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StoryWorld #2
Behind Her Back
A new Head of Sales and Marketing, the scary Lori Kerwell, has arrived at the station and started to build her power base. Lori soon joins forces with the News Editor, who hates Liz for knowing his explosive secret. Liz must fight to retain control of the show. Meanwhile at home Liz has started to date again, but her 15-year-old daughter deeply resents the new man in her life. In this gripping novel of power, rivalry, and backstabbing, Jane Lythell draws on her years of working in the glamorous, pressurized world of live TV.
352 pages, Paperback
Published February 1, 2018
3 people are currently reading
75 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 39 reviews
August 7, 2019
Subterfuge
Liz Lyon, the producer at StoryWorld TV, has returned in Behind Her Back, Jane Lythell's second novel in the series. A fascinating entertaining drama that simmers with deceit, power struggles and family issues. We have a fascination with the world of TV, films and media – the glamour, glitz and indiscretions that seem to appeal to our insatiable appetite for scandal. What really happens behind the camera, the chicanery and achievements, the egos and the hard work, and the impact it has on personal relationships.
Liz Lyon is a hard-working woman and a single parent to Flo, and there is a very clear and deliberate female message in the story. Explicitly, it is a struggle for women to balance work and home but that the story should inspire women to pursue whatever they wish in life and not allow obvious or hidden barriers to stop them. I also appreciated that the story is fundamentally considered as an entertaining drama, fraught with office politics and career-damaging machinations regardless of gender. And in fact, similar issues are faced and perpetrated by both genders as a result of plotting and deceit.
There is a recognition that Liz’s job is very maternal, watching how the aspects of internal politics and conflicts can be averted and issues smoothed before there are highly disruptive consequences. The problems are just about to become a lot more personal.
StoryWorld TV has a new Sales and Marketing executive, Lori Kerwell, brought onboard by the MD Saul Relph and it seems she has greater ambitions than her appointed role. Closely linked to Saul she intrudes into aspects of the station which involve Liz and her boss Julius Jones, Director of Programmes. The die is cast for a power struggle, intrigue and the relentless cauldron of gossip. Jane Lythell presents these insights from personal experience as a morning TV producer, which really brings the authenticity of the story to a new level.
Maybe we’ve all felt periods when we’ve been undermined or went unrecognised in our jobs. Worse still when someone has set their sights on getting your job. The uncertainty and stress that can manifest itself are very well developed and the constant scheming is layered brilliantly as it builds and builds.
I would highly recommend this book and I really appreciate Jane Lythell for asking me to review her book and providing me with a copy in return for an honest review.
Liz Lyon, the producer at StoryWorld TV, has returned in Behind Her Back, Jane Lythell's second novel in the series. A fascinating entertaining drama that simmers with deceit, power struggles and family issues. We have a fascination with the world of TV, films and media – the glamour, glitz and indiscretions that seem to appeal to our insatiable appetite for scandal. What really happens behind the camera, the chicanery and achievements, the egos and the hard work, and the impact it has on personal relationships.
Liz Lyon is a hard-working woman and a single parent to Flo, and there is a very clear and deliberate female message in the story. Explicitly, it is a struggle for women to balance work and home but that the story should inspire women to pursue whatever they wish in life and not allow obvious or hidden barriers to stop them. I also appreciated that the story is fundamentally considered as an entertaining drama, fraught with office politics and career-damaging machinations regardless of gender. And in fact, similar issues are faced and perpetrated by both genders as a result of plotting and deceit.
There is a recognition that Liz’s job is very maternal, watching how the aspects of internal politics and conflicts can be averted and issues smoothed before there are highly disruptive consequences. The problems are just about to become a lot more personal.
StoryWorld TV has a new Sales and Marketing executive, Lori Kerwell, brought onboard by the MD Saul Relph and it seems she has greater ambitions than her appointed role. Closely linked to Saul she intrudes into aspects of the station which involve Liz and her boss Julius Jones, Director of Programmes. The die is cast for a power struggle, intrigue and the relentless cauldron of gossip. Jane Lythell presents these insights from personal experience as a morning TV producer, which really brings the authenticity of the story to a new level.
Maybe we’ve all felt periods when we’ve been undermined or went unrecognised in our jobs. Worse still when someone has set their sights on getting your job. The uncertainty and stress that can manifest itself are very well developed and the constant scheming is layered brilliantly as it builds and builds.
I would highly recommend this book and I really appreciate Jane Lythell for asking me to review her book and providing me with a copy in return for an honest review.
January 5, 2019
StoryWorld #2
StoryWorld is the nations favourite morning show and producer Liz Lyon wants to keep it that way. Her job is turn real life stories into thrilling TV.
I was sent a paperback copy of this book from the author. The story starts of slowly but it soon grabs your attention. This is the second book in the StoryWorld series. I have not read the first book in this series but I think this book reads well as a standalone. The story is full of backstabbing, relationships and underhand tactics. Producer of the show, Liz Lyon juggles her family life with her daughter, Flo and her high demanding career. We get the drama that happens behind the scenes. Liz is a great character who is a great peacemaker, can diffuse difficult situations. Overall this is a great little read.
I would like to thank the author Jayne Lythell for gifting me a copy of her new book.
StoryWorld is the nations favourite morning show and producer Liz Lyon wants to keep it that way. Her job is turn real life stories into thrilling TV.
I was sent a paperback copy of this book from the author. The story starts of slowly but it soon grabs your attention. This is the second book in the StoryWorld series. I have not read the first book in this series but I think this book reads well as a standalone. The story is full of backstabbing, relationships and underhand tactics. Producer of the show, Liz Lyon juggles her family life with her daughter, Flo and her high demanding career. We get the drama that happens behind the scenes. Liz is a great character who is a great peacemaker, can diffuse difficult situations. Overall this is a great little read.
I would like to thank the author Jayne Lythell for gifting me a copy of her new book.
July 24, 2017
I hadn't realised when reading this that this is book 2 in a series, I keep doing this! I'm not sure if I have missed out or this could be read as a stand-alone, but anyhow I got into it OK.
Liz works at a TV station and we get quite a bit of insight here on what can go on.
I felt a bit like a 'fly on the wall' whilst reading this and imagined myself recording a documentary.
This author falls back hugely on her unique knowledge and experience as it comes across so well as she writes.
Liz is someone I admire, she just gets on with it, shes a Mom, she works, she cleans house she has friends and a good social life. I felt quite dull in comparison.
Lori is someone I just didn't understand, an obnoxious person, selfish, no people skills so how on earth she got the job of Sales and Marketing I have no idea, does she actually achieve her job?
On the whole I enjoyed it, its bordering on chick lit really and not a full blown whodunnit or mystery.
It has SCANDAL, it has LIES it has BETRAYAL and it features strong woman.
The politics of working on a TV show.
My thanks to Head of Zeus via Net Galley for my digital copy
July 31, 2017
behind the scenes on a morning tv talk show... whats not to like! the lies, betrayal, friendships and rivals... this book has it all. thanks to netgalley and Head of Zeus for a copy of this book to read and review
July 20, 2017
After a slightly slow start, this gradually drew me in and became so gripping that I read the last half in one-sitting! The story is episodic rather than having an over-arching narrative arc and reminded me of a soap-opera with lots of mini story-lines interweaved together: the return of a TV host after having a baby, the awful new employee, Liz's return to dating. Less enticing is the ongoing dispute Liz has with a dodgy builder and I started skipping those scenes.
Lythell makes full use of her technical knowledge so that often this feels like a fly-on-the-wall documentary of behind-the-scenes life at a morning TV show.
What I liked most, though, is that this gives us a main female character who is a rounded adult: she is neither infanticised as women can be in fiction nor imbued with super-human detective skills or similar: Liz is incredibly normal - she is very good at her job without being obsessed, she has friends, she goes out, she looks after her work team, she's a decent mother who's not above take-outs, and it's so refreshing to meet a competent woman who juggles and gets on with life.
Less successful are some of the other characterisations, especially that of the love-to-hate Lori who is so monstrous that she becomes almost cartoonish and it's impossible to believe that anyone quite so obnoxious, aggressive, downright stupid at times, with no self-awareness and few people skills could ever get to be a sales & marketing director and hold down a job anywhere!
The writing is unobtrusive and frequently feels more like diary entries than a connected narrative as Liz doesn't seem to know what happens next so that while it's not written in the present tense, there is a sense of contemporaneity about it all.
I didn't realise that this is the second book in a set but there's no problem reading this as a standalone and the back histories of characters are intimated without clunkiness. Overall, this is a bit like intelligent chick-lit: it has all the lightness and pleasure while losing the silliness.
Lythell makes full use of her technical knowledge so that often this feels like a fly-on-the-wall documentary of behind-the-scenes life at a morning TV show.
What I liked most, though, is that this gives us a main female character who is a rounded adult: she is neither infanticised as women can be in fiction nor imbued with super-human detective skills or similar: Liz is incredibly normal - she is very good at her job without being obsessed, she has friends, she goes out, she looks after her work team, she's a decent mother who's not above take-outs, and it's so refreshing to meet a competent woman who juggles and gets on with life.
Less successful are some of the other characterisations, especially that of the love-to-hate Lori who is so monstrous that she becomes almost cartoonish and it's impossible to believe that anyone quite so obnoxious, aggressive, downright stupid at times, with no self-awareness and few people skills could ever get to be a sales & marketing director and hold down a job anywhere!
