Melting in the Middle

A highly entertaining read with some uncomfortably accurate characters from the corporate world. The story line developed well with some amusing scenarios and the overall the pace of the book kept me interested from start to finish. Anyone who has worked in Corporate, particularly in the aftermath of an acquisition, will recognise many of the characters albeit presented in a highly amusing and entertaining way.

Andy Howden's book slips down as easily as melted chocolate, and his take on goodness is refreshingly unironic.

In Waterstones, a member noticed Melting in the Middle and thought what an original title and that it stood out on the book shop stall having the sort of cover he'd pick up to have a look at. Once read, the book was presented to the Book Group for our monthly get together. The group liked the cover's simple design and thought it attractive. Not busy. Although in general we all thought it was a good idea for a book and dealt with a contemporary issue of American corporatism and American companies taking over British firms and that this needs addressing in UK, it meandered too much. We thought it was far too long. It needed much editing. Also, there were too many themes so it became a bit chaotic in places although they did all link together. Two members though that the book improved as they got further into it. We welcome a second book from Andy Howden and would willingly give it a go. All agreed that it was admirable to have written a book and have it published in the first place.

Parenthood, separation, regrets, work-stress, new beginnings and fresh hope are all covered in this thought-provoking tale by new author Andy Howden. If you have ever worked in a large organisation you will no doubt have met many of the different characters that Andy paints so well; and laugh out loud at the depiction of the absurdities arising from corporate culture change in the drive for profit. A great exploration of values and what really matters. Perceptive, funny, well-paced, a thoroughly enjoyable read.

This is a really great first novel which I would strongly recommend as a vivid and funny picture of the ups and downs of corporate life and the challenges of developing, often not very successfully, a new relationship whilst coping with the demands and adolescent angst of teenage children. The style, characterisation and pace reminded me strongly of Jonathan Coe which is pretty remarkable as this is Andy Howden's first book. It also augurs well for his next book which I hope is in the making.