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The America Trilogy #1
In The Middle of Middle America
The smallest towns hold the biggest secrets...
★★★★★
"A modern masterpiece" - The Book Literati
WHEN LIVES ENTANGLE, WEBS WILL WEAVE... A teacher. A soldier. An immigrant. A joker. A loner. A chancer. A carer. A mosaic of seven townsfolk are going about their days, blissfully unaware their lives are about to interweave, interchange and interact; entangling into such a messy web that, together — and unbeknownst to them — they end up changing the face of America forevermore... In the mold of movies such as Traffic, Magnolia & The Usual Suspects, In the Middle of Middle America follows multiple characters, allowing the reader to become a fly on the wall to observe seven lives entangling into such a mess that it all leads to a head-spinning twist.
"The most powerful book you'll read this year…" - Jeffrey Toyer
" Simply outstanding” – The Book Magnet
PRAISE FOR DAVID B. LYONS ★★★★★ “Keeps you guessing right until the end” – Mail On Sunday ★★★★★ “Simply outstanding” – The Book Magnet ★★★★★ “Impossible to put down” – The Book Literati ★★★★★ “So powerful” – The Writing Garnet ★★★★★ “Clever, brilliant, gripping” – Nicki’s BookBlog ★★★★★ “Utterly clever” – Novel Deelights
★★★★★
"A modern masterpiece" - The Book Literati
WHEN LIVES ENTANGLE, WEBS WILL WEAVE... A teacher. A soldier. An immigrant. A joker. A loner. A chancer. A carer. A mosaic of seven townsfolk are going about their days, blissfully unaware their lives are about to interweave, interchange and interact; entangling into such a messy web that, together — and unbeknownst to them — they end up changing the face of America forevermore... In the mold of movies such as Traffic, Magnolia & The Usual Suspects, In the Middle of Middle America follows multiple characters, allowing the reader to become a fly on the wall to observe seven lives entangling into such a mess that it all leads to a head-spinning twist.
"The most powerful book you'll read this year…" - Jeffrey Toyer
" Simply outstanding” – The Book Magnet
PRAISE FOR DAVID B. LYONS ★★★★★ “Keeps you guessing right until the end” – Mail On Sunday ★★★★★ “Simply outstanding” – The Book Magnet ★★★★★ “Impossible to put down” – The Book Literati ★★★★★ “So powerful” – The Writing Garnet ★★★★★ “Clever, brilliant, gripping” – Nicki’s BookBlog ★★★★★ “Utterly clever” – Novel Deelights
362 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 7, 2021
756 people are currently reading
1479 people want to read
About the author
David B. Lyons
25 books140 followersDavid B. Lyons is an international bestselling author from Dublin, Ireland
He writes psychological thriller novels and has achieved No.1 rankings in the Amazon crime charts in Ireland, the UK, Canada and Australia.
Former freelance journalist David grew up in Dublin - the city his novels are set - but currently spends his time between Birmingham in the UK and the Irish capital. David is married to a Brummie, Kerry, and they have one daughter, Lola.
Before becoming a novelist David was a football writer, a celebrity columnist and a music reviewer. He has lectured in Journalism and in Creative Writing in colleges and universities in both Ireland and in the UK.
You can connect with David here:
Website: TheOpenAuthor.com
Twitter: @TheOpenAuthor
Facebook: www.facebook.com/AuthorDavidBLyons/
He writes psychological thriller novels and has achieved No.1 rankings in the Amazon crime charts in Ireland, the UK, Canada and Australia.
Former freelance journalist David grew up in Dublin - the city his novels are set - but currently spends his time between Birmingham in the UK and the Irish capital. David is married to a Brummie, Kerry, and they have one daughter, Lola.
Before becoming a novelist David was a football writer, a celebrity columnist and a music reviewer. He has lectured in Journalism and in Creative Writing in colleges and universities in both Ireland and in the UK.
You can connect with David here:
Website: TheOpenAuthor.com
Twitter: @TheOpenAuthor
Facebook: www.facebook.com/AuthorDavidBLyons/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 129 reviews
July 27, 2021
In The Middle of Middle America is the new, stand alone thriller from David B Lyons. Set in 1997, in quite literary the middle of America, Lebanon, Kansas, this is a character driven novel, told from the point of view of seven very different characters, all with their own story whose lives weave a web that changes their lives, and that of their community forever.
This is a very. different kind of thriller where you have no idea of the crime that is to be committed until you get to the end of the book, and no I didn’t work any of it out. The seven characters all live in the town of Lebanon Kansas, your typical small town in middle America. There is the family recently moved from Ireland, much to the chagrin of the teenage daughter, a young girl and her sister caring for their mother at home as they cant’ afford the medical costs, a fottball jock, the loner who runs the school newspaper and a young man who is trying to come to terms with who hew reaaly is. The other voices are a soldier just returned from the Middle East and a teacher a the local school who is desperate to have a baby. Running along the lives of these characters, to whom we are a fly on the wall, is the story of Sarah Jane Zdanski, a local journalist now head hunted by one of the large networks to host a new show of important interviews, but just who she is interviewing is a mystery, to the nation and the reader; all we know is that it is drawing in big viewer numbers and will change her career. We are voyeurs to the lives of these characters, we are privy to their inner thoughts, to their highs and lows and to the relationships they develop, and all the time left trying to work out how their lives ultimately change forever.
