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StoryWorld #1
Woman of the Hour
StoryWorld TV brings 'real life stories' to its viewers. But it's at the station where the true dramas are played out...
Liz Lyon is Head of Features at StoryWorld TV. It's exhilarating and sometimes glamorous work, but as a single mother with a demanding career, her life is a constant balancing act.
Then simmering tensions erupt at the station, trapping Liz in a web of rivalry, manipulation and deceit. If she trusts the wrong person, she could lose her job. But with everything she thought she knew crumbling around her, can she even trust herself?
A twisty drama of secrets and lies in a London TV station, this is the first book in the StoryWorld series from the acclaimed author of The Lie Of You.
Liz Lyon is Head of Features at StoryWorld TV. It's exhilarating and sometimes glamorous work, but as a single mother with a demanding career, her life is a constant balancing act.
Then simmering tensions erupt at the station, trapping Liz in a web of rivalry, manipulation and deceit. If she trusts the wrong person, she could lose her job. But with everything she thought she knew crumbling around her, can she even trust herself?
A twisty drama of secrets and lies in a London TV station, this is the first book in the StoryWorld series from the acclaimed author of The Lie Of You.
- GenresFictionWomens Fiction
198 pages, Hardcover
Published July 14, 2016
11 people are currently reading
308 people want to read
About the author
Jane Lythell
6 books58 followers I grew up in a small seaside town in Norfolk; went to university in London and lived there for over three decades. I now live in Brighton. I write psychological suspense because I'm fascinated by what drives people to do extreme things.
My new novel THE EXES has just been published by Bloodhound Books. Holly Hilborne unexpectedly inherits a large and derelict house in Brighton. Daunted by the challenge she invites her three ex-lovers to join her and help her renovate the house. Big trouble!
THE LIE OF YOU and AFTER THE STORM explore obsessive thoughts and were USA Today bestsellers.
My new novel THE EXES has just been published by Bloodhound Books. Holly Hilborne unexpectedly inherits a large and derelict house in Brighton. Daunted by the challenge she invites her three ex-lovers to join her and help her renovate the house. Big trouble!
THE LIE OF YOU and AFTER THE STORM explore obsessive thoughts and were USA Today bestsellers.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews
October 15, 2020
Persistence
Woman of the Hour is a highly entertaining and revealing glimpse into the world of live television and the struggles to maintain a career, whilst also managing a home life with a typical teenage daughter. Liz Lyon is Head of Features at StoryWorld TV, and a single mum to Flo after her marriage to Ben ended in divorce. Liz’s life seems to be in constant turbulence, with challenges coming from many angles, in work and at home. It is very easy to connect with Liz and her enduring character, she is really interesting and resilient, with a caring and supportive personality.
The story is full of surreptitious skulking around, influencing the powers that may hold the opportunity to career advancement. It also paints a fascinating picture of the egotistical and duplicitous nature of celebrities and how they play the wholesome image for the camera while treating staff with disdain. It’s probably a really bad perception I have of the media industry, and maybe it’s only fuelled because there are already so many stories to read of underhanded dealings and back-stabbing incidents among apparent colleagues. Of course, other industries experience office politics but the allure towards fame and fortune seems to increase the narcissism. Some are genuine friends and some the pursuit of glamour and glitz is so overwhelming, friendships can be discarded very easily. The television industry is clinical and brutal – viewing figures mean everything and you’re only ever judged on your last piece. Behind the scenes, office politics can be just as bloody, and a conceited and domineering boss brings a culture that is toxic.
Jane Lythell delivers a wonderful story that manages all these major issues with authenticity and direction. This is an easy read and the story flows effortlessly through the narrative and dialogue, with plot twists and surprises that are emotionally charged.
I read this book in preparation for Behind Her Back, which was a request from the author, Jane Lythell. I do appreciate variety in my reading but this genre isn’t one I step into very often, however, this was an enjoyable experience that will have me considering more of these books. I would recommend this book.
Woman of the Hour is a highly entertaining and revealing glimpse into the world of live television and the struggles to maintain a career, whilst also managing a home life with a typical teenage daughter. Liz Lyon is Head of Features at StoryWorld TV, and a single mum to Flo after her marriage to Ben ended in divorce. Liz’s life seems to be in constant turbulence, with challenges coming from many angles, in work and at home. It is very easy to connect with Liz and her enduring character, she is really interesting and resilient, with a caring and supportive personality.
The story is full of surreptitious skulking around, influencing the powers that may hold the opportunity to career advancement. It also paints a fascinating picture of the egotistical and duplicitous nature of celebrities and how they play the wholesome image for the camera while treating staff with disdain. It’s probably a really bad perception I have of the media industry, and maybe it’s only fuelled because there are already so many stories to read of underhanded dealings and back-stabbing incidents among apparent colleagues. Of course, other industries experience office politics but the allure towards fame and fortune seems to increase the narcissism. Some are genuine friends and some the pursuit of glamour and glitz is so overwhelming, friendships can be discarded very easily. The television industry is clinical and brutal – viewing figures mean everything and you’re only ever judged on your last piece. Behind the scenes, office politics can be just as bloody, and a conceited and domineering boss brings a culture that is toxic.
Jane Lythell delivers a wonderful story that manages all these major issues with authenticity and direction. This is an easy read and the story flows effortlessly through the narrative and dialogue, with plot twists and surprises that are emotionally charged.
I read this book in preparation for Behind Her Back, which was a request from the author, Jane Lythell. I do appreciate variety in my reading but this genre isn’t one I step into very often, however, this was an enjoyable experience that will have me considering more of these books. I would recommend this book.
April 28, 2019
Women of the Hour is something completely different from what I usually read. Not a crime novel, nor a thriller or a historical novel. This is a contemporary novel set in the world of television. A story about a Liz Lyon TV producer and single mother and her struggle to combine both worlds. I quickly found myself caught up in her world. As a TV producer, Liz basically spent a lot of time trying to smooth things over, from cranky bosses to the divas on air. At the same time, she tries to make her relationship with her new boyfriend work and raise her daughter. And, she also has to try to not be stabbed in the back, not literary, but figuratively (this is as I said before not a murder mystery book LOL). The TV business is a vicious place and new arrives doesn't always play nice, but appearances can be deceiving and threats can come from other directions.
Women of the Hour brings up so many issues, how to combine motherhood with a career. Trying to keep peace in the workplace. Also, dealing with new employees and not to mention how to handle sexual harassment at work. Liz herself has some bad experience when it comes to that. She ponders during the books progress over the fact, where do you draw the line? Is she just overreacting? I can honestly say I thought she overreacted a bit while I read the book. But, on the other hand, I also know how terrible it is to feel doubt and angst over situations. Even years later. Anyhow, this is an interesting part of the book that fits very well into today's #metoo era.
I found this book to be a great respite from all the usual thriller & crime novels to read and I recommend this book warmly.
Women of the Hour is the first book in the StoryWorld series and I'm looking forward to reading the sequel Behind Her Back.
I want to thank the author for sending both this book and Behind the Back to me for an honest review!
Women of the Hour brings up so many issues, how to combine motherhood with a career. Trying to keep peace in the workplace. Also, dealing with new employees and not to mention how to handle sexual harassment at work. Liz herself has some bad experience when it comes to that. She ponders during the books progress over the fact, where do you draw the line? Is she just overreacting? I can honestly say I thought she overreacted a bit while I read the book. But, on the other hand, I also know how terrible it is to feel doubt and angst over situations. Even years later. Anyhow, this is an interesting part of the book that fits very well into today's #metoo era.
I found this book to be a great respite from all the usual thriller & crime novels to read and I recommend this book warmly.
Women of the Hour is the first book in the StoryWorld series and I'm looking forward to reading the sequel Behind Her Back.
I want to thank the author for sending both this book and Behind the Back to me for an honest review!
November 13, 2016
Meet Liz Lyon; single mother to fourteen-year-old daughter, Flo, and charged with massaging the egos and pandering to the whims of the family behind StoryWorld TV, sofa TV with the cringe-inducing slogan, "Real people, real life, real stories live". Often the punchbag for the unassailable Julius Jones, programme director at StoryWorld, Liz Lyon has spent seventeen-years at the station and has seen her star rise from junior researcher to that of head of features. Bloody and brutal when it all goes wrong, but a pure adrenaline buzz when it hits the mark and makes TV gold. Fiercely local to her small features team that combine to make a regular TV programme, Liz bends over backwards at home and at work to accommodate, support and advise, but after a seventeen-year career in television, she is nobody's fool. It may be the news content that is the fundamental component of the output but it is more definitely the features which keeps the ratings propped up and for Liz, trusted researchers Simon and Molly along with endearing runner, Ziggy, are essential. As a trial researcher is foisted upon Liz for a three-month work placement courtesy of connections with the MD, tensions in the team rise, all stoking the rancorous in-fighting, backstabbing and manipulation that arises amongst a team that spends such long hours together in the bubble that is StoryWorld HQ!
