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The Middle of Somewhere
If you loved Wild, you can't miss this.
A troubled, young widow hikes from Yosemite Valley deep into the wilderness on the John Muir Trail to elude her shameful past in this emotionally gripping story from the author of House Broken.
With her thirtieth birthday looming, Liz Kroft is heading for the hills—literally. Her emotional baggage weighs her down more than her backpack, but a three-week trek promises the solitude she craves—at least until her boyfriend, Dante, decides to tag along. His broad moral streak makes the prospect of confessing her sins more difficult, but as much as she fears his judgment, she fears losing him more. Maybe.
They set off together alone under blue skies, but it’s not long before storms threaten and two strange brothers appear along the trail. Amid the jagged, towering peaks, Liz must decide whether to admit her mistakes and confront her fears, or face the trail, the brothers and her future alone.
A troubled, young widow hikes from Yosemite Valley deep into the wilderness on the John Muir Trail to elude her shameful past in this emotionally gripping story from the author of House Broken.
With her thirtieth birthday looming, Liz Kroft is heading for the hills—literally. Her emotional baggage weighs her down more than her backpack, but a three-week trek promises the solitude she craves—at least until her boyfriend, Dante, decides to tag along. His broad moral streak makes the prospect of confessing her sins more difficult, but as much as she fears his judgment, she fears losing him more. Maybe.
They set off together alone under blue skies, but it’s not long before storms threaten and two strange brothers appear along the trail. Amid the jagged, towering peaks, Liz must decide whether to admit her mistakes and confront her fears, or face the trail, the brothers and her future alone.
336 pages, Paperback
First published September 1, 2015
84 people are currently reading
2697 people want to read
About the author
Sonja Yoerg
9 books1,143 followersI grew up in Stowe, Vermont, the daughter of a ski instructor and a history teacher. In my first incarnation, I was a animal behaviorist who studied learning in blue jays, hyenas and kangaroo rats. I wrote a book about that. Now I make stuff up.
I've published several novels, including TRUE PLACES, a Washington Post and Amazon Charts bestseller. Yeah, typing that makes me smile because reaching readers is the point, right? My upcoming release, THE FAMILY SHIP, earned a starred review from Publishers Weekly. Watch for it on February 23, 2021.
When I'm not writing or pretending to be writing, I run, garden, cook, eat, drink wine, then run some more. My husband and I live in central Virginia with a view of the Blue Ridge Mountains. It's quiet and pretty, like Vermont.
Join me all over the place:
twitter.com/SonjaYoerg
www.facebook.com/SonjaYoerg
www.instagram.com/SonjaYoerg
www.sonjayoerg.com
I've published several novels, including TRUE PLACES, a Washington Post and Amazon Charts bestseller. Yeah, typing that makes me smile because reaching readers is the point, right? My upcoming release, THE FAMILY SHIP, earned a starred review from Publishers Weekly. Watch for it on February 23, 2021.
When I'm not writing or pretending to be writing, I run, garden, cook, eat, drink wine, then run some more. My husband and I live in central Virginia with a view of the Blue Ridge Mountains. It's quiet and pretty, like Vermont.
Join me all over the place:
twitter.com/SonjaYoerg
www.facebook.com/SonjaYoerg
www.instagram.com/SonjaYoerg
www.sonjayoerg.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 276 reviews
September 8, 2015
Liz is burdened down with guilt and her feelings need straightened out. She decides to hike the John Muir trail and hopefully sort out her past with her widowhood and her recent relationship with another man named Dante.
Then two weeks before her start date, Dante announced he was joining her.
"You've never been backpacking, and now you want to go two hundred and twenty miles?"
"I would miss you."
Dante was that guy who couldn't live without internet service and a clean bed. He whined about everything. He bought new shoes that she advised him against and ended up with blisters all over his feet.
I was rooting for her to push him down a cliff.
Then at the next checkpoint Dante does realize that he is not cut out for the trip and leaves to go and wait for her. He knows that their relationship is at stake with this hike and feels like Liz is leaving him.
She was small and bare and completely inconsequential, as was her past. Water, rock, air-it cared nothing for her and would not judge her not. On this journey, she would travel deep into the indifferent wilderness to discover what was possible for her, and what could not be undone.
Once alone Liz realizes that her secrets have to be told or that they will plaque her for the rest of her life.
Dante does join back on the trail with her and he is totally changed in attitude. He knows that this is his and Liz's chance and I did come to like his character more than I did the female main character.
There is a creepiness to this book also with two men that the couple meet on the hike that just don't seem right.
I'm a sucker for a hiking book so I did enjoy this book quite a bit. It's well written enough that I want to read more from this author.
She had never believed in fate, nor understood its attraction. But so little of what had happened on this hike seemed within her control; she may have to alter her view.
Booksource: Netgalley in exchange for review.
Then two weeks before her start date, Dante announced he was joining her.
"You've never been backpacking, and now you want to go two hundred and twenty miles?"
"I would miss you."
Dante was that guy who couldn't live without internet service and a clean bed. He whined about everything. He bought new shoes that she advised him against and ended up with blisters all over his feet.
I was rooting for her to push him down a cliff.
Then at the next checkpoint Dante does realize that he is not cut out for the trip and leaves to go and wait for her. He knows that their relationship is at stake with this hike and feels like Liz is leaving him.
She was small and bare and completely inconsequential, as was her past. Water, rock, air-it cared nothing for her and would not judge her not. On this journey, she would travel deep into the indifferent wilderness to discover what was possible for her, and what could not be undone.
Once alone Liz realizes that her secrets have to be told or that they will plaque her for the rest of her life.
Dante does join back on the trail with her and he is totally changed in attitude. He knows that this is his and Liz's chance and I did come to like his character more than I did the female main character.
There is a creepiness to this book also with two men that the couple meet on the hike that just don't seem right.
I'm a sucker for a hiking book so I did enjoy this book quite a bit. It's well written enough that I want to read more from this author.
She had never believed in fate, nor understood its attraction. But so little of what had happened on this hike seemed within her control; she may have to alter her view.
Booksource: Netgalley in exchange for review.
January 7, 2017
3.5 stars
You're gonna need hiking boots for this trip! A potent mix of self reflection, adventure, and mild suspense, Sonja Yoerg effortlessly transports the reader to the varying elevations of the John Muir Trail in the Sierra Nevada mountains.
Even if you aren’t someone that enjoys camping (that’s totally me) or trekking through the forest, there’s still something sort of alluring about this trip. I thought Liz was gutsy for planning an eighteen day hike alone. What better way to face your demons head-on and find clarity than to surround yourself with natural beauty and isolation? Never in a million years would I personally want solitude to that extent though. I watch enough horror movies to know, anything could be lurking out in the woods.
Much to my relief, but definitely not Liz’s, her boyfriend Dante ends up crashing the trip. She couldn’t open up her mouth and tell him that though. She completely sucks at being vulnerable and honestly it makes it hard to connect with her on some levels. The more miles on her feet, the easier it gets for Liz to blurt out the secrets that have been eating away at her. That was just one of the many fears she had to face along the trail.
Things take a bit of a sinister turn when two creepy brothers start popping up at different points along the way. The lesson to learn here - trust your instincts and run! It’s better to survive than to take a risk and ignore bad vibes. I thoroughly enjoy suspense, and while that's not what I expected when I picked this up, I wish that aspect of the storyline had been amped up a notch. I felt like the author was teasing me. With bated breath I waited for something big to happen, but she failed to fully deliver. It all sort of fell flat in the end.
There’s no doubt - this is an atmospheric read. The vivid descriptions of the scenery make it easy to conjure up the trails, streams and campsites along the way. For the setup of the story it was great, but after awhile, the momentum of the story gets lost among all of those details. I found myself wanting to skip ahead in search of dialogue or one of Liz’s flashbacks. It just became too much for me. That’s not to say I didn’t enjoy this trip, it just wasn't my favorite vacation.
You're gonna need hiking boots for this trip! A potent mix of self reflection, adventure, and mild suspense, Sonja Yoerg effortlessly transports the reader to the varying elevations of the John Muir Trail in the Sierra Nevada mountains.
Even if you aren’t someone that enjoys camping (that’s totally me) or trekking through the forest, there’s still something sort of alluring about this trip. I thought Liz was gutsy for planning an eighteen day hike alone. What better way to face your demons head-on and find clarity than to surround yourself with natural beauty and isolation? Never in a million years would I personally want solitude to that extent though. I watch enough horror movies to know, anything could be lurking out in the woods.
Much to my relief, but definitely not Liz’s, her boyfriend Dante ends up crashing the trip. She couldn’t open up her mouth and tell him that though. She completely sucks at being vulnerable and honestly it makes it hard to connect with her on some levels. The more miles on her feet, the easier it gets for Liz to blurt out the secrets that have been eating away at her. That was just one of the many fears she had to face along the trail.
Things take a bit of a sinister turn when two creepy brothers start popping up at different points along the way. The lesson to learn here - trust your instincts and run! It’s better to survive than to take a risk and ignore bad vibes. I thoroughly enjoy suspense, and while that's not what I expected when I picked this up, I wish that aspect of the storyline had been amped up a notch. I felt like the author was teasing me. With bated breath I waited for something big to happen, but she failed to fully deliver. It all sort of fell flat in the end.
There’s no doubt - this is an atmospheric read. The vivid descriptions of the scenery make it easy to conjure up the trails, streams and campsites along the way. For the setup of the story it was great, but after awhile, the momentum of the story gets lost among all of those details. I found myself wanting to skip ahead in search of dialogue or one of Liz’s flashbacks. It just became too much for me. That’s not to say I didn’t enjoy this trip, it just wasn't my favorite vacation.
February 27, 2016
Some people are givers. Some people are takers. But the lines drawn between the two can often be blurred. And the resulting pain is like a thorn left in a shirt pocket. A little too close to the heart.
