DiAnn has been termed a coffee snob and roasts her own coffee beans. She’s an avid reader, loves to cook, and believes her grandchildren are the smartest kids in the universe. She and her husband live in sunny Houston, Texas.
DiAnn is very active online and would love to connect with readers on any of the social media platforms listed:
Stay Connected with at:
Her website: https://diannmills.com/
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LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/diannmills/
Her titles have appeared on the CBA and ECPA bestseller lists; won two Christy Awards; and been finalists for the RITA, Daphne Du Maurier, Inspirational Readers’ Choice, and Carol award contests. You can download a list of her published titles by clicking here.
DiAnn is a founding board member of the American Christian Fiction Writers, a former director of Blue Ridge Christian Writers, and a member of Advanced Writers and Speakers Association, Mystery Writers of America, Sisters in Crime, and International Thriller Writers. She shares her passion for helping other writers be successful by teaching writing workshops around the country.
DiAnn has been termed a coffee snob and roasts her own coffee beans. She’s an avid reader, loves to cook, and believes her grandchildren are the smartest kids in the universe. She and her husband live in sunny Houston, Texas.
DiAnn is very active online and would love to connect with readers on any of the social media platforms listed:
Stay Connected with at:
Her website: https://diannmills.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/diannmills
Twitter: https://twitter.com/diannmills
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/diannmills/
GoodReads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/81...
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/diannmillsa...
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/diannmills
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/diannmills/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 150 reviews
August 7, 2017
Special Agent Bethany Sanchez left the civil rights department of the FBI to work in the violent crimes unit. She is assigned to work with Special Agent Thatcher Graves. The two agents clash at first as their ways of investigating crimes differ. Bethany is very analytical and Thatcher goes by his gut feeling. They are investigating murders that appear to Thatcher as being those of a serial murderer but Bethany is not so sure. Bethany's brother, Lucas, has recently been released from prison where he was sent based on testimony by Thatcher and a second time by Bethany's testimony. Because of this, Bethany has been ostracized by her family who tend to take up for Lucas and excuse his actions. Bethany begins receiving threatening texts from a burner phone. Someone tried to hit her with a car. Bethany thinks that Lucas could be behind it all because he has a history of crimes against others that involve no guilt on his part. He has let her know that he resents her for sending him to prison and especially because she is now working with Thatcher, who also sent him to prison. But as events pile up and even include Thatcher, she and Thatcher begin to question who is behind the threats. It begins to appear that maybe the person committing the murders could be behind the threats to Bethany and Thatcher.
DEADLOCK is fast paced with twists and turns. Bethany and Thatcher have to learn to work together to combine their skills to solve the murders and have to watch their backs. Someone seems to know their every move and keep trying to sabotage their investigation as well as put their lives in danger. Bethany's faith helps her deal with the rejection of her family while Thatcher is a new Christian. The story has a surprise ending. Grab it for an on the edge of your seat read!
DEADLOCK is fast paced with twists and turns. Bethany and Thatcher have to learn to work together to combine their skills to solve the murders and have to watch their backs. Someone seems to know their every move and keep trying to sabotage their investigation as well as put their lives in danger. Bethany's faith helps her deal with the rejection of her family while Thatcher is a new Christian. The story has a surprise ending. Grab it for an on the edge of your seat read!
March 1, 2016
I got my copy from the library :) I picked up this book intending to read a few chapters and then do something else, never happened because I was hooked from the first chapter! I loved Bethany and Thatcher, they both are impeccable agents and really enjoyed the dialogue between them. Mills is very smooth in getting the reader to care for them before tragedy strikes while they are investigating a serial killer. I hated how things go wrong!
I had NO idea who the killer was. I had suspicions, but I couldn't figure it out and was EAGER to see the gruesome acts be stopped. Also didn't like their boss, but he did what needed to be done. It wasn't just the murders either, it was the news postings accusing the FBI of being inept and worthless. It was also the grim texts Bethany kept receiving. I couldn't believe someone could be so ruthless and bold taunting the police in this way. I also had trouble with so many people they interviewed NOT cooperating with the agents every time they needed information from someone, but every bit was authentic.
One of the biggest things that was difficult for me is the way a husband in the story beat up his wife (one of the murder victims) and his teen daughter and continued to justify himself and lie about it. And of course, how Bethany's brother constantly threatened her. I understand family dysfunction, but I couldn't believe the hostility in these men. However, Mills did such a great job writing these characters you can't help but feel like you're there with these agents figuring out how to cope and do their job efficiently at the same time. Bethany is one of the toughest and most gracious characters I've ever read about and she amazed me with her compassion and forgiveness abilities.
Even though there is violence in the story and the FBI agents are threatened, shot at, and other disagreeable situations, the story is quite the page turner and not graphic at all. There is lots of compassion and respect to the victims in the story. I never would've guessed who the actual villains were and how far Bethany's brother went in terrorizing her. My heart was pulled in all the way with this one :)
I had NO idea who the killer was. I had suspicions, but I couldn't figure it out and was EAGER to see the gruesome acts be stopped. Also didn't like their boss, but he did what needed to be done. It wasn't just the murders either, it was the news postings accusing the FBI of being inept and worthless. It was also the grim texts Bethany kept receiving. I couldn't believe someone could be so ruthless and bold taunting the police in this way. I also had trouble with so many people they interviewed NOT cooperating with the agents every time they needed information from someone, but every bit was authentic.