Set in 1997 David B Lyons shows a very different America to the one of today, and I found some of the reading quite uncomfortable. Through Sarah-Jane’s story we see how the entertainment industry was run by middle age men and where the ‘casting couch’ was still going on. Men decided how she should wear her hair, what dress she should wear, and even dress-up for a ‘lunch’ with her boss. In the wake of the #MeToo movement this kind of behaviour is thankfully on the way out, but is a stark reminder that not too long ago this behaviour was the norm. There are some very difficult issues raised in this book, many still faced by Americans today; mental health, a sexuality, cost of health care and race.
In The Midle of Middle America was a book that kept me guessing until the very last chapter. The characters are beautifully crafted, relatable and fascinating, all facing their own private issues that we go through with them. David B Lyons certainly kept me guessing with where this book was going, the tension building in as to who is Sarah-Jane Zdanski will be interviewing, and how all the intricate threads will knit together. Well written, powerful and very thought provoking, this is another brilliant and unputdownable novel from David B Lyons.
This is a very. different kind of thriller where you have no idea of the crime that is to be committed until you get to the end of the book, and no I didn’t work any of it out. The seven characters all live in the town of Lebanon Kansas, your typical small town in middle America. There is the family recently moved from Ireland, much to the chagrin of the teenage daughter, a young girl and her sister caring for their mother at home as they cant’ afford the medical costs, a fottball jock, the loner who runs the school newspaper and a young man who is trying to come to terms with who hew reaaly is. The other voices are a soldier just returned from the Middle East and a teacher a the local school who is desperate to have a baby. Running along the lives of these characters, to whom we are a fly on the wall, is the story of Sarah Jane Zdanski, a local journalist now head hunted by one of the large networks to host a new show of important interviews, but just who she is interviewing is a mystery, to the nation and the reader; all we know is that it is drawing in big viewer numbers and will change her career. We are voyeurs to the lives of these characters, we are privy to their inner thoughts, to their highs and lows and to the relationships they develop, and all the time left trying to work out how their lives ultimately change forever.
Set in 1997 David B Lyons shows a very different America to the one of today, and I found some of the reading quite uncomfortable. Through Sarah-Jane’s story we see how the entertainment industry was run by middle age men and where the ‘casting couch’ was still going on. Men decided how she should wear her hair, what dress she should wear, and even dress-up for a ‘lunch’ with her boss. In the wake of the #MeToo movement this kind of behaviour is thankfully on the way out, but is a stark reminder that not too long ago this behaviour was the norm. There are some very difficult issues raised in this book, many still faced by Americans today; mental health, a sexuality, cost of health care and race.
In The Midle of Middle America was a book that kept me guessing until the very last chapter. The characters are beautifully crafted, relatable and fascinating, all facing their own private issues that we go through with them. David B Lyons certainly kept me guessing with where this book was going, the tension building in as to who is Sarah-Jane Zdanski will be interviewing, and how all the intricate threads will knit together. Well written, powerful and very thought provoking, this is another brilliant and unputdownable novel from David B Lyons.
July 18, 2021
Once again David B. Lyons managed to completely threw me and left me speechless. The author created an intriguing esemble of characters and allows the reader to dive deep into their minds. The story is building and buidling and yet you have no clue where this is going.
I was so sure, this time I would catch the twist. I even made a clue list and everything. Well.. once again the ending hit me like a brick wall! Yet another faboulous book that will stick in my mind for a very long time!
I was so sure, this time I would catch the twist. I even made a clue list and everything. Well.. once again the ending hit me like a brick wall! Yet another faboulous book that will stick in my mind for a very long time!
October 1, 2021
Didn't see that ending coming! Although I liked this book, the timeline has me confused. Now that I know how it ends, I feel like I need to read it again to figure out how it all came together. The character/point of view changes made me stop and think at each change: who is speaking now? What's their story. Not necessarily a bad thing, just a comment on how I kept my head in the story. A good read, if a bit confusing.
April 12, 2022
The last book I read was a struggle because of its lack of plot. I sought this one out because it seemed surely to have one.
Especially once I finished it, once discovered how the various characters — each a narrator — come together in one tumultuous ending, I had to acknowledge that it does have a plot.
So, yeah, I read quickly to see both how it ended and how all the loose ends would get tied. Despite the claims, the ending was not so shocking, though I would commend the author for a particular warping of time that is hard to foresee.
Unfortunately, in so many other areas I cannot commend this work.
DIALOGUE/NARRATION. The “voices,” both spoken and in the form of the interior monologues, are far from believable. At times it may be because it is an Irish writer trying to sound American, but on so many occasions the characters just don’t sound authentic. Professionals — a famous journalist, a teacher, a school principal, a network CEO — all speak and think in low-class, slang-infested, ungrammatical ways that challenge credibility. The one Black family sounds stereotypically poor, uneducated and even Southern. (This is northern Kansas.) The goth who is misunderstood by all narrates with words like “hundard” and “prolly.” Is he dark and depressed or some funky reincarnation of Huck Finn?
