Talia Inger is a rookie CIA case officer assigned not to the Moscow desk as she had hoped but to the forgotten backwaters of Eastern Europe–a department only known as “Other.” When she is tasked with helping a young, charming Moldovan executive secure his designs for a revolutionary defense technology, she figures she’ll be back in DC within a few days. But that’s before she knows where the … designs are stored–and who’s after them. With her shady civilian partner, Adam Tyler, Talia takes a deep dive into a world where only criminal minds and unlikely strategies will keep the Gryphon, a high-altitude data vault, hovering in the mesosphere.
Even Tyler is more than he seems, and Talia begins to wonder: Is he helping her? Or using her access to CIA resources to pull off an epic heist for his own dark purposes?
In this Ocean’s Eleven-meets-Mission Impossible thriller, former tactical deception officer and stealth pilot James R. Hannibal offers you a nonstop thrill ride through the most daring heist ever conceived.
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The author has given us a book that reads like you’re watching a movie, and I found myself ducking as the bullets were flying.
We meet evil head on, but soon wonder whom to trust? Conflicting feelings of grief, revenge, or forgiveness!
As you quickly page turn to find the answers here, you quickly realize what these amazing people are trying to do, and what the possible outcomes can be.
As we immerse ourselves in the lives of these characters, and surprises abound here, I am happy to see that there is another book in this series coming.
You don’t want to miss this one!
I received this book through the Revell Reads Program, and was not required to give a positive review.
An interesting read with a female CIA operative as the lead character. She’s surrounded by a host of strong secondary characters. The story is filled with plot twists that left me guessing and wondering who was truly behind the evil. In lines of Ocean’s Eleven meets the Italian job. Wonderful read for those who enjoy an international thriller/heist
Characters: All the characters were quite interesting. Just the type you need in a spy/action/adventure novel.
Language: Clean.
Moral: The moral of this novel was forgiveness. This moral has been done many times, but the author did a great job with it. Still, I’d have appreciated Talia taking a little more time to forgive whom she needed to. I’m being purposely vague so I don’t give any spoilers. 🙂
Plot: I’m happy to report the plot didn’t have boring moments! The author definitely kept the story moving from one high-stakes scenario to the next. I did get a little confused a couple times, but that could’ve been my own fault for reading late at night.
Romance: Clean. Only the side characters had a little romance going on.
Writing: Even though I’m in editing mode, I can’t really complain about the writing. But I need to move on from this point quickly before I start adding details no one cares about. 🙂
Overall: I enjoyed this book way more than I thought I would which is always a pleasant surprise. It reminded me of some of Davis Bunn’s books, both in plot and in characters. The author obviously knew what he was talking about, and that showed in the story. I’d recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Christian fiction, suspense, or action/adventure novels.
The Gryphon Heist was an exciting thriller that was impossible to put down. I was constantly telling myself, just one more chapter, just one more chapter. It’s an addictive read, for sure. It was a nice escape from the stresses of the real world. It pulled me away from my worries for just a little bit. I was sucked right into the intrigue and danger these characters faced.
Speaking of the characters, they were a great bunch. Highly entertaining, amusing, and easy to like. Main character Talia had a bit of a prickly personality that took some getting used to, but, in the end, I liked her a lot. Watching her personal growth from beginning to end was something special.
I felt like I was watching a really good spy show while I was reading this. It was so fun. There were lots of twists and turns and while sometimes it was hard to keep things straight, it didn’t hamper my enjoyment one bit. I’m really looking forward to checking out the next one!
Absolutely loved this read. It had so much that I love about suspense with a different style and a strong faith theme.
The characters really make the book for me. In that way and in the faith theme, he remind me of Dee Henderson. The stories and plot are definitely not the same, however.
Talia the main character from the CIA has a great backstory that plays in well with the faith theme. Tyler brings in a host of great characters…I actually think I like them all…weird or crooked.
The plot is fascinating…a bit over my head at times, but i like the reach of using my imagination to picture what the author is portraying.
