Edwin Miller is uncertain. Not about any one thing, but about every thing. He's smart, capable, and completely unable to move forward in his life because of his own anxiety. He is stuck, living at what had once been The Silvery Moon drive-in theater. He has no friends, his family is gone, and he is lost deep in his own despair and anxiety.
Luckily for Edwin, he lives in Middle Falls, Oregon, where the apparent end is often just a new beginning and second chances abound. When Edwin dies, he opens his eyes again in his own teenage body in1962, all memories intact. He has a second chance, but will that be enough?
The Anxious Life of Edwin Miller is the seventeenth book in the Middle Falls Time Travel Series. Like all others in the series, it can be read in order, or as a standalone novel.
I feel seen with this book 📖:). It meant alot to see a protagonist with anxiety, my experiences aren't all the same as Edwin but I recognized some of what he went through that I do every day and I liked that Mr. Inmon treated it with respect. The Authors note at the end had me smiling too.
I was cheering Edwin on when he made progress through each of his lives:). It took courage and I wanted to give him a hug.
Each of these books is like a warm hug and hanging out with new friends.. highly recommend the whole series.
Wow! Another amazing read! I think this may have been my favourite! I read every one of Shawn's books with the feeling that I am watching the characters, living along side them, rather than just reading about them. It makes me wish I could have been born in Middle Falls and never what any of the books to end. I really do hope that the afterlife is exactly like the circles these characters go round in - it makes so much sense.
Just as Rod Sterling warned "You are now entering the Twilight Zone", take notice that when you enter Middle Falls, you will be taken thru many lifetimes of growing awareness on how to improve oneself. I am always so happy to see another Middle Falls adventure, and Mr. Inmon you never fail to take me on a great read. These stories of Middle Falls residents always feel like I am going back home to see an old friend, because there are people that pop into every life that have experienced this same "Been there, done that" over and over lifetimes. This time a sweet little girl, Mushu, showed up just when she was needed by two friends. Dogs do understand human need for love and companionship. I know this, my dog Wooley is quick to come be with Mom all the time. Once again Mr. Inmon you have given us another wonderful visit to Middle Falls and, yes, I've pre-ordered the next adventure due out April of 23, and knowing the speed of your writing, perhaps sooner. Happy Thanksgiving to all.
Michael Hollister will never forgive me, but this is my new favourite of the series!!!
Having spent most Tuesdays and Saturdays at the drive-in summers with my mom and brothers in the 80's and early 90's, (and yes, saw Jurassic Park there too!), this one hit home on all those beautifully sorrowful nostalgic notes. In particular the description and smell of the snack bar took me back in time too. I really feel the Silvery Moon is a place I have been.
Also, having married into a family that suffers from anxiety on several ranges of the spectrum, the interactions Edwin had with coach and interactions with bullies was spot on in the confrontations and the reliving afterward. Well done on Edwin's progression.
Bonus points for getting to spend some quality time with Mushu and Moondog again.
Okay, let me settle this first, this is a very good book in the series, and also that I am a fan of this series. Therefore, if anything (maybe a lot of things) in this review point the other way round, please note that this is a kind of an analysis of this book at the same time the entire series. I'm sure quite many of the readers will agree with me. And inspite of these observations, nothing takes the above two facts away. Settled? Alright, lets get on with it...
To start with, Edwin Miller's character is nice, a little stupid, but likeable character. His anxiety problem is well established early and you can see it throughout the story. It does get evolved, randomly, and then steeply. But that's a minor flaw. Major flaw is like this. People's character changes, their beliefs changes, in literally decade worth of years. Yes, the base character may not change much, but they would change dramatically in a decade of decades. Edwin Miller lives longer than that, but he hardly change in his first hundred years. Throughout his two (or three lives) he behaves in a situation, exactly as he would have at the start of the story, and exactly as we expect him to. That's a story based out of the Confirmation bias. Nothing wrong with that, but it never reaches the height of "The Redemption of Michael Hollister". (Although even that book has quite a few instances of scenes bases on the Confirmation bias, but that's after the character has undergone considerable change, in about 85+ lives and two books.) And this problem persists with most of the other books in this series. Shawn Inmon tried to add new angles, such as changing restarting point, which do add novelty, but does not change this fact. The characters should have a evolution throughout the story (albeit slowly) based on their experiences.
