Review Category: The Spirit of Want

Arya Fomonyuy

The Spirit of Want This book is a powerful story that is emotionally charged and intense, a tale with psychological depth and emotional insight. When Lucy MacMeil accepts the sleazy TV evangelist accused of rape as a client, she couldn’t imagine that this case would rock her entire world, including her profession and marriage. While working the case, the defense lawyer falls for the evangelist, but he loses the case and runs away to Africa. Unable to live without him, Lucy follows the man,
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Rabia Tanveer

The Spirit of Want This book is the story of a woman who is successful yet, when a man comes into her life, she loses it all. This is the story of Lucy MacMeil, the daughter of a successful doctor and the wife of an equally successful surgeon. Lucy is a defense lawyer by profession and she really enjoys her job. However, her life is changed completely and for the worse when she takes up the case of a TV evangelist who is accused
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Creating LITERARY STORIES:
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Recent Reviews

5/5

Tour of Duty Review from OnlineBookClub.org What does life on a military base look like? How were people treated during the war? In the book Tour of Duty by William H. Coles, we can gain some knowledge about these questions. I would rate this book five out of five stars. I like that the author describes a town after the war and how people were treated during the Holocaust. We can see how brutal war is. Also, in the book, people celebrated the […]

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AABNKB22

5/5

Tour of Duty Review from OnlineBookClub.org William H. Coles skillfully captures the historical setting and portrays the melancholy and dismal post-war climate. Through the author’s descriptive writing, readers are taken to the war-ravaged locations, and character’s emotions are conveyed flawlessly. Through this story, readers gain a better knowledge of the past’s horrors, while also understanding the importance of reflecting on and learning from history. The author’s ability to create detailed characters impressed me. The book also sets itself apart from other historical fiction […]

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cocoLo

5/5

Tour of Duty Review from OnlineBookClub.org I liked the flow of events in the story. The book starts with Miles’s arrival in France and then develops into an enjoyable story. I also liked the description of events and the characters. The author describes the events well, making the reader imagine how they were; for instance, Miles meets with Colonel Springer after he refuses to take wine. I could imagine the picture of that, making me enjoy it. He described how the characters appeared, […]

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Nyongesa Mcneil

5/5

Tour of Duty Review from OnlineBookClub.org The characters were well-developed, for instance, Oliver, who the author described as his physical appearance. The description of his physical appearance created a mental image each time he appeared in the text, making the book enjoyable. The author made some emotional incidents to connect readers to the book; for instance, you could feel Emily’s pain when Miles refused to meet her after she traveled from the United States to see him. She explains how she never intended […]

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Said Noor

5/5

Tour of Duty Review from OnlineBookClub.org The book was great, with interesting chapters. The author structured the book well since each chapter had a title, preparing the reader what to expect; for instance, the engagement deal with Miles meeting with Ingrid and Oliver for dinner as they got to know each other. I admire the author’s effort to help readers have an image of the characters to enjoy the story, for instance, the descriptions of the character’s appearance. He describes Oliver’s physical appearance. […]

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Mohammed Ali 45

5/5

McDowell Review from OnlineBookClub.org McDowell, by the talented William H. Coles, weaves a mesmerizing tapestry around the fictional character of Hiram, an esteemed surgeon and intrepid mountaineer. Within the pages of this novel, Hiram’s life unfolds, painting a vivid portrait of a man who traverses the peaks of success but descends into the valleys of personal turmoil. I derived immense satisfaction from immersing myself in the pages of this book. Its profound depths and intricately developed characters left an indelible mark, […]

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lovewriter702

5/5

McDowell Review from OnlineBookClub.org One of the standout features of this book is its masterful use of suspense and action right from the start. The opening scenes immediately draw readers into the story, leaving them intrigued and hungry for more. The author’s ability to create tension and build anticipation throughout the book is nothing short of remarkable. Each chapter reveals new layers of the protagonist’s complex past, keeping readers engrossed and turning the pages eagerly. However, this book is more than […]

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Harry Muddy

5/5

McDowell Review from OnlineBookClub.org The author skillfully incorporates these fresh characters into the main plot, allowing their presence to impact the storyline. Through their interactions, the narrative progresses, revealing McDowell’s transformation from a self-centered individual to someone willing to assist others. Along his journey, Hiram’s encounters with new female characters lead to improvements in his relationships with women. He engages in conversations with them, valuing their perspectives and sharing details about his life. William H. Coles demonstrates exceptional writing prowess in […]

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The Fortunate

5/5

McDowell Review from OnlineBookClub.org McDowell is a thought-provoking novel that challenges the reader’s beliefs about right and wrong. The protagonist, a gifted doctor, has a reputation for being ruthless and crossing moral and ethical boundaries to achieve his goals. The author skillfully weaves together an engaging and morally complex story, leaving the reader with plenty to ponder long after finishing the book. For those looking for a gripping novel that both keeps you on the edge of your seat and forces […]

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Bef Ozo

5/5

McDowell Review from OnlineBookClub.org McDowell is a complex story that weaves together the narratives of several characters, including McDowell himself and his three children, as well as other supporting roles. While it may be challenging to keep track of all these storylines, it is not an insurmountable task thanks to the ample information provided that keeps readers engaged throughout. Finally, I appreciated how the author generously allocated time and space to develop the characters, which made them more relatable and enjoyable […]