One of the biggest things that was difficult for me is the way a husband in the story beat up his wife (one of the murder victims) and his teen daughter and continued to justify himself and lie about it. And of course, how Bethany's brother constantly threatened her. I understand family dysfunction, but I couldn't believe the hostility in these men. However, Mills did such a great job writing these characters you can't help but feel like you're there with these agents figuring out how to cope and do their job efficiently at the same time. Bethany is one of the toughest and most gracious characters I've ever read about and she amazed me with her compassion and forgiveness abilities.
Even though there is violence in the story and the FBI agents are threatened, shot at, and other disagreeable situations, the story is quite the page turner and not graphic at all. There is lots of compassion and respect to the victims in the story. I never would've guessed who the actual villains were and how far Bethany's brother went in terrorizing her. My heart was pulled in all the way with this one :)
October 30, 2015
I had a bit of a problem getting into this book at first. I didn’t dislike it. The story line was interesting. But, for the first portion of the novel, I didn’t really care for the two main characters. Both Bethany and Thatcher rubbed me the wrong way. However, I kept on reading, because I did want to find out who was behind the Scorpion murders. I’m very glad I did.
As the book progressed, Thatcher and Bethany grew on me. When I learned more about these two characters, the backgrounds they came from, and even Thatcher’s newly found faith, I did become attached to them and invested in what happened. There was also an attraction building between Bethany and Thatcher that added interest.
The Scorpion killings continued to confound me throughout the entire book. The author did a great job of creating a truly strange set of characters and circumstances. I eventually had my suspicions about who might be behind the murders, but even then I did not have everything figured out. There were many twists and facets to this book, ranging from horrible family relationships to disturbing peeks into mental instability. It all ended up coming together as a solid suspense story.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
As the book progressed, Thatcher and Bethany grew on me. When I learned more about these two characters, the backgrounds they came from, and even Thatcher’s newly found faith, I did become attached to them and invested in what happened. There was also an attraction building between Bethany and Thatcher that added interest.
The Scorpion killings continued to confound me throughout the entire book. The author did a great job of creating a truly strange set of characters and circumstances. I eventually had my suspicions about who might be behind the murders, but even then I did not have everything figured out. There were many twists and facets to this book, ranging from horrible family relationships to disturbing peeks into mental instability. It all ended up coming together as a solid suspense story.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
October 30, 2016
My enjoyment of the story and the main characters was about a five, but because a couple of gripes I rate it four.
I really liked that Bethany is diabetic. It's interesting to have it as a challenge for the heroine, since it's widespread in the general population but not well represented among storybook characters. But one snarl did come from this; she is adamant about not eating sugar of any kind, yet after a case-related health incident she repeatedly drinks Sprite...which contains high fructose corn syrup—much worse for a diabetic than regular sugar.
A minor character was said to live in Austin but was interviewed by Dallas law enforcement. Also, the ending wrapped up pretty fast for me.
I really liked the dynamic of Bethany and Thatcher being new partners and trying to work together on a stressful case. I also really enjoyed him being a new Christian and mentored by Daniel from book two.
I'd love to have a book or few about their future career path, hinted at in the final chapter! (Hint hint, Mrs. Mills!)
I really liked that Bethany is diabetic. It's interesting to have it as a challenge for the heroine, since it's widespread in the general population but not well represented among storybook characters. But one snarl did come from this; she is adamant about not eating sugar of any kind, yet after a case-related health incident she repeatedly drinks Sprite...which contains high fructose corn syrup—much worse for a diabetic than regular sugar.
A minor character was said to live in Austin but was interviewed by Dallas law enforcement. Also, the ending wrapped up pretty fast for me.
I really liked the dynamic of Bethany and Thatcher being new partners and trying to work together on a stressful case. I also really enjoyed him being a new Christian and mentored by Daniel from book two.
I'd love to have a book or few about their future career path, hinted at in the final chapter! (Hint hint, Mrs. Mills!)
June 16, 2018
The conclusion to DiAnn Mills' FBI: Houston is as fast paced and riveting as the first two books in the series. Special Agent Bethany Sanchez has been partnered Special Agent Thatcher Graves. Sanchez is known as a by the book, what makes sense, logical agent. Graves is know as a wild card, gut instinct, go with your feelings agent. Will these two fight one another as they try to find a serial killer or will they use the best qualities of each of them?
This was definitely a stay up late, can't put it down suspense novel. The ending was not expected at all and the killer was nowhere in my mindset of who might be the villain. Once again DiAnn Mills has penned another great suspense novel. Yet she also includes a touch of romance with spiritual content to make this a great Christian fiction read as well.
This was definitely a stay up late, can't put it down suspense novel. The ending was not expected at all and the killer was nowhere in my mindset of who might be the villain. Once again DiAnn Mills has penned another great suspense novel. Yet she also includes a touch of romance with spiritual content to make this a great Christian fiction read as well.
October 30, 2015
DiAnn Mills believes her readers should “expect an adventure” and she delivers in Deadlock. I felt like I was reading a “Criminal Minds” episode…it was fascinating. The action was intense and at times heartbreaking as FBI Special Agent Bethany Sanchez tried to figure out if and how her brother was involved in the Scorpion murders.
