Member Reviews
Wow just what a way to start off this series it was awesome and I am definitely intrigued . I always love tijan books and she literally knocked this of of the park with this one . I was hooked off the start and literally Devoured in one sitting . Definitely rollercoaster of a emotions can’t wait till next book come out !!!!
The Insiders is book 1 in "The Insiders" trilogy by Tijan. It begins the story of Bailey Hayes, a young woman whose life is turned upside down in a matter of hours after after an attempted kidnapping which leads to her finding out that a man she idolized- this tech - genius is her father. Now because of the attempted kidnapping , Bailey is having to leave everything she knew and loved behind for her bio-bad's family whom doesn’t even know she exists. All on keeping her safe. The person who is running this and telling her that this is the way this is going to be- her hero, Kashton Colello, close friend of the Francis family and he also security consultant for the family. The chemistry between them is pippin hot🔥.
Bailey is thrown into a world that didn’t exist for her before. There, she has luxury at her fingertips yet there's this coldness. She gets this feeling she doesn't belong- Outlier. Yet she continues to try and find a place for herself while Kash tries to find the bad guys. Bailey is this beautiful, sassy, independent, sweet , nerdy, quiet yet strong willed woman who does what's best/right for people. Even if she gets hurt. I related so much with her about that. When it came to Kash- OMG, he's this mysterious, complex, intense, protective, sexy-as-sin man that has alot going on inside and out. He keeps things close to the vest and you'll never know what he is thinking/doing until it's done so you'll have to watch him. He is a wiley one. I really liked the chemistry and connection that Bailey had Kash have. They have this instant connection and it works so well.
There is action, excitement, suspense, intrigue, passion, angst, secrets, twists, turns, dark romance, and ends with a cliffhanger. I can't wait for book 2!!!
My Rating: 4.5 stars **********
Kash & Bailey’s Romantic Thriller Starts Out With A Bang & Hooks You Until The End! It Has A Great Blend Of Mystery & Romance With Just A Touch Of Angst. The Couple Has Fabulous Chemistry Together In This Exciting First Book In The Insiders Trilogy.
This is the first book in a trilogy that follows a young computer genius from a small town who gets swept up into danger and hidden away with the family of her famous tech idol. While there, she learns about secrets and intrigue, and discovers that her own life is not what it had once seemed.
Bailey Hayes, twenty-two, has led a fairly normal life in her small home town about an hour outside of Chicago. Her father had died when she was small, so it was always just her and her larger than life single mother, who works as a nurse at the hospital. Chrissy Hayes is fiercely independent and stubborn, and while some single moms might appreciate a helping hand, Chrissy never liked hand outs. The two are very close, although Chrissy’s colorful character sometimes makes Bailey feel like the adult in the relationship. Bailey had developed a love for computers while in elementary school, earning her the nickname Brainiac Bailey. Her idol is Peter Francis. Like Bailey, Peter Francis has a photographic memory. He is CEO of Phoenix Tech, a Fortune 500 company that deals in cyber security. Bailey’s dream is to one day work there. And though her hacking skills are good enough to get her a job now, her mother insists on an education. Bailey starts work on her master’s degree in three months. She plans to study information systems. And like with her undergraduate studies, she has earned a scholarship from Phoenix Tech to help pay her way.
When Bailey is accosted by a group of men in her home one evening, men who make mention of a rich father, nothing makes sense. She somehow survives the attack, but soon learns that everything she knew about her late father was a lie. It is no coincidence that she has so much in common with Peter Francis since he is in fact her father. And her relation to him has now made her a target. Though her idol clearly has no interest in a relationship with her, it turns out he feels obligated to ensure her safety. Kashton Colello represents him, and he gives Bailey a choice: witness protection with her mother, or come with him, meet her siblings, and her mother can return home.
Kash’s presence seems to capture the attention of anyone in the same room with him, and Bailey is not immune to his allure. He appears to be just a few years older than her. He is commanding and exudes confidence. Still, Bailey doesn’t like being told what to do. But she already knows a considerable amount about her father’s personal life from reading about him over the years, and she doesn’t want to let the opportunity to learn more pass. Stepping into a world where money is no object is a bit of a shock, and Bailey doesn’t just feel like an outsider – she is treated like one. Her relation to Peter Francis is meant to remain a secret, so she is officially staying with Kash as his guest and a very old family friend of his. Kash, though, is shrouded in mystery. He comes and goes without explanation, and his relationship with the Francis family is exceedingly odd. He is largely treated like family, and yet sometimes oddly revered by them. He was orphaned and raised by Peter as one of his own. Bailey cannot help but be attracted to him, though his good looks and the respect he commands convince her that those feelings would not be reciprocated. Bailey knows she is no competition to the likes of Victoria and her friends. Bailey lacks the expensive wardrobe and social standing that seem so important to the Francis family and their friends.