The writing is unobtrusive and frequently feels more like diary entries than a connected narrative as Liz doesn't seem to know what happens next so that while it's not written in the present tense, there is a sense of contemporaneity about it all.
I didn't realise that this is the second book in a set but there's no problem reading this as a standalone and the back histories of characters are intimated without clunkiness. Overall, this is a bit like intelligent chick-lit: it has all the lightness and pleasure while losing the silliness.
January 3, 2018
Time taken to read - approx 9 hours
Pages - 368
Publisher - Head of Zeus
Source - Review copy
Blurb from Goodreads
The second StoryWorld novel set in the glamorous, pressurized world of a live London TV station.
StoryWorld is the nation's favourite morning show, and producer Liz Lyon wants to keep it that way. Her job is to turn real-life stories into thrilling TV – and keep a lid on the cauldron of conflicts and resentments that constantly simmers off-stage.
In this gripping novel of power, rivalry and betrayal, Jane Lythell draws on her experiences of working in the heated world of live TV. Liz Lyon must balance the monster egos at work with the demands of her teenage daughter – and the man she's just started dating – at home. It's all in a day's work.
My Review
This is book two in the StoryWorld series, I haven't read the first and don't feel I have missed out or less enjoyment as a result. Liz Lyon is the glue that keeps the feisty team of StoryWorld together. Live TV that covers so much content, celebrities, news, fashion, cooking you name it they do it but juggling many divas. Fizzy has been off on maternity leave and is now heading back, however the team have a new member Lori Kerwell whose focus is profitability. Whilst Liz and Lori class, Fizzy finds herself battling to keep her place, tempers are affray and some people will stop at nothing to get what they want.
Ooooooh all the dramas! The bitchy world of getting ahead in the world of TV, who knew eh? I really only picked this up last night to read one chapter, I was still reading it into the wee hours of the morning. It isn't a murder mystery or anything like that, it is "office" politics, underhanded tactics, back stabbing, relationships, bitchiness and stepping over folk to get to the next rung of the career ladder. I couldn't wait to see what next, what X, Y, Z had planned and who could you actually trust.
There is a family element to it too, Liz is juggling her life as a woman still in her prime but with a teenage daughter and all the spikiness that comes with it. Fizzy is a new mother, ambitious career woman and trying to keep a secret whilst everyone and their granny want all the dirt! I found the whole workings of a TV network actually quite interesting too. I have read this author before and not only do I have another on my TBRM I enjoyed this one so much I just bought the first in the series, 99p for it on kindle. I am looking forward to finding out a bit more about the characters I just met and hope there is more coming from this series. This book is available to buy in all formats at time of posting. My thanks to the author for sending me a copy of this and introducing me to new characters and an interesting world, 4/5 for me.
Pages - 368
Publisher - Head of Zeus
Source - Review copy
Blurb from Goodreads
The second StoryWorld novel set in the glamorous, pressurized world of a live London TV station.
StoryWorld is the nation's favourite morning show, and producer Liz Lyon wants to keep it that way. Her job is to turn real-life stories into thrilling TV – and keep a lid on the cauldron of conflicts and resentments that constantly simmers off-stage.
In this gripping novel of power, rivalry and betrayal, Jane Lythell draws on her experiences of working in the heated world of live TV. Liz Lyon must balance the monster egos at work with the demands of her teenage daughter – and the man she's just started dating – at home. It's all in a day's work.
My Review
This is book two in the StoryWorld series, I haven't read the first and don't feel I have missed out or less enjoyment as a result. Liz Lyon is the glue that keeps the feisty team of StoryWorld together. Live TV that covers so much content, celebrities, news, fashion, cooking you name it they do it but juggling many divas. Fizzy has been off on maternity leave and is now heading back, however the team have a new member Lori Kerwell whose focus is profitability. Whilst Liz and Lori class, Fizzy finds herself battling to keep her place, tempers are affray and some people will stop at nothing to get what they want.
Ooooooh all the dramas! The bitchy world of getting ahead in the world of TV, who knew eh? I really only picked this up last night to read one chapter, I was still reading it into the wee hours of the morning. It isn't a murder mystery or anything like that, it is "office" politics, underhanded tactics, back stabbing, relationships, bitchiness and stepping over folk to get to the next rung of the career ladder. I couldn't wait to see what next, what X, Y, Z had planned and who could you actually trust.
There is a family element to it too, Liz is juggling her life as a woman still in her prime but with a teenage daughter and all the spikiness that comes with it. Fizzy is a new mother, ambitious career woman and trying to keep a secret whilst everyone and their granny want all the dirt! I found the whole workings of a TV network actually quite interesting too. I have read this author before and not only do I have another on my TBRM I enjoyed this one so much I just bought the first in the series, 99p for it on kindle. I am looking forward to finding out a bit more about the characters I just met and hope there is more coming from this series. This book is available to buy in all formats at time of posting. My thanks to the author for sending me a copy of this and introducing me to new characters and an interesting world, 4/5 for me.
August 7, 2017
BEHIND HER BACK by Jane Lythell is the second novel set in the ultra competitive tv station StoryWorld and again, this story completely blew my socks off with its engaging plot line and compelling antics.
Producer Liz Lyon is still juggling her personal life with her teenage daughter Flo, and her highly demanding career but at least she feels that she is on a better footing with her boss and can trust her solid team completely. But when StoryWorld gains a new staff member in the form of formidable Lori Kerwell who is determined to get what she wants, Liz's work life gets a whole lot more complicated. Throw in a tv presenter who is getting too big for their boots, a scandalous revelation, a new romance, a dodgy builder, and an angry teenager, and Liz's life has become every inch a soap opera. But when her very livelihood is threatened, will she walk away from the job that has been such a huge part of her life? And as for her new romance...
BEHIND HER BACK by Jane Lythell is a cleverly paced and well-written story that unleashes the drama from behind the scenes of this celebrity world and mixes it effortlessly with deeper and more personal issues throughout. Liz is such an open and compassionate character and you cannot help but feel a connection with her as she tries to juggle being a single mom to a stroppy teenager, with a very competitive and demanding career - never mind her trying to fit in a little personal time or romance. I loved getting to know more about Liz's team in this book, especially Henry and Simon, and as with Woman of the Hour, I literally did not put this book down until I reached the final page - which left me desperate for the next book!!!
BEHIND HER BACK by Jane Lythell is another dynamic story from an author who has fast become one of my favourite go-to authors and I highly recommend this novel.
*I voluntarily reviewed this book from the Publisher
Producer Liz Lyon is still juggling her personal life with her teenage daughter Flo, and her highly demanding career but at least she feels that she is on a better footing with her boss and can trust her solid team completely. But when StoryWorld gains a new staff member in the form of formidable Lori Kerwell who is determined to get what she wants, Liz's work life gets a whole lot more complicated. Throw in a tv presenter who is getting too big for their boots, a scandalous revelation, a new romance, a dodgy builder, and an angry teenager, and Liz's life has become every inch a soap opera. But when her very livelihood is threatened, will she walk away from the job that has been such a huge part of her life? And as for her new romance...
BEHIND HER BACK by Jane Lythell is a cleverly paced and well-written story that unleashes the drama from behind the scenes of this celebrity world and mixes it effortlessly with deeper and more personal issues throughout. Liz is such an open and compassionate character and you cannot help but feel a connection with her as she tries to juggle being a single mom to a stroppy teenager, with a very competitive and demanding career - never mind her trying to fit in a little personal time or romance. I loved getting to know more about Liz's team in this book, especially Henry and Simon, and as with Woman of the Hour, I literally did not put this book down until I reached the final page - which left me desperate for the next book!!!
BEHIND HER BACK by Jane Lythell is another dynamic story from an author who has fast become one of my favourite go-to authors and I highly recommend this novel.
*I voluntarily reviewed this book from the Publisher
February 16, 2018
Review originally posted on The Bibliophile Chronicles.
This was a fantastic, gripping read from author Jane Lythell, full of twists and turns. When a new woman joins the team at work, Liz feels the balance of power has shifted. She has to keep a lid on all her feelings as she maintains her role as a television producer. Coupling this with raising her daughter and dating, Liz’s life is full of surprises and shocks.
I really enjoyed reading this book partly because I found the main character so likeable. She’s a strong woman who looks after her team and works hard. I liked seeing her play the peacekeeper, diffuse the tensions and solve problems on her feet. She felt like a realistic and layered character, dealing with a teenage daughter and starting a new romance. She often has doubts about herself too, which felt quite refreshing for a main character.
I must admit that when I read Behind Her Back I did not know it was a sequel and I haven’t actually read the first book. I didn’t feel that that hindered my reading experience though, and you can definitely read it as a stand alone. I am however excited to go back to book one and find out what I missed. I love the tense, explosive atmosphere that Lythell has created, and am definitely eager for more.
Jane Lythell has drawn on her own experiences as a TV producer for this series and I think that’s part of the reason that it works so well and feels so real. The book is well paced and definitely makes you want to just read one more chapter. If you’re looking for a gripping and engaging read that’s different from anything you’ve read before, Behind Her Back is exactly what you’re looking for.
This was a fantastic, gripping read from author Jane Lythell, full of twists and turns. When a new woman joins the team at work, Liz feels the balance of power has shifted. She has to keep a lid on all her feelings as she maintains her role as a television producer. Coupling this with raising her daughter and dating, Liz’s life is full of surprises and shocks.