As Liz races from the London Bridge basement that houses the station to the two bedroom flat that is her sanctuary with an occasionally stroppy teen pushing the boundaries and a mother who gives short shrift to her job, she is the epitome of the indefatigable career woman. Combined with the roller-coaster challenges that are part and parcel of a hectic career and the demands of creating a supportive and comfortable home life for a teenager, Liz Lyon is one frazzled woman. Outside of work, sounding board and erstwhile university friend, Fenton is always on standby, but with an ex-husband in the background and romance on hold, Liz has plenty on her mind. What does Liz actually do you may well ask? On a bad day she might deliver a pithy put-down along the lines of providing an endless stream of chatter for the tired mums and shift workers who make up much of their morning hours viewer base, on a moderate day she might simply say it distracts people from their problems. Along with handling the capricious temperaments of her team and assuaging the megalomaniac guests who frequent the studio, to the deep-seated rivalry between the news and features teams and endless budget cuts, Woman of the Hour is a glimpse of life inside the StoryWorld brand! The characters that fill the world of Liz are an eclectic bunch from diverse walks of life, but all well developed and realistic with their individual strengths and weaknesses. Jane Lythell never opts for over the top stereotypes as some may be tempted to, but reigns all of her creations in to ensure that feel like the genuine article and retain plausibility.
High-tempo and well paced, Woman of the Hour is a humorous romp through the world of TV and the personalities who fill the screens and is highly recommended. Witty and with sardonic humour peppered throughout, this is an engaging read with a more serious undertone. As Liz lurches from one crisis to the next, Woman of the Hour soon becomes a curiously addictive read as you warm to the cast and chart the moral backwaters of the day to day running of a television station. With a team made up of varied characters, there is plenty of heated debate at the station and Jane Lythell deserves credit for tackling some weightier issues, such as sexual harassment in the workplace, with admirable depth. Liz is such a credible character meaning readers are easily drawn into the world she occupies and despite the obstacles that frequently get in the way, she is ludicrously well-intentioned. But as Liz understands, there is a world of difference between doing the right thing and doing the smart thing inside the StoryWorld melting pot! New appointments, continuing plotlines and great characters make this the first of a planned trilogy which is most definitely worth following.
Woman of the Hour is a thoroughly entertaining yarn with more depth than your average chick-lit fiction and provides a snapshot into the battles that play out in the land of TV and, being totally honest, an excellent opportunity to be plain nosy. I will certainly read more and I fear that this is the start of a dangerously addictive trilogy which I am intent on following. Although this is the first novel I have read by Jane Lythell I was aware of the positive reviews that her earlier and more traditional crime fiction had received, and on the strength of her foray into StoryWorld, I shall be checking out After the Storm and The Lie of You. With some caustic observations through the eyes of narrator Liz, an eye for characters who stick in readers minds and an intelligent commentary on life as a single mother, Jane Lythell shows her obvious talent and ability for tackling more serious subject matter and the ensuing emotional responses. Although Woman of the Hour might not have been my usual reading matter of police procedurals and psychological thrillers, I was surprised at how intriguing the drama became. Whilst I would not have necessarily gravitated towards this book, it certainly exceeded my expectations. I was worried that the story might become a little stale and repetitive after a while but Jane Lythell never allows it to become so, following a range of subplots alongside one another and keeping the action bubbling along under the fragile air of calm.
Lights, camera, action.. Take it away Liz Lyon!
As Liz races from the London Bridge basement that houses the station to the two bedroom flat that is her sanctuary with an occasionally stroppy teen pushing the boundaries and a mother who gives short shrift to her job, she is the epitome of the indefatigable career woman. Combined with the roller-coaster challenges that are part and parcel of a hectic career and the demands of creating a supportive and comfortable home life for a teenager, Liz Lyon is one frazzled woman. Outside of work, sounding board and erstwhile university friend, Fenton is always on standby, but with an ex-husband in the background and romance on hold, Liz has plenty on her mind. What does Liz actually do you may well ask? On a bad day she might deliver a pithy put-down along the lines of providing an endless stream of chatter for the tired mums and shift workers who make up much of their morning hours viewer base, on a moderate day she might simply say it distracts people from their problems. Along with handling the capricious temperaments of her team and assuaging the megalomaniac guests who frequent the studio, to the deep-seated rivalry between the news and features teams and endless budget cuts, Woman of the Hour is a glimpse of life inside the StoryWorld brand! The characters that fill the world of Liz are an eclectic bunch from diverse walks of life, but all well developed and realistic with their individual strengths and weaknesses. Jane Lythell never opts for over the top stereotypes as some may be tempted to, but reigns all of her creations in to ensure that feel like the genuine article and retain plausibility.
High-tempo and well paced, Woman of the Hour is a humorous romp through the world of TV and the personalities who fill the screens and is highly recommended. Witty and with sardonic humour peppered throughout, this is an engaging read with a more serious undertone. As Liz lurches from one crisis to the next, Woman of the Hour soon becomes a curiously addictive read as you warm to the cast and chart the moral backwaters of the day to day running of a television station. With a team made up of varied characters, there is plenty of heated debate at the station and Jane Lythell deserves credit for tackling some weightier issues, such as sexual harassment in the workplace, with admirable depth. Liz is such a credible character meaning readers are easily drawn into the world she occupies and despite the obstacles that frequently get in the way, she is ludicrously well-intentioned. But as Liz understands, there is a world of difference between doing the right thing and doing the smart thing inside the StoryWorld melting pot! New appointments, continuing plotlines and great characters make this the first of a planned trilogy which is most definitely worth following.
Woman of the Hour is a thoroughly entertaining yarn with more depth than your average chick-lit fiction and provides a snapshot into the battles that play out in the land of TV and, being totally honest, an excellent opportunity to be plain nosy. I will certainly read more and I fear that this is the start of a dangerously addictive trilogy which I am intent on following. Although this is the first novel I have read by Jane Lythell I was aware of the positive reviews that her earlier and more traditional crime fiction had received, and on the strength of her foray into StoryWorld, I shall be checking out After the Storm and The Lie of You. With some caustic observations through the eyes of narrator Liz, an eye for characters who stick in readers minds and an intelligent commentary on life as a single mother, Jane Lythell shows her obvious talent and ability for tackling more serious subject matter and the ensuing emotional responses. Although Woman of the Hour might not have been my usual reading matter of police procedurals and psychological thrillers, I was surprised at how intriguing the drama became. Whilst I would not have necessarily gravitated towards this book, it certainly exceeded my expectations. I was worried that the story might become a little stale and repetitive after a while but Jane Lythell never allows it to become so, following a range of subplots alongside one another and keeping the action bubbling along under the fragile air of calm.
Lights, camera, action.. Take it away Liz Lyon!
December 14, 2017
I listened to the audiobook version of this story. Really enjoyed and the narration was superb and had me listening to the end. Recommended.
July 14, 2016
I was rather excited to get an ARC of Woman of the Hour as I've read and enjoyed Jane Lythell's previous two books. This one is a slight departure in a way, as it isn't a dark psychological suspense but more a fascinating insight into the world of one woman and her struggle to maintain the balance between her home and work life.
Liz works at StoryWorld, a daytime tv magazine style programme and what a backstabbing, vicious world to work in it appears! Full of ambitious two faced people, who all seem to have their own agenda and haven't seemed to hear the term " team work". Now I'm sure this is quite an extreme example of this type of show but knowing that Jane Lythell has a lot of background experience of this environment, I'm sure there is a smidgen of truth there!! In fact I felt that Jane has really found her niche here as she writes with a fierce confidence and style that I haven't felt before. I have a feeling there is a lot of Jane in this novel and it came across as a very personal writing journey for her. Liz was such an interesting character and I loved the differences between "work Liz" and "home Liz". Splitting the story into the work and home chapters kept up the momentum with a seamless transition between the two. And I loved all the foodie descriptions, a lot of my most favourite foods were there and "home Liz" did what most mum's do in times of stress, wipes up a batch of comfort food.
The last third of the book was probably the most engaging for me once all the niggles between the main characters started to come to a head. But I feel there is plenty more to come there, and I'm especially keen to find out how Fizzy gets on. And as I think this is going to be the start of a series I'm sure I will.
There is a lot to like in this book (the discussion about Marnie was an unexpected pleasure) and I look forward to reading more of the same in the future.
I received a copy of this book via netgalley in return for an unbiased review.