So…to not give anything away. A fantastic group of characters, a terrific plot and storyline, and a wonderful and heartfelt faith theme makes this a fantastic book that is on my forever shelves. Don’t miss it!
“Sometimes, in the greater plan, we only get the information needed to help us do our part . . . ”
Obviously . . . . . . When CIA newbie Talia Inger is assigned to what she thinks is an open and shut case in a remote region of Eastern Europe, she quickly learns that nothing is what it seems and everything is what she doesn’t know. Posing as a highly skilled security expert, Talia and her tech geek side-kick are totally shocked to find themselves stumbling into a vortex of international espionage; discovering that their customer’s elusive high altitude data vault system, Gryphon, is rumored to be up for sale to the highest bidder. America’s future is at risk.
And then there’s Adam Tyler, a civilian assigned to be their partner; what exactly are his motives? Talia can never be sure.
“The Grypon Heist” is quite a unique blend of high tech thievery and low tech social dynamics; a recipe that rather brilliantly forces quirky, capable, brilliant characters towards a bond that is unmistakenly authentic. Surprisingly, there is also a rich, deep undercurrent of regret, remorse, and desperation . . . . . a soul that longs for revenge to be replaced with forgiveness. You don’t have to read the ending to realize that everything circles back to the beginning; how wonderful to know that this book is just the first, in what is guaranteed to be a very enjoyable series.
Gah! That was fun! An Oceans11/The Italian Job kind of vibe with a cast of characters that you love to love (at least I did).
I had never read James Hannibal before but thoroughly enjoyed this first look at his books. The Gryphon Heist is a delightful look at what happens when a rookie CIA operative with an eidetic memory gets in way over her head. Blending action, strong characters, crazy, unpredictable situations and humor, this book is highly entertaining. I’d definitely recommend it.
Part spy novel, part mission impossible, and all speed ahead, The Gryphon Heist from James R. Hannibal is an entertaining ride that’s akin to watching a suspense movie.
Talia Inger is uber-intelligent (annoying at times but also what makes her an excellent CIA agent). The rest of the team is diverse and eclectic enough to keep readers on their toes.
Hannibal takes you through twists and turns, sometimes leading to surprises and gotcha moments. I love those in books and I’m glad we’ll get to see more of this group in another book. There’s a little bit of cliffhanger (at the end of the novel) that leads readers into the next release, but the heist is resolved in this one. I guess you could look at it like a movie franchise. The first release is out, and now we’re all awaiting the next.
Disclosure statement:
I receive complimentary books from publishers, publicists, and/or authors, including NetGalley. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
“The greater good is shifting sand. You can’t trust it.”
The Gryphon Heist by James R. Hannibal is an incredible mix of espionage and spy craft that bombards the reader with explosions, betrayal, high-density ceramic bullets, high-tech capers, and a hefty dose of humor. While many spy thrillers are steeped in complicated narrative discussions and explanations, The Gryphon Heist relies more on character interaction and is only minimally mired in scientific jargon and complexities. That does not mean Hannibal’s fantastic story is any less entertaining. In fact, The Gryphon Heist turns the traditional spy novel on its head by interspersing fun, lighthearted banter throughout the serious action as well as injecting a bit of contemporary Christianity that lends some impressive intricacy to at least two of the main characters.
Talia Inger is a new CIA recruit, eager for her first assignment that, at first glance, appears to be less than interesting. With her teammate, Eddie Gupta, in tow, they set out for Transnistria near Ukraine in what they hope will be a brief stint. What follows is rip-roaring international high jinks, involving a deadly plan, high-stakes greed and subterfuge, and a motley team of diverse characters that offers shades of Dewey Gram’s Ocean’s 11.
Aside from some fragmented flirtation and a sweet case of puppy love, The Gryphon Heist lacks any steamy romance, and no character comes even close to spouting strong language. But these missing elements prove to be unnecessary because Hannibal’s remarkable plot, varied characters, and action scenes that deserve to be on the big screen will keep you fully engaged in pondering each character’s level of trustworthiness, laughing full belly laughs (oh, that Eddie), and quickly flipping the pages as the action picks up and the danger goes from a simple thrill of the hunt to a fast-paced and quite deadly race against the clock.