I really enjoyed reading this book partly because I found the main character so likeable. She’s a strong woman who looks after her team and works hard. I liked seeing her play the peacekeeper, diffuse the tensions and solve problems on her feet. She felt like a realistic and layered character, dealing with a teenage daughter and starting a new romance. She often has doubts about herself too, which felt quite refreshing for a main character.
I must admit that when I read Behind Her Back I did not know it was a sequel and I haven’t actually read the first book. I didn’t feel that that hindered my reading experience though, and you can definitely read it as a stand alone. I am however excited to go back to book one and find out what I missed. I love the tense, explosive atmosphere that Lythell has created, and am definitely eager for more.
Jane Lythell has drawn on her own experiences as a TV producer for this series and I think that’s part of the reason that it works so well and feels so real. The book is well paced and definitely makes you want to just read one more chapter. If you’re looking for a gripping and engaging read that’s different from anything you’ve read before, Behind Her Back is exactly what you’re looking for.
November 5, 2018
This is book two in the StoryWorld series. I highly recommend you read book one Woman of the Hour. It really is so good. Book one is a great introduction to the characters but I do believe the author wrote this in such a great way that it can be read as a standalone.
Liz is a great character. She’s working hard at a high pressured job while being a single mum to Flo.
Like book one I loved reading about the behind the scenes of the show.
This is a fast paced well told story that I couldn’t get enough of. I loved it.
Liz is a great character. She’s working hard at a high pressured job while being a single mum to Flo.
Like book one I loved reading about the behind the scenes of the show.
This is a fast paced well told story that I couldn’t get enough of. I loved it.
August 6, 2017
I was so excited to be absorbed (lost!) in Liz Lyon's TV world again, in this racy, addictive follow up to Woman of the Hour. Jane Lythell's knowledge and passion for this arena shine through. I devoured it in two evenings. Perfect for long flights or holidays, or simply to escape your own everyday world. Highly recommended.
December 31, 2017
Really enjoyed seeing Liz Lyon back in her second book and thoroughly enjoyed being part of the Storyworld team again.
This is the second book in the series and at did take me while to get fully into the story. It had been a long while since I read book 1 and so remembering the characters and specifics took a bit of time. I do though feel this probably works as a standalone too, as all the key bit from the previous book are mentioned.
Wow there is a lot to take in on this story, there is a lot of work place politics in place, some of which is more amusing than others, there is Liz's new dating interest who I'm not sure I like that much.
Then there is Liz's daughter Flo who is in some ways a typical 15 year old girl, and in others as someone quite loving and mature for her age.
I just found it a shame that just as my enjoyment had peaked, I was at the end of the book and have been left crossing my fingers for a book 3,
Full of humour and conflict, this is a lovely story and one I really enjoyed.
Thank you to Clare Gordon at Head of Zeus for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
This is the second book in the series and at did take me while to get fully into the story. It had been a long while since I read book 1 and so remembering the characters and specifics took a bit of time. I do though feel this probably works as a standalone too, as all the key bit from the previous book are mentioned.
Wow there is a lot to take in on this story, there is a lot of work place politics in place, some of which is more amusing than others, there is Liz's new dating interest who I'm not sure I like that much.
Then there is Liz's daughter Flo who is in some ways a typical 15 year old girl, and in others as someone quite loving and mature for her age.
I just found it a shame that just as my enjoyment had peaked, I was at the end of the book and have been left crossing my fingers for a book 3,
Full of humour and conflict, this is a lovely story and one I really enjoyed.
Thank you to Clare Gordon at Head of Zeus for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
August 8, 2017
‘Lies, betrayal, scandal.
It’s all in a day’s work’
Author Jane Lythell is back with her next installment in the very enjoyable StoryWorld series, following on from Woman of the Hour (StoryWorld #1)
Behind Her Back sees television producer Liz Lyon return back to work following a two week holiday, only to find the balance of power slightly changed with the arrival of a very formidable woman onto the team.
There is a time in your reading life when a book just falls into your lap at the right time. For me Behind Her Back was one such book. I had read and enjoyed Woman of The Hour and I really wanted to know what happened next to the wonderful Liz Lyon.
If Liz Lyon were a ‘real’ person I would love her as my friend. She is trustworthy, she has empathy, she is a mother, she cooks (Yeah!!) but the feature I find most endearing is her lack of confidence in her own ability. Liz Lyon is a woman of strength in the boardroom but at home she is constantly questioning her decisions, making her very human. Very often the modern day working woman is portrayed with a very hard and tough personality, but Liz is actually quite fragile. This portrayal of Liz makes her a very authentic character and also a more appealing one.
Liz lives with her teenage daughter Flo as a working single parent. Her ex now lives in Dubai, so Liz is very much the decision-maker of the household. In Woman of The Hour, the relationship between Liz and Flo is developed beautifully with all the tantrums associated with a teenager. In Behind Her Back, this special relationship between mother and daughter continues with a few extra bumps thrown in….think hair dye, boys and drama!!!
After Liz and Flo return from a fabulous couple of weeks in Italy, as Liz describes it ‘with a good tan and a hole in my finances', it’s not long before the holiday buzz wears off.
There have been changes made during Liz’s absence, with the arrival on the team of the formidable Lori Kerwell.
Lori’s agenda is quite clear…..profit!!!
Liz always had the trust of all her team, but after a couple of incidents in Woman of The Hour, Liz has to watch her back a little.
The main face of Story World, Fizzy Wentworth, has given birth. Fizzy, while on a very short maternity break, sees potential changes coming down the line, on her return, which will ultimately damage her career. Liz’s job is to make sure her team are happy and all working in harmony together, but there is some truth to what Fizzy is saying leaving Liz negotiating some very rough waters.
The atmosphere of this book is explosive.
There are huge egos to be dealt with, each with a very singular agenda. As Lori strikes (best word for her pincer like approach) with new ideas, she appeals to many of these individuals but to others, Liz included, a sense of impending doom descends.
Ratings are the life-blood of any TV show and Liz is faced with the outcome of some very disastrous decision-making. With her own personal life in a bit of a mess, Liz is no longer sure who to trust. Is everyone just out for themselves? Can she trust anyone anymore? What exactly IS going on behind her back?
Jane Lythell has written a novel that I thoroughly enjoyed. Behind Her Back deals with so many issues relevant to many today – a working mother, a single mother, workplace relationships, personal relationships, teenage angst and peer pressure, the need to fit in and be part of something as a teenager AND as an adult, the frenetic pace of life and the need for calmness and time-out – I could go on!!
Behind Her Back is a novel packed with drama and tension, yet for me it was a return to the pure escapism of a world I know absolutely nothing about. It’s a refreshing read and one I recommend to anyone looking for something a little lighter, yet sprinkled with real-life drama and a backstage view of what really happens behind the cameras of morning TV….
It’s all in a day’s work’
Author Jane Lythell is back with her next installment in the very enjoyable StoryWorld series, following on from Woman of the Hour (StoryWorld #1)
Behind Her Back sees television producer Liz Lyon return back to work following a two week holiday, only to find the balance of power slightly changed with the arrival of a very formidable woman onto the team.
There is a time in your reading life when a book just falls into your lap at the right time. For me Behind Her Back was one such book. I had read and enjoyed Woman of The Hour and I really wanted to know what happened next to the wonderful Liz Lyon.
If Liz Lyon were a ‘real’ person I would love her as my friend. She is trustworthy, she has empathy, she is a mother, she cooks (Yeah!!) but the feature I find most endearing is her lack of confidence in her own ability. Liz Lyon is a woman of strength in the boardroom but at home she is constantly questioning her decisions, making her very human. Very often the modern day working woman is portrayed with a very hard and tough personality, but Liz is actually quite fragile. This portrayal of Liz makes her a very authentic character and also a more appealing one.
Liz lives with her teenage daughter Flo as a working single parent. Her ex now lives in Dubai, so Liz is very much the decision-maker of the household. In Woman of The Hour, the relationship between Liz and Flo is developed beautifully with all the tantrums associated with a teenager. In Behind Her Back, this special relationship between mother and daughter continues with a few extra bumps thrown in….think hair dye, boys and drama!!!
After Liz and Flo return from a fabulous couple of weeks in Italy, as Liz describes it ‘with a good tan and a hole in my finances', it’s not long before the holiday buzz wears off.
There have been changes made during Liz’s absence, with the arrival on the team of the formidable Lori Kerwell.
Lori’s agenda is quite clear…..profit!!!
Liz always had the trust of all her team, but after a couple of incidents in Woman of The Hour, Liz has to watch her back a little.
The main face of Story World, Fizzy Wentworth, has given birth. Fizzy, while on a very short maternity break, sees potential changes coming down the line, on her return, which will ultimately damage her career. Liz’s job is to make sure her team are happy and all working in harmony together, but there is some truth to what Fizzy is saying leaving Liz negotiating some very rough waters.
The atmosphere of this book is explosive.
There are huge egos to be dealt with, each with a very singular agenda. As Lori strikes (best word for her pincer like approach) with new ideas, she appeals to many of these individuals but to others, Liz included, a sense of impending doom descends.
Ratings are the life-blood of any TV show and Liz is faced with the outcome of some very disastrous decision-making. With her own personal life in a bit of a mess, Liz is no longer sure who to trust. Is everyone just out for themselves? Can she trust anyone anymore? What exactly IS going on behind her back?
Jane Lythell has written a novel that I thoroughly enjoyed. Behind Her Back deals with so many issues relevant to many today – a working mother, a single mother, workplace relationships, personal relationships, teenage angst and peer pressure, the need to fit in and be part of something as a teenager AND as an adult, the frenetic pace of life and the need for calmness and time-out – I could go on!!