Bethany Sanchez and her new partner, Thatcher Graves, are complete opposites in how they approach cases. Bethany is all logic, analytics, and spreadsheets. Thatcher operates on instinct. Yet he feels they could be a “force to be reckoned with, if we don’t kill each other first” (location 417). It was interesting seeing how they tried to work with each other and to get to know each other to build trust between them. I enjoyed watching their relationship grow.
One of my favorite characters was Bethany’s bird, Jasper. He ends up playing a role in the case and his comments made me laugh.
Bethany struggles with what God’s sovereignty really means in the realities of her life and work. It’s not talked about much but what is there is honest and real.
Thank you to Tyndale for providing me with a free e-copy of this book for the purpose of this review. I would highly recommend it.
Bethany Sanchez and her new partner, Thatcher Graves, are complete opposites in how they approach cases. Bethany is all logic, analytics, and spreadsheets. Thatcher operates on instinct. Yet he feels they could be a “force to be reckoned with, if we don’t kill each other first” (location 417). It was interesting seeing how they tried to work with each other and to get to know each other to build trust between them. I enjoyed watching their relationship grow.
One of my favorite characters was Bethany’s bird, Jasper. He ends up playing a role in the case and his comments made me laugh.
Bethany struggles with what God’s sovereignty really means in the realities of her life and work. It’s not talked about much but what is there is honest and real.
Thank you to Tyndale for providing me with a free e-copy of this book for the purpose of this review. I would highly recommend it.
April 17, 2019
Two-goody-shoes girl playing by the book. Reformed bad boy playing by the instincts. Both are Special Agents. And there is a killer on the loose - or more of them? Is this the serial killing, or the copycat murders?
This is layered police procedural novel with various levels of issues touched - crime, family relationships, trust in God.
The psychological ones are covered better in my opinion. Dysfunctional families hurt. The lack of backing up from your closest ones hurts. And it is important to talk about these issues, because this kind of pain goes deep. The domestic violence topic also deserves the talk and I am glad for this to be covered here well.
I quite like Thatcher, who is very sensitive and caring guy, and can be this way while staying manly. Bethany sees that and her inner walls start to crack - good for her!
As for the mystery - there is too much mentally unstable villains and too much chances taken for me to be able to fully enjoy the ride, to be honest. I am a lover of the good mystery, and this one is unfortunately missing the good structure and the believable reasoning for all the crimes.
And I am going to be honest here now. So bear with me, while I say this, because it saddens me: this novel contains a few not positive comments about Bethany´s previous denomination, which is the current denomination of her family (from which she was "excommunicated", which is a serious issue). The religion is not named, but it is related to nuns and Bethany´s family is Mexican. So I feel safe to guess: Catholicism. First, excommunication: there is never mentioned any reason for this so-called "excommunication". Being Catholic myself, I know several reasons for that and they are of grave nature (surely not a bitter family relationships), so the term is used incorrectly here in my opinion.
Second and more important: above all, this denomination topic is not related to the content of the novel, so I don´t understand the need for the discussion about the "right" denomination here in the Christian fiction. What if Bethany was Catholic? Might there be any problem with her chacter and/or relationship to God? Just a question.
Having said all that - I see Ms. Mills´s effort to go for the deeper topics and I applaud her for that. We all need more food for thought.
This is layered police procedural novel with various levels of issues touched - crime, family relationships, trust in God.
The psychological ones are covered better in my opinion. Dysfunctional families hurt. The lack of backing up from your closest ones hurts. And it is important to talk about these issues, because this kind of pain goes deep. The domestic violence topic also deserves the talk and I am glad for this to be covered here well.
I quite like Thatcher, who is very sensitive and caring guy, and can be this way while staying manly. Bethany sees that and her inner walls start to crack - good for her!
As for the mystery - there is too much mentally unstable villains and too much chances taken for me to be able to fully enjoy the ride, to be honest. I am a lover of the good mystery, and this one is unfortunately missing the good structure and the believable reasoning for all the crimes.
And I am going to be honest here now. So bear with me, while I say this, because it saddens me: this novel contains a few not positive comments about Bethany´s previous denomination, which is the current denomination of her family (from which she was "excommunicated", which is a serious issue). The religion is not named, but it is related to nuns and Bethany´s family is Mexican. So I feel safe to guess: Catholicism. First, excommunication: there is never mentioned any reason for this so-called "excommunication". Being Catholic myself, I know several reasons for that and they are of grave nature (surely not a bitter family relationships), so the term is used incorrectly here in my opinion.
Second and more important: above all, this denomination topic is not related to the content of the novel, so I don´t understand the need for the discussion about the "right" denomination here in the Christian fiction. What if Bethany was Catholic? Might there be any problem with her chacter and/or relationship to God? Just a question.
Having said all that - I see Ms. Mills´s effort to go for the deeper topics and I applaud her for that. We all need more food for thought.
August 22, 2015
As with the other FBI Houston books Deadlock jumps straight into the crime-fighting action. It read like a great crime TV show, high on dialog, short sharp sentences and minimal other details, with touches of romance and faith.