Liz works at StoryWorld, a daytime tv magazine style programme and what a backstabbing, vicious world to work in it appears! Full of ambitious two faced people, who all seem to have their own agenda and haven't seemed to hear the term " team work". Now I'm sure this is quite an extreme example of this type of show but knowing that Jane Lythell has a lot of background experience of this environment, I'm sure there is a smidgen of truth there!! In fact I felt that Jane has really found her niche here as she writes with a fierce confidence and style that I haven't felt before. I have a feeling there is a lot of Jane in this novel and it came across as a very personal writing journey for her. Liz was such an interesting character and I loved the differences between "work Liz" and "home Liz". Splitting the story into the work and home chapters kept up the momentum with a seamless transition between the two. And I loved all the foodie descriptions, a lot of my most favourite foods were there and "home Liz" did what most mum's do in times of stress, wipes up a batch of comfort food.
The last third of the book was probably the most engaging for me once all the niggles between the main characters started to come to a head. But I feel there is plenty more to come there, and I'm especially keen to find out how Fizzy gets on. And as I think this is going to be the start of a series I'm sure I will.
There is a lot to like in this book (the discussion about Marnie was an unexpected pleasure) and I look forward to reading more of the same in the future.
I received a copy of this book via netgalley in return for an unbiased review.
February 24, 2017
A very different offering here from Jane Lythell who has previously written two cracking psychological thrillers - this tale of life in television is equally compelling. A really addictive drama with some great characters.
Full review to follow next couple of days (when its not so late at night and I can be coherent)
Loved this though.
Full review to follow next couple of days (when its not so late at night and I can be coherent)
Loved this though.
September 1, 2017
A tense and thrilling read. Loved it.
July 24, 2016
Well if this is what life behind the scenes in TV land is like, I'm glad I've never had to work there, but it certainly makes for fascinating reading. Written from the perspective of Liz, a hardworking features producer on a daytime TV show , juggling a hectic career with being a single mum to newly stroppy teen this could have been a fun frothy read, but it turned out to be much more.
Liz loves her job and the team she works with, but the arrival of a cuckoo in the nest in the form of a probationary research assistant , only hired because of nepotism threatens to cause frustration and dissension in a team already pushed to their limits. To make matters worse, Liz finds little sanctuary at home , as she worries about a new friend exerting too much influence on her daughter...even comfort food doesn't help ( the addition of some delicious sounding recipes at the end of the book is a nice bonus)
Then one evening she finds the new researcher sobbing in a bathroom , and the tale she has to tell is disturbing, especially to Liz who has found herself in a similar circumstance, and now wants to help.
What follows is a tale filled with drama and not a little intrigue, as the reader is left wondering just who or what to believe as the story unfolds. As well as a gripping tale, one of the best features of the book is its diverse cast of characters, Fizzy, a glamorous presenter filled with insecurity and facing one of the toughest decisions any woman could have to make being the stand out of the bunch , closely followed by Ziggy, a young woman just finding her feet after a tough upbringing in the care system. Of course every book needs a character we just love to hate, and in Woman of the Hour that dubious honor goes to Julius, boss of the tv Station, who is a little too prone to throwing his weight around and enjoys almost dictatorial status , but may be hiding an even darker side.
This book is pacy and well written with the diverse story strands coming together very well, it would make an excellent holiday read, with enough froth and glamour to enjoy while sipping a cocktail by the pool and enough drama to keep the reader engaged on a rainy caravan holiday. My only fault with the book, and it is a small one is that the ending felt just a little abrupt, it left me wanting just a little bit more resolution but overall a really enjoyable read from cover to cover.
Liz loves her job and the team she works with, but the arrival of a cuckoo in the nest in the form of a probationary research assistant , only hired because of nepotism threatens to cause frustration and dissension in a team already pushed to their limits. To make matters worse, Liz finds little sanctuary at home , as she worries about a new friend exerting too much influence on her daughter...even comfort food doesn't help ( the addition of some delicious sounding recipes at the end of the book is a nice bonus)
Then one evening she finds the new researcher sobbing in a bathroom , and the tale she has to tell is disturbing, especially to Liz who has found herself in a similar circumstance, and now wants to help.
What follows is a tale filled with drama and not a little intrigue, as the reader is left wondering just who or what to believe as the story unfolds. As well as a gripping tale, one of the best features of the book is its diverse cast of characters, Fizzy, a glamorous presenter filled with insecurity and facing one of the toughest decisions any woman could have to make being the stand out of the bunch , closely followed by Ziggy, a young woman just finding her feet after a tough upbringing in the care system. Of course every book needs a character we just love to hate, and in Woman of the Hour that dubious honor goes to Julius, boss of the tv Station, who is a little too prone to throwing his weight around and enjoys almost dictatorial status , but may be hiding an even darker side.
This book is pacy and well written with the diverse story strands coming together very well, it would make an excellent holiday read, with enough froth and glamour to enjoy while sipping a cocktail by the pool and enough drama to keep the reader engaged on a rainy caravan holiday. My only fault with the book, and it is a small one is that the ending felt just a little abrupt, it left me wanting just a little bit more resolution but overall a really enjoyable read from cover to cover.
September 1, 2016
Although this novel is a departure from Jane Lythell’s previous books it in no way disappoints. Woman of the Hour is a tale of workplace intrigue and how a single mother - Liz Lyon - juggles her private and professional lives under a number of increasing pressures. The fact that Liz’s work environment is set within the heady world of daytime television adds a fascinating insight into the day-to-day machinations and stresses of those who bring such programmes to our screens. The story is peopled with interesting characters, not least of which is Liz Lyon herself. Producer Liz’s work on StoryWorld, a fictionalized This Morning, is not without its tensions and challenges. Caught up in a power struggle at the station, and handling the egos and demands of colleagues whilst coping with family life puts Liz sorely to the test. Throw in a long-held secret, one that Liz has vowed to keep buried, and you have a fascinating, well-paced and thoroughly enjoyable read. Another beguiling dimension to this book is that Jane Lythell worked in television for 15 years. It led this reader to wonder how much is drawn from truth and how much is complete fabrication. I guess I’ll never know. Nevertheless, one thing I am sure about is that I can’t wait for book two in the StoryWorld series!
September 4, 2016
I really enjoyed Woman of the Hour. Although different to the author's previous books it is just as compelling. The story centres around a daytime television studio called StoryWorld and is written in such an authentic way I wasn't surprised to find out Jane Lythell has experience working in this field. I loved the main character, Liz. She's level headed at work but her personal life is a different story as she juggles single motherhood with such a full on job. Jane Lythell writes the comparison very cleverly by having Liz narrate sections entitled home and work, making her a well rounded character. I loved all the day to day drama that Liz has to deal with working at the station. The characters were wonderfully colourful - some with huge egos and some who you love to hate! But I also enjoyed reading about Liz's private life, her battles with her ex-husband and her teenage daughter. As the story progressed I couldn't turn the pages fast enough to find out what secrets and lies some of the characters were keeping. I can't wait to read the next book in the StoryWorld series.
October 18, 2016
Just brilliant. I liked Woman of the Hour because it was so different from The Lie of You. Woman of the Hour is about StoryWorld a favourite morning show. All different types of people are interviewed and there is their own agony aunt Betty. Rather bizarre in a meeting the presenters are told that they now have to wear pastel colours as dark colours say misery. Meet Liz Lyon respected TV producer stressed out executive guilty single mother, who loves going home to her Chalk Farm flat to her daughter Florence and doing the cooking. This is a clever story.
November 5, 2018
This is book one in the StoryWorld series. It is based on a popular morning show called StoryWorld.
Liz Lyon is head of features at StoryWorld. She has her hands full with a high demanding job and being a single parent to her daughter fourteen year old Florence.
I absolutely loved reading about the behind the scenes of the show.
I really liked Liz. I thought she came across as a relatable character. I found this to be a refreshing and enjoyable read that I pretty much inhaled.
I’m really looking forward to reading more of this series.
Liz Lyon is head of features at StoryWorld. She has her hands full with a high demanding job and being a single parent to her daughter fourteen year old Florence.
I absolutely loved reading about the behind the scenes of the show.
I really liked Liz. I thought she came across as a relatable character. I found this to be a refreshing and enjoyable read that I pretty much inhaled.
I’m really looking forward to reading more of this series.
June 7, 2016
4.5 Stars
At the point that I read this book it has been classified as a mystery, both on Netgalley and on Amazon, but having read this, I think it is a brilliant piece of perhaps women's fiction, but if you are expecting a big mystery then you will be disappointed. There is very little mystery in this, some intrigue and secrets, some potential for blackmail, but not really a mystery.
That being said I really enjoyed the book, and found it a very entertaining and gripping read. Liz Lyon is in charge of features for a TV show called StoryWorld. It's a morning TV show, with guests on the couch, and some pre-recorded sections, but mainly live, similar to This Morning in the UK, at least that is the vibe I had from it.
She has a small team and the book is all about the inner workings at the TV station, and the power games between the overall boss, Julius that she has had a chequered history, the head of the News team, Bob who has been having an affair with another member of the show. And on the flip side we also have Lizzy's anxieties at being a single parent to 14 year old Flo, whose new neighbour, 16 year old Paige is a not fantastic influence.