Sonja Yoerg presents her main character, Liz Kroft, as a very complicated soul where the waters run deep. Liz is approaching her 30th birthday and vows to hike the John Muir Trail. This trip has been handcarved by Liz herself. A personal encounter with Nature and an embrace of beauty and desired solitude. But Liz' reverie is hastily sidelined. Dante, her boyfriend, decides to accompany her on this journey. Liz is torn between her own sense of alone time and the nagging guilt of leaving Dante's enthusiasm behind right along with Dante himself.
Within moments, we realize that there is more weighing down on Liz than her 45-pound backpack. Unlike that cumbersome hiking equipment, Liz has been trekking through life unable to breathe freely. Life has not been kind to Liz and Liz has not been kind to life. The tauntness of these life strings make their way throughout the story. Liz had been raised in the environment of an aloof mother who barely even acknowledged her presence and she is the offspring of a phantom of a father. She is a voiceless soul.
Some may say that Yoerg has produced another Wild in the likes of Cheryl Strayed. I'd say that this book hikes up a completely different mountain trail. (Oh, pun intended!) Liz, who was initially seeking solidarity, is certainly not alone here. We are introduced to quite a few characters who round out this story in such smooth and jagged ways. There is also the "creep factor" that I totally enjoy. You don't have to be a hiker to know the potential for danger on the trailways. It's there in the four-legged and the two-legged variety. Stick around to find out.
I absolutely enjoyed The Middle of Somewhere. It speaks to the demons that fester inside all of us.....the slither of past decisions and events that find their way into our present lives and will, eventually, poison our waters. It's the meeting of minds and souls and the hushing sounds we make in trying to evict them.
Sonja Yoerg presents her main character, Liz Kroft, as a very complicated soul where the waters run deep. Liz is approaching her 30th birthday and vows to hike the John Muir Trail. This trip has been handcarved by Liz herself. A personal encounter with Nature and an embrace of beauty and desired solitude. But Liz' reverie is hastily sidelined. Dante, her boyfriend, decides to accompany her on this journey. Liz is torn between her own sense of alone time and the nagging guilt of leaving Dante's enthusiasm behind right along with Dante himself.
Within moments, we realize that there is more weighing down on Liz than her 45-pound backpack. Unlike that cumbersome hiking equipment, Liz has been trekking through life unable to breathe freely. Life has not been kind to Liz and Liz has not been kind to life. The tauntness of these life strings make their way throughout the story. Liz had been raised in the environment of an aloof mother who barely even acknowledged her presence and she is the offspring of a phantom of a father. She is a voiceless soul.
Some may say that Yoerg has produced another Wild in the likes of Cheryl Strayed. I'd say that this book hikes up a completely different mountain trail. (Oh, pun intended!) Liz, who was initially seeking solidarity, is certainly not alone here. We are introduced to quite a few characters who round out this story in such smooth and jagged ways. There is also the "creep factor" that I totally enjoy. You don't have to be a hiker to know the potential for danger on the trailways. It's there in the four-legged and the two-legged variety. Stick around to find out.
I absolutely enjoyed The Middle of Somewhere. It speaks to the demons that fester inside all of us.....the slither of past decisions and events that find their way into our present lives and will, eventually, poison our waters. It's the meeting of minds and souls and the hushing sounds we make in trying to evict them.
May 26, 2017
Many thanks to New American Library of Penguin Random House and Ms. Sonja Yoerg for an ARC of this novel in exchange for an unbiased review.
WOW! This is a most impressive follow-up to Ms. Yoerg’s debut novel, House Broken. I really enjoyed House Broken, but I love The Middle of Somewhere even more. This is the story of Liz Kroft, a very bright 29-year-old engineer with a difficult past that has left her wondering whether she is capable of engaging in a normal happy relationship. Don’t let this one-sentence synopsis fool you into thinking this is a generic plot. I like my women’s fiction to have substance, and this book has plenty of depth.
Most of the story takes place during an 18-day backpacking journey on the John Muir trail in the western United States, where Liz is looking to “find a truer life”. Do not think that just because you have read or seen the movie Wild (which I have) that The Middle of Somewhere has been done before. It has not.
This novel is a character study, an adventure, a thriller, and a love story. Liz is highly complex, and Ms. Yoerg gives us a detailed look inside her head by telling the tale from Liz’s perspective (3rd person point of view) and using flashbacks to help us understand how she came to be the way she is. She is a strong, independent woman whom I liked very much. She and her boyfriend Dante, who accompanies her over a major portion of the trip, run into a number of perilous situations, and the last 125 pages of the book had my pulse racing. The story was so compelling, I read the entire second half of the book in one sitting, which is something I just don’t do (I usually fall asleep when I try that). As engrossing as the adventurous/thrilling aspects of the book are, I found Liz’s personal story to be the most powerful arc. To go into that in more detail would be risking spoilers.
There are other elements I like about this book. Ms. Yoerg’s prose is beautiful and highly communicative. That and the intricate nature of the protagonist’s personal issues are two areas that I think are done even better in this book than in her debut novel. Furthermore, the author clearly did her research. She has wonderful true to life descriptions of the wilderness through which the John Muir Trail traverses. I felt I was right there in the scene with the characters. I also learned a tremendous amount about the ins and outs of backpacking. I have done many day hikes, but hiking 8 hours a day for several weeks is a whole other sport. Finally, this story is very real, including the complex dynamics between Liz and Dante. It touched me.
There was nothing I did not like about this book, except that since it is a stand alone, I will not encounter these wonderful characters again.
I am very impressed with Sonja Yoerg. She is a cut above in her genre, which is a scary good thing considering she has only written two novels. I recommend The Middle of Somewhere to all readers of women’s fiction and literary fiction. I will definitely read everything this author writes. An easy 5 stars for me.
WOW! This is a most impressive follow-up to Ms. Yoerg’s debut novel, House Broken. I really enjoyed House Broken, but I love The Middle of Somewhere even more. This is the story of Liz Kroft, a very bright 29-year-old engineer with a difficult past that has left her wondering whether she is capable of engaging in a normal happy relationship. Don’t let this one-sentence synopsis fool you into thinking this is a generic plot. I like my women’s fiction to have substance, and this book has plenty of depth.
Most of the story takes place during an 18-day backpacking journey on the John Muir trail in the western United States, where Liz is looking to “find a truer life”. Do not think that just because you have read or seen the movie Wild (which I have) that The Middle of Somewhere has been done before. It has not.
This novel is a character study, an adventure, a thriller, and a love story. Liz is highly complex, and Ms. Yoerg gives us a detailed look inside her head by telling the tale from Liz’s perspective (3rd person point of view) and using flashbacks to help us understand how she came to be the way she is. She is a strong, independent woman whom I liked very much. She and her boyfriend Dante, who accompanies her over a major portion of the trip, run into a number of perilous situations, and the last 125 pages of the book had my pulse racing. The story was so compelling, I read the entire second half of the book in one sitting, which is something I just don’t do (I usually fall asleep when I try that). As engrossing as the adventurous/thrilling aspects of the book are, I found Liz’s personal story to be the most powerful arc. To go into that in more detail would be risking spoilers.
There are other elements I like about this book. Ms. Yoerg’s prose is beautiful and highly communicative. That and the intricate nature of the protagonist’s personal issues are two areas that I think are done even better in this book than in her debut novel. Furthermore, the author clearly did her research. She has wonderful true to life descriptions of the wilderness through which the John Muir Trail traverses. I felt I was right there in the scene with the characters. I also learned a tremendous amount about the ins and outs of backpacking. I have done many day hikes, but hiking 8 hours a day for several weeks is a whole other sport. Finally, this story is very real, including the complex dynamics between Liz and Dante. It touched me.
There was nothing I did not like about this book, except that since it is a stand alone, I will not encounter these wonderful characters again.
I am very impressed with Sonja Yoerg. She is a cut above in her genre, which is a scary good thing considering she has only written two novels. I recommend The Middle of Somewhere to all readers of women’s fiction and literary fiction. I will definitely read everything this author writes. An easy 5 stars for me.
September 12, 2015
This book turned out a lot different than I expected. However I liked the surprising direction that it went in. The description for the book is rather vague so I suppose anything could have happened and it did. I wasn't the biggest fan of the main character, but it didn't take away from the story for me.
I liked the setting, I thought it was beautifully done and I really felt like I was in the middle of the wilderness while reading this book. Which is pretty impressive since I am a big homebody and hate bugs, but I found myself actually longing to be in this beautiful forest with the characters.
I thought that the elements of suspense were also really well done, my only qualm was that I felt like the ending was a little abrupt. I would have like a more concrete explanation after the huge build up of suspense.
Overall this is a good book about self reflection and the wilderness with a suspenseful undertone. 3.5/5
Buy, Borrow or Bin Verdict: Borrow
Note: I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review.
September 1, 2015
A special thank you to Penguin and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Talented Sonja Yoerg returns following her smashing debut House Broken with impressive and complex, THE MIDDLE OF SOMEWHERE --an exploration of intense emotions on the road to rediscovery, forgiveness, and love.
A gripping tale of facing the past. An unknown wilderness, mixed with temptations, fears, doubts, betrayal, anger, and evil (life), its obstacles, and complexities; storms, winds, hills, valleys, and darkness.
A journey, to a clearer path, a trail, uncluttered, leading to the light, clarity— a compelling journey to honesty, acceptance, forgiveness, redemption, by taking a step outside your comfort zone, conquering fears of the past, holding us back -- in order to embrace the future, and all that is waiting, for the taking; by simply reaching out, trusting.
Told from Liz’s point of view, written with engaging literary prose, and stunning metaphors, Yoerg takes readers on an amazing journey with an array of emotions of loss, fear, love, and hope, as she guides with vivid descriptions, a nature backdrop setting; an adventure – both physically and mentally, running parallel.
The characters we meet, the other hikers along the John Muir Trail; have a purpose. We will learn how each person along the trail will play a role in the overall novel. A transformation of Liz, a rediscovery, a life lesson. Can Liz and Dante peel back the layers to discover real love, their true selves, and let go of the past, holding them back?
At times, a trail is not wide enough for two, and someone has to remain behind, or make room for the other. Sometimes life is like an elevator, we have to let some people off on our way up.