Behind Her Back is a novel packed with drama and tension, yet for me it was a return to the pure escapism of a world I know absolutely nothing about. It’s a refreshing read and one I recommend to anyone looking for something a little lighter, yet sprinkled with real-life drama and a backstage view of what really happens behind the cameras of morning TV….
July 26, 2017
What goes on before the lights go on and after they go off, behind the scenes in an everyday TV show.
Storyworld is the UK, biggest day time tv show, with Liz Lyon as producer.
Trying to keep her team happy, while being a single mum, is not easy, and when you add to the mix, someone who thinks she knows everything, and is quite happy to set the fireworks off, step back and watch the explosions, Will Liz be able to do her magic, or will it all go terribly wrong. Temper tantrums, bitchy remarks and that's just the men! A real insight into the workings of daytime tv. You will never see it in the same light.
Storyworld is the UK, biggest day time tv show, with Liz Lyon as producer.
Trying to keep her team happy, while being a single mum, is not easy, and when you add to the mix, someone who thinks she knows everything, and is quite happy to set the fireworks off, step back and watch the explosions, Will Liz be able to do her magic, or will it all go terribly wrong. Temper tantrums, bitchy remarks and that's just the men! A real insight into the workings of daytime tv. You will never see it in the same light.
April 29, 2018
2.5 stars
September 27, 2017
I loved the first book in this series and couldn’t wait to read more about the characters. The author did not disappoint. Once again we are brought slap bang into the action. The way the author describes everything is so well done. I can only imagine how much is based on fact, and would love to be a fly on the wall during some of the scenes.
August 7, 2017
Actually 4.5 stars.
This is book two of a series so, as always, it is best to read book one first. Even though the main threads contained herein are, mostly, complete, as it is very character driven, some of whom have complex histories, to get the very best from it I would really recommend that you do read Woman of the Hour first.
We pick up where we left off, with Liz still the Head of Features for StoryWorld, a daytime magazine type show. She is also still trying to juggle this with all the rest of the things going on in her personal life, most notably her daughter, her ex-husband, and new to the equation, a bit of a rogue builder who has failed to fix her patio doors. If that isn't enough to contend with, there's a new face at work, Lori, employed directly by the station owner she swiftly inveigles herself into all aspects of the show, most of which being well beyond her job description (sales and marketing) and, well, basically makes the rest of their lives pretty much a living hell as sides are taken, lines are drawn and telling tales becomes a fine art as Lori aims to undermine Liz at every turn. But, as we know and remember from book one, Liz is not a woman to mess with. Expert at people managing, ego massaging, and not above a bit of duplicitous behaviour herself, she really goes all in here to restore calm. Well, as calm as life at StoryWorld ever gets!
The gang all returns here, their characters (both good, bad and somewhere inbetween) already established from book one, all continue to mature and develop along the way in this sequel.
One of the things I really love about this author's work is her characterisation. She gets right down to the nitty gritty straight away in this book with the clashes that flow throughout. Most noticeably between the two main presenters, aided and abetted by their agents. Talk about egos! As mentioned in my review for book one, with as many larger than life characters in the book, there is always a danger of them becoming caricatures but, like the series opener, the author just manages to stay mostly on the right side of things here too, at times though I have to say that Lori does skirt that line a tad at times.
Again, like the opener, there is also a lot going on in this book. There are many smaller stories that go hand in hand with the main one which makes the book a bit episodic in nature. This could have got a bit disjointed but the author manages to weave them all together in a way that the whole book just flows nicely along. Some of which are quite topical and current to what is going on in the real world. Most notably what is going on with Flo (Liz's teenage daughter) as she grows up and starts to worry about what her peers think of her, one of her colleagues endeavours to find somewhere to live, and more obviously, the attitudes around a single mother returning to work after having her child and the media's interest in "who's the daddy?"
Liz takes all this in her stride and manages to hang on to all that is going on in and around her as she also embarks on a new relationship herself. Talk about a fully loaded plate! But she manages this in a very real, down to earth way, using the skills she already has to pour oil on the troubled water around her in very credible ways. She most definitely comes across as a very real character; warts and all.
Fast paced and with a good injection of emotional content, at times also rather funny, occasionally akin to a car crash - you don't want to watch but you can't look away - this book kept my attention firmly throughout as I got a wee bit over involved at times; shouting at the characters and wanting to bang several heads together. I raced through it start to finish in only a couple of sittings.
All in all, a cracking follow up, making this a series that is now firmly planted on my watch list. I can't wait to see what shenanigans the author comes up with for book three.
My thanks go to the Publisher and Netgalley for the chance to read this book.
This is book two of a series so, as always, it is best to read book one first. Even though the main threads contained herein are, mostly, complete, as it is very character driven, some of whom have complex histories, to get the very best from it I would really recommend that you do read Woman of the Hour first.
We pick up where we left off, with Liz still the Head of Features for StoryWorld, a daytime magazine type show. She is also still trying to juggle this with all the rest of the things going on in her personal life, most notably her daughter, her ex-husband, and new to the equation, a bit of a rogue builder who has failed to fix her patio doors. If that isn't enough to contend with, there's a new face at work, Lori, employed directly by the station owner she swiftly inveigles herself into all aspects of the show, most of which being well beyond her job description (sales and marketing) and, well, basically makes the rest of their lives pretty much a living hell as sides are taken, lines are drawn and telling tales becomes a fine art as Lori aims to undermine Liz at every turn. But, as we know and remember from book one, Liz is not a woman to mess with. Expert at people managing, ego massaging, and not above a bit of duplicitous behaviour herself, she really goes all in here to restore calm. Well, as calm as life at StoryWorld ever gets!
The gang all returns here, their characters (both good, bad and somewhere inbetween) already established from book one, all continue to mature and develop along the way in this sequel.
One of the things I really love about this author's work is her characterisation. She gets right down to the nitty gritty straight away in this book with the clashes that flow throughout. Most noticeably between the two main presenters, aided and abetted by their agents. Talk about egos! As mentioned in my review for book one, with as many larger than life characters in the book, there is always a danger of them becoming caricatures but, like the series opener, the author just manages to stay mostly on the right side of things here too, at times though I have to say that Lori does skirt that line a tad at times.
Again, like the opener, there is also a lot going on in this book. There are many smaller stories that go hand in hand with the main one which makes the book a bit episodic in nature. This could have got a bit disjointed but the author manages to weave them all together in a way that the whole book just flows nicely along. Some of which are quite topical and current to what is going on in the real world. Most notably what is going on with Flo (Liz's teenage daughter) as she grows up and starts to worry about what her peers think of her, one of her colleagues endeavours to find somewhere to live, and more obviously, the attitudes around a single mother returning to work after having her child and the media's interest in "who's the daddy?"
Liz takes all this in her stride and manages to hang on to all that is going on in and around her as she also embarks on a new relationship herself. Talk about a fully loaded plate! But she manages this in a very real, down to earth way, using the skills she already has to pour oil on the troubled water around her in very credible ways. She most definitely comes across as a very real character; warts and all.
Fast paced and with a good injection of emotional content, at times also rather funny, occasionally akin to a car crash - you don't want to watch but you can't look away - this book kept my attention firmly throughout as I got a wee bit over involved at times; shouting at the characters and wanting to bang several heads together. I raced through it start to finish in only a couple of sittings.
All in all, a cracking follow up, making this a series that is now firmly planted on my watch list. I can't wait to see what shenanigans the author comes up with for book three.
My thanks go to the Publisher and Netgalley for the chance to read this book.
July 26, 2017
I really enjoyed this second instalment which follows the life of Liz Lyon and continues on from the first book Woman of the Hour. Once again, Lythell presents a good piece of fiction that feels like a very realistic portrayal of the real world of working in TV. The story is entertaining, amusing and dramatic but also has that sense that Liz is real and that this is a true insight into the world of television production. To me this novel feels akin to Bridget Jones - albeit a more serious Bridget Jones with a teenage daughter, who doesn't calorie count- although the cigarette breaks are still there! There is humour in the novel and there are characters who leap off the page but this is more a novel of drama, tension, suspense and complex dynamics and relationships.
When we join Liz at the beginning of this novel, there is a new member of the team - Lori Kerwell - who is discussed with "the verbal equivalent of rolling eyes". Lythell also introduces a sub plot surrounding another colleague, Fizzy, and her maternity leave. Lythell is very much concerned with the role of working women and creating a story which realistically portrays the juggle between family and work, the demands of women at work and isn't shy of raising a discussion on maternity leave and the pressure of women to return to work quickly to keep their jobs safe and the same as they were before they were pregnant. This is a novel that tries to capture the issues, dilemmas, dramas and successes of modern women.
The novel is heavily based on dialogue which feels like a script or TV show or a diary. It keeps the plot and action moving along with the pace and vitality which reflects the frenetic working environment at the TV studio. It also allows Lythell to create her characters through their words and interaction with others.
Liz Lyon's working environment is hectic, pressurised, relentless and full of office politics, expectation, hidden agendas and dubious motivations. It is fascinating to watch and although it is not an industry I know anything about, everyone can identify with aspects of the story or characters; everyone has experienced office politics or being placed in a tricky situation with clients or colleagues. There is enough exaggeration to make things humorous and funny so that we don't become stressed out by Liz's lief but I do think Lythell's talent is for evoking an atmosphere of frenetic pace, pressure, the continuous juggling, rushing around, fixing, antagonising and placating of everyone around you. She also makes StoryWorld somewhere the reader feels able to relate to and respond to.