I loved the scenes in the TV stations as it gives a great behind the scenes look at the decision making involved in putting on live daytime TV, and the dynamics between Liz's research team are great. Loves Simon, Molly, Ziggy and even Harry grew on me eventually. The two younger girls Ziggy and Harry cause the most mystery in the book, in an epic storyline that runs for the majority of the book, often in the background, but just there, hitting at your concious to be unravelled.
The various "on air personalities" are a good mix too, from the insecure lead presenter Florrie, to the chef who makes some delicious sounding recipes to the flamboyant astrologer, the kind hearted Betty who is the problem letter lady and even some comic relief with Sal.
There were loads of entertaining interactions, and between the team at the station and the stories of some of the guests, especially some for the Outside Broadcast, I had a tremendous sense of how realistic Jane Lythell can write her characters and that she clearly knew her TV production stuff.
I believe I read somewhere this is the start of a series, and if so then I am definitely eager to see more from the team at Storyline, as I really want to know what happens next.
Thank you so much to Netgalley and Head of Zeus for this review copy. This was my honest opinion.
At the point that I read this book it has been classified as a mystery, both on Netgalley and on Amazon, but having read this, I think it is a brilliant piece of perhaps women's fiction, but if you are expecting a big mystery then you will be disappointed. There is very little mystery in this, some intrigue and secrets, some potential for blackmail, but not really a mystery.
That being said I really enjoyed the book, and found it a very entertaining and gripping read. Liz Lyon is in charge of features for a TV show called StoryWorld. It's a morning TV show, with guests on the couch, and some pre-recorded sections, but mainly live, similar to This Morning in the UK, at least that is the vibe I had from it.
She has a small team and the book is all about the inner workings at the TV station, and the power games between the overall boss, Julius that she has had a chequered history, the head of the News team, Bob who has been having an affair with another member of the show. And on the flip side we also have Lizzy's anxieties at being a single parent to 14 year old Flo, whose new neighbour, 16 year old Paige is a not fantastic influence.
I loved the scenes in the TV stations as it gives a great behind the scenes look at the decision making involved in putting on live daytime TV, and the dynamics between Liz's research team are great. Loves Simon, Molly, Ziggy and even Harry grew on me eventually. The two younger girls Ziggy and Harry cause the most mystery in the book, in an epic storyline that runs for the majority of the book, often in the background, but just there, hitting at your concious to be unravelled.
The various "on air personalities" are a good mix too, from the insecure lead presenter Florrie, to the chef who makes some delicious sounding recipes to the flamboyant astrologer, the kind hearted Betty who is the problem letter lady and even some comic relief with Sal.
There were loads of entertaining interactions, and between the team at the station and the stories of some of the guests, especially some for the Outside Broadcast, I had a tremendous sense of how realistic Jane Lythell can write her characters and that she clearly knew her TV production stuff.
I believe I read somewhere this is the start of a series, and if so then I am definitely eager to see more from the team at Storyline, as I really want to know what happens next.
Thank you so much to Netgalley and Head of Zeus for this review copy. This was my honest opinion.
July 22, 2016
The author's previous books were psychological thriller stories, Woman of the Hour moves away from that genre and looks at the life of a woman working as a TV producer, dealing with the stresses that go with it.
The story is structured very well, and allows the reader to have an insight into both of Liz Lyon's worlds. Narrated by Liz from two locations; the StoryWorld studios on London Bridge and then from her flat in Chalk Farm which she shares with her teenage daughter Flo.
Jane Lythell expertly creates the busy TV studio with the larger-than-life characters and their
enormous egos and the frantic pace of putting together a live TV show whilst ensuring that the celebrities, the presenters and the studio top executives are all kept happy. It's clear that the author has used her years of experience in a similar workplace, and this lends a great sense of authenticity to the plot .... it can also make the reader reel in horror, wondering how anyone can spend their days massaging the egos of these pampered people.
The stark contrast in Lyn's life, from TV producer to worried single-mum is done very well, and the scenes at home, between Liz and her daughter Flo explore issues including guilt, financial pressures and the needs and wants of a teenage girl.
Woman of the Hour is character-led, and there are some amazing, vibrant characters - some you'll love, and some you'll want to hate, but all of them are human and the author cleverly includes details that can explain some behaviours.
I believe that Woman of the Hour is the first in a new series and it has certainly whetted my appetite to find out more about Liz and her StoryWorld colleagues, and of course, about Flo. As an added bonus at the end of the book, the author has included some Comfort Recipes, for the Stressed Out. Perfect!
http://randomthingsthroughmyletterbox...
The story is structured very well, and allows the reader to have an insight into both of Liz Lyon's worlds. Narrated by Liz from two locations; the StoryWorld studios on London Bridge and then from her flat in Chalk Farm which she shares with her teenage daughter Flo.
Jane Lythell expertly creates the busy TV studio with the larger-than-life characters and their
enormous egos and the frantic pace of putting together a live TV show whilst ensuring that the celebrities, the presenters and the studio top executives are all kept happy. It's clear that the author has used her years of experience in a similar workplace, and this lends a great sense of authenticity to the plot .... it can also make the reader reel in horror, wondering how anyone can spend their days massaging the egos of these pampered people.
The stark contrast in Lyn's life, from TV producer to worried single-mum is done very well, and the scenes at home, between Liz and her daughter Flo explore issues including guilt, financial pressures and the needs and wants of a teenage girl.
Woman of the Hour is character-led, and there are some amazing, vibrant characters - some you'll love, and some you'll want to hate, but all of them are human and the author cleverly includes details that can explain some behaviours.
I believe that Woman of the Hour is the first in a new series and it has certainly whetted my appetite to find out more about Liz and her StoryWorld colleagues, and of course, about Flo. As an added bonus at the end of the book, the author has included some Comfort Recipes, for the Stressed Out. Perfect!
http://randomthingsthroughmyletterbox...
June 11, 2017
3.5 stars
Liz Lyon is the woman in Woman Of The Hour who showed me the other side of what we usually see on our tv screen. A job at a television station is something that seems galaxys away from your ordinary joe’s life, it speaks to the imagination, something one can only dream of and seems nothing but exciting, glitzy and glamerous but is it really all glam and shine? I believe that you’ll have a much more realistic image of the tv world after finishing this novel.
Liz is a woman trying to hold her own in a world dominated by men. Her job? To comfort, put out small fires, deliver bad news, stand up for her people against angry publicists and mitigate time and again between several characters with quite a bit of an ego.
She’s got a diverse cast of characters under wings, there are 8 of them: there’s tv presenter Fizzy, cook Ledley, agony-aunt Betty, researchers Simon and Molly, astrologer Gerry, runner Ziggy and an intern new-comer Harriet under her supervision. Their problems become her problem and believe me when I say that they all have their big and smaller problems that she’ll have to solve. While she’s juggling to placate and appease everyone, she too has her own personal problems. I really liked that insight I got into her as a mother and in another role than in the work place.
Personally, I thought the television world was much more of an individual scene, but if this is anything like the real thing then they are more tightly-knit than in a normal (male dominated) corporate environment like the one I’m working in so I was pleasantly surprised in that respect but it really isn’t a gift to Liz to have to choose her battles and be the middle woman every time again.
This novel held a lot of drama and intrigue, there’s plenty of lies and deceipt, affairs and blackmail going on behind the scenes of StoryWorld. This is not my usual kind of read perhaps but I still enjoyed watching their life and world from the sidelines and it was written in an easy and compelling fashion. After reading this, I’m not really all that jealous about her job anymore though :-).
Liz Lyon is the woman in Woman Of The Hour who showed me the other side of what we usually see on our tv screen. A job at a television station is something that seems galaxys away from your ordinary joe’s life, it speaks to the imagination, something one can only dream of and seems nothing but exciting, glitzy and glamerous but is it really all glam and shine? I believe that you’ll have a much more realistic image of the tv world after finishing this novel.
Liz is a woman trying to hold her own in a world dominated by men. Her job? To comfort, put out small fires, deliver bad news, stand up for her people against angry publicists and mitigate time and again between several characters with quite a bit of an ego.
She’s got a diverse cast of characters under wings, there are 8 of them: there’s tv presenter Fizzy, cook Ledley, agony-aunt Betty, researchers Simon and Molly, astrologer Gerry, runner Ziggy and an intern new-comer Harriet under her supervision. Their problems become her problem and believe me when I say that they all have their big and smaller problems that she’ll have to solve. While she’s juggling to placate and appease everyone, she too has her own personal problems. I really liked that insight I got into her as a mother and in another role than in the work place.
Personally, I thought the television world was much more of an individual scene, but if this is anything like the real thing then they are more tightly-knit than in a normal (male dominated) corporate environment like the one I’m working in so I was pleasantly surprised in that respect but it really isn’t a gift to Liz to have to choose her battles and be the middle woman every time again.