Then the protagonists of Middle Falls stories are stereotypes. They more or less live same pattern of lives and similar last lives; going through routine, doing something they like, living with someone they like, having a family, people who care about them and then die when they grow old. There's another angle to stereotype, they have a trait and their character does not evolve out of it for major part. Edwin Miller is anxious person, so that trait persist till last few chapters. Richard Bell lived a life full of regrets, till last few chapters, resolving one per life. Dominick Davidner is a romantic fool, Joe Hart lives an uneventful life, except when he saves John Lennon in his last, but after that he lives a life of a benefactor for the rest of the life, Jack Rybicki is a man with silver tongue, and he goes on doing things he likes without considering what other thinks or feel about them. The list goes on. I mean, nothing exactly wrong with this kind of writing, but it's again, nothing much exciting happen. The only exception I can think of is Veronica McAllister. She lives lot of different lives. Again, if nothing much exciting happens in the protagonists' lives, we're liking those stories on the basis of confirmation bias.
One usual complaint about Middle Falls stories is that often a times, few things do not get closure. For example the fate of the bully, Brent, who torments Edwin's life, he even get him murdered in one of those. His fate at the end of the story leaves something amiss. Granted, he couldn't be punished for a crime done in another life, but Shawn could definitely have done something more. Maybe give hard life, imprisonment for some major crime in this life or so on. Afterall, he brought back Brandy in last life of Richard Bell for no reason, adding nothing to the story. He also brought Mushu back in this story, which does not add much either except being Edwin's companion for a short time, and giving kind of a nostalgic feeling to the reader. He could have easily done something about this bully.
Another thing I feel about this series is, Shawn never writes the story of first life. I know, not knowing what's exactly coming increases our anxiety or interest. But remember how it feels when we read an event that we've already read/lived in second life. Having the first life described gives us good idea of what needs be changed or done differently and increases our curiosity when it's about to happen in second life. Granted, it wouldn't work that way in The Regretful Lives of Richard Bell, but it will work in others. Remember Michael Holister? In his own story, we knew what had happened in his previous life. That's why we could empathise with him so much. And then remember him in Thomas Weaver's story. He was supposed to have lived a life killing people. We only know that, but we do not feel connected to him until he starts plotting against Thomas. That means we connect with characters when we go through their experiences WITH them. Living their first life will help us connect and empathise with them much better.
One thing that I liked about this book is that there's no Universal Life Center in this story. I mean I'm not against it, but it usually does not add to the story. It did till it involved Carrie. And sometime it's needed when Shawn decides to change something about the recycling process, eg. changing starting point of the protagonist. But none of it applies here, so it's good that we didn't have to read about Universal Life Center in this story.
All in all it's a good story, well narrated. I'd probably read it again someday. Most recommended to the MF fans!
---------------Second Reading Review---------------- Same voice for moondog the old and the teenager Brent No closure is biggest non closure, didn't editor say something about that? Voice of Edwin is wrong, does not match the cover and personality, you realise this specially with Christie. Anxiety issue is very slowly overcome and then doc treatment and then goes away almost immediately/rapidly. I have overcome my socialisation issue by decided to take action, getting help, reading self help book and actually trying and practicing it. But now understand message of anxiety treatment.
Disclosure: I downloaded this book for free, have purchased four previous books by the author, and am posting an honest review of this work.
This is my favorite Middle Fall Time Travel book so far! It has everything: a compelling story, compassion, learning to cope with anxiety, love, making money with foreknowledge, friendships, and family!
Edwin Miller is an anxiety-plagued, elderly man, who is a recluse. He runs a drive-in movie theatre and lives on the premises. He dies multiple times—each time learning a bit more about himself, while gradually coming out of his shell.
I loved how he develops his artistic talents and becomes a great painter—an Oregonian Hopper! And I loved his friendship with Mark/Moondog in different lifetimes! And, of course, there is the wonderful dog, Mushu!
I would love for the author to write a Middle Falls Time Travel novel about Brent—a worthy villain to follow Michael Hollister! Can he be redeemed?
An exceptional story I have read and enjoyed all the Middle Falls series, but this latest book stands out for me as the best one yet. I didn’t actually think I would enjoy a story about a man with crushing anxiety problems, but the author deftly and swiftly drew me into the Edwin’s story and I found myself turning the pages with delight as his life opened up before me. The basic premise of the book is one that leaves you wondering and hoping that Edwin’s life will improve, and you feel as if you are walking beside him as he navigates the world around him and tries to make sense of his life. Highly recommended.