But Behind Her Back is also a dramatic novel and there are sub plots about revenge, about the darker motivations of some characters and then the continuing tension between Liz and her daughter. There are questions about social media, dating, career over family, what it means to be 'driven' and a fantastic (fictional) interview with a (fictional) author who "dismissed the summer blockbuster as plot driven books that were more concerned with delivering a twist at the end than creating believable characters."
Lythell is an intelligent writer who has produced a book that taps into the issues that affect society, the home and the work place. It is about characters trying to negotiate their way through life, sometimes unchartered waters, sometimes waters that are full of unseen currents. It is well observed, well written, engaging and with a good balance of humour, sadness, tension and resolution to entertain and satisfy any reader.
When we join Liz at the beginning of this novel, there is a new member of the team - Lori Kerwell - who is discussed with "the verbal equivalent of rolling eyes". Lythell also introduces a sub plot surrounding another colleague, Fizzy, and her maternity leave. Lythell is very much concerned with the role of working women and creating a story which realistically portrays the juggle between family and work, the demands of women at work and isn't shy of raising a discussion on maternity leave and the pressure of women to return to work quickly to keep their jobs safe and the same as they were before they were pregnant. This is a novel that tries to capture the issues, dilemmas, dramas and successes of modern women.
The novel is heavily based on dialogue which feels like a script or TV show or a diary. It keeps the plot and action moving along with the pace and vitality which reflects the frenetic working environment at the TV studio. It also allows Lythell to create her characters through their words and interaction with others.
Liz Lyon's working environment is hectic, pressurised, relentless and full of office politics, expectation, hidden agendas and dubious motivations. It is fascinating to watch and although it is not an industry I know anything about, everyone can identify with aspects of the story or characters; everyone has experienced office politics or being placed in a tricky situation with clients or colleagues. There is enough exaggeration to make things humorous and funny so that we don't become stressed out by Liz's lief but I do think Lythell's talent is for evoking an atmosphere of frenetic pace, pressure, the continuous juggling, rushing around, fixing, antagonising and placating of everyone around you. She also makes StoryWorld somewhere the reader feels able to relate to and respond to.
But Behind Her Back is also a dramatic novel and there are sub plots about revenge, about the darker motivations of some characters and then the continuing tension between Liz and her daughter. There are questions about social media, dating, career over family, what it means to be 'driven' and a fantastic (fictional) interview with a (fictional) author who "dismissed the summer blockbuster as plot driven books that were more concerned with delivering a twist at the end than creating believable characters."
Lythell is an intelligent writer who has produced a book that taps into the issues that affect society, the home and the work place. It is about characters trying to negotiate their way through life, sometimes unchartered waters, sometimes waters that are full of unseen currents. It is well observed, well written, engaging and with a good balance of humour, sadness, tension and resolution to entertain and satisfy any reader.
August 20, 2017
3.5 stars
Behind Her Back is the sequel to Woman of the Hour and includes the same people as in the first novel, with the addition of one newcomer who promises to be the trouble maker of service. I’m talking about Lori, a new employee who waltzes into StoryWorld and does nothing short but take over the place. Her field of expertise is marketing and advertisement and it should stop there but Ms. Powerpoint has all sorts of brilliant ‘ideas’ and of course she gets her way every single time. She wheedles her way in the daily editorial meetings and she wants to have her say about everything. I guess everything can be proven with figures and charts but she certainly forgets about the human aspect, how everything was going smoothly before her arrival, and Liz will have to reconcile and appease different parties again. I don’t think you can blame Liz really for not warming up to her.
I really like the fact that this novel creates quite an intimate atmosphere by the way it was written, I had the impression I was almost reading Liz’ diary with her everyday troubles at work alternated with scenes of her home life. It wasn’t that at home it was all peachy either, she faces challenges on both fronts. I really felt for Liz, apart from her friend Fenton, she doesn’t have anyone to really unwind with. I was happy to see there was some romance in the air but the guy works at a rival station so can you really unburden yourself when he could be using it against you? Is he even really interested in her or more in the scoop about what is going on behind the scenes at StoryWorld ? I was left wondering about that and hoped Liz would be cautious. This led me to wonder as well if their relation would and could survive the fact that she couldn’t open up completely.
It didn’t take but a few pages to be plunged back into the pitpool of egos, and my god do those presenters have egos!, they have egos the size of a country and they have to be handled very carefully. In a very natural evolution there came to be two camps in this novel, camp Fizzy and camp Ledley. Although Ledley had his shortcomings and wasn’t playing fair at some point, I was on his side from the beginning. I felt he didn’t deserve to be treated this way and I came short to acknowledging that Liz really favoured presenter Fizzy, even if it meant grudgingly agreeing Lori had a valid point here. Fizzy is called the ‘Queen of Live TV’ but I didn’t like that she was being placed on such a pedestal. Not to say anything but she was a weather girl in the past so I didn’t understand the special treatment. It bothered me, even though I believe this must be something that is just a given in the tv world. I also didn’t feel much motherly love between Fizzy and her son Zachery which was a shame and only added to my unsympathetic feelings towards her.
Liz is a normal woman facing life’s hardships on her own, she’s a woman who cries and shouts too, she’s not a superwoman like so many heroines in books lately, so this was definitely refreshing to read. If you like to see how her life unfolds with ups and downs and get a little peek at the inner workings of the entertainment section of a TV station, you’ll enjoy this novel, it feels all too realistic. As Behind Her Back offers a little recap here and there about what happened in the first novel, I’d advise to read that one first if you’re interested, although this one can certainly be read as a standalone as well.
Behind Her Back is the sequel to Woman of the Hour and includes the same people as in the first novel, with the addition of one newcomer who promises to be the trouble maker of service. I’m talking about Lori, a new employee who waltzes into StoryWorld and does nothing short but take over the place. Her field of expertise is marketing and advertisement and it should stop there but Ms. Powerpoint has all sorts of brilliant ‘ideas’ and of course she gets her way every single time. She wheedles her way in the daily editorial meetings and she wants to have her say about everything. I guess everything can be proven with figures and charts but she certainly forgets about the human aspect, how everything was going smoothly before her arrival, and Liz will have to reconcile and appease different parties again. I don’t think you can blame Liz really for not warming up to her.
I really like the fact that this novel creates quite an intimate atmosphere by the way it was written, I had the impression I was almost reading Liz’ diary with her everyday troubles at work alternated with scenes of her home life. It wasn’t that at home it was all peachy either, she faces challenges on both fronts. I really felt for Liz, apart from her friend Fenton, she doesn’t have anyone to really unwind with. I was happy to see there was some romance in the air but the guy works at a rival station so can you really unburden yourself when he could be using it against you? Is he even really interested in her or more in the scoop about what is going on behind the scenes at StoryWorld ? I was left wondering about that and hoped Liz would be cautious. This led me to wonder as well if their relation would and could survive the fact that she couldn’t open up completely.
It didn’t take but a few pages to be plunged back into the pitpool of egos, and my god do those presenters have egos!, they have egos the size of a country and they have to be handled very carefully. In a very natural evolution there came to be two camps in this novel, camp Fizzy and camp Ledley. Although Ledley had his shortcomings and wasn’t playing fair at some point, I was on his side from the beginning. I felt he didn’t deserve to be treated this way and I came short to acknowledging that Liz really favoured presenter Fizzy, even if it meant grudgingly agreeing Lori had a valid point here. Fizzy is called the ‘Queen of Live TV’ but I didn’t like that she was being placed on such a pedestal. Not to say anything but she was a weather girl in the past so I didn’t understand the special treatment. It bothered me, even though I believe this must be something that is just a given in the tv world. I also didn’t feel much motherly love between Fizzy and her son Zachery which was a shame and only added to my unsympathetic feelings towards her.
Liz is a normal woman facing life’s hardships on her own, she’s a woman who cries and shouts too, she’s not a superwoman like so many heroines in books lately, so this was definitely refreshing to read. If you like to see how her life unfolds with ups and downs and get a little peek at the inner workings of the entertainment section of a TV station, you’ll enjoy this novel, it feels all too realistic. As Behind Her Back offers a little recap here and there about what happened in the first novel, I’d advise to read that one first if you’re interested, although this one can certainly be read as a standalone as well.
September 2, 2017
Now I will be open from the start – this is book two in the Storyworld series and I have not yet read the first. That said, I didn’t feel at a disadvantage starting here, other than knowing I’ve probably missed out on a very good read. Having read Behind Her Back I intend to remedy that as soon as I can as I really enjoyed this book and getting to know the character of Liz Lyon and the fictional world of morning television that she inhabits.
Liz is the Producer on a very successful morning television show, one that has been going through a period of change. The headline Anchor, Fizzy, is on maternity leave, due to return in just a few short weeks, but her replacement, Ledley, is getting very comfortable with his new role on the sofa. Throw in a new Marketing expert who seems hell bent on selling out the stations advertising space to low market, high revenue companies while simultaneously alienating practically everyone on the show, an ongoing fued with another of her colleagues, and a teenage daughter who is starting to give into hormonally charged mood swings and Liz’s life couldn’t be more complicated. Could it?