It's the first day on the job for Special Agent Bethany Sanchez, who has transferred from civil rights division to violent crimes. Eager to start, yet anxious about working with her new partner Special Agent Thatcher Graves, Bethany is plunged straight into the middle of a serial killer case. Things get complicated when Bethany isn't sure the second murder really is the work of the serial killer, while Thatcher is adamant his gut is correct in assuring him the murders are the work of the same person. Add family drama and growing feelings between Bethany and Thatcher and the case is soon heating up.
Bethany and Thatcher butt heads from the start. Bethany is determined to prove herself, but can't seem to stop making mistakes. Thatcher is just as eager to prove he isn't the man Bethany has heard about from office rumours. But the murders aren't stopping and with little to go on, Bethany and Thatcher's lives, and careers, are in danger.
The focus of Deadlock is on solving the crime, rather than action, but there are still plenty of intense moments, and suspense. I have to admit that while the writing style is good for keeping a fast pace I would have liked a few more details and descriptions at the start to really become immersed in the story. At times, with the very limited descriptions and continuous back and forth dialog, I got a little lost with who was saying what. I also couldn't tell if they were serious, joking, angry or otherwise. I think Bethany and Thatcher weren't getting along at the start, but whether this involved humour or intense dislike, I couldn't tell you. At times the book felt a little like a TV show's screenplay, without the setting, actors or director filling in the blanks for the audience. Kind of like when you receive an email and you can't quite decipher the sender's tone and you wished they had thrown in some emoticons for reference. But as the story progresses, I became more engaged in the story, and Bethany and Thatcher become more 'fleshed out' as characters and more relatable.
Faith played a small role in this book. Bethany is a Christian and Thatcher is a brand-new Christian of three weeks. Both consider their faith throughout the unfolding storyline, but it didn't play a large role like I thought it might. Thatcher is rumoured to have changed from his previous ways although this is not discussed in great detail, nor is how he is coping with these changes.
The romance is sweet and plays a nice backstory to the crime-solving focus. Bethany and Thatcher's relationship progresses pretty quickly, considering the timeline of the story, but most of it is them considering their growing feelings and their determination not to get sidetracked from finding the killer. Again, more details about why they were falling for each other would have made this more believable. A lot of the romance and characterisation of Bethany and Thatcher was told rather than shown.
While I didn't enjoy this book like I have the previous two in the series, it was a solid crime-fighting story with plenty of suspects, twists and suspense. Deadlock can be read as a standalone, as can books one and two in the FBI: Houston series.
The publishers provided a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Find this review and more like it on my blog Madison's Library.
It's the first day on the job for Special Agent Bethany Sanchez, who has transferred from civil rights division to violent crimes. Eager to start, yet anxious about working with her new partner Special Agent Thatcher Graves, Bethany is plunged straight into the middle of a serial killer case. Things get complicated when Bethany isn't sure the second murder really is the work of the serial killer, while Thatcher is adamant his gut is correct in assuring him the murders are the work of the same person. Add family drama and growing feelings between Bethany and Thatcher and the case is soon heating up.
Bethany and Thatcher butt heads from the start. Bethany is determined to prove herself, but can't seem to stop making mistakes. Thatcher is just as eager to prove he isn't the man Bethany has heard about from office rumours. But the murders aren't stopping and with little to go on, Bethany and Thatcher's lives, and careers, are in danger.
The focus of Deadlock is on solving the crime, rather than action, but there are still plenty of intense moments, and suspense. I have to admit that while the writing style is good for keeping a fast pace I would have liked a few more details and descriptions at the start to really become immersed in the story. At times, with the very limited descriptions and continuous back and forth dialog, I got a little lost with who was saying what. I also couldn't tell if they were serious, joking, angry or otherwise. I think Bethany and Thatcher weren't getting along at the start, but whether this involved humour or intense dislike, I couldn't tell you. At times the book felt a little like a TV show's screenplay, without the setting, actors or director filling in the blanks for the audience. Kind of like when you receive an email and you can't quite decipher the sender's tone and you wished they had thrown in some emoticons for reference. But as the story progresses, I became more engaged in the story, and Bethany and Thatcher become more 'fleshed out' as characters and more relatable.
Faith played a small role in this book. Bethany is a Christian and Thatcher is a brand-new Christian of three weeks. Both consider their faith throughout the unfolding storyline, but it didn't play a large role like I thought it might. Thatcher is rumoured to have changed from his previous ways although this is not discussed in great detail, nor is how he is coping with these changes.
The romance is sweet and plays a nice backstory to the crime-solving focus. Bethany and Thatcher's relationship progresses pretty quickly, considering the timeline of the story, but most of it is them considering their growing feelings and their determination not to get sidetracked from finding the killer. Again, more details about why they were falling for each other would have made this more believable. A lot of the romance and characterisation of Bethany and Thatcher was told rather than shown.
While I didn't enjoy this book like I have the previous two in the series, it was a solid crime-fighting story with plenty of suspects, twists and suspense. Deadlock can be read as a standalone, as can books one and two in the FBI: Houston series.
The publishers provided a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Find this review and more like it on my blog Madison's Library.