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Lassitude John

5/5

McDowell Review from OnlineBookClub.org The writer also succeeded in providing readers with a break by utilizing other characters to share Hiram’s story. This allowed us to witness his intense love for his children, which was fascinating. It served as a reminder that people are not simply good or bad but rather exist in shades of gray. For Hiram’s children, he was a loving father, but to everyone else, he appeared as a heartless individual with no allegiance except to himself. McDowell […]

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Harryson P

5/5

McDowell Review from OnlineBookClub.org Sincerely speaking, this book is packed with more emotions than I’ve ever encountered in any book. Love, hate, anger, sadness, happiness, freedom, fear—you name it. All these emotions were projected onto me as I fell into place as one of the characters in this novel. I felt like a bystander watching a man’s life get built, broken down, and rebuilt again. The characters in this book all had unique attributes that made me appreciate the fact that […]

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Alex Reeves

Tour of Duty Miles Ballard may have thought finishing his medical program before being drafted into active military service was a stroke of genius, but he is unprepared for the unusual scenario he has been catapulted into. Frustrated with the lack of activity that comes with being the personal physician of a commanding officer who is more interested in irrelevant ceremonies than in doing the needful, he acquaints himself with the odd collection of individuals who make up his new home for the […]

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Reviewed by Essien Asian for Readers’ Favorite

Tour of Duty One man’s terrorist is another man’s freedom fighter. Different viewpoints and perspectives can change a lot. Tour of Duty by William H. Coles is an amazing work of fiction about the lives of military personnel. General Thomas is not a loved leader; he is more tolerated than respected. His family life is complicated, with one of his adopted daughters hating him. Captain Miles is a medical doctor deployed by the military to serve in France. He is a man of […]

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Reviewed by Frank Mutuma for Readers’ Favorite

5/5

Tour of Duty Tour of Duty is a work of historical fiction by William H. Coles and is set in France in the 1960s. Captain Miles Ballard graduated from Boston University and has just finished his medical training. Miles is sent to serve at the American military base in Chateauroux, France, as a doctor under the command of Colonel Springer. Miles struggles with the military protocol, his commitment to doing his best for his patients, and the military’s budgets and discipline. Miles and […]

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Reviewed by Alma Boucher for Readers’ Favorite

5/5

Tour of Duty Review from OnlineBookClub.org The characters were well-developed, for instance, Oliver, who the author described as his physical appearance. The description of his physical appearance created a mental image each time he appeared in the text, making the book enjoyable. The author made some emotional incidents to connect readers to the book; for instance, you could feel Emily’s pain when Miles refused to meet her after she traveled from the United States to see him. She explains how she never intended […]

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Said Noor

5/5

Tour of Duty Review from OnlineBookClub.org The book was like a historical novel about the story of the Nazis and Europe’s state after World War II. It gives information on what happened in that era, such as the incarceration of the Jews, researched by Alyce and Ingrid. It is a perfect romance novel that discusses the romance story of Ingrid and Oliver, showing their struggles. It also discussed Miles Love’s story introducing characters such as Emily and other ladies in Miles’s life. The […]

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Ramla Zawadi

5/5

Tour of Duty Review from OnlineBookClub.org I liked the flow of the book and the interesting plot twists the author used to make the story enjoyable. I can’t mention them without creating spoilers. They made the story enjoyable as the readers tried reading the book to find out what happened since each scene created suspense. I liked the descriptive content of the novel. They made the characters engaging. With the characters’ appearance in mind, the characters appeared familiar. For instance, he describes Oliver’s […]

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Christian Maundu

5/5

Tour of Duty Review from OnlineBookClub.org I can’t find anything I didn’t like in the book. On the contrary, there are many aspects I liked. I liked how the book depicted the atmosphere of the 1960; its greyness was felt throughout the pages. I felt I was there with them, in the middle of rubbles, demolished houses and curvy, muddy roads. The dialogues were written in the manner of that time. Their choices of action were like signposts leading me to that era […]

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Umida Kholmatova

5/5

Tour of Duty Review from OnlineBookClub.org I have nothing to criticize in this novel. It was enjoyable and had several interesting stories to follow, such as the career and love story of Miles Ballard. I rate Tour of Duty by William H. Coles five out of five stars. The book was professionally edited because it had an error. The character development was great, which made reading the story of the characters enjoyable, for instance, Miles Ballard. The author described the scenes well, enabling […]

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Geoff Muriithi

5/5

Tour of Duty Review from OnlineBookClub.org This book was great since I liked reading about the life of Miles Ballard. The author made it feel real since Miles showed the challenges he faced while doing his job and other personal issues. The descriptions of characters’ physical appearances were important in helping readers create an image of their appearance and connecting their roles in the story. For instance, he described Oliver’s appearance, giving me imagination and understanding of the story better. Finally, I enjoyed […]

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Erin Jeffson

5/5

McDowell Review from OnlineBookClub.org I enjoyed reading about the politics in the book. It was fun as I tried to guess the next move of some characters. Their unpredictability made the book realistic. Every character had a role to play and wasn’t just used as filler. The book was easy to comprehend. I loved reading about Hiram’s climbing experiences. Hiram’s best trait was his love for his children. I found no errors in the book, which indicates that it was well-edited. […]

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Unique Mary Iloakasia

5/5

McDowell Review from OnlineBookClub.org I enjoyed reading this fictional novel. It was captivating and fun. One of the things I love about this book is the moral lesson I got from it. These lessons are practical. I went back to think about my life and critically examine my actions with my friends, colleagues and family members after reading this book. Another feature I like about this book is the author’s style of writing. He wrote this book with great skill and […]