This novel held a lot of drama and intrigue, there’s plenty of lies and deceipt, affairs and blackmail going on behind the scenes of StoryWorld. This is not my usual kind of read perhaps but I still enjoyed watching their life and world from the sidelines and it was written in an easy and compelling fashion. After reading this, I’m not really all that jealous about her job anymore though :-).
June 3, 2017
**RATING 4.5**
WOMAN OF THE HOUR by Jane Lythell is an exceptionally well-written story of a highly driven TV executive who is desperately trying to balance her career with her role as a mother, all the while handling the myriad of issues, some more serious than others, that is involved with working behind the scenes at StoryWorld TV.
Liz Lyon shines at her workplace where she protects and looks after every person on her team, and puts her heart and soul into her job. There is only one other area of her life that is more important to her, and that is being a mother to fourteen-year-old Flo. Having always been close, especially since the divorce, lately their relationship has become very tumultuous, with arguments becoming the norm.
But just when Liz needs to focus on her home life, things at work spiral out of control, and memories from the past resurface causing Liz to question everything.
WOMAN OF THE HOUR by Jane Lythell shows us life behind the curtain of the television world with all of its crazy characters and oneupmanship. It is a story of friendship and family, both at home and at work, but this story also delves deeper into issues of sexual harassment and the ever present reality of the 'good old boy's club' in action. Liz is a great character as she is so realistic - always trying to keep a firm facade of control in place but underneath it all questioning her parenting and her personal decisions, never quite sure if what she was doing was the right thing or not. From the moment I picked this book up, it stayed in my hands until I had reached the end, but I hope this is not the last that we have seen from the people at StoryWorld TV. WOMAN OF THE HOUR by Jane Lythell is a clever and engaging novel and I look forward to more from this talented author.
*I voluntarily reviewed this book from the author
WOMAN OF THE HOUR by Jane Lythell is an exceptionally well-written story of a highly driven TV executive who is desperately trying to balance her career with her role as a mother, all the while handling the myriad of issues, some more serious than others, that is involved with working behind the scenes at StoryWorld TV.
Liz Lyon shines at her workplace where she protects and looks after every person on her team, and puts her heart and soul into her job. There is only one other area of her life that is more important to her, and that is being a mother to fourteen-year-old Flo. Having always been close, especially since the divorce, lately their relationship has become very tumultuous, with arguments becoming the norm.
But just when Liz needs to focus on her home life, things at work spiral out of control, and memories from the past resurface causing Liz to question everything.
WOMAN OF THE HOUR by Jane Lythell shows us life behind the curtain of the television world with all of its crazy characters and oneupmanship. It is a story of friendship and family, both at home and at work, but this story also delves deeper into issues of sexual harassment and the ever present reality of the 'good old boy's club' in action. Liz is a great character as she is so realistic - always trying to keep a firm facade of control in place but underneath it all questioning her parenting and her personal decisions, never quite sure if what she was doing was the right thing or not. From the moment I picked this book up, it stayed in my hands until I had reached the end, but I hope this is not the last that we have seen from the people at StoryWorld TV. WOMAN OF THE HOUR by Jane Lythell is a clever and engaging novel and I look forward to more from this talented author.
*I voluntarily reviewed this book from the author
June 25, 2017
Woman of the Hour is a fantastically entertaining peek into the ‘glamorous’ world of daytime television peppered with an array of fascinating characters – good, bad and ugly. The narrative unfolds through the eyes of producer Liz Lyon – epistolary style – who superficially appears to (almost) have it all: a fabulous career, intelligence, good looks, a gorgeous, if sometime stroppy teenage daughter, a handsome lover.
Of course, the truth is somewhat different and therein lies the drama. Liz produces the nation’s favourite morning TV show and while there are some colleagues in ‘team Liz’ at the station – like the delightfully named presenter, Fizzy – it’s fair to say that it’s mostly a den of vipers. The presenters are ego-centric and demanding, the MD has landed the inept daughter of a friend in Liz’s team as a researcher and Liz’s boss, Julius is a controlling slime-ball threatened by Liz’s competence. There are dark forces at work in StoryWorld and Liz has to stay on top if she is to survive and keep her job – not to mention her sanity.
A close relative of mine worked in television (in news and current affairs) and I know that this is an authentic portrayal of that world. The first in a series – with the next out in August – I’d recommend this involving story to anyone who enjoys quality contemporary fiction and has ever wondered what it might be like to work in television. Be warned – you might just change your mind about your career choice.
Of course, the truth is somewhat different and therein lies the drama. Liz produces the nation’s favourite morning TV show and while there are some colleagues in ‘team Liz’ at the station – like the delightfully named presenter, Fizzy – it’s fair to say that it’s mostly a den of vipers. The presenters are ego-centric and demanding, the MD has landed the inept daughter of a friend in Liz’s team as a researcher and Liz’s boss, Julius is a controlling slime-ball threatened by Liz’s competence. There are dark forces at work in StoryWorld and Liz has to stay on top if she is to survive and keep her job – not to mention her sanity.
A close relative of mine worked in television (in news and current affairs) and I know that this is an authentic portrayal of that world. The first in a series – with the next out in August – I’d recommend this involving story to anyone who enjoys quality contemporary fiction and has ever wondered what it might be like to work in television. Be warned – you might just change your mind about your career choice.
April 30, 2019
Woman of the Hour was a very gripping tale once I started reading it. It has such realistic elements set in the world behind what we know as the TV world, that one cannot help but just flip the pages and devour the happenings – real ones which are worth the reality shows one might see on TV these days anyway.
The book also deals a lot with competition of the workplace and dealing with it. Liz Lyon is an admirable character and the way she deals with the pressure and the backstabbing etc is a motivational factor. However, the author has made sure that she has not placed Liz beyond our touch and on a pedestal; she is still human and we can mostly see it in her home persona. She is another person at home, or rather, she is her true self only at home. The dynamics of a person’s personality with its varied shades is prominent in the actions of all the characters in the book. Honestly, I still haven’t figured out Julius.
One thing that Fenton says in page 75, really stuck in my mind – “… God, we’re all expected to be perfect all the time” and I related that with a book that I had recently read, namely, Brave, Not Perfect, by Reshma Saujani, where the author argues that society has build this pressure on women to be ‘Perfect’ all the time!
Her relationships with the rest of the characters in the book like her coworkers, her friend, her daughter etc is really another factor that makes her humane and so much more relatable. Parent versus child issues are also shown here and the author has given us both the parent’s point of view as well as the child’s too. On one hand, the need to be free is profound in very teenager and it is indeed a driving force, and on the other hand, Liz’s need to protect her child and her love is an universal theme. Human inter-relationships, whether familial, platonic, formal, or even romantic are very complex and there is not stark line dividing the black from the white. It is blurred, the black shading away into the grey. Sexual harassment has also been portrayed in this book and in Liz’s thoughts, the author has brought in the guilt factor, which is very much common in all victims – “I must have been giving off mixed signals”. Of course, it does not help that that is what society implies as well.
I absolutely enjoyed the book and I hope to get to the sequel soon! I rate it 4/5 stars!
The book also deals a lot with competition of the workplace and dealing with it. Liz Lyon is an admirable character and the way she deals with the pressure and the backstabbing etc is a motivational factor. However, the author has made sure that she has not placed Liz beyond our touch and on a pedestal; she is still human and we can mostly see it in her home persona. She is another person at home, or rather, she is her true self only at home. The dynamics of a person’s personality with its varied shades is prominent in the actions of all the characters in the book. Honestly, I still haven’t figured out Julius.
One thing that Fenton says in page 75, really stuck in my mind – “… God, we’re all expected to be perfect all the time” and I related that with a book that I had recently read, namely, Brave, Not Perfect, by Reshma Saujani, where the author argues that society has build this pressure on women to be ‘Perfect’ all the time!
Her relationships with the rest of the characters in the book like her coworkers, her friend, her daughter etc is really another factor that makes her humane and so much more relatable. Parent versus child issues are also shown here and the author has given us both the parent’s point of view as well as the child’s too. On one hand, the need to be free is profound in very teenager and it is indeed a driving force, and on the other hand, Liz’s need to protect her child and her love is an universal theme. Human inter-relationships, whether familial, platonic, formal, or even romantic are very complex and there is not stark line dividing the black from the white. It is blurred, the black shading away into the grey. Sexual harassment has also been portrayed in this book and in Liz’s thoughts, the author has brought in the guilt factor, which is very much common in all victims – “I must have been giving off mixed signals”. Of course, it does not help that that is what society implies as well.
I absolutely enjoyed the book and I hope to get to the sequel soon! I rate it 4/5 stars!
March 13, 2017
They say write what you know, and Jane Lythell has done just that. If you have ever wanted to know what it's like to work behind the scenes at a busy TV station, well this books for you. I'm not sure what genre this would be - contemporary drama, I think covers it. It is contemporary and dramatic with a story line that slowly racks up the tension. Liz Lyons is a great character, with plenty more to offer. Really enjoyable read.