Meet Liz Kroft, age 29-years old, a sharp engineer, with a rocky past in the relationship department. She is complex, and insecure about her choices, her past, and her future. She does not trust anyone, much less herself. She wants to escape, she yearns for solitude, to take her secrets and sins with her ---to bury deep inside the forest. A hike is perfect for her mood and her survival from life's storms. She longs to do it alone. She does not want anyone to accompany her, especially Dante.
She was excited about planning her solo trip, hiking the John Muir Trail, the planning, and research restored her calm, as she studied the weather patterns, the emergency provisions, and the logistics of resupply. She immersed herself in backpacking blogs and books about the trail, taking her mind off her problems.
She never fears 18-days of backpacking through an unknown forest, yet she fears her own feelings, her doubts, her sins, insecurities, and Dante’s love.
Liz was married in the past to Gabriel. What started out wonderful, ended in betrayal. Then there was Dante. There is tension, conflict between the two. As he gets closer, she backs away. Has she made a mistake? He cannot learn the things she has done. She is shamed by her actions. He surely will not love her when he learns the truth.
Dante follows her, even though he is not passionate about hiking; however, he is afraid he will lose Liz, unless he goes along, and tries to fit in. There is tension, stress, and obstacles along the way as they try and survive, not only the journey, but their relationship.
We learn about Liz’s past, her parents, her childhood—where Liz learned to keep her own company. When she was tired of her books and toys she would disassemble household objects; hence, her bio-medical-engineering passion.
From past to present a beautifully written and well-researched novel. When fear itself, may be bigger than the wolf we are hiding from. Liz and Dante must face haunting emotional challenges, and at the same time the often treacherous terrain of the wilderness.
Reminiscent of some of my favorites: Charles Martin The Mountain Between Us, Wiley Cash This Dark Road to Mercy, T. Greenwood The Forever Bridge , Tim Johnston Descent, Allen Eskens The Life We Bury , Catherine Ryan Hyde Take Me With You, Christopher Scotton The Secret Wisdom of the Earth and Richard Paul Evans The Walk Series ; with the outdoor mountain wilderness setting, and the deep human emotional dynamics which connect---a compelling, deeply moving, and emotional rich journey.
Ideal for book clubs and further discussions with many, what ifs, and a wide range of perspectives. Sonja includes some great discussion questions to jump start your group. Well Done. Can't wait to see what's next! An author to follow.
On a Personal Note:
As an avid hiker, cycler, and an outdoor enthusiast, I love solitude. Give me a backpack, water, books, and a trail in the wilderness for the next 20 hrs, and I am in heaven. Nothing better than the great outdoors to offer a new perspective. I find solace in the dark wooded areas, the mysterious trees,the quiet, the dampness, the rich earth, streams, waterfalls, surrounded by God’s beautiful nature. Given a mountain, hiking or bike trail - I am a happy camper. Of course, I prefer a quaint log cabin with a swing in the middle of the woods, when spending the night, versus a tent. Love to spend days hiking alone and cycling through 300 miles of trails. (however, I do take books along) to keep me company. To me the quiet time hiking on a mountain, or cycling, helps me recharge, more so than a day at a luxury spa. Those late nights stranded alone in total darkness in thunderstorms, with 4 or 5 hrs to go --not so relaxing. As you see, I made it out alive more than once.
JDCMustReadBooks
Talented Sonja Yoerg returns following her smashing debut House Broken with impressive and complex, THE MIDDLE OF SOMEWHERE --an exploration of intense emotions on the road to rediscovery, forgiveness, and love.
A gripping tale of facing the past. An unknown wilderness, mixed with temptations, fears, doubts, betrayal, anger, and evil (life), its obstacles, and complexities; storms, winds, hills, valleys, and darkness.
A journey, to a clearer path, a trail, uncluttered, leading to the light, clarity— a compelling journey to honesty, acceptance, forgiveness, redemption, by taking a step outside your comfort zone, conquering fears of the past, holding us back -- in order to embrace the future, and all that is waiting, for the taking; by simply reaching out, trusting.
Told from Liz’s point of view, written with engaging literary prose, and stunning metaphors, Yoerg takes readers on an amazing journey with an array of emotions of loss, fear, love, and hope, as she guides with vivid descriptions, a nature backdrop setting; an adventure – both physically and mentally, running parallel.
The characters we meet, the other hikers along the John Muir Trail; have a purpose. We will learn how each person along the trail will play a role in the overall novel. A transformation of Liz, a rediscovery, a life lesson. Can Liz and Dante peel back the layers to discover real love, their true selves, and let go of the past, holding them back?
At times, a trail is not wide enough for two, and someone has to remain behind, or make room for the other. Sometimes life is like an elevator, we have to let some people off on our way up.
Meet Liz Kroft, age 29-years old, a sharp engineer, with a rocky past in the relationship department. She is complex, and insecure about her choices, her past, and her future. She does not trust anyone, much less herself. She wants to escape, she yearns for solitude, to take her secrets and sins with her ---to bury deep inside the forest. A hike is perfect for her mood and her survival from life's storms. She longs to do it alone. She does not want anyone to accompany her, especially Dante.
She was excited about planning her solo trip, hiking the John Muir Trail, the planning, and research restored her calm, as she studied the weather patterns, the emergency provisions, and the logistics of resupply. She immersed herself in backpacking blogs and books about the trail, taking her mind off her problems.
She never fears 18-days of backpacking through an unknown forest, yet she fears her own feelings, her doubts, her sins, insecurities, and Dante’s love.
Liz was married in the past to Gabriel. What started out wonderful, ended in betrayal. Then there was Dante. There is tension, conflict between the two. As he gets closer, she backs away. Has she made a mistake? He cannot learn the things she has done. She is shamed by her actions. He surely will not love her when he learns the truth.
Dante follows her, even though he is not passionate about hiking; however, he is afraid he will lose Liz, unless he goes along, and tries to fit in. There is tension, stress, and obstacles along the way as they try and survive, not only the journey, but their relationship.
We learn about Liz’s past, her parents, her childhood—where Liz learned to keep her own company. When she was tired of her books and toys she would disassemble household objects; hence, her bio-medical-engineering passion.
From past to present a beautifully written and well-researched novel. When fear itself, may be bigger than the wolf we are hiding from. Liz and Dante must face haunting emotional challenges, and at the same time the often treacherous terrain of the wilderness.
Reminiscent of some of my favorites: Charles Martin The Mountain Between Us, Wiley Cash This Dark Road to Mercy, T. Greenwood The Forever Bridge , Tim Johnston Descent, Allen Eskens The Life We Bury , Catherine Ryan Hyde Take Me With You, Christopher Scotton The Secret Wisdom of the Earth and Richard Paul Evans The Walk Series ; with the outdoor mountain wilderness setting, and the deep human emotional dynamics which connect---a compelling, deeply moving, and emotional rich journey.
Ideal for book clubs and further discussions with many, what ifs, and a wide range of perspectives. Sonja includes some great discussion questions to jump start your group. Well Done. Can't wait to see what's next! An author to follow.
On a Personal Note:
As an avid hiker, cycler, and an outdoor enthusiast, I love solitude. Give me a backpack, water, books, and a trail in the wilderness for the next 20 hrs, and I am in heaven. Nothing better than the great outdoors to offer a new perspective. I find solace in the dark wooded areas, the mysterious trees,the quiet, the dampness, the rich earth, streams, waterfalls, surrounded by God’s beautiful nature. Given a mountain, hiking or bike trail - I am a happy camper. Of course, I prefer a quaint log cabin with a swing in the middle of the woods, when spending the night, versus a tent. Love to spend days hiking alone and cycling through 300 miles of trails. (however, I do take books along) to keep me company. To me the quiet time hiking on a mountain, or cycling, helps me recharge, more so than a day at a luxury spa. Those late nights stranded alone in total darkness in thunderstorms, with 4 or 5 hrs to go --not so relaxing. As you see, I made it out alive more than once.
JDCMustReadBooks
August 17, 2015
This was my first book by Sonja Yoerg but will definitely not be my last.
The Middle of Somewhere is a great piece of literary fiction and should appeal to any fans of women's fiction.
Told from the third person point of view, it follows 29-year-old Liz on an 18-day backpacking journey on the John Muir trail in the Western part of the US. Liz is seeking solitude and a chance to clear her mind, but then her boy-friend Dante decides to tag along. Liz is very independent, an experienced hiker, and she is harboring secrets that she knows she has to let Dante in on. But once these things are out in the open what will it do to their relationship and their future? Using flashbacks, Liz's past is gradually revealed, and we also find out more about Dante's history and concerns. The plot handles a lot of personal, family and relationship issues. There is more than the self-discovery and relationship angle as well as the character studies aspect though. Along the trail, Liz and Dante meet several other hikers that have an impact on this journey. There is danger, adventure and suspense. All the characters feel real and are well developed. The plot moves along at a good speed, and it was difficult to put the book down once started.
The prose is simply beautiful with vivid descriptions of the scenery. You learn a lot about backpacking along the way. I have to say I was surprised by how much I enjoyed this book, as it is quite different to what I usually read. My only slight criticism: the ending was too neatly wrapped up for my liking.
I received a complimentary copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an unbiased review.
The Middle of Somewhere is a great piece of literary fiction and should appeal to any fans of women's fiction.
Told from the third person point of view, it follows 29-year-old Liz on an 18-day backpacking journey on the John Muir trail in the Western part of the US. Liz is seeking solitude and a chance to clear her mind, but then her boy-friend Dante decides to tag along. Liz is very independent, an experienced hiker, and she is harboring secrets that she knows she has to let Dante in on. But once these things are out in the open what will it do to their relationship and their future? Using flashbacks, Liz's past is gradually revealed, and we also find out more about Dante's history and concerns. The plot handles a lot of personal, family and relationship issues. There is more than the self-discovery and relationship angle as well as the character studies aspect though. Along the trail, Liz and Dante meet several other hikers that have an impact on this journey. There is danger, adventure and suspense. All the characters feel real and are well developed. The plot moves along at a good speed, and it was difficult to put the book down once started.
