Introducing MIDDLETON

The idea for MIDDLETON: The Last Whistle first took shape back in 2013. It stayed with me over the years, and now, thirteen years later, that idea has finally become my debut novel.

After months of writing, rewriting, editing, early… EARLY… mornings and more than a few cups of coffee, I'm excited to introduce MIDDLETON: The Last Whistle.

Set in a fictional small town in western New York State, the novel follows Mark Ellis, who returns home after his father's death expecting to settle the estate, sell the family house, and get back to his life in South Carolina. Instead, a dispute over the future of the town's aging Village Hall draws him into Middleton's history—and toward questions that haven't been asked in a very long time.

It's a story about small towns, family, history, and redemption. And while Middleton is fictional, readers familiar with New York's Southern Tier may recognize a little of home in its streets and characters.

The second draft and editing pass are complete, and printed beta copies are now on their way to readers in New York, Maryland, North Carolina, and Canada. Their feedback will help shape the final version as I work toward a December 2026 release through Brick & Iris Press.

I'll share updates here as publication approaches, including a closer look at the book, behind-the-scenes notes, and information about upcoming events.

Thanks for coming along for the ride.

— Stephen J. Fritz