SENSATIONALISM. The basic irony of the book is that “middle America,” which is supposed to be home of the Protestant work ethic and strong family values, is actually a cesspool where everyone you meet is some representation of this country’s various deadly sins: toxic masculinity, political divisions, pornography, prostitution, violence, ignorant/insensitive parents and a lack of compassionate health care. Any one of these points is valid, but they seem piled on, extreme.
THE SAVIORS. I love reading about Irish characters, and I am proud of my abundant Irish ancestry. But Caoimhe and to a lesser extent her family come across as saviors. They may not literally “save” everything and everyone — and that’s all I will say to avoid spoilers — but there is a sense that the outsiders have a perspective that is morally superior to those stuck in Lebanon, KS.
The last two criticisms, put together, make this book guilty of being both sanctimonious and contrived.
This slice of “middle America” should make a reader sad and angry. Instead, I felt, “Oh, that was it?”
Especially once I finished it, once discovered how the various characters — each a narrator — come together in one tumultuous ending, I had to acknowledge that it does have a plot.
So, yeah, I read quickly to see both how it ended and how all the loose ends would get tied. Despite the claims, the ending was not so shocking, though I would commend the author for a particular warping of time that is hard to foresee.
Unfortunately, in so many other areas I cannot commend this work.
DIALOGUE/NARRATION. The “voices,” both spoken and in the form of the interior monologues, are far from believable. At times it may be because it is an Irish writer trying to sound American, but on so many occasions the characters just don’t sound authentic. Professionals — a famous journalist, a teacher, a school principal, a network CEO — all speak and think in low-class, slang-infested, ungrammatical ways that challenge credibility. The one Black family sounds stereotypically poor, uneducated and even Southern. (This is northern Kansas.) The goth who is misunderstood by all narrates with words like “hundard” and “prolly.” Is he dark and depressed or some funky reincarnation of Huck Finn?
SENSATIONALISM. The basic irony of the book is that “middle America,” which is supposed to be home of the Protestant work ethic and strong family values, is actually a cesspool where everyone you meet is some representation of this country’s various deadly sins: toxic masculinity, political divisions, pornography, prostitution, violence, ignorant/insensitive parents and a lack of compassionate health care. Any one of these points is valid, but they seem piled on, extreme.
THE SAVIORS. I love reading about Irish characters, and I am proud of my abundant Irish ancestry. But Caoimhe and to a lesser extent her family come across as saviors. They may not literally “save” everything and everyone — and that’s all I will say to avoid spoilers — but there is a sense that the outsiders have a perspective that is morally superior to those stuck in Lebanon, KS.
The last two criticisms, put together, make this book guilty of being both sanctimonious and contrived.
This slice of “middle America” should make a reader sad and angry. Instead, I felt, “Oh, that was it?”
July 27, 2024
If I can’t put a book down, it has to be a five. My only comment “too close for comfort.”
August 7, 2021
What happened David?
I've read all of David Lyons books and have enjoyed them but no matter how hard I tried I could not get through this one. Very slow, too many people to keep straight. I was raised in Kansas and found this far fetched.
I've read all of David Lyons books and have enjoyed them but no matter how hard I tried I could not get through this one. Very slow, too many people to keep straight. I was raised in Kansas and found this far fetched.
December 1, 2021
Wow, this book and David Lyon’s characters kept me going all the way to the end! The ending is not what I expected until the last 3 chapters.
Just a heads up for those that might be offended, there are some explicit sexual mentions in some of the chapters in this book. This content fits with the age group that it has to do with, but at one point I almost quit reading it.
I am glad I did not quit!
Just a heads up for those that might be offended, there are some explicit sexual mentions in some of the chapters in this book. This content fits with the age group that it has to do with, but at one point I almost quit reading it.
I am glad I did not quit!
October 2, 2022
Took me a while to enjoy this as I found the many characters hard to keep track of. I also found some of the interactions between the boys unessasarily juvenile. However it came together well and I will read the sequel.
May 3, 2024
I’m not totally sure how I feel about this one. The story follows seven characters tied together in the small town of Lebanon. There were a few quotes about America and news in America that stood out to me and there are definitely parts to talk about( including the surprise ending), but the overall writing was just ok. I am curious about the sequel though.
March 15, 2025
It kept me turning pages. It's 4 stars because the dialog just seemed to keep going and going with no real end to the story or movement until the last few chapters. Then there is 2 more books so you still don't get the end of the story.
March 4, 2022
I loved Lyons comment on the American media.
Overall, the book is a well-done character driven book. He addresses sexual harassment and transgender issues along with teen suicide.
However, Lyons has never been to North Central nor rural Kansas. In a town such a Lebanon there is going to be only one high school. Smith Center is mentioned and for many years they had the most winning team in high school football history. Check out Joe Draper's Our Boys for that information. I don't know of a small community in Kansas where you would $53 on a salad and a hamburger without alcoholic drinks. The nearest McDonald's is probably about 30 miles away. They also would not have a taxi service. I also doubt Smith Center would offer IVF treatment; however, AI is very common with hogs and cattle in that area.
The timeline is off because we are building up for Sarah-Jane's first show on network television. However, the show is on Thursday and the event happens on Friday. I don't see where either of the events in Lebanon would make national news.