As a former stealth pilot, Hannibal clearly knows his business and has skillfully brought a fantastical plot to life, filled with immense energy, surprising twists, and unforgettable personalities. Hannibal’s writing is sharp, precise, and easily navigated, which is perfect because the characters are constantly on the move, and the action never lets up. Hannibal’s character development is spot on. For example, Talia is smart right out of the CIA training gate, but she’s a rookie on her first assignment. Her character often feels unapproachable; however, her backstory provides a good reason for that. Other than trusting her loyal-to-a-fault sidekick, Eddie, Talia struggles with trust issues and is still haunted by the mysterious death of her father when she was a small child. As the story progresses, some likability seeps through the cracks in her self-imposed armor. She is a good protagonist because her character experiences tremendous growth, but it takes awhile to warm up to her. On the other hand, Eddie will steal your heart from the first page.
The Gryphon Heist ends with a glimpse at the beginning of book two that appears to be on the horizon. Although, waiting even one day for Chasing the White Lion will be one day too long.
Thank you to Revell and the author for an advanced copy. All opinions expressed are my own.
The Gryphon Heist
By: James R. Hannibal
*REVIEW* .5
Whenever I get a book in the mail, I always open it to read the first few pages. With The Gryphon Heist, I read the first chapter and the second and the entire book. It’s just the kind of book that is difficult to put down, so I didn’t! The story begins with what is going on here action and continues that way. Talia is an excellent female lead with strength, perseverance and intelligence. She is a CIA operative sent to nowhere land instead of the great assignment she wanted because she screwed up bad. This nothing place with a crap assignment turns out to be hugely important and very something after all. The cast of characters are likeable, entertaining and complex with their own issues. It’s a well balanced group on an important mission. Talia doesn’t know who she can trust, and she must rely on her instincts. It’s a thrilling well written tale with twists I never saw coming. This story has an authentic feel about it rather than over the top ridiculous. If you like action packed thrillers with unpredictability, this one is for you!
Enjoyable espionage thriller. With quick action, tangible danger, and a cast of unique characters the entire novel read like a movie that left me excited to keep reading.
What made this story stand out to me was the unique plot and the dynamic between characters. Mr. Hannibal does a fantastic job giving each character an unforgettable personality bringing them to life on the page. There were some easy guesses on the part of the plot but the action and storyline made it easy to overlook those and simply enjoy the adventurous ride. The chapters are quick, keeping the pace heightened and I like the way the author wove in the faith element.
Overall, this is a great story and perfect for fans of high action thrillers. I’m looking forward to the next book!
***I received a copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to give a positive review and all opinions expressed are my own.***
The Gryphon Heist is Hannibal’s first foray into Christian fiction, and he does bring in the scriptures and faith into this novel. The tech part, which was a big part of the book and I must confess sometimes it was over my head in trying to grasp what the author was describing. There were very likable characters and some very unlikable characters. In fact just plain villains and criminals but that does make for a very interesting read. I must say that Hannibal has written a most unusual book with lots of twists and turns and surprises. “The Gryphon Heist” will keep the reader guessing until the very end. We find good and bad and forgiveness from God and forgiving others as God grants the ability to do so…….Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group, provided this complimentary copy for my honest, unbiased review.
Intense, complicated CIA thriller and book 1 of the “Talia Inger Series”. Fast paced, lots of drama but unfortunately I didn’t care for the main character Talia. I also had a hard time reading past the first couple of chapters of this book because I just couldn’t get into the plot and any of the characters. I haven’t read anything but this author but if you have, you may enjoy this story. It just wasn’t for me.
I received a copy of this book complimentary for blog and social media review. All opinions are my own.