According to plan, Bailey’s introduction to the family as Kash’s guest gives her the opportunity to get to know her younger half-siblings, Cyclone and Seraphina, as well as their mother Quinn, who isn’t exactly pleased with Bailey’s presence. She also gets to know her older half-brother Matt, whose exploits she is already very well aware of thanks to his regular appearance in the gossip magazines. Her father, though, remains elusive. As Kash works to bring down Arcane, the group responsible for her attempted kidnapping, Bailey struggles to find her place as a visitor in her own family. And as the barriers between her and Kash begin to come down, they find that their attraction to one another is too strong to deny. As the pair gets closer, though, Kash continues to harbor secrets. With the kidnappers still on the loose and without the support of her mother to help her weather the storm of uncertainty she faces, Bailey begins to do things she never would have expected – like crying. No self-respecting Hayes woman cries. With her heart so vulnerable with a man who seems devoted to her safety but incapable of truly opening up, Bailey bonds with her brother Matt, who parties like the tabloids suggest but is more complex than he is portrayed. Quinn makes it known that she is not thrilled with the present arrangements, and her father seems determined to avoid her at all costs. Bailey begins to experience some breakthroughs in her new relationships, but the danger waits on the horizon. This book concludes with some closure, but that doesn’t mean that the danger has all passed. It ends with a surprise as the story advances. Book two appears to go deeper into Kash’s past as everything is on the line.
Kash and Bailey’s romantic thriller starts out with a bang and hooks you until the end. It has a great blend of mystery and romance with just a touch of angst. It is intelligent and keeps you guessing. Although some things are worked out in the end, there are still many unknowns that could take the story in a variety of directions in subsequent books. Kash’s family, including his aunt, his cousin, and his grandfather, could become pivotal. Victoria’s background and connection to Kash could be further developed. Matt and his friends may factor into the storylines further. And the various parents and their dynamics could add interest. Let us not forget the mysterious Chase, whose identity will certainly be visited (I have strong hunch).
Kash and Bailey have fabulous chemistry together in this exciting first book in The Insiders trilogy. It is very well-written. It is plot driven. The characters are well-developed, though there remains a hint of mystery even as this first book of the trilogy comes to a close. Kash and Bailey are great together. When Bailey’s safety is at risk, he takes charge of keeping her out of harm’s way. In fact, it seems the entire Francis family would be lost without him. There are several questions that pop up while reading, but most are answered by the end of the book so just be patient. The story is written in first person in Bailey’s POV. I rate this book 4.5 stars.
I received an advance copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I love Tijan and this book is the first of a new Trilogy. It's the story of Bailey, a tech genius that gets into a very difficult situation, she meets Kashton and he tries to help. The story is full of angst, suspense, mystery, among some triggers. I like the way Tijan always develops her characters in a very realistic way, this book is no different. There is quite a bit going on here and so I can't wait to see what comes in the following book.
I would like to thank Netgalley and St. Martin's Griffin for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Well it's a Tijan book so need I say more?
I have to say after reading this book I am so confused about the cover? Who is the blond woman? Other than that true to Tijan, she packs in the drama, troubled family dynamics, lots of sex... I mean romance and a sexy hero. This was a quick read and one to read for entertainment. I thought the plot was a little dry. I'm comparing this to Fallen Crest and Ryan's Bed which I totally loved. That being said I will pick up the next book in this trilogy because it left off on a huge cliffhanger.
It's out today!! Congratulations Tijan!!
Wow. This book grab you by the hand and didn't let go. Bailey has a photograph memory and us a computer savvy. One day she is kidnapped and saved by Kashton Colello. Who gives her two options meet her dad or hide forever. This book took you on a journey will Bailey learned new things in her life. The end leave it open for more books in the future which I hope we get.
I'm a Tijan fan and was looking forward to this book for few reasons. One because it's written by Tijan, Two because the blurb sounded really good, third that cover, and lastly I was very curious with this being a book that is being traditionally published withTijan previously being an indie author.
Fans of Tijan books will enjoy this new series as I did. Both writing and content wise it is on par with her indie work. Overall I thought it was an interesting concept. It really starts off with a bang and it keeps you hooked from that beginning to the end. Its a soild 4 star read for me. I plan on reading the rest of the series and hope that this book helps find a wider audience Tjian and her and previous works like the Fallen Crest series, my favorite tijan series. If you read this book and enjoy I recommend checking out her other work as well.