I gave it three stars because I love the Middle Falls series and I know the author can tell a beautiful story. The author is masterful in showing Edwin's struggle with OCD and how the theater both helps him though and holds him back, yet the story still fall flats. It's a tight line to keep changing characters yet hold the familiarity of Middle Falls. It pains me to say but I think the author got bored with Middle Falls and took the lazy route. He often told what happened instead of taking the reader with Edwin as he changes.
This is my least favorite of the previous 16 books in the series. I didn’t hate it. It just felt like a warmed over version of the Middle Falls story. It did have a warm and satisfying ending like the other books, but I didn’t feel a connection with any of the characters. Even the MC, Edwin felt two-dimensional. Mushu, who played a major role in a previous book made an unexpected appearance.
I've enjoyed most of this series, but I found Edwin's character a bit too annoying, so I was unable to finish this particular book. I will be downloading the next in the series though, because I'm really enjoying these adventures.
Hi, time travel readers. The next book in the Middle Falls Series is here!
Shawn Inmon, the master of time-travel fiction, has released the 17th installment in the Middle Falls Series, titled 'The Anxious Lives of Edwin Miller.' This new adventure takes us to the quaint Silvery Moon drive-in theater, a family-owned gem that holds more than just a screen—it's a portal to memories, emotions, and perhaps, time itself. In this latest tale, we follow Edwin Miller, whose life at the drive-in is anything but ordinary. The drive-in theater, a place of nostalgia for many, becomes the backdrop for a story that intertwines the past and the present, the mundane and the extraordinary. Inmon's ability to weave complex narratives that explore the human condition, choices, and second chances is fully displayed as we delve into Edwin's life.
The Middle Falls Series has captivated readers with its unique take on time travel, where characters relive their lives with the memories of their previous ones. It's a journey of redemption, learning, and the eternal question of "what if?" With each book, Inmon challenges our perception of time and destiny, and 'The Anxious Lives of Edwin Miller promises to be a thrilling addition to this thought-provoking series. Fans of the series and newcomers alike will find themselves lost in the pages of this book, rooting for Edwin and his family as they navigate the complexities of life and time. So, pick up your copy today, grab your popcorn, and settle in under the stars at the Silvery Moon drive-in for an adventure that transcends the screen and leaps into the heart of what it means to truly live. Shawn Inmon's storytelling is not just about the passage of time but about the moments that define us. Welcome to Middle Falls, where every moment counts, and every life is a story waiting to be told.
Of all the soul time travelers of Middle Falls so far, Edwin Miller’s story is the most poignant. Stepping out of the clutches of anxiety is not easy. Emotional freedom requires new ACTION, the very thing that anxiety inhibits and restricts.
Edwin is coddled and protected by his family in the name of love. Bullied by a high school nemesis. And beaten down to a slip of a person by himself.
It’s a trifecta of challenges.
But step by step, loop by loop—each starting at different points—he slowly makes his way until a ‘chance’ pairing with an alert art teacher who recognizes a natural talent. Painting is what offers Edwin his big pivot point because it represents a safe and natural form of self expression. It’s also one that the world acknowledges as noteworthy.
To say more would give too many spoilers. Suffice it to say, Moondog from Charles Walter’s story is there in some kind of parallel version of himself, as well as the dog, Mushu, from another story. That’s fun.
One thing I’ve noticed is how often the author’s version of a fulfilling life includes children and grand-babies. Although I don’t necessarily agree with that particular formula as being the key structure to happiness, the theme of fulfillment through opening your heart to intimate relationships, natural self expression, and serving others is one I embrace wholeheartedly. That describes Edwin Miller’s journey towards being able to move on.
The Anxious Lives of Edwin Miller (2022) 330 pages by Shawn Inmon
Middle Falls Time Travel #17
The Millers owned and operated a drive-in theater just outside of Middle Falls and they lived is the compact space behind attached to the snack bar. Edwin's dad died of a heart attack in 1963, his mother and sister moved to a house in town. It was too much for Edwin and he soon moved back to the drive in and lived there the rest of his life, where he ran the drive in until it started losing money and then turned to renting space for a flea market to make ends meet. He got a Middle Falls second chance where he learned to paint but not much else changed, but it's Middle Falls and the do overs aren't limited.
I like the way there are no logical fallacies. Edwin is consumed by anxiety, but isn't all of a sudden open and outgoing. It's a work in progress and still only baby steps. Fun read, 4.8 stars. I didn't want to taint my review by reading the afterword, but Moondog and Mushu almost ring a bell. No worries, that would be more of an Easter Egg than a fundamental part of the story.