How did I find this book? I found this though an ad on Facebook. I went ahead and purchased it because it takes place in Kansas where I've lived my entire life, and Lyons is a family name.
Overall, the book is a well-done character driven book. He addresses sexual harassment and transgender issues along with teen suicide.
However, Lyons has never been to North Central nor rural Kansas. In a town such a Lebanon there is going to be only one high school. Smith Center is mentioned and for many years they had the most winning team in high school football history. Check out Joe Draper's Our Boys for that information. I don't know of a small community in Kansas where you would $53 on a salad and a hamburger without alcoholic drinks. The nearest McDonald's is probably about 30 miles away. They also would not have a taxi service. I also doubt Smith Center would offer IVF treatment; however, AI is very common with hogs and cattle in that area.
The timeline is off because we are building up for Sarah-Jane's first show on network television. However, the show is on Thursday and the event happens on Friday. I don't see where either of the events in Lebanon would make national news.
How did I find this book? I found this though an ad on Facebook. I went ahead and purchased it because it takes place in Kansas where I've lived my entire life, and Lyons is a family name.
July 26, 2021
OMG! This may very well be one of the best books I have ever read. Just scroll down to the bottom of my review and click the buy link now - you will not be disappointed. For anyone still reading, I'll tell you why I loved this book so much.
With a number of character storylines to follow, it is indeed a tangled web that is woven by David B. Lyons in his latest novel, In the Middle of Middle America. There may be a decent number of characters but it never gets confusing as each one is brought to life through the absolutely flawless writing and I really cared about each and every one of them. Even the small town location of Lebanon, Kansas feels like almost a character in itself and there really is a monument there marking the very centre of America.
This book is so perfectly plotted that it will blow your mind. I know I was left like a gaping fish out of water at the end, gasping for breath and flapping around in excitement as the magnitude of the absolute masterpiece I had just experienced finally hit me. David B. Lyons is the Master of Misdirection and this is without doubt his magnum opus - it really is nothing short of a masterpiece. Stand up and take a bow, Mr Lyons! I certainly gave him a virtual round of applause at the end.
Five stars is not enough for In the Middle of Middle America; it's simply outstanding! Honestly, I can't stop raving about this book - it's an absolute MUST READ! It's a book I would like to read again, even though I now know the awesome twist, just to see how cleverly it is written. David B. Lyons is such a talented wordsmith and coupled with his intricate plotting makes him one of the cleverest authors I've come across.
Easily my favourite book of 2021, In the Middle of Middle America is an outstanding small town mystery suspense that sure packs a big punch. I challenge you to read a better book this year! I don't just recommend it, I implore you to read it - I guarantee you won't regret it.
I received a digital ARC from the author to read and review; this is my honest and unbiased opinion.
With a number of character storylines to follow, it is indeed a tangled web that is woven by David B. Lyons in his latest novel, In the Middle of Middle America. There may be a decent number of characters but it never gets confusing as each one is brought to life through the absolutely flawless writing and I really cared about each and every one of them. Even the small town location of Lebanon, Kansas feels like almost a character in itself and there really is a monument there marking the very centre of America.
This book is so perfectly plotted that it will blow your mind. I know I was left like a gaping fish out of water at the end, gasping for breath and flapping around in excitement as the magnitude of the absolute masterpiece I had just experienced finally hit me. David B. Lyons is the Master of Misdirection and this is without doubt his magnum opus - it really is nothing short of a masterpiece. Stand up and take a bow, Mr Lyons! I certainly gave him a virtual round of applause at the end.
Five stars is not enough for In the Middle of Middle America; it's simply outstanding! Honestly, I can't stop raving about this book - it's an absolute MUST READ! It's a book I would like to read again, even though I now know the awesome twist, just to see how cleverly it is written. David B. Lyons is such a talented wordsmith and coupled with his intricate plotting makes him one of the cleverest authors I've come across.
Easily my favourite book of 2021, In the Middle of Middle America is an outstanding small town mystery suspense that sure packs a big punch. I challenge you to read a better book this year! I don't just recommend it, I implore you to read it - I guarantee you won't regret it.
I received a digital ARC from the author to read and review; this is my honest and unbiased opinion.
March 11, 2023
In the Middle of Middle America by David Lyons
I felt compelled to continue reading this book because I needed to know wtf the plot was. Repetitive themes (there was a handful of characters, this did not bother me) it was clear what was going on. It took a very long time to get to the point. The two jocks story lines was overly ridiculous. Honestly, I highly doubt at any time, even in 1997, boys just sat there only talking about jerking their junk all day long. No other conversations. I was honestly annoyed that the author thought that was all those boys had to offer. They were athletes, athletes have a lot more on their minds than that. I mean vaginas are great, but come on. 🙄 It felt like the author had a very immature and stereotypical idea of what a high school jock/Athlete was supposed to be like and decided that was correct. The ending felt rushed, like the author was forced to finally do something and banked it all on the ackward kid. Instead of extrapolating upon a major life issue that the author presented in this kids life, he just said eff it let’s end this thing here and now!
Pluses- author crafted characters I really cared about. This is the reason I even finished this book. give me a couple of characters to care about and I will see a book through. I enjoyed the “point” of companies and advertising interests driving our news, this was such an important and relevant thing.