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Emmanuel Okotie

McDowell Review from OnlineBookClub.org Coles’ character development was so masterful that I legitimately despised the protagonist and that may be why I felt so challenged to continue reading early on in the novel. McDowell reminded me of so many old affluent, arrogant, white men I have met through my life. It made me remember how I felt in those encounters and how those men talked down to me. It was so visceral it made my stomach churn. I am glad I […]

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PoeticGem65

5/5

McDowell Review from OnlineBookClub.org When I first started reading this book, I had no idea that it would have a compelling story and provide me with a wealth of knowledge. Because this book is applicable in every way, I was able to learn so many medical industry secrets from it. I was able to learn about the risks associated with betrayal from McDowell’s life. Above all, this book showed me that a guy might be cruel and self-centered, but he can […]

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Salah2580

5/5

McDowell Review from OnlineBookClub.org I’ve never read such a suspenseful and intense book as this. Hiram McDowell is such a perverted sociopath who doesn’t care for anything or anyone but his interests. His indifference sometimes pushed him over the edge, and he sometimes brushed shoulders with those he shouldn’t have. Take his wife, Carole. No matter how much she persevered, Hiram threw it all away. Carole no longer cared, and he would likely have no one to turn to if he […]

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Maxreview

5/5

McDowell Review from OnlineBookClub.org It was a delight to read this inspirational book. The plot of this book is exciting and creative, and it was well-written by the author. The book’s suspense kept the readers engaged while reading the book. Because of this, I was engrossed from the beginning to the end of this book. This book is jam-packed with inspirational quotations and helpful information. I learned a lot about human behavior from reading this book. The conversation between the characters […]

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Mateo Kante

5/5

McDowell Review from OnlineBookClub.org I love how the book started by telling us briefly about his family, and from the information I got from there, I began to understand better the character, Hiram. This novel is filled with drama, action, twists, and suspense, which is why I was so engrossed in the read. Promises look easy to make and break, but their effects could be very dangerous. This was a lesson I learned. I do have this emotion when I come […]

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Jerry Anozie

5/5

McDowell Review from OnlineBookClub.org It is not common to come across a book that provokes so many thoughts and even gives you an emotional surge. I must say McDowell by William H. Coles falls into the category of intriguing books that have made it to the top of my library. This may be a fiction book, but there is so much about this book that blends with the current reality of our society. For a reader to get the most out […]

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Chimezie Agbata

5/5

McDowell Review from OnlineBookClub.org There were many things I liked about this book. It was well-written and evoked a lot of emotions in the reader. The author gave a vivid description of the psychology of humans and how most of us behave when we attain success. The book talked about the challenges the doctor faced to rise to the peak of his career, but also at the expense of giving his family the needed attention and love they required. The characters […]

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Francis Ignacio

McDowell Review from OnlineBookClub.org One thing I love about this book is that it spans Hiram’s personal life. As a father and husband, he did not play his role effectively, as was evident in the lives of his children. This reminded me that as a father and a husband, money is not the only requirement in raising a good, moral family. From this book, I also learned a thing or two about the medical world that is quite relatable. I also […]

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Gift Chidex

5/5

McDowell Review from OnlineBookClub.org This book had a lot of positive aspects. To be honest, I was unsure of what to expect from this book, but I was pleasantly surprised to discover it was written in a manner that would inspire a rollercoaster of emotions in the reader. The story shows the doctor rising to fame and prominence while sacrificing his relationship with his family at the same time. The characters in the book were well-developed, and it is clear that […]

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Gerald Hilary

5/5

McDowell Review from OnlineBookClub.org Would it be better to be recognized for who you are? or by the achievements they have made in life? How does it feel to have a buddy who is solely interested in their own success, fortune, and notoriety? William H. Cole’s novel McDowell is a story of loss, retaliation, atonement, remorse, love, and genuine friendships. It centers on a character named McDowell. He is a physician, specifically a surgeon, who served as president of the International […]

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Park Cherri

5/5

McDowell Review from OnlineBookClub.org This amazing book by William H. Coles is really unique because it doesn’t just tell the tales of a man without leaving us with reasons not to learn. After going through this book, I found myself thinking about and checking the aspects of my life that need to be changed. So many things went south in this book, and it was driven by the negative human nature we naturally possess. This book teaches us why we should […]

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Jerry Anozie

5/5

McDowell Review from OnlineBookClub.org I did find this book fascinating to read. The shocking and unexpected twist in the story was what I enjoyed most about this novel. Nobody could have predicted Hiram’s fate the way it did. I had emotional instability when I was reading this book. I used to detest Hiram so much and pray for him to suffer a lot, but eventually, I began to feel sorry for him and asked God to give him another opportunity. Ultimately, […]

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Hakim Kelvin

5/5

McDowell Review from OnlineBookClub.org Character is the basic thing needed by every successful person to maintain their position or go higher. It is difficult to see a long-lasting success in a person without character. McDowell by William H. Coles is a lesson-filled fictional book with other themes that concern our world today. This book is very easy to relate to and will be enjoyed by many readers. I love how the book started by telling us briefly about his family, and […]

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Jerry Anozie

5/5

McDowell Review from OnlineBookClub.org Readers I may not want to be quick in judging this book because the author may have portrayed Dr. Hiram as a very ill-behaved man, but as the book went on, we saw what Dr. Hiram’s true character was and how he adapted to a life that he never planned for. Another aspect of the novel that I liked was the life-changing lesson the book taught its readers. If you can make a connection with Dr. Hiram’s […]