17 books into a series with 14-15 unqualified successes, including this one. Loved the cameos and full throated returns from past favorite characters, and the Silvery Moon is a very strong new addition to Middle Falls. Mr. Inmon did a great job of showcasing Edwin’s anxiety across the book, and as he said in the author’s note, it was not something Edwin could just turn off as past characters adjusted their behavior. It was who he was.
In a moment of showing and not telling, no comment was made on the fact that Evelyn died a decade earlier in her final life, but significantly happier. Also, it was a little vague about Edwin’s cause of death, but in the end, it doesn’t really matter, does it?
Highly recommended.
(For posterity, it only took me 12 days to read this because I was reading 2 other books at the same time. 🙂)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
I’ve read every book in this series and I have loved each of them for different reasons. I’ve always dreamed about waking up as a younger version of myself and wondered what I would do differently. These books give me a chance to see how the characters attack second and third chances. I love how Shawn Inmon brings the story to life and delivers the characters with depth. I highly recommend this book along with the entire series.
Perhaps my favorite Middle Falls book! We can all relate to anxiety, but Edwin's was crippling, so bad that he fled from the line at the thought of ordering a sub since this was out of his ramen routine.
But when he dies, alone at 75, he wakes up living his life over again. Is he still besieged with anxiety? Does he do anything different? You'll have to read. This is a book about relationships, and love, and oh yes, there's a dog (nice to see you again, Mushu!)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Having lived much of my life in the Eugene area, this series holds a special sentiment for me. But beyond that, the characters are so real, the stories compelling enough to make one hope we do relive our lives until they are perfected. I also appreciate, as the son of an English teacher, that grammar, spelling, and sentence construction is well-edited. Thank you for the pleasure these books provide.
Another awesome story, another ticket on the time travel express!
Rarely do I enjoy a series much passed the second or third book, this is one of those rare series. I enjoy the characters whether they are idealistic and naive or jaded, cynical and hardened by life. I love the way they reappear like old friends and the perspective they bring to the story. I especially love the nostalgia and trip back in0
I enjoyed this installment in the series. As always, Imnon somehow keeps things fresh and new, this time with the high anxiety condition from which Edwin suffers. I also liked the fact that they brought back a character or three from other novels, though I wouldn’t say that this was a big part of my enjoyment. Though I’m not seeing it, I’m always intrigued by readers who say this was the best book in the series. Maybe the anxiety factor? It was good, but not awesome.
Can’t get enough of these “Lives” books. Shawn just makes you feel so damn good. It’s like coming home for thanksgiving. Apple pie cooling on the counter. Turkeys in the oven, families gathering around. I read these and it sets the world right. De-stressed. Shawn’s books are simple, fresh, deep and fun. Highly recommended.
Once again Shawn Inmon has crafted a sympathetic and heart warming story. Who could not be drawn into Edwin's lives? Shawn deserves all the accolades and more. I'm going to read all his books all over again. Starting now. Thank you Shawn for Edwin's story and your kindness and empathy. You are without doubt, my favourite author.
Love Shawn Inmon. Love Middle Falls. By now fans of the series will know the plot, people dying and waking up as a younger version of themselves. Sometimes going through the process several times and not always waking up at the same age. Really well written and equally enjoyable. I always look forward to the next in the series plus they can be read as stand alone novels.
If you haven't read any Middle Falls books, I suggest you start at the begining and read them all. Yes, there is the 'living lives multiple times' aspect, but the main feature is the portraits of lives throughout the last six decades in a quiet American Town.
How does Mr. Inmon come up with these stories? Another great read, and another endearing character (Edwin is a sweetheart). I love the Middle Falls series and hope it goes on for a very long time. I'm already looking forward to #18! (unfortunately just could not get into in the Alex Hawke series, and I really tried).
Great read. Shawn has perfectly portrayed how it is to live with anxiety, having every social interaction be painful, every decision making you feel ill, doubting yourself. I love the way he has Edwin slowly becoming happy in his own skin. Well done, Shawn. I finished this book with a feeling of peace.
I'm so glad I have another middle falls book to read, though of course I couldn't do anything but read it in one sitting!! And I think that's probably the highest praise a writer can get. I was immediately immersed in the story and Edwin. Thank you Shawn, please don't ever stop visiting Middle Falls, your writing is as evocative and wonderful as it ever is
I didn't truly expect to love this book. It grew on me slowly, I wasn't sure if I liked the fiest incarnation of Edwin much. By the end all had developed in a very loving way. This story is caring. There is no vulgarity, something unusual in modern fiction. Most of the important characters are very warm. You like them. I heartily recommend reading it.