Wow. Just wow. Definitely didn’t see that coming. I devoured this book in one sitting. Such a fantastic read. The mystery, the thrill, the angst. All of it! Just so yourself a favor and read this book.
4 out of 5 Stars
The Insiders was an enjoyable read. I loved Bailey. I can't wait to read more books by Tijan.
Vlog: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ricwl_YgI1s
Book Talk: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-k9sO61Oab0
I loved every bit of The Insiders from the first scene to the last scene.
A failed kidnapping throws Bailey into a life she never thought was possible. She finds out hard truths about her family that ultimately end up being exactly what she needed.
Kash is so much more than personal bodyguard. He helps her with her family and is tirelessly searching for her kidnappers. He tries to ignore their connection but it’s impossible. Kash centers Bailey:)
Awwww moment:
‘And this morning was the day I walked beside my father. June 24.’
I love Tijan books and this one definitely didn't disappoint. Bailey is a computer genius. Her life gets turned upside down when someone is trying to kidnap her. Kash is good at what he does. Putting out fires and protecting people. Bailey learns who her father is and has to make a choice to either live with him or live with her mother. I don't know how she put up with what she did. I would have told them off. Kash has some secrets too. I learned a lot about Kash, Bailey and Peter. It keeps you on your toes that is for sure. I needed to know what happened next, I couldn't put it down. I highly recommend this book. I can't wait to see what happens next. Evil grandfather comes to play. Another great read Tijan. Love it.
The Insiders are my first book from this author that I've in a very long time... and it was literally like coming back home!
From the beginning I feel typical Tijan's vibes with outstanding story line and characters. This author knows exactly how to keep her readers in the right place in line. From first paiges, she throwing us into breathtaking adventure that You don't want to stop.
I adore how characters grow on each others, how their relationship grow during the story. The only thing that bothers me is that I just need little more about the whole story line.
I'm very curious what will next books brings, and I cannot lie.... before starting reading I would be more happy knowing it will be a trilogy.
Ah wtf...this book...oh my gosh!
I just want to start by saying Tijan absolutely slayed with this book. I’m in love, I’m obsessed and I want more, I NEED more.
I fell in love with Bailey instantly. That woman is badass. She’s smart, funny and resourceful. The way she was thrown into uncertain circumstances and did what she knew to do to survive made me love her more. The constant blows this woman gets is hard but damn, does she get back up from it.
Kashton was an uncertainty, he’s clouded with mystery and keeps all information and knowledge to himself unless it’s need to know. He’s powerful and intimating. A tall, dark and handsome man mixed with an asshole attitude and a possessive take on certain things especially family.
From their first meet you could feel the heat between them, it was instant.
As their story continues I fell more and more in love with the characters even the secondary characters. Getting to know them all was absolutely amazing. The highs, the lows everything between them had me glued to the book and not able to take my eyes off if it.
I will say this though, I was NOT a fan of the way she let those close to her off with the stuff they did. She was a complete pushover at times and it irritated me so much but I got passed it and still loved her lol
I’m still thrown from that shock twist although I can’t say it completely surprised me tbh and then THAT ENDING WTF...now I have to wait for the next instalment *sighs*
Tijan truly did amazing with this book and bringing these characters stories to life, I was invested, obsessed and I just love them so much.
Ultimate outsider Bailey gets a golden ticket to the insider world of the filthy rich and famous. Should she stay or should she go? Bailey is a nerdy genius hacker that comes home to a kidnapping attempt (the conscientious accomplice, Chase, warns her how to escape – will we see him again?) Next thing you know she is whisked thru the hospital and straight to an interrogation room in her idol’s tech company. Always having had daddy issues as in “no dad because he died in the line of duty”, she finds out that her bio dad is actually the tech genius that she has idolized forever. Now she has three new half siblings that she gets to know – but they can’t know who she really is under “daddy dearest” orders – or maybe that was from “step-mommy dearest”? Talk about a dysfunctional family dynamic.
Kashton Collello is tasked with taking care of the Bailey “situation” by his employer Peter Francis. Kash takes on the job very personally. Falling for Bailey in what we are lead to believe is an “insta-love/obsession”. He is the ultimate “man of mystery” and we are not privy to his connection to Bailey’s new family and their business until the very end. And it is a doozy!
Overall, I was absolutely hooked for most of the book – like could not put it down because I could not wait for Kash and Bailey’s next scene. But, Bailey’s new half brother Matt is your typical elitist, hard-partying, rich boy douche. His constant need to be saved from himself and his bad boy antics got a little old. In fact, that was major distraction plot line – Kash and Bailey would get some alone time – then “ringggggg” Matt’s security guys were calling in with a need to rescue the idiot.