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Jeffery King 1

5/5

McDowell Review from OnlineBookClub.org McDowell may not be a true life story, but its story is quite inspiring and interesting and would make you think otherwise. This book also contains vital information about parenting, and from this, I was able to learn a thing or two about the necessity of close parenting. Of all the aspects of the novel, the underground incidents that were also covered and may be related to real-life events most piqued my curiosity. The positives of this […]

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ojukwu2

5/5

McDowell Review from OnlineBookClub.org I found McDowell by William H. Coles to be engaging and thought-provoking. “How frequently do we perform acts of kindness that are really intended for our own gain?” is one inquiry that piqued my curiosity. I think this is something that should be thought about before doing something that seems to be for the good of others. Overall, I would give the book 5 out of 5 stars. The editing was perfect, and I would recommend it […]

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Iam Ama

5/5

Tour of Duty Review from OnlineBookClub.org William H.Coles approaches his fiction novel Tour of Duty with historical accuracy. The novel is set in France during the cold war, but there are also references to the past: D-Day, the bombing of Nagasaki and the Jewish Holocaust. The story begins in 1960 and ends in 1966 and the tone of the writing reminds me of the way novels were written back then. The action takes place mainly at US Air Station from Châteauroux, France, with […]

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Cristina Corui Mihailescu

5/5

Tour of Duty Review from OnlineBookClub.org First off, I’d like to say that I really enjoyed this novel. For one, it was very historically accurate. The author subtly alluded to historical events, like the Jewish Holocaust and Hiroshima, in such a way that it never overshadowed the main narrative but was still enough to immerse me in the past. In addition, for a book written last year, the tenor of the novel was superb. It’s written in the sort of archaic English common […]

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James Carter 8

5/5

Tour of Duty Review from OnlineBookClub.org Honestly, I simply adored this book. A big part of its allure is its historical accuracy; you felt like you were in the 1960s. Subtle references to the past, like the bombing of Nagasaki, the acquisition of France by Germany, and D-Day, were always referenced in some way. This helped preserve the book’s authenticity while simultaneously preventing the storyline from dwelling too much in the history of the times and consequently causing it to diverge from the […]

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davidejioforr

5/5

McDowell Review from OnlineBookClub.org At first, when I picked up this book, I had no idea it would contain an interesting plot that would teach me a lot. From this book, I was able to understand so many secrets in the medical world because this book is relatable in every sense. From McDowell’s life, I was able to learn the dangers that come with betrayal. Above all, this book taught me that no matter how wicked and selfish a man can […]

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Nicholas Bush

McDowell Review from OnlineBookClub.org The book was entertaining to read. From the prologue on, it captured my interest and held it for the duration of the novel. I think this book contains a secret lesson as well. It made me think about all the things that I not only overlook but also fail to express my gratitude for. I like how many emotions this book evoked in me because it indicates to me that these are feelings I had on a […]

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Onyinyechi Orji

5/5

McDowell Review from OnlineBookClub.org Have you ever been seen in a negative way by a lot of people? Do you allow your position to control you? What do you know about purpose? Have you ever come across a terrible person? This book, McDowell by William H. Coles, is a novel that depicts human psychology. The traits are glaring about the protagonist or main character, by the name of McDowell, who is portrayed as an arrogant and unsympathetic person. Another perspective I […]

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Ben Filla

5/5

McDowell Review from OnlineBookClub.org This book teaches a lot, but the most important lesson I learned is that everyone deserves a second chance. No one is irredeemable, no matter what the person might have done. In my opinion, the death of his second wife broke Hiram. He had dealt with too much, having lost his first wife already. His grief does not justify him not being present for his children when they are at their lowest. We are all different and […]

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Rofenty23

5/5

McDowell Review from OnlineBookClub.org This uplifting book was a pleasure to read. This is a well-written book with an intriguing and original plot. Suspense and drama in the book keep the reader interested in the protagonist’s life. The characters were well-developed, and I was captivated until the very end. This book is chock-full of useful information and motivational quotes. Reading this book taught me many life lessons about humanity. The dialogue between the characters aided the flow of the storyline. The […]

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Malthide Jones

5/5

McDowell Review from OnlineBookClub.org McDowell by William H. Coles is a page-turner story featuring a man’s journey to self-realization. Hiram McDowell, the main character, experiences a rollercoaster lifestyle that makes him realize his shortcomings, which he never saw before. I enjoyed the book’s plot twists and bits of suspense. It was fascinating how McDowell’s luxurious lifestyle took a u-turn, which I had not expected. That made me love the book more. I also applaud William Coles for his fantastic story flow. […]

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Joule Mwendwa

5/5

Tour of Duty Review from OnlineBookClub.org The book Tour of Duty is an intriguing book that immediately captures the reader’s attention. I loved how the author introduced the characters. I enjoyed the character development. It was interesting to see these characters grow in their various fields. He was able to bring out the unique personality in each of the characters introduced. I enjoyed the friendship formed between the characters, most especially the friendship between Miles and Ingrid. I loved how the author also […]

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Saint012

4/4

Tour of Duty Review from OnlineBookClub.org There was absolutely nothing I disliked about this book. It ticked all the boxes of a great story. The plot is progressive and solid. The characters are well developed and intriguing. The story does not reveal too much immediately but comes together beautifully as you read on. It was easy to digest the ton of information provided and stay intrigued at the same time. The entire book is packed with lessons that can be of value to […]