July 14, 2016
I’ve loved both of Jane Lythell’s other books – The Lie of You and After the Storm – but I think she hits new heights with ‘Woman of the Hour’. This is a departure from the tense psychological storylines in her first two books, to more of a women’s fiction feel – although my husband is reading the book now, and loving it too, and there are still plenty of deeper themes around the complexity of family and working relationships.
I really liked the first person writing in this novel and it was as if I was living Liz’s experiences with her. Sharing her ups and downs, anxieties and frustrations, particularly at the treatment she received from some of her colleagues at StoryWorld and the huge egos battling it out at times!
It is obvious that the author has researched this book by living some of the experiences and the writing is all the more authentic and engaging for that reason. There are a wealth of wonderful characters in the StoryWorld setting, many of whom could warrant their own novel, so I’m really glad to hear that there is more to come from this series.
There are clever sub plots weaved into the story, but Liz’s life is undoubtedly the main focus. As a working mum myself – familiar with the constant guilt trip that accompanies it – I loved the way the book moved between Liz’s working life and her interactions with her teenage daughter Flo. Again, the authenticity with which the scenes between mother and daughter were written, had me hooked.
There are moments to make you laugh, bring a lump to your throat and even to make your mouth water! The comfort food recipes at the end were a lovely touch too. As I said at the outset, I think Jane Lythell is a fabulous author and once again her novel, as with the other two, had me reading into the early hours. This is her best yet, though, and I’m already waiting impatiently for the next in the series.
I really liked the first person writing in this novel and it was as if I was living Liz’s experiences with her. Sharing her ups and downs, anxieties and frustrations, particularly at the treatment she received from some of her colleagues at StoryWorld and the huge egos battling it out at times!
It is obvious that the author has researched this book by living some of the experiences and the writing is all the more authentic and engaging for that reason. There are a wealth of wonderful characters in the StoryWorld setting, many of whom could warrant their own novel, so I’m really glad to hear that there is more to come from this series.
There are clever sub plots weaved into the story, but Liz’s life is undoubtedly the main focus. As a working mum myself – familiar with the constant guilt trip that accompanies it – I loved the way the book moved between Liz’s working life and her interactions with her teenage daughter Flo. Again, the authenticity with which the scenes between mother and daughter were written, had me hooked.
There are moments to make you laugh, bring a lump to your throat and even to make your mouth water! The comfort food recipes at the end were a lovely touch too. As I said at the outset, I think Jane Lythell is a fabulous author and once again her novel, as with the other two, had me reading into the early hours. This is her best yet, though, and I’m already waiting impatiently for the next in the series.
November 8, 2016
StoryWorld TV brings 'real life stories' to its viewers. But it's at the station where the true dramas are played out...
Thank you NetGalley and the Head of Zeus for an advanced copy in return for my honest review
Liz Lyon is Head of Features at StoryWorld TV. It's exhilarating and sometimes glamorous work, but as a single mother with a demanding career, her life is a constant balancing act.
Then simmering tensions erupt at the station, trapping Liz in a web of rivalry, manipulation and deceit. If she trusts the wrong person, she could lose her job. But with everything she thought she knew crumbling around her, can she even trust herself?
Overall, I found the book quite flat. I actually started to daydream whilst reading it and then had to re-read the part that I'd missed. I'm still not completely sure what the book was supposed to be, there's no big romance, no psychological storyline, it was just like a very dull diary of a single mother.
http://crimeandmysterybookreview.word...
Thank you NetGalley and the Head of Zeus for an advanced copy in return for my honest review
Liz Lyon is Head of Features at StoryWorld TV. It's exhilarating and sometimes glamorous work, but as a single mother with a demanding career, her life is a constant balancing act.
Then simmering tensions erupt at the station, trapping Liz in a web of rivalry, manipulation and deceit. If she trusts the wrong person, she could lose her job. But with everything she thought she knew crumbling around her, can she even trust herself?
Overall, I found the book quite flat. I actually started to daydream whilst reading it and then had to re-read the part that I'd missed. I'm still not completely sure what the book was supposed to be, there's no big romance, no psychological storyline, it was just like a very dull diary of a single mother.
http://crimeandmysterybookreview.word...
January 28, 2017
The best kind of book, I totally lost myself while reading it. I was immersed in Story World - the book is written almost like a diary or a chronicle, first pov the whole way through so you're deep inside. It's not my usual book and I'm not sure why I downloaded it, perhaps the cover or the title - but I'm so glad I did.
It's a chance to walk in the shoes of some one whose life you can imagine, but then you become invested and it's that thing - other people's lives, decisions, loves, losses and betrayal - truly addictive fiction - next please Ms Lythell!
It's a chance to walk in the shoes of some one whose life you can imagine, but then you become invested and it's that thing - other people's lives, decisions, loves, losses and betrayal - truly addictive fiction - next please Ms Lythell!
June 20, 2016
Woman of the Hour is about the cut throat television industry and the inside drama.
I really enjoy the way Jane writes about such real characters and could picture the interactions in the TV studio and it is just as I imagine it. There was some nasty back biting and insecure characters to keep my interest throughout the book.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Head of Zeus for this ARC.
I really enjoy the way Jane writes about such real characters and could picture the interactions in the TV studio and it is just as I imagine it. There was some nasty back biting and insecure characters to keep my interest throughout the book.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Head of Zeus for this ARC.
June 19, 2016
I found this book quite steady and not what I was expecting. I did enjoy it to a point but didn't find it amazing. Thank you for the ARC in return for a honest reveiw
June 16, 2017
Meet Liz Lyon: respected TV producer, stressed out executive, guilty single mother.
Liz works at StoryWorld, the nation's favourite morning show. The opening section of the book concentrates on how Liz struggles to juggle that holy grail of the work and life balance. She lives with her teenage daughter; a fraught and strained relationship which means home is not always that much of a sanctuary after a long challenging day managing egos and office politics!
At work Liz is responsible for turning real life stories into thrilling TV while at the same time making sure that none of the scandal, gossip, competition and unpleasantness that is going on back stage finds it way in front of the camera. At times it feels as if the life Liz is leading is more sensational than the stories she researches which has got to reflect something ironic about the nature of our vicarious obsession with other people's dramas!
Liz is a likeable character. She is competent, successful, intelligent, focused but also flawed and the relationship with her daughter allows us to see another layer of her character. Making her a mother means we get to see her in a totally contrasting situation and a more emotional and softer light. Lythell's writing is so authentic and convincing that I could feel myself flopping on the sofa next to Liz and feeling her frustration, anxiety, concerns and exhaustion at the end of a long working day, topped off with the challenge of managing a loaded conversation with an angst ridden teen! Therefore I think by the time I got to the last page I was delighted to see the recipe for Liz's flapjacks and macaroni cheese! Liz loves comfort food and is particularly fond of cheese so it was a nice touch to see this added in the back pages.
Half way through the novel something happens which changes everything and irrevocably complicates Liz's life at work. It introduces a darker, more sinister theme into the novel, adds more tension and also raises questions about things that happen at work and the misuse or abuse of positions of responsibility. It also raises questions about women in the workplace. It adds a much more serious edge to Lythell's novel which again pushes Liz to become the person she has always had the potential to become.
On the surface this book seemed to be about career women and women in the office. Lythell's evocation of the TV studio and Liz's colleagues is very well established. The characters all feel three dimensional and are engaging. There are lots of novels that write about TV shows, office politics and working women but perhaps with a more comedic voice or with characters who are a little bit more caricatured. Woman of the Hour doesn't do this. It feels much more realistic and honest. Lythell captures the pace, stress, business, endlessness of that to-do list, the strain of having to please people, appease people and constantly find the strength to fight the feuds and disagreements over how the stories should be presented to the audience very well. The reader cannot help but feel empathy for Liz when she finally crashes on the sofa at the end of the day, utterly depleted!
But it is also a book about parenting and specifically motherhood. Liz is a single mother and so her relationship with her daughter Flo is one that is incredibly important to her but also means she has to deal with it on her own, as well as juggling her job. This book is about the worries of a mother, the want to guide, support, help and protect your child and the helplessness sometimes felt when you can't save them from their predicaments or know that only experience will let them understand why you are setting the boundaries you do. Motherhood and being a teenager are incredibly tricky roads to travel and Lythell has picked an interesting point in her characters lives. Events at work have a huge impact on Liz and ultimately affect the journey herself and Flo are travelling together.
This is a book about work, family and life. It is about things that affect us all or that we can all relate to. Lythell takes this as her premise and then develops it so not only is it about characters finding that strength and direction that they need but also testing and challenging them in order to force them to see more objectively who and what they are.
This is a well paced novel. It is well structured between the sessions at work and home. It has several threads to follow but they are all part of the main story arc. It feels contemporary, relevant and it is compelling. It captures the pressures woman are under in today's society.