The prose is simply beautiful with vivid descriptions of the scenery. You learn a lot about backpacking along the way. I have to say I was surprised by how much I enjoyed this book, as it is quite different to what I usually read. My only slight criticism: the ending was too neatly wrapped up for my liking.
I received a complimentary copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an unbiased review.
December 21, 2015
I enjoy books about personal journey - how we grow, learn, and love through life events/challenges. There were a few parts that felt forced or a little much and others where I wanted just a little more, but overall, this book held my interest to the end. I could sympathize with both main characters throughout and ultimately gained a deeper respect for both in the end.
Thanks netgalley for the arc!
Thanks netgalley for the arc!
May 27, 2015
This is a tense, well-crafted novel that delivers an unexpected emotional punch.
I read an advance copy of The Middle of Somewhere, and found it to be a unique novel in the way it straddles the genres of contemporary fiction and psychological thrillers. The main character, Liz, is in conflict over secrets she harbors and is suffering remorse over her past actions. She is also in peril due to the challenges of surviving in the wilderness, and from encountering some unexpected baddies on the trail. Yoerg has done a terrific job of blending these genres to deliver a book that will keep you reading long after you should turn out the light.
Despite the sometimes white-knuckled pacing of the book, Yoerg also manages to weave in some profound observations about life, love, and the healing power of being in the natural world as Liz continues on her quest to understand and redeem herself. Here is one of my favorite passages: "This was why she had come. Not to think, or learn, or seek absolution. She had come to enter into a world of pure perception, to explore this canvas of gray and blue. It was a place beyond reckoning, beyond sin. If she could exist there, she could bear the weight of existence completely inside herself. This, she believed, was necessary for love."
I read an advance copy of The Middle of Somewhere, and found it to be a unique novel in the way it straddles the genres of contemporary fiction and psychological thrillers. The main character, Liz, is in conflict over secrets she harbors and is suffering remorse over her past actions. She is also in peril due to the challenges of surviving in the wilderness, and from encountering some unexpected baddies on the trail. Yoerg has done a terrific job of blending these genres to deliver a book that will keep you reading long after you should turn out the light.
Despite the sometimes white-knuckled pacing of the book, Yoerg also manages to weave in some profound observations about life, love, and the healing power of being in the natural world as Liz continues on her quest to understand and redeem herself. Here is one of my favorite passages: "This was why she had come. Not to think, or learn, or seek absolution. She had come to enter into a world of pure perception, to explore this canvas of gray and blue. It was a place beyond reckoning, beyond sin. If she could exist there, she could bear the weight of existence completely inside herself. This, she believed, was necessary for love."
March 18, 2015
Middle of Somewhere is part self-discovery, part suspense, part love story. Liz Croft is relying on the JMT for some self-atonement, trying to work out her guilt over a act she's kept secret. Her boyfriend Dante decides to tag along, despite being an inexperienced hiker, and you can tell Liz is less than entralled. I couldn't figure out how this book would play out: Dante making mistakes, Liz being annoyed? Not in the very least. I loved this book! The layers to Liz and Dante are peeled back so carefully, that each reveal was a pleasant surprise and kept me turning pages. I did not expect to really like Dante as much as I did by the end. Despite Liz obviously growing, you could really see Dante's character be pushed to his own limits. I absolutely adored their relationship by the end of the book.
The end is harrowing and there is a moment where I literally got goosebumps (no spoilers! When you get there, you'll know it). The conclusion felt both surprising and inevitable.
Highly recommend!
The end is harrowing and there is a moment where I literally got goosebumps (no spoilers! When you get there, you'll know it). The conclusion felt both surprising and inevitable.
Highly recommend!
September 12, 2015
I could NOT put this book down! Started it Saturday evening and finished it Sunday mid-day. This is NOT your standard "woman goes to the wilderness to sort out her life" story. This book reads like a mystery, and an amazingly compelling one at that. The character development is phenomenal, and the slow-building tension will keep you on the edge of your seat. Plus, you learn everything you need to know about backpacking! One thing I learned is that I will NEVER backpack alone! This is a super fun read...I just loved it.
July 19, 2015
Title: The Middle of Somewhere
Author: Sonja Yoerg
Publisher: NAL
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:
"The Middle of Somewhere" by Sonja Yoerg
What I liked about this novel.....
I enjoyed this novel was a personal story of Liz Kroft who was a 29 year old engineer, a widow and one who had a rather hard past. Now she wondered would she be capable of ever having a 'happy life.' This author really presents the reader with a interesting story as Liz takes a 18 day backpacking journey on the 'John Muir' trail in the western part of the US. Would Liz be able to find the 'truer life' that she needed since she was carrying some well kept secrets over past actions? From the read the reader will be given a character study of Liz that turns out to be quite a adventure, thriller and even a love story. I found this story will be filled with a lots of flashbacks that really helps the reader understand a lots about Liz who was strong, liked and very independent. The story will also be about Dante[Liz's boyfriend] who goes with Liz on a great portion of the journey as they will run into some rather perilous suspenseful situations. I found this story a really compelling read that kept my interest and I found it hard to put down until the very end. Wow, what research this author had to do to give the reader such an intriguing story that really brought out such descriptions of the wilderness journey. I was able to learn a lots...about backpacking, tent building and even hiking. I don't want to leave out the secondary characters because they were definitely interesting in what they brought into this good novel In the end....well I won't say any more other than to say you will have to pick up this well written novel to she how well this author brings it all out to the reader of the 'complex dynamics' between these two...Liz and Dante.Be reader for a story of not only adventure but of self discovery, redemption, forgiveness and love. It will be a good standalone read.
I received this copy from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Author: Sonja Yoerg
Publisher: NAL
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:
"The Middle of Somewhere" by Sonja Yoerg
What I liked about this novel.....
I enjoyed this novel was a personal story of Liz Kroft who was a 29 year old engineer, a widow and one who had a rather hard past. Now she wondered would she be capable of ever having a 'happy life.' This author really presents the reader with a interesting story as Liz takes a 18 day backpacking journey on the 'John Muir' trail in the western part of the US. Would Liz be able to find the 'truer life' that she needed since she was carrying some well kept secrets over past actions? From the read the reader will be given a character study of Liz that turns out to be quite a adventure, thriller and even a love story. I found this story will be filled with a lots of flashbacks that really helps the reader understand a lots about Liz who was strong, liked and very independent. The story will also be about Dante[Liz's boyfriend] who goes with Liz on a great portion of the journey as they will run into some rather perilous suspenseful situations. I found this story a really compelling read that kept my interest and I found it hard to put down until the very end. Wow, what research this author had to do to give the reader such an intriguing story that really brought out such descriptions of the wilderness journey. I was able to learn a lots...about backpacking, tent building and even hiking. I don't want to leave out the secondary characters because they were definitely interesting in what they brought into this good novel In the end....well I won't say any more other than to say you will have to pick up this well written novel to she how well this author brings it all out to the reader of the 'complex dynamics' between these two...Liz and Dante.Be reader for a story of not only adventure but of self discovery, redemption, forgiveness and love. It will be a good standalone read.
I received this copy from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
April 2, 2016
I loved House Broken, so I’ve been excited about the release of The Middle of Somewhere. This novel definitely delivers, and even though it’s a different type of story from House Broken, both pack an emotional punch. That’s honestly what I like in a book. I want it to make me feel everything, until I’m overwhelmed, stressed out, and completely absorbed.
I was invested in this story from start to end. Both the plot and internal dramas are intense, which will have you on the edge of your seat (and imagining/hearing bad guys stalking your house in the middle of your night, if you’re anything like me).
The details about the hike and trail made me feel like I was there and participating in the experience, even though I’m not a hiker. It’s possible I will never be a hiker after reading this novel, but I love that this story threw me into a new world/situation and completely enveloped my senses. I could almost feel the burn in my own legs and taste the trail mix.
The MC is different and troubled. She carries a lot of baggage, but she also grows throughout the story and becomes more aware of herself and her issues. I loved seeing that growth and the recognition of personal shortcomings, as we all struggle in our own ways. I believe acknowledging issues and being self-aware makes a huge difference, even if I’m not perfect at correcting my issues. People can’t fix things they don’t acknowledge, and everyone starts somewhere. I think starting and trying are both huge steps. Sometimes, they’re even more important than overcoming, and I feel like that was the message of this story.
This story made my heart ache in all kinds of unexpected ways. It caught me off guard once and made me cry, but that was potentially more about what I felt the book said about me, rather than being about the specifics of the story line. It also helped to renew my faith in humanity, which is what I honestly want every story to do. There are times where everything feels so hopeless, but it’s what the characters did during and after those moments that I think I enjoyed the most.
I was invested in this story from start to end. Both the plot and internal dramas are intense, which will have you on the edge of your seat (and imagining/hearing bad guys stalking your house in the middle of your night, if you’re anything like me).
The details about the hike and trail made me feel like I was there and participating in the experience, even though I’m not a hiker. It’s possible I will never be a hiker after reading this novel, but I love that this story threw me into a new world/situation and completely enveloped my senses. I could almost feel the burn in my own legs and taste the trail mix.
The MC is different and troubled. She carries a lot of baggage, but she also grows throughout the story and becomes more aware of herself and her issues. I loved seeing that growth and the recognition of personal shortcomings, as we all struggle in our own ways. I believe acknowledging issues and being self-aware makes a huge difference, even if I’m not perfect at correcting my issues. People can’t fix things they don’t acknowledge, and everyone starts somewhere. I think starting and trying are both huge steps. Sometimes, they’re even more important than overcoming, and I feel like that was the message of this story.
This story made my heart ache in all kinds of unexpected ways. It caught me off guard once and made me cry, but that was potentially more about what I felt the book said about me, rather than being about the specifics of the story line. It also helped to renew my faith in humanity, which is what I honestly want every story to do. There are times where everything feels so hopeless, but it’s what the characters did during and after those moments that I think I enjoyed the most.