Minus’s- repetitive. Felt like 1997 timeline was actually 2020+. As if the author forced/superimposed today on yesterday. Typos, needed editing (I usually look past this if a book has great characters, a beginning, middle, and end that come together properly) plot was so thin that it almost failed, ending was rushed, ending would have been better with more backstory.
This is a series. I almost want to read the next one to see if it redeems itself. So, that says something about the characters he crafted, at the very least. 🙂
I felt compelled to continue reading this book because I needed to know wtf the plot was. Repetitive themes (there was a handful of characters, this did not bother me) it was clear what was going on. It took a very long time to get to the point. The two jocks story lines was overly ridiculous. Honestly, I highly doubt at any time, even in 1997, boys just sat there only talking about jerking their junk all day long. No other conversations. I was honestly annoyed that the author thought that was all those boys had to offer. They were athletes, athletes have a lot more on their minds than that. I mean vaginas are great, but come on. 🙄 It felt like the author had a very immature and stereotypical idea of what a high school jock/Athlete was supposed to be like and decided that was correct. The ending felt rushed, like the author was forced to finally do something and banked it all on the ackward kid. Instead of extrapolating upon a major life issue that the author presented in this kids life, he just said eff it let’s end this thing here and now!
Pluses- author crafted characters I really cared about. This is the reason I even finished this book. give me a couple of characters to care about and I will see a book through. I enjoyed the “point” of companies and advertising interests driving our news, this was such an important and relevant thing.
Minus’s- repetitive. Felt like 1997 timeline was actually 2020+. As if the author forced/superimposed today on yesterday. Typos, needed editing (I usually look past this if a book has great characters, a beginning, middle, and end that come together properly) plot was so thin that it almost failed, ending was rushed, ending would have been better with more backstory.
This is a series. I almost want to read the next one to see if it redeems itself. So, that says something about the characters he crafted, at the very least. 🙂
August 30, 2021
I really liked this book but felt it really needed some editing. The first thing that jumped out at me was the author stated that Lucy had a number of unsuccessful AID (artificial insemination by donor) attempts and was now trying IVF but the IVF process was not accurately described. It involves hormones to stimulate ovulation, muliple egg harvesting and fertilisation and growth to embryo stage in vitro. Only then are viable embryos chosen and implanted. Instead Lucy is described as attending the clinic when she is ovulating and then imagining the sperm swimming toward her egg. this describes AID, not IVF. Secondly, the time-frame of Sarah-Jane's debut on a national network was all wrong because she and her producer attended the school shooting as they were the closest reporting team while they were still working for PBS, therefore, Lucy's students could not have been given the homework of watching Sarah-Janes début interviews on national television, as she only acquired this job due to the recognition she received reporting on the school shooting while she was still at PBS. I also think the shooter's transition from shy boy to mass-murderer could have been developed further, particularly the effect of discovering his mother was a prostitute. If these issues were addressed in a future edit, the book would rate a higher star rating. I really liked the mix of characters and the descriptions of adolescent psychology.
November 2, 2024
I really enjoyed this book. I liked the way the chapters were each devoted to one individual character. I became invested in the lives of all seven of them.
This is a very powerful, important book and one whose storyline will stay with me for quite some time. The ending had me sobbing for 30 minutes. These are truly tragedies happening in every part of America. The author’s description of our news media was spot-on as well. Journalists and reporters are being paid to entertain and sway us - they no longer just inform or educate us with facts and evidence.
I will be reading the sequel to this book
This is a very powerful, important book and one whose storyline will stay with me for quite some time. The ending had me sobbing for 30 minutes. These are truly tragedies happening in every part of America. The author’s description of our news media was spot-on as well. Journalists and reporters are being paid to entertain and sway us - they no longer just inform or educate us with facts and evidence.
I will be reading the sequel to this book
October 14, 2022
I don't often give books a five star rating, however, this one is a definite ***** rate.
Nothing of note really happens, but the undertone of something about to happen threads throughout the novel.
Set literally in the middle of America in a small town, where it appears nothing really happens, and to be fair nothing really does.
I liked the way the story is laid out is through the eyes of the characters,, which may not be to everyones taste. Each chapter is a different character and we see the story build from within their minds and thoughts.
The characters themselves are a diverse bunch. The main one being a news anchor, with a supporting cast comprising of, a school teacher and kids in her class. Two of the boys are pulled directly out of the TV series The Inbetweeners, if you are British you'll probably understand how their minds, like lots of teenage boys work!
There's a returning soldier trying to reconnect to his family, a head teacher (principle) who seems a bit odd, a TV producer who is one of the oddest characters and seldom speaks. A goth, who is desperate for friendship and or love. A young Irish girl who has just moved to the USA with her family and hates the place at the start. There are several other but this is gives you a general idea of how the story flows.
Altogether they build and intriguing story that I found hard to put down because I just got so involved with their lives and where it would lead to bring them altogether. You have to wait until the final chapter to find that out, no spoilers from me but it does have a surprising end.
I enjoyed it so much I immediately downloaded the second in the series (free on Amazon unlimited) and now looking forward to getting my teeth into it.