March 9, 2016
DiAnn Mills brings us the 3rd installment in the FBI Huston series. Even though this book is part of a series this book would be still considered a stand alone novel. There are secondary characters well integrated in the story that were the primary characters in the previous books in the series and of course the setting is the same which is Huston, Texas.
This is a fast paced edge of your seat suspense interlaced with a romance.
This story will quickly pull you in with the introduction of Bethany Sanchez. She has just moved from the civil rights division to violent crimes after solving a cold case hate crime. She is called to the scene of a murder her first day on the job because there's a link to the previous murder of Ruth Caswell. The link is a plastic scorpion which is placed on the victim's chest. The only problem is, Alicia Javon, has a history of domestic violence and it's looking like her husband is maybe their prime suspect for this murder.
Bethany is a complex character with her own problems. She grew up in a Hispanic neighborhood where killing is almost a right of passage for most. She has agreed to volunteer at Noah's Loft which is basically a safe house that helps the residents with becoming productive members of society after some form of abuse has taken place. Most residents, if not all, are female with children. At present she is estranged from her family after arresting and testifying against her brother, Lucas, which sent him to prison. This was not Lucas's first incarceration, but his second. She has been assigned a partner and wouldn't you know it, he's the very one who arrested Lucas first. Lucas has recently been released from prison and he's looking for revenge and retribution from Bethany.
Special Agent Thatcher Graves has been assigned a new partner. The first thing he notices is that she is quick to jump to assumptions about a crime and her lack of trust. Two things as the senior agent in charge he would have to change and quickly if this partnership was to work. As important factors in the puzzle start to come to light Bethany decides full disclosure with Thatcher about Lucas and the threats he's making about her. Is there a link to the murders and Lucas? This case is turning into a complication neither expected and suspect there's a serial killer out there looking for the next victim.
I really enjoyed this fast paced plot. It grabs you and keeps you turning the pages. It's full of twists and turns that keep the reader guessing until the end of the story. The characters are complex with faults of their own, but so easy to love. There's just enough romantic tension that keeps a romance probable once the case is solved.
I always look for a message of faith in every book I read. The message I received was one of remembering that God loves us and will be there for us regardless of the circumstances. We must remember that no matter what struggles you are facing today there is always another chapter to your story.
This is a book I would recommend to anyone who enjoys suspense.
* I received this book from the publisher via NetGalley for a honest review without bias or outside influence. All opinions or thoughts are my own.
This is a fast paced edge of your seat suspense interlaced with a romance.
This story will quickly pull you in with the introduction of Bethany Sanchez. She has just moved from the civil rights division to violent crimes after solving a cold case hate crime. She is called to the scene of a murder her first day on the job because there's a link to the previous murder of Ruth Caswell. The link is a plastic scorpion which is placed on the victim's chest. The only problem is, Alicia Javon, has a history of domestic violence and it's looking like her husband is maybe their prime suspect for this murder.
Bethany is a complex character with her own problems. She grew up in a Hispanic neighborhood where killing is almost a right of passage for most. She has agreed to volunteer at Noah's Loft which is basically a safe house that helps the residents with becoming productive members of society after some form of abuse has taken place. Most residents, if not all, are female with children. At present she is estranged from her family after arresting and testifying against her brother, Lucas, which sent him to prison. This was not Lucas's first incarceration, but his second. She has been assigned a partner and wouldn't you know it, he's the very one who arrested Lucas first. Lucas has recently been released from prison and he's looking for revenge and retribution from Bethany.
Special Agent Thatcher Graves has been assigned a new partner. The first thing he notices is that she is quick to jump to assumptions about a crime and her lack of trust. Two things as the senior agent in charge he would have to change and quickly if this partnership was to work. As important factors in the puzzle start to come to light Bethany decides full disclosure with Thatcher about Lucas and the threats he's making about her. Is there a link to the murders and Lucas? This case is turning into a complication neither expected and suspect there's a serial killer out there looking for the next victim.
I really enjoyed this fast paced plot. It grabs you and keeps you turning the pages. It's full of twists and turns that keep the reader guessing until the end of the story. The characters are complex with faults of their own, but so easy to love. There's just enough romantic tension that keeps a romance probable once the case is solved.
I always look for a message of faith in every book I read. The message I received was one of remembering that God loves us and will be there for us regardless of the circumstances. We must remember that no matter what struggles you are facing today there is always another chapter to your story.
This is a book I would recommend to anyone who enjoys suspense.
* I received this book from the publisher via NetGalley for a honest review without bias or outside influence. All opinions or thoughts are my own.
November 17, 2015
In this FBI Houston novel, two Special Agents, Bethany Sanchez and Thatcher Graves, try to catch a serial killer.
This novel did not grab me like some others by Mills. I did not find Sanchez a character I liked. She has come over from the civil rights division and is now on her first case in violent crimes with Graves. She is a “by the book” person, making spread sheets of clues. He is more of an intuitive guy, with a degree in psychology and previously having a counseling practice. The two get off to a rough start.
Sanchez has a troubled brother. Graves had once arrested him and another time Sanchez herself got him arrested. He is now out of prison and is harassing her. Her parents support the brother and have practically disowned her. The family dynamics are a big distraction to her work and I felt a distraction from what could be an intense novel.