May 18, 2015
This story was so much more than an adventure - it was a journey. A spiritual, physical and emotional journey in which the reader learns as much about themselves over the course of the pages as they discover about the characters. As an avid hiker myself, I could completely relate to how the main character was using the hike to clear her head, clarify her thoughts, and let the physical pain and exertion override her mental turmoil. This story peels pack the rind, exposing the reader to the raw pulp of self exploration, probing into the tender regions of the soul, and forcing us to recognize - both in the characters and in ourselves - the driving forces behind our decisions and how each choice we make touches the lives of all involved.
Thanks to the author for an advance galley of the book - I enjoyed reading "The Middle of Somewhere" immensely and eagerly look forward to reading her next work of art!
Thanks to the author for an advance galley of the book - I enjoyed reading "The Middle of Somewhere" immensely and eagerly look forward to reading her next work of art!
June 24, 2020
There have been so many books lately about long hiking trips as a method of working through personal issues. This one doesn’t achieve the depth and introspection of those. The mystery/adventure plot seems out of place with the rest of the novel, yet there isn’t much plot without it. Overall, this suffers from lack of cohesive direction and purpose.
Liz Kroft and her boyfriend Dante take off to hike the John Muir Trail in California. Liz has been keeping secrets from Dante and isn’t sure how to approach talking to him about them. Dante leaves her right after starting the hike, but then rejoins later. They meet some interesting fellow hikers, and also the Root brothers, who give off a very creepy vibe. As they continue the journey, everyone becomes more and more concerned about the brothers and their intentions.
Liz Kroft and her boyfriend Dante take off to hike the John Muir Trail in California. Liz has been keeping secrets from Dante and isn’t sure how to approach talking to him about them. Dante leaves her right after starting the hike, but then rejoins later. They meet some interesting fellow hikers, and also the Root brothers, who give off a very creepy vibe. As they continue the journey, everyone becomes more and more concerned about the brothers and their intentions.
July 9, 2015
Receiving an ARC of Sonja Yoerg's book, THE MIDDLE OF SOMEWHERE, was such a joy. She uses beautifully crafted descriptions, heart-pounding suspense, and a setting both gorgeous and frightening while skillfully revealing the intricacies of the plot and characters. This novel is a journey of love, redemption, self-exploration, and forgiveness, and it is as stunning as Yoerg's debut, House Broken, which is also a must read.
January 29, 2017
I liked this one. The suspense with the hike was nice.
September 3, 2015
I received an ARC copy of The Middle of Somewhere and was immediately drawn in by the beautiful, yet disturbing cover. The figure of a young woman standing on rocks, surrounded by pink and white clouds, made me wonder where she was and why she was alone.
The young woman's name was Liz. In her mind, her life had been a series of well-intentioned decisions, all of which she thought were wrong. She was determined to hike the challenging John Muir Trail by herself, with the hope that she could set her life right. With all the necessary planning made for this daunting trek, she was dismayed when her live-in boyfriend, Dante, insisted on accompanying her. The decision to live with Dante was one of the problems she wanted to solve, but she hadn't the heart to turn him away.
Off they began at the floor of Yosemite Valley. I have visited Yosemite many times and laughed at the descriptions of most of the "campers." Yes, we stayed at the four star hotel, had boxed lunches prepared for us and felt so rustic and at one with Mother Nature while sitting by a brook across from El Capitan, with our SUV parked by the side of the road! I also laughed when Dante unveiled his hiking boots. Rather than buying the practical boots recommended by Liz, he decided on a designer pair and within days, came to regret not listening to her. Men, I thought!
Within two chapters though, I felt like a fly traveling on Liz's backpack. I walked every step of the way with her. Sonja Yoerg made this adventure so real to me that I often felt myself trembling when Liz and Dante made their way along the trail. I felt their exhilaration when they saw a particularly beautiful lake under a cloudless sky. I felt Liz's terror of thunderstorms. To me, being so drawn into a story and almost becoming an extra character is a special gift and talent that few writers possess.
Liz agonized about telling her secrets to Dante. Out in the middle of nowhere, huddled side-by-side in their sleeping bags, she began to talk about her past. She had no idea how her secrets would affect Dante. Perhaps she thought they would blow away like the wind.
I am doing my best to keep spoilers from the reader. The trek on its own is a wonderful story of adventure, but it was not without unexpected perils. Liz and Dante encountered other hikers along the trail, two of whom became friends, and two who were disconcerting.
I recommend this book to everyone. It is filled with adventure, mystery and self-discovery. And it is a love story. The Middle of Somewhere contains something that would interest any reader. As for that stunning cover, it not only drew me in, it wouldn't let me out.
The young woman's name was Liz. In her mind, her life had been a series of well-intentioned decisions, all of which she thought were wrong. She was determined to hike the challenging John Muir Trail by herself, with the hope that she could set her life right. With all the necessary planning made for this daunting trek, she was dismayed when her live-in boyfriend, Dante, insisted on accompanying her. The decision to live with Dante was one of the problems she wanted to solve, but she hadn't the heart to turn him away.
Off they began at the floor of Yosemite Valley. I have visited Yosemite many times and laughed at the descriptions of most of the "campers." Yes, we stayed at the four star hotel, had boxed lunches prepared for us and felt so rustic and at one with Mother Nature while sitting by a brook across from El Capitan, with our SUV parked by the side of the road! I also laughed when Dante unveiled his hiking boots. Rather than buying the practical boots recommended by Liz, he decided on a designer pair and within days, came to regret not listening to her. Men, I thought!
Within two chapters though, I felt like a fly traveling on Liz's backpack. I walked every step of the way with her. Sonja Yoerg made this adventure so real to me that I often felt myself trembling when Liz and Dante made their way along the trail. I felt their exhilaration when they saw a particularly beautiful lake under a cloudless sky. I felt Liz's terror of thunderstorms. To me, being so drawn into a story and almost becoming an extra character is a special gift and talent that few writers possess.
Liz agonized about telling her secrets to Dante. Out in the middle of nowhere, huddled side-by-side in their sleeping bags, she began to talk about her past. She had no idea how her secrets would affect Dante. Perhaps she thought they would blow away like the wind.
I am doing my best to keep spoilers from the reader. The trek on its own is a wonderful story of adventure, but it was not without unexpected perils. Liz and Dante encountered other hikers along the trail, two of whom became friends, and two who were disconcerting.
I recommend this book to everyone. It is filled with adventure, mystery and self-discovery. And it is a love story. The Middle of Somewhere contains something that would interest any reader. As for that stunning cover, it not only drew me in, it wouldn't let me out.
September 2, 2015
I read this authors debut novel, House Broken, and enjoyed it so much I really wanted to try this this author’s next book, The Middle of Somewhere, even though I was concerned the subject was about hiking. I don’t know a lot about hiking, and all I really remembered about hiking is from doing it when I was very young during the summer camp I used to attend (one of my favorite memories is eating the granola mix this character, Liz, talks about in this book! My blend had M&M's in it!) Having that little bit of hiking experience is what intrigued me about this book, but how was this author going to fill an entire book about it hiking I wondered? As I was reading along, I found I could not stop reading this book! This author's writing had me hooked and it read with such ease and enjoyment. I 'had' to keep reading more. Later, at the end of the book, I learned this author has hiked this trail before, so this story was one written out of the love of hiking.
We get to watch the characters Liz and Dante go into the park together to hike the JMT (John Muir Trail) trail for about three weeks, and a certain distance every day or they'll run out of food. This is a serious hike, but enjoyable for those who like to do this. They hike like crazy, hike out their problems, work on their problems, problems they had individually and together, come up with ideas, etc. Throw in a few bad people who can't keep things nice without hurting others, and an excellent story/adventure came out of this book!
Highly recommend! You'll definitely have a change of pace with this book!
I want to thank the author, Sonja Yoerg, and Penguin for supplying me with a completed book for review purposes!
We get to watch the characters Liz and Dante go into the park together to hike the JMT (John Muir Trail) trail for about three weeks, and a certain distance every day or they'll run out of food. This is a serious hike, but enjoyable for those who like to do this. They hike like crazy, hike out their problems, work on their problems, problems they had individually and together, come up with ideas, etc. Throw in a few bad people who can't keep things nice without hurting others, and an excellent story/adventure came out of this book!
Highly recommend! You'll definitely have a change of pace with this book!
I want to thank the author, Sonja Yoerg, and Penguin for supplying me with a completed book for review purposes!
August 10, 2015
The Middle of Somewhere by Sonja Yoerg is nothing short of intense. As someone who’s only been on a few hikes during her lifetime, Yoerg does an incredible job of pulling the reader into the setting of this story. Her vivid descriptions put me on the John Muir trail right along with Liz and Dante. I loved how the rugged landscape and challenging hike parallel the internal battle waging inside Liz. I especially appreciated Liz’s character—strong and stubborn but at the same time frail and desperate. This novel has everything; love, forgiveness and redemption. Another winner by Yoerg!
June 7, 2017
NetGalley ARC.
I enjoyed this book. Liz's life is a struggle and her boyfriend tagging along on her solitary hike of the John Muir Trail is a real wrench in her plans. What comes to light along the trail are surprising to both Dante and the reader. Liz isn't the best person but throughout the book you learn why. I think it was a real growth book, Liz developed as a character.
I enjoyed this book. Liz's life is a struggle and her boyfriend tagging along on her solitary hike of the John Muir Trail is a real wrench in her plans. What comes to light along the trail are surprising to both Dante and the reader. Liz isn't the best person but throughout the book you learn why. I think it was a real growth book, Liz developed as a character.
June 13, 2015
The Middle of Somewhere paints a dazzling, realistic picture of backpacking through Yosemite along the John Muir Trail—a three-week, 220-mile undertaking. Sonja Yoerg reminds us that out in the wilderness, there’s no room for lies or secrets. One's soul is bared. Our human need for one another—both physically and emotionally—is raw, unmasked by the distraction of technological gizmos or the false security afforded by our so-called civilization. One tender and poetic line pretty much sums it up: "She and Dante, alone in the middle of nowhere, with the truth." Liz and Dante recognize that they must put their differences aside in favor of survival, but will their hearts and bodies remain intact at the end of this adventure?