Lythell comes from the world of television and it seems she has put this experience to good use in her novel. Her next book follows on from this and will be released in July 2017. I am looking forward to see what Lythell has in store for Liz and Flo next!
Liz works at StoryWorld, the nation's favourite morning show. The opening section of the book concentrates on how Liz struggles to juggle that holy grail of the work and life balance. She lives with her teenage daughter; a fraught and strained relationship which means home is not always that much of a sanctuary after a long challenging day managing egos and office politics!
At work Liz is responsible for turning real life stories into thrilling TV while at the same time making sure that none of the scandal, gossip, competition and unpleasantness that is going on back stage finds it way in front of the camera. At times it feels as if the life Liz is leading is more sensational than the stories she researches which has got to reflect something ironic about the nature of our vicarious obsession with other people's dramas!
Liz is a likeable character. She is competent, successful, intelligent, focused but also flawed and the relationship with her daughter allows us to see another layer of her character. Making her a mother means we get to see her in a totally contrasting situation and a more emotional and softer light. Lythell's writing is so authentic and convincing that I could feel myself flopping on the sofa next to Liz and feeling her frustration, anxiety, concerns and exhaustion at the end of a long working day, topped off with the challenge of managing a loaded conversation with an angst ridden teen! Therefore I think by the time I got to the last page I was delighted to see the recipe for Liz's flapjacks and macaroni cheese! Liz loves comfort food and is particularly fond of cheese so it was a nice touch to see this added in the back pages.
Half way through the novel something happens which changes everything and irrevocably complicates Liz's life at work. It introduces a darker, more sinister theme into the novel, adds more tension and also raises questions about things that happen at work and the misuse or abuse of positions of responsibility. It also raises questions about women in the workplace. It adds a much more serious edge to Lythell's novel which again pushes Liz to become the person she has always had the potential to become.
On the surface this book seemed to be about career women and women in the office. Lythell's evocation of the TV studio and Liz's colleagues is very well established. The characters all feel three dimensional and are engaging. There are lots of novels that write about TV shows, office politics and working women but perhaps with a more comedic voice or with characters who are a little bit more caricatured. Woman of the Hour doesn't do this. It feels much more realistic and honest. Lythell captures the pace, stress, business, endlessness of that to-do list, the strain of having to please people, appease people and constantly find the strength to fight the feuds and disagreements over how the stories should be presented to the audience very well. The reader cannot help but feel empathy for Liz when she finally crashes on the sofa at the end of the day, utterly depleted!
But it is also a book about parenting and specifically motherhood. Liz is a single mother and so her relationship with her daughter Flo is one that is incredibly important to her but also means she has to deal with it on her own, as well as juggling her job. This book is about the worries of a mother, the want to guide, support, help and protect your child and the helplessness sometimes felt when you can't save them from their predicaments or know that only experience will let them understand why you are setting the boundaries you do. Motherhood and being a teenager are incredibly tricky roads to travel and Lythell has picked an interesting point in her characters lives. Events at work have a huge impact on Liz and ultimately affect the journey herself and Flo are travelling together.
This is a book about work, family and life. It is about things that affect us all or that we can all relate to. Lythell takes this as her premise and then develops it so not only is it about characters finding that strength and direction that they need but also testing and challenging them in order to force them to see more objectively who and what they are.
This is a well paced novel. It is well structured between the sessions at work and home. It has several threads to follow but they are all part of the main story arc. It feels contemporary, relevant and it is compelling. It captures the pressures woman are under in today's society.
Lythell comes from the world of television and it seems she has put this experience to good use in her novel. Her next book follows on from this and will be released in July 2017. I am looking forward to see what Lythell has in store for Liz and Flo next!
May 11, 2017
‘In the world of TV, the real drama happens behind the scenes…’
Woman of the Houris a novel by Jane Lythell that was published in the summer of 2016 by Head of Zeus.
Described as ‘a gripping story of workplace intrigue, inspired by the author’s own experience of working in the glamorous world of live TV', Woman of The Hour is the first book in a new series, with ‘StoryWorld Two’ from Jane Lythell out soon.
In the meantime, here is my review to whet your appetite….
We are all used to Reality TV on our screens these days. We watch as many teary-eyed competitors fight it out, all looking for their chance on centre stage. In many cases it has been termed car-crash TV, but the one show that always has such a huge following and continues to attract new viewers is Breakfast TV.
As folk awaken to the shriek of the alarm, many have a routine of grabbing a cuppa and settling down for 5/10 minutes with a little news and some comic moments before the reality of the day comes crashing in.
But do any of us know what it is really like off-camera? The smiling faces, the banter….is it all an act? Are the presenters at loggerheads behind the scenes looking for the most air time to increase their public profile?
Jane Lythell takes us on an almost ‘real-life’ look behind the TV veneer in Woman of the Hour. Liz Lyon is a producer of the very popular morning show, StoryWorld. She is long divorced from her husband Ben after an acrimonious break up, leaving her as the main carer of their young daughter Flo. Trying to balance a very stressful job and an hormonal teenager would be enough for anyone, but Liz also has to deal with the egos of the shows main stars.
Jane Lythell divides the novel between the Storyworld TV station on London Bridge and Chalk Farm flat, the place Liz calls home. From the outset it is very clear that Liz is pulled between wanting to be there at all times for her daughter, as well as striving to compete in a very male dominated workplace.
Liz Lyon’s life is a balancing act. With some new personalities coming under Liz’s tutelage, she finds herself attempting to keep everyone happy…except herself. With her years of experience involved in StoryWorld, it is Liz who maintains the status quo. She is the one the show’s ‘stars’ turn to when they feel they are being unjustly treated or have any grievance in relation to anyone or anything.
Liz makes a discovery that stirs up some memories from her past that she had kept buried in order to survive in this industry. With her best friend Fenton as her confidant, Liz must find a way forward before these revelations come to light and cause untold damage to her reputation and to that of StoryWorld.
Jane Lythell draws from her own experience in media and successfully unveils a world full of self-centred individuals whose only focus is their own personal gain. Liz Lyon must fight to survive using all her wits, while also dealing with her home life which is going through some very turbulent times.
Can women really have it all? Is it possible to be a good mother and also strive for that ‘glass-ceiling’ in a male dominated environment? The pressure, the hours, the demands….
Woman of the Hour is a great opener for a new series. We have been introduced to all the different characters who, I have no doubt, have plenty more to give. In reading this book there were many individuals I just did not like, as the egotistical nature of the business really came through. Liz seems to be only one with any real sense of what is right and wrong and this remains her strength throughout the book.
For a behind-the-scenes peak at what really happens when the camera stops rolling, pick up a copy of Woman of the Hour.
Woman of the Houris a novel by Jane Lythell that was published in the summer of 2016 by Head of Zeus.
Described as ‘a gripping story of workplace intrigue, inspired by the author’s own experience of working in the glamorous world of live TV', Woman of The Hour is the first book in a new series, with ‘StoryWorld Two’ from Jane Lythell out soon.
In the meantime, here is my review to whet your appetite….
We are all used to Reality TV on our screens these days. We watch as many teary-eyed competitors fight it out, all looking for their chance on centre stage. In many cases it has been termed car-crash TV, but the one show that always has such a huge following and continues to attract new viewers is Breakfast TV.
As folk awaken to the shriek of the alarm, many have a routine of grabbing a cuppa and settling down for 5/10 minutes with a little news and some comic moments before the reality of the day comes crashing in.
But do any of us know what it is really like off-camera? The smiling faces, the banter….is it all an act? Are the presenters at loggerheads behind the scenes looking for the most air time to increase their public profile?
Jane Lythell takes us on an almost ‘real-life’ look behind the TV veneer in Woman of the Hour. Liz Lyon is a producer of the very popular morning show, StoryWorld. She is long divorced from her husband Ben after an acrimonious break up, leaving her as the main carer of their young daughter Flo. Trying to balance a very stressful job and an hormonal teenager would be enough for anyone, but Liz also has to deal with the egos of the shows main stars.
Jane Lythell divides the novel between the Storyworld TV station on London Bridge and Chalk Farm flat, the place Liz calls home. From the outset it is very clear that Liz is pulled between wanting to be there at all times for her daughter, as well as striving to compete in a very male dominated workplace.
Liz Lyon’s life is a balancing act. With some new personalities coming under Liz’s tutelage, she finds herself attempting to keep everyone happy…except herself. With her years of experience involved in StoryWorld, it is Liz who maintains the status quo. She is the one the show’s ‘stars’ turn to when they feel they are being unjustly treated or have any grievance in relation to anyone or anything.
Liz makes a discovery that stirs up some memories from her past that she had kept buried in order to survive in this industry. With her best friend Fenton as her confidant, Liz must find a way forward before these revelations come to light and cause untold damage to her reputation and to that of StoryWorld.
Jane Lythell draws from her own experience in media and successfully unveils a world full of self-centred individuals whose only focus is their own personal gain. Liz Lyon must fight to survive using all her wits, while also dealing with her home life which is going through some very turbulent times.