Sanchez is not a strong heroine. She is unsure of herself and makes mistakes, including a really dumb one at the end. I just did not like her as a character in an FBI thriller. She is not the strong FBI agent I'd love to see.
The plot was very convoluted with mentally unstable villains and lots of coincidences. There is some suspense but most of the book consisted of discussing the case. There is a budding romance between Sanchez and Graves, something that seems a little out of character for both of them. There was nothing special about the dialog, no clever wit nor memorable phrases. Also, I felt the ending of the novel was a little to easy with everything wrapping up too neatly.
This may not be Mills' best but I'll keep looking forward to her next novel.
This novel did not grab me like some others by Mills. I did not find Sanchez a character I liked. She has come over from the civil rights division and is now on her first case in violent crimes with Graves. She is a “by the book” person, making spread sheets of clues. He is more of an intuitive guy, with a degree in psychology and previously having a counseling practice. The two get off to a rough start.
Sanchez has a troubled brother. Graves had once arrested him and another time Sanchez herself got him arrested. He is now out of prison and is harassing her. Her parents support the brother and have practically disowned her. The family dynamics are a big distraction to her work and I felt a distraction from what could be an intense novel.
Sanchez is not a strong heroine. She is unsure of herself and makes mistakes, including a really dumb one at the end. I just did not like her as a character in an FBI thriller. She is not the strong FBI agent I'd love to see.
The plot was very convoluted with mentally unstable villains and lots of coincidences. There is some suspense but most of the book consisted of discussing the case. There is a budding romance between Sanchez and Graves, something that seems a little out of character for both of them. There was nothing special about the dialog, no clever wit nor memorable phrases. Also, I felt the ending of the novel was a little to easy with everything wrapping up too neatly.
This may not be Mills' best but I'll keep looking forward to her next novel.
September 25, 2024
DiAnn Mills is still an author I haven't read many books by, but I have enjoyed each one I have read. She hasn't disappointed me yet, and this newest novel of hers is even better than the others I have read.
Book #3 in the FBI Houston series, Deadlock is pretty much a stand alone title, as the other two are. There is no continued story line in the books, though some of the characters from the previous books make an appearance in this one, and the setting is the same as the other two books.
Deadlock is a "who dun it" sort of novel in ways. There is a bad guy, and though the FBI find a lot of clues and people connected to the killer, the identity of the top guy is kept a secret until the end, and I was totally surprised.
The book has plenty of suspense, drama, and action in it, and also family problems and threats and intimidation tactics. There is a Christian message throughout the book, but those who don't like "preachy" novels should still like it.
The most stars you can give a book is 5, but I enjoyed this novel so much that I would give it 6 if I could. I had a hard time putting it down, and found myself turning the pages as fast I can read. I highly recommend it, and readers of Christian suspense will enjoy it.
Book #3 in the FBI Houston series, Deadlock is pretty much a stand alone title, as the other two are. There is no continued story line in the books, though some of the characters from the previous books make an appearance in this one, and the setting is the same as the other two books.
Deadlock is a "who dun it" sort of novel in ways. There is a bad guy, and though the FBI find a lot of clues and people connected to the killer, the identity of the top guy is kept a secret until the end, and I was totally surprised.
The book has plenty of suspense, drama, and action in it, and also family problems and threats and intimidation tactics. There is a Christian message throughout the book, but those who don't like "preachy" novels should still like it.
The most stars you can give a book is 5, but I enjoyed this novel so much that I would give it 6 if I could. I had a hard time putting it down, and found myself turning the pages as fast I can read. I highly recommend it, and readers of Christian suspense will enjoy it.
February 28, 2016
Will they be too late?
I've really been enjoying the FBI: Houston series but I think Deadlock is my favorite so far. More danger, more romance, more of DiAnn Mills's great storytelling.
Deadlock is a fairly thick book but it didn't take me long to finish, I think those pages must have been smoking I was turning them so fast! I just couldn't seem to put it down, I HAD to know what would happen next and if my guess on the identity of the mastermind was right or not.
Out of all the leading characters in this series I think Bethany and Thatcher are my favorites. They both have some very real struggles and I loved watching their faith change and grow.
I love suspense and mystery and read as many Christian ones as I can get hold of. DiAnn Mills is one of those authors that I will read the book just based on seeing her name on the cover. I really enjoy her brand of romantic suspense and Deadlock is a wonderful example.
If you love suspense and want a gripping read with some intriguing characters you won't want to miss this great story from DiAnn Mills !
(I received a copy of this book from Tyndale in exchange for my review. All opinions are my own.)
I've really been enjoying the FBI: Houston series but I think Deadlock is my favorite so far. More danger, more romance, more of DiAnn Mills's great storytelling.
Deadlock is a fairly thick book but it didn't take me long to finish, I think those pages must have been smoking I was turning them so fast! I just couldn't seem to put it down, I HAD to know what would happen next and if my guess on the identity of the mastermind was right or not.
Out of all the leading characters in this series I think Bethany and Thatcher are my favorites. They both have some very real struggles and I loved watching their faith change and grow.
I love suspense and mystery and read as many Christian ones as I can get hold of. DiAnn Mills is one of those authors that I will read the book just based on seeing her name on the cover. I really enjoy her brand of romantic suspense and Deadlock is a wonderful example.