This is an easy to read novel with a great mixture of characters, don't be put off by the amount of them the author has written it to ensure the story flows really well.
I have no doubt some will find it not to their taste, after all one persons meat is another's poison. Just go in with an open mind and let the author and characters take you on a journey through the middle of middle America.
Nothing of note really happens, but the undertone of something about to happen threads throughout the novel.
Set literally in the middle of America in a small town, where it appears nothing really happens, and to be fair nothing really does.
I liked the way the story is laid out is through the eyes of the characters,, which may not be to everyones taste. Each chapter is a different character and we see the story build from within their minds and thoughts.
The characters themselves are a diverse bunch. The main one being a news anchor, with a supporting cast comprising of, a school teacher and kids in her class. Two of the boys are pulled directly out of the TV series The Inbetweeners, if you are British you'll probably understand how their minds, like lots of teenage boys work!
There's a returning soldier trying to reconnect to his family, a head teacher (principle) who seems a bit odd, a TV producer who is one of the oddest characters and seldom speaks. A goth, who is desperate for friendship and or love. A young Irish girl who has just moved to the USA with her family and hates the place at the start. There are several other but this is gives you a general idea of how the story flows.
Altogether they build and intriguing story that I found hard to put down because I just got so involved with their lives and where it would lead to bring them altogether. You have to wait until the final chapter to find that out, no spoilers from me but it does have a surprising end.
I enjoyed it so much I immediately downloaded the second in the series (free on Amazon unlimited) and now looking forward to getting my teeth into it.
This is an easy to read novel with a great mixture of characters, don't be put off by the amount of them the author has written it to ensure the story flows really well.
I have no doubt some will find it not to their taste, after all one persons meat is another's poison. Just go in with an open mind and let the author and characters take you on a journey through the middle of middle America.
November 25, 2023
A good story.
I had this on my Kindle for several months before reading, I wasn't sure I wanted to read it as it wasn't clear what it was about, but gave it a go as it looked a bit different, and am glad I did!
I enjoyed reading about the lives of the 7 main characters and it took me a while to guess what terrible disaster/incident might happen that would involve them all. Some reviewers describe this as a twist, but it's more of a shocking climax.
The different timelines involving the TV presenter were confusing, but it becomes clear in the end.
A main content flaw is that the author has confused IVF with IUI, which shouldn't matter too much, only that the character pays 10k for a 20 minute procedure booked only days before! (IVF takes several weeks & involves several procedures & drugs, hence the cost!) This could probably be edited in future publications fairly easily!
The story covers several issues mostly to do with the students, but also misogyny in the entertainment business, the toad-like Network CEO was repulsive!
I didn't realise that reporters in the US are allowed to give their opinions, that was interesting!
On finishing the book, the main subject is very sad, but the story is well written, especially how all the stories link up and come together.
I hope this review gives readers a better idea of what the book is about and encourages them to read it!
I had this on my Kindle for several months before reading, I wasn't sure I wanted to read it as it wasn't clear what it was about, but gave it a go as it looked a bit different, and am glad I did!
I enjoyed reading about the lives of the 7 main characters and it took me a while to guess what terrible disaster/incident might happen that would involve them all. Some reviewers describe this as a twist, but it's more of a shocking climax.
The different timelines involving the TV presenter were confusing, but it becomes clear in the end.
A main content flaw is that the author has confused IVF with IUI, which shouldn't matter too much, only that the character pays 10k for a 20 minute procedure booked only days before! (IVF takes several weeks & involves several procedures & drugs, hence the cost!) This could probably be edited in future publications fairly easily!
The story covers several issues mostly to do with the students, but also misogyny in the entertainment business, the toad-like Network CEO was repulsive!
I didn't realise that reporters in the US are allowed to give their opinions, that was interesting!
On finishing the book, the main subject is very sad, but the story is well written, especially how all the stories link up and come together.
I hope this review gives readers a better idea of what the book is about and encourages them to read it!
November 19, 2021
I didn't realise this was classed as a Thriller, and I'm not sure I would categorise it as such, but what a great read. Very much a character based book, we get to know several students and their popular teacher from Median High School in Lebanon, Kansas in 1997. Newly arrived from Ireland, Caiomhe Larkin, Wendy Campbell who becomes her friend, Meric Miller who Caiomhe sits beside in Miss Decker's class, Brody Edwards and his friend Steve, the class jocks. Fifteen year olds with their lives ahead of them. Sarah-Jane Zdanski's story also runs through the book - as she leads up to the first episode of her new network chat show. Former pupil of the school made good. So how do their stories really link?We discover Lucy Decker's struggles to get pregnant, Wendy's sick mother, Meric's struggle to find a girlfriend, and Brody and Steve as two typical jocks exaggerating their stories of female conquests. We really get inside the lives of these characters. I didn't know where the story was going, and I didn't expect what happened. No spoilers, but- WOW! If you find it slow, it's worth persevering. What two lines does Sarah-Jane object to opening the show with? And why? So simple, but so powerful. Worth a five star review - and the others in my book club agree. #inthemiddleofmiddleamerica
May 28, 2024
This is a rather unusual novel in that it's written using alternate chapters telling a single story from the viewpoint of several characters. Most of them are students at a high school in Lebanon, Kansas, but one of the characters is a schoolteacher, one of the characters is one of the students' dad, and a third character is a hot new chat-show host who has just been handed an opportunity at the big-time by a creepy old television producer.