Well you’ll have to read the book to find out the answer to that one but let me assure you that what ensure is a mixture of light relief, budding romance and crossed swords with Liz caught in the middle of it all. I really liked the character of Liz, ever the peacekeeper, who is caught between her desire to keep the station and the show ticking over, and the need to protect herself from being caught up in the impending onslaught. She is a strong and witty character, but easily put upon and the demands of her job keep getting worse.
Liz is probably someone a lot of people will identify with – a single mother, trying to balance her career with doing the best for her daughter. She is strong without being domineering, but ultimately human and constantly second guessing herself. She is the exact opposite of Marketing expert Lori, who seems focused on only one thing and is willing to take down anyone who stands in her way, by fair means or foul. Liz is the kind of female role model that we need to see in fiction – realistic and charming, and successful without being a bitch, a trait that is all too often portrayed in successful women in modern literature. A very refreshing change.
As for the story – well I personally know nothing about what happens behind the scenes in a television show but everything about this seemed to ring true, probably due to Jane Lythell’s years of experience working on shows exactly like Storyworld. Each of the characters, especially the shows, anchors and the recurring guest presenters, read just like people you see on morning television today, the ego’s playing out perhaps stereotypically to a point, but certainly as you expect that the characters would behave, all ego and status crazy. The idea of the back-stabbing, the rumour mongering, in order to get ahead is something you read of every day in the media. Those ‘leaked’ stories and supposition that could make or break a career. The big secret in this case it the father of Fizzy’s child, an identity that Liz knows, but has sworn to keep to herself. This in itself is conflict enough, without Lori, who was employed directly by the station’s owner, seemingly out to get her.
Throw in a smattering of romance with a rival stations top presenter, and the camaraderie which Liz shares with her team and the stage is set for a cracking story. Told from Liz’s point of view, you can feel and sense her frustration as she tries to navigate the perilous waters she returns to after her holiday. There is a great sense of team and I loved the secondary characters that the author has created. They compliment Liz and the story. Ziggy’s story especially brings everything back to a more human level – takes us out of the ridiculous world of celebrity and brings home the facts of what real life is like for the people behind the camera’s.
This was a really enjoyable read for me, a nice break from all the murders and psychological thrillers I’ve been reading of late. Pacing was brilliant and the story and characters so engaging that I read the whole thing in one afternoon, without really realising I was doing it. I’m definitely looking forward to going back and seeing where is all started for Liz, but I do hope this isn’t the end of her story. I’d love to read more. This is the world of TV after all. There’s always one more scandal just around the corner.
Liz is the Producer on a very successful morning television show, one that has been going through a period of change. The headline Anchor, Fizzy, is on maternity leave, due to return in just a few short weeks, but her replacement, Ledley, is getting very comfortable with his new role on the sofa. Throw in a new Marketing expert who seems hell bent on selling out the stations advertising space to low market, high revenue companies while simultaneously alienating practically everyone on the show, an ongoing fued with another of her colleagues, and a teenage daughter who is starting to give into hormonally charged mood swings and Liz’s life couldn’t be more complicated. Could it?
Well you’ll have to read the book to find out the answer to that one but let me assure you that what ensure is a mixture of light relief, budding romance and crossed swords with Liz caught in the middle of it all. I really liked the character of Liz, ever the peacekeeper, who is caught between her desire to keep the station and the show ticking over, and the need to protect herself from being caught up in the impending onslaught. She is a strong and witty character, but easily put upon and the demands of her job keep getting worse.
Liz is probably someone a lot of people will identify with – a single mother, trying to balance her career with doing the best for her daughter. She is strong without being domineering, but ultimately human and constantly second guessing herself. She is the exact opposite of Marketing expert Lori, who seems focused on only one thing and is willing to take down anyone who stands in her way, by fair means or foul. Liz is the kind of female role model that we need to see in fiction – realistic and charming, and successful without being a bitch, a trait that is all too often portrayed in successful women in modern literature. A very refreshing change.
As for the story – well I personally know nothing about what happens behind the scenes in a television show but everything about this seemed to ring true, probably due to Jane Lythell’s years of experience working on shows exactly like Storyworld. Each of the characters, especially the shows, anchors and the recurring guest presenters, read just like people you see on morning television today, the ego’s playing out perhaps stereotypically to a point, but certainly as you expect that the characters would behave, all ego and status crazy. The idea of the back-stabbing, the rumour mongering, in order to get ahead is something you read of every day in the media. Those ‘leaked’ stories and supposition that could make or break a career. The big secret in this case it the father of Fizzy’s child, an identity that Liz knows, but has sworn to keep to herself. This in itself is conflict enough, without Lori, who was employed directly by the station’s owner, seemingly out to get her.
Throw in a smattering of romance with a rival stations top presenter, and the camaraderie which Liz shares with her team and the stage is set for a cracking story. Told from Liz’s point of view, you can feel and sense her frustration as she tries to navigate the perilous waters she returns to after her holiday. There is a great sense of team and I loved the secondary characters that the author has created. They compliment Liz and the story. Ziggy’s story especially brings everything back to a more human level – takes us out of the ridiculous world of celebrity and brings home the facts of what real life is like for the people behind the camera’s.
This was a really enjoyable read for me, a nice break from all the murders and psychological thrillers I’ve been reading of late. Pacing was brilliant and the story and characters so engaging that I read the whole thing in one afternoon, without really realising I was doing it. I’m definitely looking forward to going back and seeing where is all started for Liz, but I do hope this isn’t the end of her story. I’d love to read more. This is the world of TV after all. There’s always one more scandal just around the corner.
August 4, 2017
Behind Her Back is the second in the StoryWorld series by Jane Lythell. I haven't read the first one (Woman of the Hour) but this can easily be read as a standalone novel. Liz Lyon is a producer on popular morning tv programme Storyworld and has just returned from her holidays to find that changes are afoot for the programme and its staff, changes which look as though they will make her working life rather difficult. In particular, a new member of staff, Lori Kerwell, seems to be working to undermine Liz and Liz is beginning to wonder just how much is going on behind her back.
Although the tv world is not one that many of us will be familiar with, Jane Lythell shows that issues faced in that environment aren't much different from the more typical working world. Liz has to face a dilemma which will be familiar to many working mums, in particular single mums, how best to balance work and outside life. Just like many workplaces, office politics are all too evidently in play with suspicion and gossip but also camaraderie and support. Challenges facing women such as changes to working conditions when returning from maternity leave and pressures of working in a high profile, high pressure job are all too clear in the story concerning presenter Fizzy.
I have to say I didn't envy Liz as she was dealing with tabloid stories, the office rivalries, a possible new romantic interest in her life, dodgy builders as well as a teenage daughter and all the dramas surrounding her. Throughout the book though, Liz's integrity came across clearly. The mention of major news stories from recent months gave the story a very contemporary feel. I liked the way the story had quite an open ending, allowing the reader to make up their own minds about how certain storylines might resolve. This also left some avenues open to be continued in future StoryWorld novels and I'm certainly looking forward to seeing what happens next for Liz and the team.
Behind Her Back is an easy to read, enjoyable book and one of its strengths for me was Liz as a strong female lead character. Even though she has a high-flying job, she's a character I think that many women will be able to identify with. It gives an interesting insight into the world of daytime live tv broadcasting, with the author's own experiences used to great effect. It's a book which shows many of the challenges working women face and will have you firmly on the side of the main character.
Although the tv world is not one that many of us will be familiar with, Jane Lythell shows that issues faced in that environment aren't much different from the more typical working world. Liz has to face a dilemma which will be familiar to many working mums, in particular single mums, how best to balance work and outside life. Just like many workplaces, office politics are all too evidently in play with suspicion and gossip but also camaraderie and support. Challenges facing women such as changes to working conditions when returning from maternity leave and pressures of working in a high profile, high pressure job are all too clear in the story concerning presenter Fizzy.
I have to say I didn't envy Liz as she was dealing with tabloid stories, the office rivalries, a possible new romantic interest in her life, dodgy builders as well as a teenage daughter and all the dramas surrounding her. Throughout the book though, Liz's integrity came across clearly. The mention of major news stories from recent months gave the story a very contemporary feel. I liked the way the story had quite an open ending, allowing the reader to make up their own minds about how certain storylines might resolve. This also left some avenues open to be continued in future StoryWorld novels and I'm certainly looking forward to seeing what happens next for Liz and the team.
Behind Her Back is an easy to read, enjoyable book and one of its strengths for me was Liz as a strong female lead character. Even though she has a high-flying job, she's a character I think that many women will be able to identify with. It gives an interesting insight into the world of daytime live tv broadcasting, with the author's own experiences used to great effect. It's a book which shows many of the challenges working women face and will have you firmly on the side of the main character.
August 13, 2017
When Jane Lythell released Woman of the Hour as part of the StoryWorld series last year a fictional story based around life at a TV studio it was a break away from the thrillers that Jane had previously written and it really worked. I loved the idea of the story and the characters. I was delighted to hear that there would be a follow up and now just released through Head of Zeus is Behind Her Back and this I loved just as much as Woman of the Hour.
Jane Lythell writes with experience as she was a TV producer for many years so reading Behind Her Back does feel like you are a fly on the wall at StoryWorld. I really enjoyed the main character in Liz Lyon a busy single mother to a teenage daughter Flo. Now after an enjoyable holiday in Italy she is back at the TV studio but there is a new face that has joined the team. Just who is Lori Kerwell? Liz is such an endearing character you just want the best for her as she works so hard at the station and coping as a single mum with all the daily challenges. The station apparently has brought Lori in to help increase the ratings and therefore increase in profits but Liz feels there may be another reason for bringing in Lori. Something is going on and Liz is not being told.