If you love suspense and want a gripping read with some intriguing characters you won't want to miss this great story from DiAnn Mills !
(I received a copy of this book from Tyndale in exchange for my review. All opinions are my own.)
February 1, 2016
What I Loved...
In mainstream Christian Fiction, it's rare to find a heroine of Hispanic heritage. I was so super excited to read a book that featured one that was an authentic Mexican woman. I loved reading Spanish throughout the book and the Hispanic family dynamics. I am working on my first real book as an aspiring author and the female lead is an authentic young woman and feared that it would not be widely accepted. Deadlock was an inspiration to me.
What I Liked...
I am not usually a suspense fiction reader, but I loved that Mills had me guessing until the end. The twists and turns made me want to keep reading late into the night. I honestly guessed that the killer was everyone at one point or another...lol. I literally changed my suspect a hundred times.
Other...
Love the cover. Great depictions of the characters.
There was one loose end that I wish would have been solved better.
Christian Fiction Addict
Disclaimer: This book was provided by the publisher through Tyndale. The opinion of this book, is my own and I was not paid or compensated for my review.
In mainstream Christian Fiction, it's rare to find a heroine of Hispanic heritage. I was so super excited to read a book that featured one that was an authentic Mexican woman. I loved reading Spanish throughout the book and the Hispanic family dynamics. I am working on my first real book as an aspiring author and the female lead is an authentic young woman and feared that it would not be widely accepted. Deadlock was an inspiration to me.
What I Liked...
I am not usually a suspense fiction reader, but I loved that Mills had me guessing until the end. The twists and turns made me want to keep reading late into the night. I honestly guessed that the killer was everyone at one point or another...lol. I literally changed my suspect a hundred times.
Other...
Love the cover. Great depictions of the characters.
There was one loose end that I wish would have been solved better.
Christian Fiction Addict
Disclaimer: This book was provided by the publisher through Tyndale. The opinion of this book, is my own and I was not paid or compensated for my review.
November 8, 2015
RESEÑA COMPLETA EN ESPAÑOL
Suspense on each page!
At first I was a little wary about this book because it belongs to a series and I didn’t want to be spoiled. The good news is that each book can be read separately and are not related to each other.
This novel reminds me of a police television series: there is much tension, adrenaline and drama but also with a bit of romance.
There are many details and surprises regarding the characters, and are much more complicated than they seem at first. In addition, the twists in the story comes when you least expect it, so it keeps you on the edge of your seat and wanting to continue reading.
Deadlock has convinced me to check out the other books in this series and from the author, because I think she has a natural talent to create marvelous stories.
-I received a book by Tyndale Blog Network for this review in exchange for my honest opinion, which I did-
October 21, 2015
Set in the city of Houston, TX, FBI special agent Bethany Sanchez moves from the civil rights division of the agency to violent crimes and meets her new partner Thatcher Graves while at the scene of a murder by a serial killer. Bethany is also receiving threats from her brother who is newly released from a prison cell due to her testimony against him. Bethany is a strong advocate against domestic violence and she's convinced the husband is the killer. However, more bodies turn up with the same signature of a Scorpion and Bethany is forced to reconsider her views of the killer. Bethany and Thatcher have completely opposite ways of looking at cases but they must use both their talents if they are to solve this case and come out with their lives.
I've never read a book by Diann Mills before, but I liked this one. I'll be going back to read others by this author.
I've never read a book by Diann Mills before, but I liked this one. I'll be going back to read others by this author.
December 27, 2015
Bethany and Thatcher become partners. Together they work on the Scorpion case, a dangerous case that often has them bending the rules.
A great story. Loved Jasper. And enjoyed watching Bethany and Thatcher fall for each other. This was a great series and the boys really enjoyed it.
A great story. Loved Jasper. And enjoyed watching Bethany and Thatcher fall for each other. This was a great series and the boys really enjoyed it.
January 22, 2016
This book was like watching a tv crime show and I love it! The beginning was captivating although it was kind of slow in the middle. I was truly surprised to know the killer's identity and the hole story was incredible.
Of course, I'm looking forward to read more of Diann Mills' books!
Of course, I'm looking forward to read more of Diann Mills' books!
December 27, 2015
I loved this story, the characters, everything. Bethany and Thatcher made a great team both at work and romantically. I was kept guessing until the end and on the edge of my seat.
January 26, 2018
Not my favorite book of Diana Mills. The characters seemed distant to me and I never really felt the chemistry between the two.
June 4, 2019
Always enjoy a good mystery. Differing investigative styles kept this book interesting. Thatcher relied more on gut feeling and trusting God. Bethany was more detail oriented. I caught on rather early on that the text messages Bethany was receiving were not coming from her brother. But I did not figure out who was behind all the murders until the end so it was a good mystery. Bethany had a heavy weight to carry since her family had disowned her because she put her brother in jail and because she worked for the FBI. Happy ending when her brother was not killed even though he was sent back to jail again. But this time he was receiving medication for his mental issues and that was having a positive impact on him. Family healed. Thatcher and Sanchez find out working together has brought love for each other for both of them and they decide to marry. A hint at working undercover operations is where the book leaves off.
March 27, 2018
Deadlock by DiAnn Mills
Bethany Sanchez is assigned with the dectective Thatcher who put her brother away in prison. They are on an assignment and need to find the murderer soon.