The writing is nothing special, and I found it a hard slog for the first quarter of the book (because of the multitude of characters) but once I had identified who each person was, I had an enjoyable time. There is a disturbing twist towards the end of the book, to which the preceding story added weight and poignancy, although I did find myself second-guessing the outcome. Nevertheless, I would say this is an engaging enough read, especially for the teen or young-adult market (although the pervy producer feels a little at odds here) and I found myself zipping through the chapters in next to no time. Interesting and heartbreaking in equal measure.
The writing is nothing special, and I found it a hard slog for the first quarter of the book (because of the multitude of characters) but once I had identified who each person was, I had an enjoyable time. There is a disturbing twist towards the end of the book, to which the preceding story added weight and poignancy, although I did find myself second-guessing the outcome. Nevertheless, I would say this is an engaging enough read, especially for the teen or young-adult market (although the pervy producer feels a little at odds here) and I found myself zipping through the chapters in next to no time. Interesting and heartbreaking in equal measure.
May 16, 2023
Such an important read!
Those unfamiliar with David's work may struggle at the beginning thinking it isn't really going anywhere. Those who have already read his books are chomping at the bit to release the breath of anticipation when we reach the inevitable part of "holy $hit!!, I didnt see that coming!" And you won't see it coming, that's the glory of David B. Lyons and why we'll be hearing his name for many years to come.
The Middle Of Middle America has the ultimate in anticipation, but you won't be happy when you get there. You'll stop and you'll pause, and you'll think, and you'll shake your head and you'll wonder what you personally can do to not only change the future but also history. You need to do that part, for everyone's sake.
ITS A MUST READ. You'll never see the repetitive "Breaking News" (that isn't really breaking news anymore) in the same way again. You won't just wonder why, you'll wonder who and you'll pause a little longer.
Until the next time. Rinse and repeat.
Those unfamiliar with David's work may struggle at the beginning thinking it isn't really going anywhere. Those who have already read his books are chomping at the bit to release the breath of anticipation when we reach the inevitable part of "holy $hit!!, I didnt see that coming!" And you won't see it coming, that's the glory of David B. Lyons and why we'll be hearing his name for many years to come.
The Middle Of Middle America has the ultimate in anticipation, but you won't be happy when you get there. You'll stop and you'll pause, and you'll think, and you'll shake your head and you'll wonder what you personally can do to not only change the future but also history. You need to do that part, for everyone's sake.
ITS A MUST READ. You'll never see the repetitive "Breaking News" (that isn't really breaking news anymore) in the same way again. You won't just wonder why, you'll wonder who and you'll pause a little longer.
Until the next time. Rinse and repeat.
April 5, 2022
Set in a place I'd actually looked up, without knowing its name, Lebanon, Kansas, which holds the distinction of being smack dab in the middle of America. So many seemingly unrelated characters are introduced that it was confusing and hard to get into this at first but bear with this story as they do come together in unexpected ways. The new girl, with the hard to pronounce name, we'll just call her Irish, the big black girl who becomes her first friend, Kai, who wants to dress like a girl, and the Beavis and Butthead like football players are in a class together. A man who has just returned from Iraq, a woman aching to have a baby...how will these people come together? What effect do they have on one another?
At the 3/4 mark, I thought the world needs more books like this, back when I thought it was going to end differently. And then the surprising, totally unexpected ending became apparent. Yes, maybe we do need more books like this.
At the 3/4 mark, I thought the world needs more books like this, back when I thought it was going to end differently. And then the surprising, totally unexpected ending became apparent. Yes, maybe we do need more books like this.
June 28, 2023
This book has it all; murder, mayhem, military, misogyny and masturbation. And that is only the “M” words. Many of the one star reviews rated it low because of the rough language. Yes, if the F word makes you squeamish don’t read this book. But, from a realism standpoint that is how boys in grade 10 talk. The book is written from the personal perspective of many of the main characters and how they interact with each other. This is an interesting literary technique that demonstrates how we all view events from our own perspective. The book is an indictment on the current American situation, including the military, high medical costs for those that don’t have adequate insurance, racism, bullying, 24 news cycle, misogyny, IVF, high school football, immigration, divorce, broken relationships, suicide, murder/suicide and more. If any of these subjects disturb or upset you don’t read this book. One of the characters is a recent immigrant from Ireland and she has a unique perspective on the USA. Why are so many people divorced? Why is the news on 24/7? Why do the news anchors always tell us what to think about what happened, instead of just telling us what happened? Why are there so many commercials on the news program? If you want an entertaining, yet thought provoking book, read this. You won’t be able to put it down.
March 7, 2024
I gave this 3 stars. I had never read this author before and thought I would give this book a try, after it was suggested to me for reading.
If you are expecting a book in the thriller genre, you will be disappointed with this book. I found there were too many characters to try and weave together and it was difficult to keep them straight. It can't count as one of those books where stranger's lives all intersect in some horrific event, because these people are not strangers. The short clips of the lives of these characters make it difficult to see any character development or explore any changes or events that happen in their lives.