As you can imagine there are some rather big egos at the station and at times for Liz it is like walking on broken glass as she tries to keep her team happy and motivated and working together. It is not long before the memories of the wonderful holiday in Italy start to fade as realisation dawn that something is going on and that feeling of wishing you had eyes in the back of your head really does come to the fore. Who does Liz really trust at the station now and why was she not told they were recruiting before she left for her holiday. Jane Lythell really has written a brilliant and gripping follow up. If you have not read Woman of the Hour you will want to after reading Behind Her Back. At times it is explosive and will have you turning the pages rather quickly as you will want to know what is really happening. This is quality drama and a slice of real life drama. Jane Lythell hits the right note again with this follow up novel and one I highly recommend.
352 Pages.
Jane Lythell writes with experience as she was a TV producer for many years so reading Behind Her Back does feel like you are a fly on the wall at StoryWorld. I really enjoyed the main character in Liz Lyon a busy single mother to a teenage daughter Flo. Now after an enjoyable holiday in Italy she is back at the TV studio but there is a new face that has joined the team. Just who is Lori Kerwell? Liz is such an endearing character you just want the best for her as she works so hard at the station and coping as a single mum with all the daily challenges. The station apparently has brought Lori in to help increase the ratings and therefore increase in profits but Liz feels there may be another reason for bringing in Lori. Something is going on and Liz is not being told.
As you can imagine there are some rather big egos at the station and at times for Liz it is like walking on broken glass as she tries to keep her team happy and motivated and working together. It is not long before the memories of the wonderful holiday in Italy start to fade as realisation dawn that something is going on and that feeling of wishing you had eyes in the back of your head really does come to the fore. Who does Liz really trust at the station now and why was she not told they were recruiting before she left for her holiday. Jane Lythell really has written a brilliant and gripping follow up. If you have not read Woman of the Hour you will want to after reading Behind Her Back. At times it is explosive and will have you turning the pages rather quickly as you will want to know what is really happening. This is quality drama and a slice of real life drama. Jane Lythell hits the right note again with this follow up novel and one I highly recommend.
352 Pages.
April 5, 2019
Introduction
When Liz, the television producer of the UK’s favourite morning show, returns from her holiday, things have changed at StoryWorld – and not for the best. Secrets, manipulations, and hidden alliances are dividing the once so strong team into two camps. What will happen to tv-star Fizzy and will Lesley, the new host, step aside? What is newcomer Lori’s role in it all and how much do her marketing tactics influence the show?
With a scam builder, a teenage daughter who has a habit of blaming her mother for everything, an over-indulgent ex and.. a new love interest, Liz’s life is pretty full at the moment! She also needs to avoid ‘diplomatic’ incidents as to Fizzy’s private affairs and to top it all, someone is leaking all the juicy details of Storyworld and its divisive team to the press… Follow me to StoryWorld TV Station, London Bridge!
My Thoughts
Who wouldn’t love to read all about the goings-on behind the scenes of a TV show? I would! I did! ‘Behind Her Back’ is a fascinating story of what goes on at the set of a TV show – and it shows that those stars we see on the screen each night are just human beings like you and I. The book is well-written and fascinating, the insights are brilliant. We are witness to a world in which keeping up appearances is important but which also includes bitch fights, manipulation, gossip and secrets.
Due to the many (some of which were a bit superfluous) details, at times I felt I was reading a biography rather than a work of fiction. Which also works quite well, seeing as there are so many characters – great characterisation, by the way, I could easily picture a few of them. Some I instantly disliked, some I empathised with, and some I just wanted to grow a pair! I admire Liz and would love to have her stance for being her own, independent self. She’s a hard worker and single mom and boy, does she have some irritating people (the all-professional but sneaky Lori to name one!) around her. Great characterisation!
‘Behind Her Back’ is enticing, entertaining, intriguing, fascinating, and gives us a fantastic insight into the (not so) glamorous world of television!
Read the review on my website: https://www.bitsaboutbooks.net/behind...
When Liz, the television producer of the UK’s favourite morning show, returns from her holiday, things have changed at StoryWorld – and not for the best. Secrets, manipulations, and hidden alliances are dividing the once so strong team into two camps. What will happen to tv-star Fizzy and will Lesley, the new host, step aside? What is newcomer Lori’s role in it all and how much do her marketing tactics influence the show?
With a scam builder, a teenage daughter who has a habit of blaming her mother for everything, an over-indulgent ex and.. a new love interest, Liz’s life is pretty full at the moment! She also needs to avoid ‘diplomatic’ incidents as to Fizzy’s private affairs and to top it all, someone is leaking all the juicy details of Storyworld and its divisive team to the press… Follow me to StoryWorld TV Station, London Bridge!
My Thoughts
Who wouldn’t love to read all about the goings-on behind the scenes of a TV show? I would! I did! ‘Behind Her Back’ is a fascinating story of what goes on at the set of a TV show – and it shows that those stars we see on the screen each night are just human beings like you and I. The book is well-written and fascinating, the insights are brilliant. We are witness to a world in which keeping up appearances is important but which also includes bitch fights, manipulation, gossip and secrets.
Due to the many (some of which were a bit superfluous) details, at times I felt I was reading a biography rather than a work of fiction. Which also works quite well, seeing as there are so many characters – great characterisation, by the way, I could easily picture a few of them. Some I instantly disliked, some I empathised with, and some I just wanted to grow a pair! I admire Liz and would love to have her stance for being her own, independent self. She’s a hard worker and single mom and boy, does she have some irritating people (the all-professional but sneaky Lori to name one!) around her. Great characterisation!
‘Behind Her Back’ is enticing, entertaining, intriguing, fascinating, and gives us a fantastic insight into the (not so) glamorous world of television!
Read the review on my website: https://www.bitsaboutbooks.net/behind...
May 18, 2019
Title: Behind her Back
Author: Jane Lythell
Publisher: Head of Zeus Ltd
Genre: General Fiction
Format: Paperback
Language: English
No. of pages: 368
My review:
After having read Woman of the Hour, I knew that I simply had to pick up Bhind her back as well. Liz Lyon returns with her crew in this sequel and it is a delight to see her navigate the rarely stable environment at work. Just like the first novel – Woman of the Hour, this one too just compels you to dive right in. Compared to the first book, I felt like this went at a slower rate, not that I am complaining.
Lythell has brought back the various themes we saw in the previous book as well, and she has not failed to keep them fresh. It is undoubtedly a new scenario and thus, new ways to work with. There is a new character this time in – Lori Kerwell, who is the new Head of Sales and Marketing. She is a difficult character I admit, one of those we see sucking up to the authority and trying to build a power base around their colleagues that they can dominate over.
I am quite happy to see Fizzy back and Zachary sounds amazing. I do have my complaints regarding her, but oh well! Ledley’s character has gone over some drastic change and it is bound to give you a shock when you read through. It is not pleasant but very understandable for the reader that power truly does something to the people.
Explosive secrets are nothing new on the StoryWorld station and this time it is no different. The romance element has a strong suit here and I really loved it. I found Douglas very understanding and ideal, although human and flawed in his own ways. Moreover, I loved how Harriet, Flo and Ziggy’s character arc have developed.
through Fizzy, we also get to see the, what one may call, the ‘darker’ side of motherhood/pregnancy. She is too worried about her figure, breastfeeding etc and hardly seems to devote enough time to her son. She repeatedly sems to be confused whether to choose her career or her baby. And oh my god, I still hate Bob.
Whatever your reactions may be, I bet they were as if you have known these characters in real life. That is how real Lythell makes them and I personally would not have them any other way.
Verdict:
I really enjoyed this book too and rate it a solid 4.5/5 stars!
Author: Jane Lythell
Publisher: Head of Zeus Ltd
Genre: General Fiction
Format: Paperback
Language: English
No. of pages: 368
My review:
After having read Woman of the Hour, I knew that I simply had to pick up Bhind her back as well. Liz Lyon returns with her crew in this sequel and it is a delight to see her navigate the rarely stable environment at work. Just like the first novel – Woman of the Hour, this one too just compels you to dive right in. Compared to the first book, I felt like this went at a slower rate, not that I am complaining.
Lythell has brought back the various themes we saw in the previous book as well, and she has not failed to keep them fresh. It is undoubtedly a new scenario and thus, new ways to work with. There is a new character this time in – Lori Kerwell, who is the new Head of Sales and Marketing. She is a difficult character I admit, one of those we see sucking up to the authority and trying to build a power base around their colleagues that they can dominate over.
I am quite happy to see Fizzy back and Zachary sounds amazing. I do have my complaints regarding her, but oh well! Ledley’s character has gone over some drastic change and it is bound to give you a shock when you read through. It is not pleasant but very understandable for the reader that power truly does something to the people.
Explosive secrets are nothing new on the StoryWorld station and this time it is no different. The romance element has a strong suit here and I really loved it. I found Douglas very understanding and ideal, although human and flawed in his own ways. Moreover, I loved how Harriet, Flo and Ziggy’s character arc have developed.
through Fizzy, we also get to see the, what one may call, the ‘darker’ side of motherhood/pregnancy. She is too worried about her figure, breastfeeding etc and hardly seems to devote enough time to her son. She repeatedly sems to be confused whether to choose her career or her baby. And oh my god, I still hate Bob.
Whatever your reactions may be, I bet they were as if you have known these characters in real life. That is how real Lythell makes them and I personally would not have them any other way.