Thare are many facts that are consistent with one another but some things don't add up that it's the same persion.
Wife killed had just inherited 8 million so that's a good reason for her husband to have done it.
She thinks and tracks down more leads that lead in many different directions.
Even when they are shot up because they are solving the murders they keep going: she has to get through to her parents to stop harboring her brother because he had shot at her and her partnet.
Lots of quotes from the scriptures when she really needs to get her head about things.
I received this book from National Library Service for my BARD (Braille Audio Reading Device).
Bethany Sanchez is assigned with the dectective Thatcher who put her brother away in prison. They are on an assignment and need to find the murderer soon.
Thare are many facts that are consistent with one another but some things don't add up that it's the same persion.
Wife killed had just inherited 8 million so that's a good reason for her husband to have done it.
She thinks and tracks down more leads that lead in many different directions.
Even when they are shot up because they are solving the murders they keep going: she has to get through to her parents to stop harboring her brother because he had shot at her and her partnet.
Lots of quotes from the scriptures when she really needs to get her head about things.
I received this book from National Library Service for my BARD (Braille Audio Reading Device).
September 23, 2023
+
Good mystery, I didn’t guess the ending until right before the reveal. It wrapped up way too quickly though. I enjoyed the first book in the series the most.
-
The book had some things that bothered me and honestly, if I hadn’t read the other two books in the series I may not have finished it.
It seemed like an unrealistic amount of injury happened to the main characters. It was hard to believe that they were professional FBI agents, especially Bethany. I would expect the FBI response to agents being targeted to be much more serious.
A lot of plot points were told to the reader instead of experienced. There were times I thought that I had missed a page or a chapter.
And, it felt like we weren’t along for the ride for such a strong romance to bloom. I didn’t feel like the chemistry was building or believable.
Borrow or buy: borrow
Stars: 2.5
Good mystery, I didn’t guess the ending until right before the reveal. It wrapped up way too quickly though. I enjoyed the first book in the series the most.
-
The book had some things that bothered me and honestly, if I hadn’t read the other two books in the series I may not have finished it.
It seemed like an unrealistic amount of injury happened to the main characters. It was hard to believe that they were professional FBI agents, especially Bethany. I would expect the FBI response to agents being targeted to be much more serious.
A lot of plot points were told to the reader instead of experienced. There were times I thought that I had missed a page or a chapter.
And, it felt like we weren’t along for the ride for such a strong romance to bloom. I didn’t feel like the chemistry was building or believable.
Borrow or buy: borrow
Stars: 2.5
February 12, 2021
The last book in the FBI: Houston series focuses on young FBI special agent Bethany Sanchez, who transfers into the violent crimes unit and is partnered with Thatcher Graves. The only problem is that Thatcher is the man who helped put her brother Lucas behind bars. Bethany and Thatcher are immediately thrust into a case that looks like a serial killing, with the signature being a specific gunshot to the head, along with a plastic Scorpion left on the body by what the media dubs as the "Scorpion killer". The pages kept turning and there was the predictable romance, but it was another enjoyable read from a longtime favorite author.
November 4, 2017
Rating 4.5. This was a good and carefully crafted story, with likable characters and believable details. It was complex enough to keep me guessing and the ending played out well. I liked how the “reveal” went. Often authors have some large explanation, say, by the guilty party, that lays out all the details. Laziness, I feel. However this was “organic”—part of the action in the story, for the most part. That is what gave this the half point and why I rounded up to 5.
May 27, 2017
FBI agent Bethany has a new partner, Thatcher, who arrested her brother and sent him to jail. They have to work together to solve two homicides that appear to be the work of a serial killer. I thought this book was good, and the storyline kept the reader guessing as the to the identity of the killer. I enjoyed seeing several characters from previous books in the series make an appearance.
March 31, 2019
I really enjoyed this one. I was wondering in the middle of the story how everything was going to come together. It seemed to be going in a couple of different directions. The story did come together and it was very good. I really enjoyed the characters of Thatcher and Bethany. The chemistry worked in this story. I also loved how they were able to figure out who "scorpion" was.
June 28, 2020
Adventure From Day One
Another FBI adventure with agents Bethany and Thatcher, but this time Lucas, her brother plays a large part in the crimes. Bethany had been thrown out of the family because of her family, but she never gave up. Meeting her new partner Thatcher changes her life in many ways. Adventure from day one.
Another FBI adventure with agents Bethany and Thatcher, but this time Lucas, her brother plays a large part in the crimes. Bethany had been thrown out of the family because of her family, but she never gave up. Meeting her new partner Thatcher changes her life in many ways. Adventure from day one.
November 13, 2020
I enjoyed the story but there were places when it didn't quite flow together. Minor holes in the narrative and then an abrupt change between the partners with no real resolution in the non life threatening problems that were the primary reason for their resistance to a relationship in the first place. In that respect the story fell short.
August 10, 2022
I liked this story about Bethany and Thatcher, especially since he was in an earlier book in the series. The plot came together nicely, not a lot of twists but nice action sequences. The tension between Bethany and Thatcher was fairly realistic. All in all, a very enjoyable read and I will be look for more DiAnn Mills books.
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