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Amarachi Nwankwo03

5/5

Tour of Duty Review from OnlineBookClub.org I love Ballard’s stubbornness yet brave actions. Its refreshing to see such a well-written character I rarely see in reality. The book was such an adventure, making it worth reading for. I love the relationship between Ballard and his friends. I will rate this book 5 out of 5 for it is worth to read. I love the plot, the characters and the background history it gives. I would like to recommend this book to people who […]

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Allyza Faith Demape

5/5

McDowell Review from OnlineBookClub.org This book’s plot was intriguing. William H. Coles wrote the book in such a way that even a layperson could understand it. While writing the book, he used simple words. The book was exceptionally well edited and had no grammatical errors. The plot of the book was full of suspense. My interest grew as I read each chapter. I was dying to know what happened to Dr. Hiram later on. I liked how the author used this […]

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Favour Ozone

5/5

McDowell Review from OnlineBookClub.org I must thank William H. Coles for writing such an excellent book. He didn’t rush the story and allowed each scenario to unfold at its own pace. Although there were few characters in the books, they were well-developed and managed. What I liked best about the book’s characters was that they displayed genuine emotions. The cover of the book piqued my interest in this book. The author used this book to convey a message to readers who […]

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Hyfr Z

4/4

McDowell Review from OnlineBookClub.org I really liked this book. In the first part of the book I was not a fan of Hiram at all. He was a selfish womanizer who thought he was above the law. But by the end of the book Hiram grew on me and I began to sympathize with his character. The author writes from different character’s points of view, including Hiram’s children and most of the key characters in the story. I think my favorite […]

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Stacey Harkins 1

5/5

McDowell Review from OnlineBookClub.org Mr. Coles does a beautiful job of describing his characters. He gives excellent care to their development and how they go through learning life lessons. The author has written previous stories and has a website to learn how to write about characters and much more. I especially enjoyed how I cheered for Sophie and Ann. Will Sophie find true love? Will Ann ever forgive herself? Does Billie find meaning in life? Can Hiram keep one step ahead […]

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Deborah Dodd

5/5

McDowell Review from OnlineBookClub.org There are many positive aspects to this book, but what I loved the most is how the book ended. Hiram realized his mistakes and bad decisions and tried to amend them. The story of Hiram McDowell was really interesting to read. I enjoyed the book as it came with a lot of surprises and different plot twists. I also got to learn the importance of honesty and the need to desist from greed and betrayal. I like […]

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Hakeem nuel

5/5

McDowell Review from OnlineBookClub.org A 5 out of 5 is appropriate for this book. From one viewpoint to the next, Mr. Coles writes with ease. Even though the point of view shifts often (about every couple of chapters), the reader is still able to appreciate the novel despite this. In actuality, the many viewpoints emphasize various interpretations of the struggle. These differences are fascinating and provide the reader with a unique perspective on every aspect. The vivid detail that was there […]

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Elendu Clement Ekechukw

5/5

Tour of Duty Review from OnlineBookClub.org Williams H. Coles created an outstanding work out of this novel. While reading the book, I was completely immersed in it, enjoying each chapter and desiring to know what happens next. The author’s writing was easy to follow and intriguing. This book made me admire Miles a lot. He didn’t only stand his ground, unlike the other doctors on the military base, but he upheld his morals and ethics and stuck to them. Looking at the lives […]

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Raymond N

5/5

McDowell Review from OnlineBookClub.org This William H. Coles book, entitled McDowell, discusses lies, treachery, retaliation, bitterness, wrath, greed, and similar topics. I discovered that it’s best to honor promises that we make because breaking them can have negative effects on the other person. Couples should learn to treat their marriage seriously and to raise their kids in the right way. In the book, I also learned a few medical terms. Additionally, leading an impulsive, materialistic life puts one’s life in jeopardy, […]

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Chiwenduik078

4/4

Tour of Duty Review from OnlineBookClub.org What I loved most about the book was how the author was able to give us an insight into the character’s mind. I felt connected to the character. I felt angry when the commander kept rejecting his ideas, even though it was going to save many lives. I wondered if the military found it hard to make changes because they disliked deviating from their normal routines. The book was easy to read and comprehend. The author used […]

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Remmy Adisa

4/4

Tour of Duty Review from OnlineBookClub.org The positive aspects of this book are quite glaring and sobering. You get to discover truths about our society and the reality we wake up to each day and how everyone else fares in it. We get to see people’s responses to norms and values, their perception of love and fulfillment and the never ending quest for happiness. We are made to see the resignation to a life we feel we can do so little to change […]

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Stewardex

4/4

Tour of Duty Review from OnlineBookClub.org I found this book to be one of a kind. It’s one thing to be presented with an amazing plot, and another to be taken back in time to the 1960s. But all thanks to Williams, these two were fused perfectly together. My favorite character in this book is Miles. I admire greatly his calm and composed manner, love, passion, and devotion he always has towards his patients and tasks. My favorite aspect of this book is […]

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Nicole Adam

4/4

Tour of Duty Review from OnlineBookClub.org The book is enthralling and the end is really satisfying. I rate this book 4 out of 4 stars. The author creates emotional appeal when he writes about the experiences of non-Aryan during The Nazi rule. There is a lot to learn from the book, for instance, enabling the world to understand the dire consequences of ruling with selfish intent. The book is written in clear, simple language with a steady flow of events that make it […]