I found it a difficult read - not the actual book, but finding the will to want to actually read it. It's book one of a trilogy and I am not sure I will continue with the other two books.
If you are expecting a book in the thriller genre, you will be disappointed with this book. I found there were too many characters to try and weave together and it was difficult to keep them straight. It can't count as one of those books where stranger's lives all intersect in some horrific event, because these people are not strangers. The short clips of the lives of these characters make it difficult to see any character development or explore any changes or events that happen in their lives.
I found it a difficult read - not the actual book, but finding the will to want to actually read it. It's book one of a trilogy and I am not sure I will continue with the other two books.
February 16, 2024
This is a book about a bunch of mostly forgettable people -- a bunch of high schoolers with their various typical teenager problems, a teacher, and a small-town girl who made it back as a TV personality -- who all came from Lebanon, Kansas, the geographical center of the U.S. The audio version is terrific with the different voices; this is the rare book that I think I liked better in audio than I would have in print. I really was not expecting the ending, and really am not sure what the message of the book is after reading it. I think it may have been that the people delivering the news shouldn't have opinions on the news, because that leads to a bunch of bad stuff -- but like I said, I'm not really sure. It was entertaining at times but nothing that's going to stick in my head.
May 29, 2024
The first 80% of the book, I couldn't remember why I purchased the book. It felt a bit YA, with characters developed through chapters in each character's voice. But, much of it felt either not terribly interesting, or somewhat unrealistic (the reporter). The author does bring the story together and the actual subject/plot is introduced in the last 20% of the book. While this approach has been effective for me in other books, in this case the characters weren't compelling enough to sustain me for the first 80% of the book. It was interesting to think back on the characters while reading the last 20% (and after finishing), but not enough to leave me truly satisfied with this read. I rarely stop reading a book I've purchased mid-book, but I was tempted.
January 3, 2022
This is the fourth book I’ve read from David B Lyons and it did not disappoint. I was expecting a twist and was looking for clues throughout, but I still didn’t get it until very close to the end, though I did go in some odd directions trying to guess.
The characters were well crafted and vividly brought to life, which considering there was 7 different mini stories going on is no small feat. They all had their own unique voice which reflected their background and circumstances. The two jock characters really reminded me of the guys from the Inbetweeners.
Really enjoyed this one and will continue to read (and fail to guess the twist in) the rest of the author’s books.
The characters were well crafted and vividly brought to life, which considering there was 7 different mini stories going on is no small feat. They all had their own unique voice which reflected their background and circumstances. The two jock characters really reminded me of the guys from the Inbetweeners.
Really enjoyed this one and will continue to read (and fail to guess the twist in) the rest of the author’s books.
December 6, 2024
An amazingly addictive drama-thriller told from multiple POVs and with parallel storylines that meet up in the end. Realistic and so spot on with its many observations and comments on severe topics such as media and the news, political views, social class , family, immigration and several more that I won't mention as they can be spoilers for new readers.
Very well written, not dragged out at all. In addition to being well written, it's also "well composed " - the switching between the narrators, the build up, everything works well together and really brings the story to life.
Looking forward to the next two books in this trilogy.
Very well written, not dragged out at all. In addition to being well written, it's also "well composed " - the switching between the narrators, the build up, everything works well together and really brings the story to life.
Looking forward to the next two books in this trilogy.
November 21, 2021
Just loved this book. I found it a little hard at first as there were quite a few characters and their stories to get into.
Once The characters started to develop I just loved reading about them all, and their individual lives, particularly Kai, who I liked the most.
I did not see the ending coming, and the storyline had me totally hooked.
I’m So glad I didn’t give up early in, it was well worth continuing. I will not forget this book in a long while.
Looking forward to reading more about Sarah-Jane and Phil in future books
Once The characters started to develop I just loved reading about them all, and their individual lives, particularly Kai, who I liked the most.
I did not see the ending coming, and the storyline had me totally hooked.
I’m So glad I didn’t give up early in, it was well worth continuing. I will not forget this book in a long while.
Looking forward to reading more about Sarah-Jane and Phil in future books
June 11, 2022
What a story.....
I didn't know anything about this book before I read it. I saw people in Facebook saying how good it was. I started to read, getting involved with characters so well described as to make them come alive. As I read the last chapter, the real story evolved and it was very unexpected by me. I have recommended this book to many I my friends. It has been so well written. I can't find the words to adequately describe the feelings it evoked in me. I am sad for Usa.
I didn't know anything about this book before I read it. I saw people in Facebook saying how good it was. I started to read, getting involved with characters so well described as to make them come alive. As I read the last chapter, the real story evolved and it was very unexpected by me. I have recommended this book to many I my friends. It has been so well written. I can't find the words to adequately describe the feelings it evoked in me. I am sad for Usa.
July 23, 2023
This was a solid book - I read it cover to cover today. I really enjoyed that it was written from different perspectives and different leanings, but am a little sad that once again, a truly genuine person of faith wasn't represented. These characters all went through A LOT in the short amount of time that this story took place in, and there was no real hope for any one of them. I saw the twist coming from VERY early on, but as the author said himself - there were clues for it throughout. I plan to read Book 2 in the trilogy, and decided about 3 after that.
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