The Gryphon Heist by James R. Hannibal is labeled as a suspense novel and the synopsis sounded promising, so I picked up the book to read. The idea of a rookie CIA agent named Talia Inger who has never been on an assignment but as passed all her skills and knowledge test was a different take on a heroine. Especially being a woman. For some weird reason, I thought the story would be told from a male’s point of view, but it wasn’t. Not that it cheapen the story; Just thought that would work better. Anyways, Talia is shown to have flaws and that makes her a more reliable character. There is no romance in the novel, which I really enjoyed. The plot definitely has its moments of high action, but there were many different occasions of Talia waking up and coming in the gathering room sometimes for breakfast, sometimes alone, sometimes to see the dawn. Really awkward. I did enjoy the danger of trying to free the Gryphon data vault in the mesosphere. It was a unique and not done yet cast of characters. All past thieves or assassins. Enjoyed watching them use their skills for good. There really isn’t much spiritual elements to chew on. The mention of God comes from Tyler, Talia’s partner, and readers are still left in the dark about how much it changes him. Overall, The Gryphon Heist by James R. Hannibal has its moments of uniqueness, but filled with repetitive scenes, the story became okay. I’m not writing off Hannibal yet as a suspense novelist; he could surprise me with the second one.
I received a complimentary copy of The Gryphon Heist by James R. Hannibal from Revell Publishing, but the opinions stated are all my own.
Scamming the Bad Guy!
Tailia Inger along with her friend, Eddie Gupta, have just become CIA operatives. They are supposed to be sent on an easy job in eastern Europe. Instead the job morphs into a huge race against time to stop the Gryphon, a radical defense technology, before it used to kill thousands. In order to do that, the two will get in league with Adam Tyler. This man is trying to con the person with the Gryphon into believing Adam is really Lukon, a notorious assassin turned business man. A team is gathered of experts in different clandestine fields to help pull off the deception. But is it all really a con?
This fast-moving story has it all: intrigue, mystery, thrills, as this group covers the far corners of world in an attempt to stop the Gryphon. Surprising truths are uncovered, including startling clues that surface about Adam, along with a high-ranking CIA member. There is also an amazing story-line about unforgiveness in Talia’s life and what it has done to her, even physically.
I would match this book against any action/thriller out there and say this tale will hold its own, or beat it. Additionally, it is done without cursing, sexual situations or excessive descriptions of violence—all told from a Christian point of view that flows naturally into the story. This author is very, very good, and you will not put his book down once it is picked up! I highly recommend this 5+ star book to anyone who likes edge of their seat, very well-written stories.
Revell Publishing has provided bookreadingtic with a complimentary copy of, The Gryphon Heist, for the purpose of review. I have not been compensated in any other manner. All opinions expressed are my own, and I was not required, or influenced, to give anything but an honest appraisal. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
The Gryphon Heist
Talia Inger #1
By James R. Hannibal
Natalia (Talia) Inger is determined to get the Moscow desk as her first assignment with the CIA. All she needs to do is complete this last exam – what could go wrong?
With an assignment to the department known as Other, Talia knows that she has her work cut out for. First, there is her new boss Frank Brennan, directorate of operations, Russian Eastern Europe Division. Talia’s just not sure what to make of the guy and whether she should trust him. And her first assignment finds her heading to Transnistria to help provide “security” to a Moldovan tech company with whom the US DOD had contracts.
As Talia prepares for her assignment with Eddie Gupta a fellow rookie CIA officer with whom she had trained she is less than pleased to hear that they will be working with Adam Tyler a civilian. Adam Tyler is big trouble in Talia’s opinion – opinionated and not able to grasp his place on this mission.
When Talia’s plans for a quick mission soon fall apart when the threat to Avantec prove more than credible. And the tech that is in danger could be catastrophic if it falls into the wrong hands. With time against them, Talia has no choice but to use what resources Adam offers. But will it be enough to obtain their objective?
The Gryphon Heist is really a good read. The first few chapters are used to establish Talia as a conflicted and hurting person who puts her all into whatever she feels is worth her effort. These are just a little slow but not in a boring manner. After we like Talia and Eddie are taken to Transnistria the action picks up a little and once the true threat is revealed we are moving. For the most part, Talia is a rather confrontational individual and has the easy ability to not make friends quickly. And offering her advice not a good move as she is more than likely to do just the opposite. I like her partner Eddie Gupta whom we don’t learn much about in the way of backstory but he seems like the kind of guy you’d want on your team. And then there is Adam Tyler who has a backstory that we are given a glimpse of – one that makes him even more interesting as a character. One has to wonder just how many secrets he is keeping.