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Maryline Adhiambo

Tour of Duty Review from OnlineBookClub.org I liked a number of aspects of the book. It is less than twenty years after World War II and memories of German atrocities are still fresh in the minds of the local population. There is still distrust of people suspected of having been Nazi collaborators. The author handles this subject delicately without making it an overarching theme of the book. Ballard and his friends capitalise on their location in central Europe by taking holiday trips to, […]

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Robert Bruce-Brand

4/4

Tour of Duty Review from OnlineBookClub.org The book is excellent. I can’t say anything negative about it. The only thing I didn’t like was that I wished the book was even longer. I did not want to part with the main characters of the novel. I rate this novel four out of four stars because I thoroughly enjoyed reading it. I got pleasure from reading it and also discovered something new for me. For example, I have not heard about the Dachau concentration […]

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Eteri Topuria

5/5

McDowell Review from OnlineBookClub.org I found McDowell an interesting character and one that evoked strong emotions in the reader. Kudos to author William H Coles, who was able to extract the gamut of emotional responses from the reader. Initially, we feel nothing but scorn and disbelief at the coldness and callousness of the character but as time goes on the empathy and even sympathy for his predicament, despite it being of his own making, begins to take control. McDowell, when faced […]

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Hokageq

4/4

McDowell Review from OnlineBookClub.org This was a masterpiece of storytelling and character development. Even if they only played a small part in the overall book, you still felt like you got to know the personalities of almost every character. It also seemed like a realistic story, like it was something that truly happened instead of being entirely fictional. This is due to the way in which it was written, following Hiram’s life but also his family’s to portray how his actions […]

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Mystic96

4/4

McDowell Review from OnlineBookClub.org McDowell is an exhilarating read. From the first chapter, it had my full attention and never lost momentum. If anything, I was more inclined to keep reading in the second half than in the first. Coles has written an undoubtedly unique story that stretches from high-brow charity balls to the life of the homeless population. Because of the grip this novel had on my attention, and the creativity poured into the characters, I rate this book 4 […]

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Melissa Best

4/4

McDowell Review from OnlineBookClub.org I rate this book 4 out of 4 stars. It was thought-provoking, well-written, interesting, and engaging. I particularly enjoyed the feeling of having just dropped into the life and timeline of the characters without the need for backstories on them. The way they were all shaped through descriptions of their personalities and motivating factors felt natural. Sophie and Paige in particular were characters I felt had compelling arcs, especially about their own lives. The ending was unexpected […]

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Jackie Kook

4/4

McDowell Review from OnlineBookClub.org The author, William H. Coles, is a literary genius who created a dramatic story about a surgeon’s adventures through a tumultuous life. The book was very believable, especially considering the author’s background of ophthalmic surgery. He allowed the reader to experience the main character, Hiram McDowell’s, vulnerable life ridden with constant decision-making and significant trials accompanying such a prominent profession. McDowell is enjoyable and comes highly recommended, particularly to the reader who struggles with a distorted self-image […]

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Lonawin

4/4

McDowell Review from OnlineBookClub.org One thing I really liked about the book is when H. Coles made Hiram experience both sides of real life, one in which he is really privileged and has almost everything that we may all need in life, and the other side where he has nothing and has to begin his whole life from scratch. Through this, every reader gets to appreciate everything they have in life. And it’s a good learning point that we all walk […]

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Frank Aspire

4/4

The Surgeon's Wife Review from OnlineBookClub.org The author did an outstanding job of creating the characters and their personalities. The storyline was realistic and gave an accurate view of pressures in the medical profession. As a retired nurse, I can relate to the day-to-day stress of working in the medical field; and how adding personal drama to an already stressful job can create explosive situations. I was impressed with Cole’s writing style. The narrative was easy to read, and the storyline was compelling […]

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Brenda Creech

4/4

Creating Literary Stories Review from OnlineBookClub.org I had never realized the importance of a word choice in stories before reading this. Characterization, starting from the name of the character, is also something that holds significance in causing an impact on the reader. William Coles did an excellent job to help writers improve! What I liked most about the book was how straight-forward and honest the advice was. The author did not miss a beat to talk about what will be the downfall of […]

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samps1910

4/4

Tour of Duty Review from OnlineBookClub.org What I loved most about the book was the author’s fluidity and how he was able to connect each chapter. All the characters in the book had their unique characteristics, but they still connected very well throughout the book. I loved the historical references made in the book. I was able to learn more about the Holocaust and the Cold War. The book contained no errors. I will rate the book 4 out of 4 stars because […]

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Remi akinluyi

4/4

Tour of Duty Review from OnlineBookClub.org I absolutely enjoyed reading this book. The writing was very compelling and it got me hooked from the very first sentence. It had the perfect balance between historical facts and fiction. The story was very interesting and the historical facts were not overwhelming. Instead, they complimented it really well. Something else that I appreciated in the writing was the number of descriptive details of the characters and scenes. The author goes over the details in a very […]

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readingswithsoso

4/4

Tour of Duty Review from OnlineBookClub.org This book allows the reader to get an insight into what living in such times could feel like. The book portrays what finding or not finding self and love can cost us as human beings. I believe in finding love and happiness if you earnestly seek it and take the right steps towards it. After reading this book, I am convinced that this book will be an inspiration to people who have lost hope in humanity that […]

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Liney Eyo

4/4

Tour of Duty Review from OnlineBookClub.org This book is written in a way that each of the chapters has its own separate plot (similar to a “slice of life” story). It’s also written from multiple points of view, which adds depth to the overall storyline. This is a unique writing format, especially for historical fiction. It’s a breath of fresh air from the tense, gloomy, and tragic nature of most wartime historical fiction. There are so many positive things about this book such […]