Can women really have it all? Is it possible to be a good mother and also strive for that ‘glass-ceiling’ in a male dominated environment? The pressure, the hours, the demands….
Woman of the Hour is a great opener for a new series. We have been introduced to all the different characters who, I have no doubt, have plenty more to give. In reading this book there were many individuals I just did not like, as the egotistical nature of the business really came through. Liz seems to be only one with any real sense of what is right and wrong and this remains her strength throughout the book.
For a behind-the-scenes peak at what really happens when the camera stops rolling, pick up a copy of Woman of the Hour.
February 15, 2019
Name- Woman of the hour
Written by- Jane Lythell
Published by- Head of Zeus
Pages- 349
Genre- Fiction
My Thoughts-
Women in the 21st century progressed beyond comprehension. There isn't a sector where you wouldn't find a woman worker.
The Story World series revolves around the lives of the people working in the world of TV, with Liz Lyon as the protagonist.
Woman of the hour is the perfect start of a powerful series. The book not only talks about the bright and dark sides of the people working in this industry but also how this is still one of the most male dominated working sectors. I laughed a bit hard when the author described how the men solved their issues in the 'executive toilets'.
The character of Liz is one of the biggest hits in the story. She is described exactly as a woman should be in this industry- 'A survivor'.
With media politics running in the veins of the book it was a treat to read how Liz gained an advantage over her boss Julius, who is nothing but a bully.
The story demonstrated how insecurity and hollowness creeps inside people who struggle to keep up their place in the Show Biz. Fizzy's character being a perfect example of that.
The other characters in this book has a story of their own and the way the author knitted all the lives together was definitely admirable.
Liz's personal life and her relationship with her daughter was shown from a realistic point of view. I personally loved Ziggy's character who struggled all through her childhood.
Apart from the nitty gritty of Story World or this industry Lythell addressed some of the most vital issues that a woman still faces in this society. The way a woman like Liz had to struggle against her boss Julius and her new found rival Bob to keep her job in this industry itself demonstrates the sorry state of our society which is still widely male dominated.
A story which not only inspires but will also force every woman to continue their struggle for existence and recognition in their fields of work, is definitely a must read.
Written by- Jane Lythell
Published by- Head of Zeus
Pages- 349
Genre- Fiction
My Thoughts-
Women in the 21st century progressed beyond comprehension. There isn't a sector where you wouldn't find a woman worker.
The Story World series revolves around the lives of the people working in the world of TV, with Liz Lyon as the protagonist.
Woman of the hour is the perfect start of a powerful series. The book not only talks about the bright and dark sides of the people working in this industry but also how this is still one of the most male dominated working sectors. I laughed a bit hard when the author described how the men solved their issues in the 'executive toilets'.
The character of Liz is one of the biggest hits in the story. She is described exactly as a woman should be in this industry- 'A survivor'.
With media politics running in the veins of the book it was a treat to read how Liz gained an advantage over her boss Julius, who is nothing but a bully.
The story demonstrated how insecurity and hollowness creeps inside people who struggle to keep up their place in the Show Biz. Fizzy's character being a perfect example of that.
The other characters in this book has a story of their own and the way the author knitted all the lives together was definitely admirable.
Liz's personal life and her relationship with her daughter was shown from a realistic point of view. I personally loved Ziggy's character who struggled all through her childhood.
Apart from the nitty gritty of Story World or this industry Lythell addressed some of the most vital issues that a woman still faces in this society. The way a woman like Liz had to struggle against her boss Julius and her new found rival Bob to keep her job in this industry itself demonstrates the sorry state of our society which is still widely male dominated.
A story which not only inspires but will also force every woman to continue their struggle for existence and recognition in their fields of work, is definitely a must read.
June 25, 2017
Woman of the Hour is a behind the scenes look at a TV Station. All of the pressures, power struggles and petty rivalries are laid bare in this entertaining and absorbing novel.
Liz Lyon is pretty much at the top of her game, having worked her way up at Storyworld, she manages to hold down a demanding job on top of being a single Mum to her teenage daughter Flo. I take my hat off to her!
I believe that this book is the first in a series and I will be delighted to find out more about our delightful cast of characters in future. The characters are all unique and some are more likeable than others. All have there own pressures behind the Storyworld set. The youngsters are trying to make their way in the new world of television and hoping for their big break. The more established members of staff are battling to keep their jobs in the midst of budget cuts and more. The boss is demanding, often unreasonable and clearly on a power trip.
This book is a fantastic look at workplace tensions and problems that can arise in such a pressurised environment. Sexual harassment forms part of the story and also the point is made that a job in television is not always as glamorous as it sounds.
As a reader you feel the various workplace tensions building throughout the book, everything is about to blow apart and all of the pressure seems to be on Liz. Can she restore harmony?
I found this book to be an interesting and highly entertaining read and will be looking forward to reading more about Storyworld and from this host of fascinating characters and egos in the future.
Liz Lyon is pretty much at the top of her game, having worked her way up at Storyworld, she manages to hold down a demanding job on top of being a single Mum to her teenage daughter Flo. I take my hat off to her!
I believe that this book is the first in a series and I will be delighted to find out more about our delightful cast of characters in future. The characters are all unique and some are more likeable than others. All have there own pressures behind the Storyworld set. The youngsters are trying to make their way in the new world of television and hoping for their big break. The more established members of staff are battling to keep their jobs in the midst of budget cuts and more. The boss is demanding, often unreasonable and clearly on a power trip.
This book is a fantastic look at workplace tensions and problems that can arise in such a pressurised environment. Sexual harassment forms part of the story and also the point is made that a job in television is not always as glamorous as it sounds.
As a reader you feel the various workplace tensions building throughout the book, everything is about to blow apart and all of the pressure seems to be on Liz. Can she restore harmony?
I found this book to be an interesting and highly entertaining read and will be looking forward to reading more about Storyworld and from this host of fascinating characters and egos in the future.
January 25, 2019
WOMAN OF THE HOUR by @jane_lythell_writer was a well-written book, with a fascinating look into the daily grind of the TV world. Liz, the producer of a popular morning show, was the epitome of a hard working, full-time mother. I resonated with her from the start and enjoyed the time I spent getting to know her.
As for the secondary characters, they all had their own personas. I got the gist of their personalities and understood the role they contributed to the TV station. Liz, the cleaner upper as I'd like to call her, ran around the office as a problem solver. Even with the unnecessary drama that could be found in most offices, she handled things like a pro. I wish I had her emotional stamina to deal with half of the crap thrown at her every day.
Now, at times I felt the plot slowed down, making it a bit dull to read. I found myself growing impatient while I waited for the drama to hit. However midway, the novel started to pick up. The deceit, backstabbing and underlying issues that plagued the office finally came to light. I thoroughly enjoyed this interval of the story line.
All in all, Jane is a well-read author. Her previous background as a TV producer formulated an insightful story with an array of workplace revelations. I'm looking forward to continuing the journey with the second installment in the series, BEHIND HER BACK.
As for the secondary characters, they all had their own personas. I got the gist of their personalities and understood the role they contributed to the TV station. Liz, the cleaner upper as I'd like to call her, ran around the office as a problem solver. Even with the unnecessary drama that could be found in most offices, she handled things like a pro. I wish I had her emotional stamina to deal with half of the crap thrown at her every day.
Now, at times I felt the plot slowed down, making it a bit dull to read. I found myself growing impatient while I waited for the drama to hit. However midway, the novel started to pick up. The deceit, backstabbing and underlying issues that plagued the office finally came to light. I thoroughly enjoyed this interval of the story line.
All in all, Jane is a well-read author. Her previous background as a TV producer formulated an insightful story with an array of workplace revelations. I'm looking forward to continuing the journey with the second installment in the series, BEHIND HER BACK.
August 27, 2021
I grabbed a copy of this from my local Library, I am not sure if it was a random choice or one that I was made aware of by others as a good book to read. However I came across it, it doesn't really matter to be honest, but I am glad that I did.
I gave this a 4 stars or 8/10. I enjoyed the story and found it an easy read that I was soon immersed in. I felt that the Author having been involved in that side of things personally having worked in the world of live TV was able to relate this story well and who knows if the story is purely fiction or ..... Only she will know. Many stories will be based on some facteor experience and interwoven with plenty of fiction, to keep the reader engaged. I was definitely engaged and have a copy of Behind Her Back (StoryWorld #2) to read next.
This is the first in the StoryWorld series by this Author. StoryWorld is the name of the nation's favourite morning show. Telling the story of the shows executives, presenters and all those involved with a production like this. As you can imagine life surrounding TV programmes and production can be a hot bed of gossip, tension, secrets and one upmanship. Someone is always ready to tread on other people in order to achieve greater things for themselves. This was quite evident in this story and working life spilled over into personal life, causing issues for many of the characters.
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