"A gripping first person novel that reads like non-fiction, Toxin is briskly-paced and filled with urgency. Part provocative political thriller, part powerful psychological narrative, Toxin delivers a terrifyingly-real storyline that deftly blurs the lines between fiction and reality."
Marshal Zeringue, My Book, the Movie: Toxin

"Paul Midden, a first time author, has a very special talent for writing. His writing and ability to keep the reader interested throughout the entire book . . . The book gods were smiling down on Paul while he was writing because this is a spectacular fiction book. From page one I was drawn in to his choice of characters, the story line, and his use of description. Paul Midden allows the reader to become intimate with the characters and to feel emotions that they are feeling as they go through their struggles in life. . . a powerful book allow[s] the reader to feel as though we've known the characters as well as any of our friends. I would recommend this book to anyone who is looking for an excellent read. . . It is one of those novels that are purely and simply there for the readers' enjoyment. This is hands down a five star story."
Ashley Merrill, frontstreetreviews.com

". . .a superbly crafted novel. . .memorable characters, psychological insights, ecclesiastical dilemmas. . . a riveting story played out within the context of priestly vows and human emotions. Very highly recommended reading. . .as entertaining as it is thoughtful and thought-provoking."
Midwest Book Review

"TOXIN . . . is a terrific political thriller. Midden has jam packed this book with action and events that read like something out of the morning paper. . . This is a fantastic and intriguing volume. Put this one on your summer reading list."
Barry Hunter, The Baryon Review

"[Midden's] experience shows in his insights into the clerical way of thinking, to say nothing of church politics. . .the writing will keep you moving. . ."
Henry Levins, St. Louis Post Dispatch

"Absolution is a book that majors on character. . . a psychological reading experience not unlike getting into the head of Dostoyevsky's Raskolnikov. Even the bit-players come alive on the page. I enjoyed Midden's way with language. His prose is confident and at times picturesque . All in all, the book is a skillfully told tale. Marriage and family gain a new allure when they are portrayed as forbidden fruit. Radko and Ursula will live with readers long after they have turned the last page."
Violet Nesoldy, Blogcritics.org

"Paul has done an outstanding job of creating strong, genuine characters. [He] orchestrates an extremely poignant and complex plot. A remarkable buildup to an unexpected conclusion keeps the reader captivated until the final amazing paragraph.

Paul Midden understands the issues of Catholicism and the humanity of its people. Thought-provoking and timely, this is a book that will stir up questions in the minds of the Catholic reader, both lay and clerical. "Absolution" also gives strength as the reader grapples with pursuing personal resolution in matters of conflict, faith, and the healing power of redemption."
Richard Blake, Reader Views

"By combining timely political and security related issues with an unlikely enemy, Midden produces an entertaining. . . plot. Descriptive and surprising as it quickly develops, “Toxin” leaves the reader guessing until the very last page. . . intricately weaves together several hot subjects, including political cover-up, homegrown terrorism, and religious extremism. Midden does an impeccable job of giving vivid depth and sweeping detail to every facet of the storyline. . .is a fascinating read for political suspense, mystery, and thriller fans. Midden knows how to bring a certain and immediate intensity to the plot and hold it page after page, chapter after chapter, and all while delivering exciting surprises throughout. A page turner you won’t want to put down!"
Vicki Landes, author of “Europe for the Senses: A Photographic Journal”

"Midden does a wonderful job keeping his plot original, especially with the recent news on the news on the Catholic Church. . . a stimulating read. . . an innocently scandalous plot. Both [the protagonist]-and reader-must ask themselves, 'What is most important to me?'"
Armchairinterviews.com

"Dr. Midden is a dynamic first time author. He has a unique way of making topical issues exciting and intriguing. He captures the reader's interest and imagination immediately and doesn't let go. With effortless ease, Dr. Midden swiftly moves the reader from cynic to convert; as the improbable becomes possible the reader can only abandon any forethought or convictions and enjoy the ride."
Patrick Cacchione, Lobbyist, Washington, D.C.