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EmmaGraciela

4/4

Tour of Duty Review from OnlineBookClub.org Life is an adventure, a journey. Sometimes we face troubles but troubles may lead to good things when we learn a lesson from them. That’s the main message shared by William H. Coles in his historical fiction book entitled Tour Of Duty. I really love this book and I recommend it to those who need motivation in life. It is for both young people and adults. Read the entire review here…

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Tonymamy

4/4

Tour of Duty Review from OnlineBookClub.org William H. Coles has brought to life a myriad of characters that help to shape up Tour of Duty into a wonderful story. The main character has also been well-developed; he is very imperfect, but yet kind and thoughtful. The book is clearly well written, and it is very obvious that the author has put a lot of work into researching the facts. Coles has also put real-life emotions and events into the book, depicting the varying […]

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Ochieng Stephen Owino

4/4

The Surgeon's Wife Review from OnlineBookClub.org I loved every aspect of the book and found it hard to put it down. Every event in the book kept me hooked on discovering what would happen next. In addition, I appreciate how the author gives every character a voice of their own. My favorite character is Mike. Although he had flaws, he was willing to risk everything for love. He was hardworking, and this paid off by him being the best in his field. His […]

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Orizon

5/5

Tour of Duty Reviewed by Maria Victoria Beltran for Readers’ Favorite Tour of Duty by William H Coles is set in France, in the tumultuous 1960s at the onset of the Cuban Missile Crisis, and conflict in Vietnam at the height of the Cold War. The story unravels as physician Miles Ballard, inducted to serve in the US Air Force, arrives for his tour of duty at the US Air Station in Châteauroux. He is met at the airport by Ingrid Stern who […]

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Reviewed by Maria Victoria Beltran for Readers’ Favorite

Tour of Duty Tour of Duty is a work of fiction in the historical and realistic drama subgenres and it is a standalone work. It is best suited to the general adult reading audience and was penned by William H. Coles. In his new novel, this prolific author brings life in the 1960s to full living color, focusing heavily on France and its experiences during the Cold War. American Air Force physician Miles Ballard takes a central role as he follows his path […]

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Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers’ Favorite

Tour of Duty Tour of Duty by William H. Coles is a historical novel set in post-war France in the 60s, principally on an American airbase, part of Europe’s defensive strategies against the ever-present threat of nuclear annihilation from the Soviet Union. Miles Ballard was a newly graduated doctor, drafted into the United States Air Force and posted to the Châteauroux Air Base in France. He immediately struggles with the strict military protocol and the apparent clash between the physicians’ commitment to do […]

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Reviewed by Grant Leishman for Readers’ Favorite

Tour of Duty During the Cold War and with the prospect of a nuclear attack, Miles Ballard, an American medical officer who also works in the army, travels to France for training. He is forced to work with an unreasonable and narrow-minded superior and serve as the general’s doctor, a role that other people avoid for strange reasons. He instantly makes friends with Oliver and Ingrid, who is Oliver’s wife. The biggest obstacle Miles faces is choosing between upholding 2 the army’s highly […]

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Reviewed by Adanna Ora for Readers’ Favorite

Tour of Duty Tour of Duty by William H. Coles is a historical novel set in France in the 1960s. Central character Miles Ballard arrives at the US Air Force base and soon gets a taste of the French hostility towards Americans. Nevertheless, his work as a physician is all-consuming as he attends to not only General Thomas Read but many who seek his medical expertise. Miles’s life is interwoven with the other military doctor, Oliver Stern, and his wife Ingrid who is […]

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Reviewed by Iza Grek for Readers’ Favorite

5/5

Tour of Duty William H. Coles is a realistic novel set in France during the 1940s. Miles Ballard is the charming young protagonist sent to work as a doctor in the air force. Honest, hardworking, and ambitious, Miles is liked by everyone he meets, except his superior, Colonel Barney Springer, who makes life difficult for Miles. Springer refuses to support any of Miles’s projects and continuously berates him for taking the initiative. He misinterprets Miles’s honesty and desire to do the right thing […]

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Reviewed by Kayleigh Perumal for Readers’ Favorite

Tour of Duty Tour of Duty, a gripping novel by William H. Coles, is set in France during the 1960s. It is here that Miles Ballard serves as a doctor in the Air Force. Although he becomes the General’s physician, the hospital commander considers any suggestion insubordination. Our hero’s life interweaves with that of other characters as a Jewish woman who seeks information about her family; an ex-girlfriend who would like to reconnect; and a journalist who is the adopted daughter of the […]

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Reviewed by Astrid Iustulin for Readers’ Favorite

Tour of Duty Tour of Duty follows a set of characters at a US Air Force base in 1960s France during the Cold War. Written by William H. Coles, the book opens with Miles Ballard, a physician newly drafted into the Air Force who finds himself assigned as the GMO to Brigadier General Thomas Read of the Châteauroux Air Base. After arriving in Châteauroux, Miles soon becomes friends with fellow doctor Oliver Stern and his wife, Ingrid. When the General’s daughter Alyce Read, […]

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Reviewed by Pikasho Deka for Readers’ Favorite