The book keeps the suspense building so that the reader is completely drawn into the story and by page 100 there is no way that you will willingly put it down. The characters are believable with flaws that make them real. The descriptions didn’t get bogged down in excessive wordiness offering just enough to keep the story moving. This is the first book in a series and I can say I’m looking forward to what is to come.
I was provided a complimentary copy of this book by the publisher with no expectations but that I offer my honest opinion all thoughts expressed are my own.
This was a great thriller filled with spies and lots of intrigue. There were so many twists and turns. Every page seemed to bring something new. I would think that I had the story figured out and then I found out I was wrong. I loved the dangerous characters throughout this story. It was hard to know who was good and who was bad. I can’t wait til the second book comes out in this series. I received a copy of this book from Revell for a fair and honest opinion that I gave of my own free will.
This is one of the books of 2019 that I have been most looking forward to. Unfortunately, it arrived in the middle of my move, so I wasn’t able to read it as quickly as I wanted.
The Gryphon Heist is Hannibal’s first foray into Christian fiction. He has written three adult novels for the general market that are squeaky clean, curse-free, and awesome reads. He has also written a few books for kids.
To be honest, the beginning of the book didn’t grab me as fast as I expected. It isn’t boring, it is just slow-paced, but it didn’t take me long after that to be pulled into it.
I’ll break down what I liked:
The plot:
I like reading spy stuff in addition to suspense and mystery, and this involves a couple of CIA agents, and a former CIA agent. The plot itself was so intricate and full of twists and surprises, that I was even more impressed with the author after I finished the book.
Slight spoiler: I assumed that the CIA were trying to stop a heist. I wasn’t 100% correct on that. Hannibal spun such a masterful story that I didn’t know who was the good and bad guys, and just when I thought I knew what was going on, the story had another twist. I was totally shocked at the one way the story went towards the end, and wondered more than ever who was good and who was bad.
The tech part, which was a big part, was interesting and the author did a great job of describing that stuff in terms easy to understand.
The characters:
I like interesting characters in a book, and characters can make or break a story. This one had a lot of great and likable ones, and some very unpredictable ones.
My favorite would be Eddie, or Red Leader as he wanted to be called. The geek CIA agent in control of the gadgets and tech stuff, he came off somewhat goofy…or geeky, but totally likable.
Adam Tyler would be next. Former bad guy, or still current bad guy? I went back and forth the whole book trying to decide, and the author seemed to intentionally keep the reader guessing on that.
Talia was the newbie CIA agent running an operation against her will with Adam Tyler, and facing some great challenges. I would have preferred a main male character, but can see how one would not have worked for this story for a few reasons. She came off very likable, especially by the end.
The criminals recruited for the operation were colorful and a wide variety of personalities and talents. The interactions between them and the rest of the characters was entertaining, and at times downright hilarious. I found myself liking Finn the best, mostly due to his theatrics and daredevil actions.
The suspense:
Thought slow in building, the book was very suspenseful. The further I got in it, the harder the book was to put down.
The message:
Forgiveness was the main Christian theme of the book. Talia carried a huge load of unforgiveness, and had to come face to face with that reality.
There was also an interesting discussion on the greater good which got me to thinking.
All in all, this is an awesome debut into Christian fiction. It has been a while since I read a book that kept me guessing so much. I definitely recommend it, and his books he wrote for the general market.
I was provided a copy of this book by the publisher. All opinions in this review are my own.
Wow! This one was action packed from start to finish! I didn’t really know what to expect from this new to me author, however this book did not disappoint! The Gryphon Heist had memorable characters and definitely provided an abundance of twists and turns for the reader as the story advanced. The pacing of this book was great! There was plenty of action moving the plot along, which kept me turning the pages. The conclusion was really great and perfectly sets things up for the next book in this series! Count me in! I really enjoyed this one!