Verdict:
I really enjoyed this book too and rate it a solid 4.5/5 stars!
October 7, 2017
I am delighted to have been invited on the blog tour for Behind Her Back, which is the second in the StoryWorld series. I read the first Woman of the Hour last year, and you can see what I thought of that here. If you haven't read Woman of the Hour then I would suggest that you should, although Behind Her Back reads well as a standalone novel.
I thoroughly enjoyed returning to StoryWorld and its many egos and characters. Once again the character of Liz Lyon jumps off of the page, a strong, independent woman who manages to hold down a highly pressured job whilst being a single mum. I like her a lot. Her work and home life are definitely split and I really enjoyed the scenes when she is at home with her daughter Flo in Chalk Farm. Home is where Liz can relax and feel at peace from the frenetic pace of her work life.
Liz has just returned from holiday and changes are afoot at StoryWorld. There is a new member of staff Lori Kerwell and it is a sure thing that things aren't going to be plain sailing. Fizzy, who we met in Woman of the Hour has had her baby. Liz knows a secret about that and as such is in a tricky position. Fizzy has such a big ego and I still didn't find her particularly likeable, although certainly relevant and adds much weight to the story.
Drama and tension ensue as the pace of the work environment is relentless and everyone seems to be looking out for and after themselves. I loved escaping back into StoryWorld, a place that is unfamiliar to me and yet the traits and dynamics of the characters are certainly ones I have come across in my working life.
Once again Jane Lythell has written an absorbing, current and engaging story that just hooked me in with enough drama and tension of another day at the office. There is great insight in this book about issues many face, particularly work-life balance, single parenthood and the pressures on people to succeed in a competitive and highly lucrative workplace.
Highly recommended.
I thoroughly enjoyed returning to StoryWorld and its many egos and characters. Once again the character of Liz Lyon jumps off of the page, a strong, independent woman who manages to hold down a highly pressured job whilst being a single mum. I like her a lot. Her work and home life are definitely split and I really enjoyed the scenes when she is at home with her daughter Flo in Chalk Farm. Home is where Liz can relax and feel at peace from the frenetic pace of her work life.
Liz has just returned from holiday and changes are afoot at StoryWorld. There is a new member of staff Lori Kerwell and it is a sure thing that things aren't going to be plain sailing. Fizzy, who we met in Woman of the Hour has had her baby. Liz knows a secret about that and as such is in a tricky position. Fizzy has such a big ego and I still didn't find her particularly likeable, although certainly relevant and adds much weight to the story.
Drama and tension ensue as the pace of the work environment is relentless and everyone seems to be looking out for and after themselves. I loved escaping back into StoryWorld, a place that is unfamiliar to me and yet the traits and dynamics of the characters are certainly ones I have come across in my working life.
Once again Jane Lythell has written an absorbing, current and engaging story that just hooked me in with enough drama and tension of another day at the office. There is great insight in this book about issues many face, particularly work-life balance, single parenthood and the pressures on people to succeed in a competitive and highly lucrative workplace.
Highly recommended.
September 7, 2021
I gave this a 4 stars or 8/10.
This book had been sat on my TBR pile for some time. I borrowed a copy of it from my local Library. After having recently read and enjoyed Woman of the Hour, the first in the StoryWorld series by this Author I bumped this book up. It made sense to read the book sooner rather than later in order to follow the story on and find out what fate had in store for Liz and her teenage daughter.
Liz has her work cut out, when a new employee is taken on by the TV station that she works at. It's not long before Lori the new Head of Sales and Marketing is colluding with someone that Liz has certain knowledge about that he would rather was kept hidden. Like many of us know, 'Knowledge can be Power' can Liz use that knowledge to her advantage or not? Meanwhile, in her private life things are on the up for Liz as she begins a new relationship, but her daughter isn't overly happy at this new scenario. Will things work out for Liz both professionally and personally?
This was a great read that continued on where Woman of the Hour left off. Jane Lythell writes well about the power struggles and problems that are encountered in the world of live TV, she draws on past experience and weaves a great story full of secrets, backstabbing and troubled relationships both at work and in the private lives of the characters.
April 9, 2019
I hadn’t read the previous book in the series but it didn’t take me long to get to know all the characters. It is different to what I usually read but sometimes a change is good and I’m glad that I took a chance on this book.
Daytime TV, or shows like the one featured are not something I usually pay any attention to. I’ve always felt they were ego driven, with competitive presenters who weren’t as friendly as they appeared on camera and were just a little fake. I hadn’t given a minutes thought to where somebody sitting on a sofa showed how important they were. Luckily much of the novel concerned Liz who worked behind the scenes and was fully aware of everybody’s ego and coped well with any brattish behaviour.
There were a few of Liz’s colleagues I didn’t warm too, maybe because I hadn’t read the earlier book or maybe because they were just unlikeable. I liked reading about what happened behind the scenes, how a programme came together and the things that went wrong. Especially with a presenter who wouldn’t do as they were told. I imagine that the author has seen a lot of bad behaviour in her previous career.
I loved her relationship with daughter Flo, it felt real and I could sense her loneliness and frustration at having to deal with teenage angst on her own. If there are future books in the series I would love to see more about the two of them.
Daytime TV, or shows like the one featured are not something I usually pay any attention to. I’ve always felt they were ego driven, with competitive presenters who weren’t as friendly as they appeared on camera and were just a little fake. I hadn’t given a minutes thought to where somebody sitting on a sofa showed how important they were. Luckily much of the novel concerned Liz who worked behind the scenes and was fully aware of everybody’s ego and coped well with any brattish behaviour.
There were a few of Liz’s colleagues I didn’t warm too, maybe because I hadn’t read the earlier book or maybe because they were just unlikeable. I liked reading about what happened behind the scenes, how a programme came together and the things that went wrong. Especially with a presenter who wouldn’t do as they were told. I imagine that the author has seen a lot of bad behaviour in her previous career.
I loved her relationship with daughter Flo, it felt real and I could sense her loneliness and frustration at having to deal with teenage angst on her own. If there are future books in the series I would love to see more about the two of them.
November 19, 2017
I couldn't help but feel as I was reading this book, that it was very timely given the current spate of revelations about abuse of power in the entertainment industry, something that was very well dealt with in the first book of this series, Woman of the Hour and which is again mentioned here. The fact that the author has behind the scenes knowledge of life in a TV studio shines out in this book, and makes the parts of the story set in that world very believable. I also really liked the portrayal of Liz's relationship with her teenage daughter , the ups and downs, tempers and tears, and especially how honestly it looks at the issues following the breakdown of a marriage, and moving on from that , for both the couple involved and their children. It was also nice to see so many familiar faces from the first book, particularly Ziggy , who I had a bit of a soft spot for, and Fizzy who can always be counted on to bring the drama to any situation.
I really thought I would be rating this book higher, but then I came to the ending, or rather the stop. Unfortunately it really felt far too abrupt and left so many things unresolved that I actually thought I had somehow skipped some pages and went back to check. The book really felt disappointingly unfinished to me , which is why I am giving it 3 instead of my originally planned 4 stars.
I really thought I would be rating this book higher, but then I came to the ending, or rather the stop. Unfortunately it really felt far too abrupt and left so many things unresolved that I actually thought I had somehow skipped some pages and went back to check. The book really felt disappointingly unfinished to me , which is why I am giving it 3 instead of my originally planned 4 stars.
February 15, 2018
Office politics at its highest is abundant in this book. We all know that somebody who starts in their new job role and brown noses with the bosses. Doesn’t matter who they step on to get there. This is what is happening to Liz. Liz has a stressful job but want’s to prove to her 15 year old daughter that women can push themselves and get to the top. The new girl Lori you would think would be best buddies with the only other female colleague Liz, but that’s not what happens and Liz has to watch her back.
I like the author’s style in Behind her back, its fresh and I found quite easy going. It left me wanting to see what happens in the next book. I didn’t find it hard to get into seeing that I missed book one, but I think I will head back and give it a read.
I’m giving Behind her back 4 out of 5 stars.
I like the author’s style in Behind her back, its fresh and I found quite easy going. It left me wanting to see what happens in the next book. I didn’t find it hard to get into seeing that I missed book one, but I think I will head back and give it a read.
I’m giving Behind her back 4 out of 5 stars.
August 9, 2017
I loved this so much. I didn't realise it was a follow on to Woman of the Hour but it read fine as a standalone. I did however, immediately go and buy the first book as I enjoyed this so much. Fantastic characters both likeable and dislikable. I loved the main narrater Liz. She is a wonderful character - a normal woman with a great but demanding job, a single mother to a teenager and a shoulder for many of her colleagues. I would go for wine with this lady! This is not a drama with a 'twist' but a really entertaining, cleverly written almost diary of a woman in a tough working world with office politics, rivalry and humour. I would love a Book 3 and 4....... A lovely read.
August 10, 2017
I have really enjoyed all of this author's books. I think she has a brilliant writing style where there isn't an over reliance on speech, nor of descriptions, it is the perfect balance. Her stories are written so well you feel like a fly on the wall. With this, it felt a memoir rather than a novel it was so good. It had me turning page after page long into the night. It felt as if the ending was a bit abrupt. I hope that's because there's (a lot) more to come.
I hope to never work in such a toxic environment- but I loved the ways of coping with it - baking and walking and the garden.
Simply excellent.
I hope to never work in such a toxic environment- but I loved the ways of coping with it - baking and walking and the garden.
Simply excellent.
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