Liz is a different sort of woman: serious, handy, curious, independent. But she is harboring two big secrets—one pertaining to her relationship with Dante and the other involving her deceased husband, Gabriel. My biggest criticism is that Liz’s back story isn’t always well-woven into the present-day action and often reads like an “information dump.” My second quibble is that I grew impatient with her fear of thunderstorms, which I found gratuitous given how she breaks the “helpless female” mold in so many other ways. But when I got to that harrowing scene along a treacherous mountaineering trail in the middle of a thunderstorm, with lighting striking all around (“A deafening crack, resounding so close it trembled through the ground and up through the soles of Liz’s boots”), that changed my mind in a hurry!
Indeed, the depictions of this laborious trek are so convincing, I suffered the same fatigue and tedium I would have if I were actually hiking alongside Liz and Dante. Although the detailed descriptions can grow a little tiresome, they are central to the story. The natural setting lays the groundwork for events to follow. The Middle of Somewhere artfully engages the reader’s senses and emotions for better or worse, while Liz carries the full weight of her secrets in that leaden backpack. And rather than lighten her load when she—finally, slowly, and painfully—confesses, the realistic fallout is palpable and contaminates the remainder of their journey like radioactive material. Combined with the tension created by the menacing and creepy Root brothers (excellent, if a bit fantastic), we worry for Liz’s physical and mental well-being the entire way.
I think the comparison to Deliverance is fitting with one big difference: The Middle of Somewhere interweaves elements of danger and suspense into a tale of personal discovery within the context of a troubled relationship. The result is gripping and scary! Without revealing any spoilers too blatantly, this book's big strength is the understated moral dilemma faced by Liz throughout her journey: What right, if any, does a man have to know that a woman has conceived his child? What say, if any, ought he have in deciding the outcome of that pregnancy? As Liz realizes too late, while women through biological imperative have the ultimate say, this power is not to be wielded lightly or impulsively. And if we make that mistake, do we still deserve forgiveness and love? For his part, Dante grapples with an equally vexing and related question: Under these harsh, extenuating conditions, what obligation does a man have to “stick by” the woman who has so hurt and betrayed him?
Liz and Dante must face these daunting emotional challenges along with the often treacherous terrain. Throughout their arduous three-week voyage, the ever-changing trail is an apt outer symbol of their shared-yet-parallel inner journeys.
Story endings are tricky, and difficult to “nail.” Personally, I found the ending to be a bit of a quick "wrap-up" job that included a rather implausible explanation of who the Root brothers were and what they were doing on that trail. Other critical events—like Liz’s injury—likewise left me scratching my head. (How could she keep on hiking, much less carry her heavy pack, after that happened?) But in the end, despite its flaws, The Middle of Somewhere shines like “the nearly full moon [that] made the river run silver.” A highly emotional, gut-wrenching and powerful work, “exciting” doesn’t begin to describe some of its scenes. Meanwhile, a difficult process of personal growth and self-discovery cement the two main characters’ love for one another in a way that gives this story substance and sticking power. Although far from “perfect,” The Middle of Somewhere had me hooked. What more can we ask of an author?
Liz is a different sort of woman: serious, handy, curious, independent. But she is harboring two big secrets—one pertaining to her relationship with Dante and the other involving her deceased husband, Gabriel. My biggest criticism is that Liz’s back story isn’t always well-woven into the present-day action and often reads like an “information dump.” My second quibble is that I grew impatient with her fear of thunderstorms, which I found gratuitous given how she breaks the “helpless female” mold in so many other ways. But when I got to that harrowing scene along a treacherous mountaineering trail in the middle of a thunderstorm, with lighting striking all around (“A deafening crack, resounding so close it trembled through the ground and up through the soles of Liz’s boots”), that changed my mind in a hurry!
Indeed, the depictions of this laborious trek are so convincing, I suffered the same fatigue and tedium I would have if I were actually hiking alongside Liz and Dante. Although the detailed descriptions can grow a little tiresome, they are central to the story. The natural setting lays the groundwork for events to follow. The Middle of Somewhere artfully engages the reader’s senses and emotions for better or worse, while Liz carries the full weight of her secrets in that leaden backpack. And rather than lighten her load when she—finally, slowly, and painfully—confesses, the realistic fallout is palpable and contaminates the remainder of their journey like radioactive material. Combined with the tension created by the menacing and creepy Root brothers (excellent, if a bit fantastic), we worry for Liz’s physical and mental well-being the entire way.
I think the comparison to Deliverance is fitting with one big difference: The Middle of Somewhere interweaves elements of danger and suspense into a tale of personal discovery within the context of a troubled relationship. The result is gripping and scary! Without revealing any spoilers too blatantly, this book's big strength is the understated moral dilemma faced by Liz throughout her journey: What right, if any, does a man have to know that a woman has conceived his child? What say, if any, ought he have in deciding the outcome of that pregnancy? As Liz realizes too late, while women through biological imperative have the ultimate say, this power is not to be wielded lightly or impulsively. And if we make that mistake, do we still deserve forgiveness and love? For his part, Dante grapples with an equally vexing and related question: Under these harsh, extenuating conditions, what obligation does a man have to “stick by” the woman who has so hurt and betrayed him?
Liz and Dante must face these daunting emotional challenges along with the often treacherous terrain. Throughout their arduous three-week voyage, the ever-changing trail is an apt outer symbol of their shared-yet-parallel inner journeys.
Story endings are tricky, and difficult to “nail.” Personally, I found the ending to be a bit of a quick "wrap-up" job that included a rather implausible explanation of who the Root brothers were and what they were doing on that trail. Other critical events—like Liz’s injury—likewise left me scratching my head. (How could she keep on hiking, much less carry her heavy pack, after that happened?) But in the end, despite its flaws, The Middle of Somewhere shines like “the nearly full moon [that] made the river run silver.” A highly emotional, gut-wrenching and powerful work, “exciting” doesn’t begin to describe some of its scenes. Meanwhile, a difficult process of personal growth and self-discovery cement the two main characters’ love for one another in a way that gives this story substance and sticking power. Although far from “perfect,” The Middle of Somewhere had me hooked. What more can we ask of an author?
December 28, 2015
I liked this and found it a pretty compelling read, both because of the suspense and because of the relationship plot. However, I think in the end juggling those two elements was something of the novel's undoing. More complete review to come.
Full review:
I have mixed feelings about this book. On the one hand, it kept me turning pages, needing to uncover the layers of mystery buried within it. It was suspenseful at times, but it also had some lovely descriptive passages about the setting, and I enjoyed its contemplative moments. However, in the end, it just didn't come together for me the way I would have liked it to. Spoilers to follow as some major plot points are relevant to why the book didn't work as well as I felt it should have.
This book is really a combination of two things: a suspense novel and a novel about the difficult intricacy of a romantic relationship. This sort of makes it sound like romantic suspense, which it definitely isn't. Both the suspense element and the psychology of the romance worked for me, but they didn't mesh together. In a lot of ways, the suspense part of the book is more there to propel the necessary revelations that will test the strength of Liz's and Dante's bond, and I felt the book was the lesser for it.
I liked Liz's character. She's made some serious missteps in her past, and it's left her with a good case of neurosis, something I thought was understandable. I liked the way the book wove together all the complex threads of her life, from her difficult upbringing to her strained marriage to her ambivalence about her relationship with Dante. The weight of Liz's emotions was very real to me, and she felt like a human being, one who was flawed, who had missteps, who did stupid, self-sabotaging things, all while kind of knowing she was sabotaging herself. I thought her portrayal was very complete and felt very authentic, which was definitely the novel's strong point.
The weak point was the Root brothers. As I read, I kept waiting for some big revelation, for something to happen that would tie them to Liz's life. A lot of times I felt like maybe the author intended them to be symbolic, like their presence was meant to represent the savagery of the wilderness, a savagery that's meant to force Liz to strip aside all of her justifications and petty self-deceptions, face up to the truth, and let everything out rather than continue to spin webs of lies and omissions. I think that could have worked, but because they were real and not a figment of Liz's imagination, they needed some reason for being where they were and doing what they were doing. I could have bought the randomness of their presence, could have accepted that coincidence was what had led Liz to cross their paths, but their presence feels far too necessary to the narrative for that. Were they not there, would Liz have done the self-examination she did? Would she have been honest with Dante? I'm not convinced she would have, and so in that way the Roots felt more to me like the heavy hand of the author than like characters who made sense in the story. They're like a bridge, stringing together the scenes where Liz stop lying and evading and forces herself to face the music. This robbed something from the book because it made the sense or urgency feel like a plot device rather than something organic to the book.
It's a shame because I thought the writing was otherwise strong. I really like novels like this, where I get deep into the psychology of the characters. Liz's story would have been compelling to me without the Roots' presence, and this made the novel feel like it was awkwardly straddling two genres. I think I would have liked it better had the author chosen to let Liz's story shine, had Liz's journey not been so fraught with physical danger, since the mental danger seemed more than enough to carry the story.
I didn't dislike this book, but it wasn't everything I wanted it to be either. Still, I do like seeing authors take risks, and I'm also a fan of genre blending and bending. I'd be interested in reading more from this author.
Full review:
I have mixed feelings about this book. On the one hand, it kept me turning pages, needing to uncover the layers of mystery buried within it. It was suspenseful at times, but it also had some lovely descriptive passages about the setting, and I enjoyed its contemplative moments. However, in the end, it just didn't come together for me the way I would have liked it to. Spoilers to follow as some major plot points are relevant to why the book didn't work as well as I felt it should have.
This book is really a combination of two things: a suspense novel and a novel about the difficult intricacy of a romantic relationship. This sort of makes it sound like romantic suspense, which it definitely isn't. Both the suspense element and the psychology of the romance worked for me, but they didn't mesh together. In a lot of ways, the suspense part of the book is more there to propel the necessary revelations that will test the strength of Liz's and Dante's bond, and I felt the book was the lesser for it.