The ending was kinda predictable as you knew that the bad guys were eventually going to come after Bailey again – Tijan just threw us for a loop on who the big baddie actually turned out to be! As with most trilogy series we get a cliffhanger to get us excited for the next book. Happily, it is not really connected to the main narrative of this story so we will be off to a totally new adventure. This was my first Tijan book and I am definently looking forward to reading her next installment.
I was given this ARC from the author, publisher and NetGalley for an honest review.
As always, Tijan’s writing style is clear, concise and unique. I like that she doesn’t use long-drawn-out wordy sentences, yet still crafts a high-energy suspenseful story. In The Insiders, realistic dialogue ratchets up the tension between her characters, giving the reader an insight into their feelings. What I had a little trouble with was remembering all the players’ names. However, once I got into the flow, I lost myself in the protagonists’ world.
Before anything, I have to mention the gorgeous cover. I could see Bailey clearly in my mind’s eye, and she’s just what I look for in a heroine. Tijan did a marvellous job creating Bailey’s traits Kick-arse, inquisitive and incredibly talented in what she does best, her life changes dramatically. Finding out the lie she’d been living doesn’t go down so well, but she’s not one to ponder and gets on with it.
Kashton Colello becomes Bailey’s tower of strength. He protects and defends her tooth and nail, and although this alpha male is an enigma when his true self is revealed, everything made sense. And you’ll see that he isn’t just her saviour. Those in need of serious damage control can rely on him. Regardless of all the upheavals, this guy couldn’t put a foot wrong for me.
The dysfunctional family surrounding is high frequency, and Tijan’s primary and secondary character and story development have an enormous amount of depth. Really looking forward to the follow-up and for romantic suspense lovers, it’s a must-read. Bravo, Tijan!
Im never disappointed with her books. She has a way of hooking you in at the beginning and when you devour
Suspense, romance and secrets, secrets and more secrets, prepare to hunker down and be consumed by The Insiders!
This story took off from the first page and never stopped! Tijan brought it all out for a work filled with intrigue and lots of fiery interactions. Bailey was a straight up fantastic heroine, brilliant and beautiful, she captured this author's audience immediately! Bring in Kash and this story went nuclear and the fallout was off the charts steamy and nail bitingly exciting! Tijan set up this story and the relationships between all its characters well, nothing was clear and that was exactly why it worked as the foundation was put in place to build the next installment in this trilogy. Intense and intricate there were lots of revelations to keep readers hooked.
One of the things that makes Tijan so special is that she has such a unique voice. Her stories tap into universal angst but how she expresses it is unequivocally Tijan. This author's character dynamics are so beautifully interwoven and her ability to transfer their feelings to her readers is phenomenal, showing over and over what an amazing writer she is. Tijan's The Insiders, be prepared to be glued to your seat!
I loved this story, it has everything I was hoping to find. Mystery, action, suspense, romance. Kash and Bailey totally got me, just like the secondary characters did. The story builds slowly but escalating in intensity and I just can’t put the book away, I was so immerse in the story that I just keep reading until I can’t keep my eyes open because of how late or early (depending on the interpretation of each one) it was, I slept 3 hours, wake up at 7 am, do the math 😎
Tijan has created the beginning of a trilogy that has left me wanting to read the next ones ASAP.
A first book that could not be more complete. Loved it ❤️
Absolutely LOVED this one.
The story grips you from the first page and doesn't let up.
The characters are perfection, even the bad ones. The mystery of everything keeps you flipping pages until the very end.
I can't wait for the next book!
3.5 Stars
Writing this review has actually been extremely difficult because while Tijan is one of my favorite authors, this wasn't my favorite story she has written. There were quite a few things I enjoyed, and it was definitely a quick & easy read. The storyline definitely kept me on my toes, there were no points where it dragged or lost my interest. I did really like Kash & Bailey, although I preferred the characters on their own and struggled a bit with their relationship. And I liked how the dynamic between Bailey & her siblings started to develop, and definitely hope that the relationship is explored more throughout the series. But I felt there were way too many things going on, quite a few aspects that I'm not sure if we're just thrown in to add in extra twists or will actually be addressed in future books.
And while some may have assumed this going in, the fact that it ends on a cliffhanger was not something I expected or was too thrilled with. I understand it is a trilogy, but from the description (and lack of warning) I assumed each book would follow a family member or couple, so the ending was a bit of a surprise. Since I don't believe the second book has been announced yet, please be aware of this before starting if you don't love cliffhangers.