I liked Liz's character. She's made some serious missteps in her past, and it's left her with a good case of neurosis, something I thought was understandable. I liked the way the book wove together all the complex threads of her life, from her difficult upbringing to her strained marriage to her ambivalence about her relationship with Dante. The weight of Liz's emotions was very real to me, and she felt like a human being, one who was flawed, who had missteps, who did stupid, self-sabotaging things, all while kind of knowing she was sabotaging herself. I thought her portrayal was very complete and felt very authentic, which was definitely the novel's strong point.
The weak point was the Root brothers. As I read, I kept waiting for some big revelation, for something to happen that would tie them to Liz's life. A lot of times I felt like maybe the author intended them to be symbolic, like their presence was meant to represent the savagery of the wilderness, a savagery that's meant to force Liz to strip aside all of her justifications and petty self-deceptions, face up to the truth, and let everything out rather than continue to spin webs of lies and omissions. I think that could have worked, but because they were real and not a figment of Liz's imagination, they needed some reason for being where they were and doing what they were doing. I could have bought the randomness of their presence, could have accepted that coincidence was what had led Liz to cross their paths, but their presence feels far too necessary to the narrative for that. Were they not there, would Liz have done the self-examination she did? Would she have been honest with Dante? I'm not convinced she would have, and so in that way the Roots felt more to me like the heavy hand of the author than like characters who made sense in the story. They're like a bridge, stringing together the scenes where Liz stop lying and evading and forces herself to face the music. This robbed something from the book because it made the sense or urgency feel like a plot device rather than something organic to the book.
It's a shame because I thought the writing was otherwise strong. I really like novels like this, where I get deep into the psychology of the characters. Liz's story would have been compelling to me without the Roots' presence, and this made the novel feel like it was awkwardly straddling two genres. I think I would have liked it better had the author chosen to let Liz's story shine, had Liz's journey not been so fraught with physical danger, since the mental danger seemed more than enough to carry the story.
I didn't dislike this book, but it wasn't everything I wanted it to be either. Still, I do like seeing authors take risks, and I'm also a fan of genre blending and bending. I'd be interested in reading more from this author.
September 8, 2015
I’ve read Yoerg’s first novel last year which was absolutely WONDERFUL. I was eager to read this one but also hesitant at the same time. This book sounded an awful lot like Wild by Cheryl Strayed but The Middle of Somewhere was a fictional story but in the same vein as Wild (which I haven’t read).
I don’t read a lot of books about ‘finding yourself’ so books like Wild never really grabbed me as a ‘must read’….even with the movie that came out, I just never really got into it so I had reservations about this book……but Yoerg’s writing style is so splendid that I was immediately all in when it came up for review.
This book did not disappoint in the least! It had a believable plot, complex characters, vivid descriptions of the landscape, and Liz’s personal journey was well constructed and moving…..but above all, it was memorable.
This is a book that I’ve thought about long after I finished. Even though it was ‘fictional’ it didn’t feel ‘fictional’. Liz was so real and the emotions she experiences and guilt that she harbors really came across as authentic in the novel. For me personally, as a 34 year old woman, I can relate to a lot of what Liz is feeling. It’s like you hit 30 and all of a sudden it’s like you become an adult and you are at an age where you really can’t screw things up in your life because the effects are far reaching.
While Liz was a widow and struggled with a lot of baggage and I haven’t experienced that, I think the over all theme was the rose colored glasses of your twenty’s coming off and life really happening…..and questions like is it possible to really lead a ‘happy’ life amidst tragedy or just in general? So I could identify with a lot of what Liz was feeling and going through.
The setting and vivid descriptions of the trail was second to none. Stunning, beautiful, and artistic are just a couple of words Yoerg uses to describe the wondrous the John Muir trail.
This was another win for Yoerg. Her writing style is only improving and she has a flawless ability to spin a moving, impactful novel. While it was intensely emotional, I enjoyed every minute of it. This is a novel that will make you think and you will feel every line in the story….but it is so well written and beautiful that even if you are like me and tend to shy away from overly emotional novels…..you will want to keep reading this one. I became invested in Liz’s story and couldn’t put it down! Perfect.
See my full review here
I don’t read a lot of books about ‘finding yourself’ so books like Wild never really grabbed me as a ‘must read’….even with the movie that came out, I just never really got into it so I had reservations about this book……but Yoerg’s writing style is so splendid that I was immediately all in when it came up for review.
This book did not disappoint in the least! It had a believable plot, complex characters, vivid descriptions of the landscape, and Liz’s personal journey was well constructed and moving…..but above all, it was memorable.
This is a book that I’ve thought about long after I finished. Even though it was ‘fictional’ it didn’t feel ‘fictional’. Liz was so real and the emotions she experiences and guilt that she harbors really came across as authentic in the novel. For me personally, as a 34 year old woman, I can relate to a lot of what Liz is feeling. It’s like you hit 30 and all of a sudden it’s like you become an adult and you are at an age where you really can’t screw things up in your life because the effects are far reaching.
While Liz was a widow and struggled with a lot of baggage and I haven’t experienced that, I think the over all theme was the rose colored glasses of your twenty’s coming off and life really happening…..and questions like is it possible to really lead a ‘happy’ life amidst tragedy or just in general? So I could identify with a lot of what Liz was feeling and going through.
The setting and vivid descriptions of the trail was second to none. Stunning, beautiful, and artistic are just a couple of words Yoerg uses to describe the wondrous the John Muir trail.
This was another win for Yoerg. Her writing style is only improving and she has a flawless ability to spin a moving, impactful novel. While it was intensely emotional, I enjoyed every minute of it. This is a novel that will make you think and you will feel every line in the story….but it is so well written and beautiful that even if you are like me and tend to shy away from overly emotional novels…..you will want to keep reading this one. I became invested in Liz’s story and couldn’t put it down! Perfect.
See my full review here
June 3, 2015
Liz Pemberton and her boyfriend, Dante Espinoza, are heading out to hike the John Muir Trail in its entirety. Dante doesn't have any previous backpacking experience, and is to easily and endlessly social that he's delaying their start. Liz, on the other hand, is a very experienced backpacker, and had originally intended to make this hike alone, for solitude and a chance to think.
At first, we have the impression that Dante is a lightweight and a possible mistake, that Liz drifted into the relationship after her early widowhood, and bracing herself for taking back control of her life. The reality is very different. Over the early days of the hike, we realize that Liz is carrying a burden of guilt, and is bracing herself to make a confession to Dante that she believes will certainly end their relationship--but not because she wants it over.
But as Liz and Dante deal with their relationship issues, they have another problem, which at first seems just an annoyance. Among the other hikers on the JMT with them are Payton and Rodell Root, brothers who seem superficially friendly. Liz finds them, especially Payton, not just annoying, but a bit disturbing and even creepy. At first, Dante thinks she's wrong. As their journey continues, though, strange things start to happen, always when the Root brothers are nearby.
As Liz starts confessing her dark secrets, and their relationship is under severe strain, she and Dante have to cooperate ever more closely to cope with the danger presented by the Roots, who have fixated on the young couple as their primary targets.
Yoerg does an amazing job of weaving these two threads together, the unfolding of Liz's history and its effect on her relationship with Dante, and the gradual and frightening realization that the Roots are more than just an annoyance, forcing them to work together when they would otherwise simply not speak to each other. The exploration of Liz's history, guilt, and emotional issues, her relationship with her late husband and with Dante, and fight to survive the Roots is masterful. Yoerg's first novel, House Broken, was very good; this one is excellent.
Highly recommended.
I received a free galley of this book from the author.
At first, we have the impression that Dante is a lightweight and a possible mistake, that Liz drifted into the relationship after her early widowhood, and bracing herself for taking back control of her life. The reality is very different. Over the early days of the hike, we realize that Liz is carrying a burden of guilt, and is bracing herself to make a confession to Dante that she believes will certainly end their relationship--but not because she wants it over.
But as Liz and Dante deal with their relationship issues, they have another problem, which at first seems just an annoyance. Among the other hikers on the JMT with them are Payton and Rodell Root, brothers who seem superficially friendly. Liz finds them, especially Payton, not just annoying, but a bit disturbing and even creepy. At first, Dante thinks she's wrong. As their journey continues, though, strange things start to happen, always when the Root brothers are nearby.
As Liz starts confessing her dark secrets, and their relationship is under severe strain, she and Dante have to cooperate ever more closely to cope with the danger presented by the Roots, who have fixated on the young couple as their primary targets.
Yoerg does an amazing job of weaving these two threads together, the unfolding of Liz's history and its effect on her relationship with Dante, and the gradual and frightening realization that the Roots are more than just an annoyance, forcing them to work together when they would otherwise simply not speak to each other. The exploration of Liz's history, guilt, and emotional issues, her relationship with her late husband and with Dante, and fight to survive the Roots is masterful. Yoerg's first novel, House Broken, was very good; this one is excellent.
Highly recommended.
I received a free galley of this book from the author.
September 3, 2015
Net Galley ARC
The Middle of Somewhere is a book that is really different than what I am used to reading, as I think that as I was reading it, not only was I paying attention to what the book was saying, but at night after reading it, I was thinking about my own life and situations I have faced in the past, and when I was through with the book it was really a great ending to a really well written, fast moving novel.
The main character in this novel is Liz, and she is a very well developed character, and the author takes the time to talk about her life before during and after Liz decides to go on a 3 week hiking trip - the John Muir Trail - over 200 miles of wilderness trail - from Yosemite Valley to Mount Whitney in the High Sierras of California. Liz feels that by doing this she can come to some kind of awakening about her life up to now and her current living situation with her boyfriend Dante. She is looking forward to going all by herself until Dante lets her know he also will be going with her.
Dante is a man who came from a big family and they are all very traditional and have their beliefs which are the most important things to them. While Dante also has strong beliefs he has had to fight for his freedom to be who he wants to be, despite the fact his family does not understand.
This book had so many wonderful features to it, it describes the hikes and the John Muir trail how harsh it is but yet at the same time so rewarding with each step they took. Unfortunately something happens in this story that puts Dante and Liz on high alert for their lives and it is a race to the finish to get away after several attempts by two brothers to end their lives. It is a terrifying hike for other reasons for Liz as well, and opening up to Dante about things she has done which upsets him and risks their relationship causes her to learn that maybe she does value Dante and that it is ok to love someone.
I strongly recommend that everyone read this book and I am personally glad that I did. I am going to read everything else by this author! It is a wonderful tale of love, denial, sadness, a failed marriage, and the power of love to heal even the darkest soul.
I gave this book 5 stars and look forward to more by Sonja Yoerg!
The Middle of Somewhere is a book that is really different than what I am used to reading, as I think that as I was reading it, not only was I paying attention to what the book was saying, but at night after reading it, I was thinking about my own life and situations I have faced in the past, and when I was through with the book it was really a great ending to a really well written, fast moving novel.
The main character in this novel is Liz, and she is a very well developed character, and the author takes the time to talk about her life before during and after Liz decides to go on a 3 week hiking trip - the John Muir Trail - over 200 miles of wilderness trail - from Yosemite Valley to Mount Whitney in the High Sierras of California. Liz feels that by doing this she can come to some kind of awakening about her life up to now and her current living situation with her boyfriend Dante. She is looking forward to going all by herself until Dante lets her know he also will be going with her.
Dante is a man who came from a big family and they are all very traditional and have their beliefs which are the most important things to them. While Dante also has strong beliefs he has had to fight for his freedom to be who he wants to be, despite the fact his family does not understand.
This book had so many wonderful features to it, it describes the hikes and the John Muir trail how harsh it is but yet at the same time so rewarding with each step they took. Unfortunately something happens in this story that puts Dante and Liz on high alert for their lives and it is a race to the finish to get away after several attempts by two brothers to end their lives. It is a terrifying hike for other reasons for Liz as well, and opening up to Dante about things she has done which upsets him and risks their relationship causes her to learn that maybe she does value Dante and that it is ok to love someone.
I strongly recommend that everyone read this book and I am personally glad that I did. I am going to read everything else by this author! It is a wonderful tale of love, denial, sadness, a failed marriage, and the power of love to heal even the darkest soul.
I gave this book 5 stars and look forward to more by Sonja Yoerg!
September 17, 2015
For starters – knowing that Sonja Yoerg (whom I am honored to call a friend) has hiked the same John Muir Trail as her character, Liz, I am ready to lace up my hiking boots and go along with her on her next trek (though I fear I may be too big a sissy!) That’s how vivid the descriptions of this intimidatingly beautiful California trail are.
In Yoerg’s sophomore novel, she blends together elements of suspense, emotion and the natural world with brushstrokes as smooth as the skies she brings to life in the novel. Nature as healer, nature as foe, nature as a metaphor for life – it’s all here in The Middle of Somewhere, along with some fabulous double entendres.
Below is just one example of the lush imagery:
Switchbacks led her from one side of the mountain to the other and back again, winding through pines standing close, like soldiers amassed for battle. Finally, the trail straightened and the trees thinned. She emerged onto an open slope of low, smooth rock, punctuated by small clusters of trees. A few were snapped off at head height, perhaps by an avalanche. Others had been struck by lightning, charred trunks roughly broken, leaving black fingers pointing at the sky. At nearly ten thousand feet, exposure was a fact of life.
I personally believe in the restorative power of nature immersion and totally "get" why people attend to soul-searching hikes like the one described in this book and others (think Wild by Cheryl Strayed). It's not a cliche; those brushes with nature can be real and affirming and awe inspiring.
Natural imagery aside, there are other elements: Liz’s own internal struggles, as well as the people she and Dante meet on the trail (not all of them ‘happy campers,’ if you will). They add so much more depth, these characters, in oh-so-many ways. And with that, I’ll say no more.
So … hikers, nature lovers and fans of character-based women’s fiction and psychological suspense: this book is for you! A quick, nature-soaked read!
In Yoerg’s sophomore novel, she blends together elements of suspense, emotion and the natural world with brushstrokes as smooth as the skies she brings to life in the novel. Nature as healer, nature as foe, nature as a metaphor for life – it’s all here in The Middle of Somewhere, along with some fabulous double entendres.
Below is just one example of the lush imagery:
Switchbacks led her from one side of the mountain to the other and back again, winding through pines standing close, like soldiers amassed for battle. Finally, the trail straightened and the trees thinned. She emerged onto an open slope of low, smooth rock, punctuated by small clusters of trees. A few were snapped off at head height, perhaps by an avalanche. Others had been struck by lightning, charred trunks roughly broken, leaving black fingers pointing at the sky. At nearly ten thousand feet, exposure was a fact of life.
I personally believe in the restorative power of nature immersion and totally "get" why people attend to soul-searching hikes like the one described in this book and others (think Wild by Cheryl Strayed). It's not a cliche; those brushes with nature can be real and affirming and awe inspiring.
Natural imagery aside, there are other elements: Liz’s own internal struggles, as well as the people she and Dante meet on the trail (not all of them ‘happy campers,’ if you will). They add so much more depth, these characters, in oh-so-many ways. And with that, I’ll say no more.
So … hikers, nature lovers and fans of character-based women’s fiction and psychological suspense: this book is for you! A quick, nature-soaked read!
August 16, 2015
*****RECEIVED THIS FROM NETGALLEY******
THIS IS A TRAGIC LOVE STORY THAT YOU MUST READ! IT IS FANTASTIC ONE THAT YOU WILL NEVER FORGET
I received a copy of this amazing book from the author Sonja Young via Netgalley. In exchange for an honest opinion. This is Mismousey's very honest opinion of THE MIDDLE OF SOMEWHERE...
As this was the first time reading anything that Ms. Young has written. I found this story to be captivating along with very compelling.
The author - Ms Young has a true way with words as she picks up her pen and takes it to paper. The scenes in the mountain area along with the description is so real. You can picture the entire thing in your mind. Not only that but the characters are so well defined- You can see them as they travel the trail.
This book is about a young women - who is a widow and she now has a boyfriend. But she is afraid of her relationship with him. Liz Kroft has been very hurt in the past. And she is unsure of trusting and letting herself feel anything for anyone else. Yes she loves her boyfriend Dante. But she does not really trust their relationship together.
In this very moving story. It shows how Liz and Dante travel the hiking trail going through the mountains. And what they experience along the way. Can she overcome her fears?? And what happens to them when Liz reveals the truth to Dante?
This book is for all readers- Mismousey gives it a firm 50 out 5 stars.Make sure to add this one to YOUR GOODREADS READING LIST. THEN RUN AND GET YOUR COPY TODAY
THIS IS A TRAGIC LOVE STORY THAT YOU MUST READ! IT IS FANTASTIC ONE THAT YOU WILL NEVER FORGET
I received a copy of this amazing book from the author Sonja Young via Netgalley. In exchange for an honest opinion. This is Mismousey's very honest opinion of THE MIDDLE OF SOMEWHERE...
As this was the first time reading anything that Ms. Young has written. I found this story to be captivating along with very compelling.
The author - Ms Young has a true way with words as she picks up her pen and takes it to paper. The scenes in the mountain area along with the description is so real. You can picture the entire thing in your mind. Not only that but the characters are so well defined- You can see them as they travel the trail.
This book is about a young women - who is a widow and she now has a boyfriend. But she is afraid of her relationship with him. Liz Kroft has been very hurt in the past. And she is unsure of trusting and letting herself feel anything for anyone else. Yes she loves her boyfriend Dante. But she does not really trust their relationship together.
In this very moving story. It shows how Liz and Dante travel the hiking trail going through the mountains. And what they experience along the way. Can she overcome her fears?? And what happens to them when Liz reveals the truth to Dante?
This book is for all readers- Mismousey gives it a firm 50 out 5 stars.Make sure to add this one to YOUR GOODREADS READING LIST. THEN RUN AND GET YOUR COPY TODAY
July 20, 2015
At the beginning of the book, Liz Kroft is not a likable character. Determined to go on a three week hike alone across the John Muir Trail, she does her best to rid herself of her boyfriend at the beginning of the hike. He leaves and she is finally by herself, with an interesting group of other hikers. Determined not to give up so easily, Dante (her boyfriend) waits for her at one of the rest areas along the trail. As their hike progresses, Liz begins to confront pieces of herself that she has ignored for a long time. As she begins unraveling her lies to Dante, we begin to see who the real Liz is. In the midst of her pain and realizations, she comes to discover who she truly is. In the middle of the wilderness, on an unexpected flight of survival, she and Dante find out what they are made of and whether or not their relationship is strong enough to weather the storms of life. With a cast of crazy characters, some benign and others more sinister, this fast-paced book made the sights of the John Muir Trail come to life as you discovered that some storms from which you run are storms of the soul, some are actual storms, and some storms are people who seek to do you harm. If you like nature and enjoy thrillers, you'll enjoy this book!
*I received an ARC of this book*
*I received an ARC of this book*
August 17, 2015
I really enjoyed this exciting, yet touching, book about a journey that one woman takes along the John Muir Trail. Liz is a widow who is currently living with Dante, who has joined her on this expedition. Liz is struggling internally with decisions she has made that have serious implications on her relationships with her deceased husband as well as Dante. Besides her internal struggles, the physical strains of the hike through the wilderness are extremely challenging. In addition to the step-by-step demands that the trail requires of her body, Liz is certain that 2 brothers they encountered on the trail are threatening, if not dangerous. The author does an excellent job of describing the trail itself, so that the reader is transported to the Sierra Mountains along with Liz and Dante, stumbling along with them on the path, and suffering the cold, the fear, and their uncertainties about their relationship as they wend their way up and down the mountains. It's hard to pinpoint the genre of this book; it is part love story, part adventure story, and part thriller. All of those things add up to a very exciting, heart-pounding, page-turner of a book.
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