Tour of Duty Americans in France. Not so unusual, or is it? Tour of Duty by William H. Coles is set in 1960s Europe in the Cold War era during a nuclear attack threat. Physician Miles Ballard is serving in the Air Force at US Air Station, Châteauroux, France. Ingrid, the beautiful wife of Ballard’s best friend Oliver Stern, there to locate lost relatives in the Holocaust and ascertain their fates, welcomes Miles. Enter Alyce Read, a New York Herald Tribune writer in […]

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Reviewed by Gordon D. Durich for Readers’ Favorite

Tour of Duty Tour of Duty by William H Coles is an outstanding literary historical work set during the Cold War, in post-war France. In 1960, Miles Ballard is inducted to serve in the US Air Force. He arrives in France and immediately becomes aware of the French hostility to Americans. Miles’s hope of providing patients with proper care is hindered by military bureaucracy and an antagonistic boss. His social circle includes Oliver, a fellow military doctor, and his wife, Ingrid, who is […]

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Reviewed by Edith Wairimu for Readers’ Favorite

McDowell McDowell by William H. Coles presents the tragic fall of an arrogant man from grace. Hiram McDowell is a brilliant, admired, and respected surgeon with many flaws — arrogance, narcissism, and boundless pride. He is a selfish man who watches his climbing partner die on Mt. Everest, belittles his wife, ignores his children, and tricks his colleague. The author paints the picture of a man who cares for no one but himself, and surprisingly, he seems to move from one […]

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Daniel Rhodes – The Book Commentary

The Short Fiction of William H. Coles 2000-2016 The Amish Girl Short Story from the book: The Amish Girl is a sweet but sad story of love loss and yearning. The author left a hint of reconnection by mentioning Belize a country in central America that she may have been forced to go to where there are a number of Amish folk. While that would be interesting I personally like the way it ended. Old memories grow sweeter by the day. I have read thousands of short fiction […]

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marshall dell

4/4

The Short Fiction of William H. Coles 2000-2016 Review from OnlineBookClub.org Every short story I read was simply relatable, which was my number one monumental positive aspect about the book. The author seems to possess a skill to assessing the status-core of today’s norm and depict it in stories. Once again, recalling from the story of the gift, Catherine’s parent seems to fail to understand that premarital sex is a thing of the past. Instead of counselling her and cautioning her about life at large, they just throw […]

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The_bookwarrior

4/4

The Short Fiction of William H. Coles 2000-2016 Review from OnlineBookClub.org He is arguably known as the father of modern short stories and one of its most prolific writers. He is none other than the great poet, Edgar Allan Poe, who once said: ‘A short story must have a single mood, and every sentence must build towards it.’ In Illustrated Short Fiction of William H.Coles: 2000-2016 by William H. Coles, Edgar’s statement rings true. The book comprises thirty-three short stories, two graphic novels and one novella. The book […]

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Fola_M

4/4

The Short Fiction of William H. Coles 2000-2016 Review from OnlineBookClub.org I did enjoy reading this book. As an avid reader and huge fan of short stories, this has to be among the best pieces I have read so far. The plots are written in beautiful and artistic ways that help readers form imagery as they read. All the themes discussed are very contemporary, making the whole book relatable. At first, I thought the themes were too dark and morbid but the themes addressed are real-life problems that […]

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nerdychikka

The Short Fiction of William H. Coles 2000-2016 Review from OnlineBookClub.org I appreciate the dark-adapted characters I have met in these stories. Characters that may easily be perceived as pure evil and malevolent until you get to know them more and realize how capable of goodness even these people can be. One example I can think of is Harry. The nature of his work alongside his cousin, Antoine, is too despicable for words. Their job is to transport a Chinese kid they had just picked up from a […]

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Adrienne Abad-Alipe

4/4

The Short Fiction of William H. Coles 2000-2016 Review from OnlineBookClub.org Most of the stories in this book are exceptionally beautiful, unique, and come from different topics. Reading this book was a very interesting and exciting experience. Each ending is satisfying, even though most of them are sad and mysterious. At the end of my reading, I wondered which chapter was my favorite, and I had a hard time picking one. However, one of my favorite chapters is “The Wreck of the Amtrak’s Silver Service.” The best paragraph […]

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Viva Marina

The Short Fiction of William H. Coles 2000-2016 Review from OnlineBookClub.org I liked how his stories didn’t always have a “happy ending” but an ending that I had least expected. Although they hit us hard, they portrayed the reality of life. The stories are navigated based on human emotions and not based on anything that justifies which is right or wrong. The readers can have a different perspective on life after reading this book. I’d suggest people to read any one of the stories whenever they felt low […]

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MS Lefty

4/4

The Short Fiction of William H. Coles 2000-2016 Review from OnlineBookClub.org Another aspect that I like about this book is the uniqueness found in some of its short stories. Consider The Activist, for instance. The story doesn’t read like those I have read before. Told from the perspective of a young girl, this story has newness to it because it approaches activism from a very creepy angle. Still on why I enjoyed reading this book, I like the sentences many stories here start with, specifically Dilemma, The Perennial […]

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kennedyodindo

4/4

The Short Fiction of William H. Coles 2000-2016 Review from OnlineBookClub.org I liked this book especially because of the uniqueness of each of the stories. I found each story different and interesting, and was amazed at how all those ideas could come from one person. I also liked the illustrations for each of the stories because they satisfied my imagination. They were all unique and the two graphically illustrated books were an added bonus. Additionally, I liked that the book was able to draw my emotions both positive […]

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In the corridors of power, Dr. McDowell was a phantom—brilliant, untouchable, dangerous. A surgeon whose scalpel cut through human flesh and professional barriers with equal precision, he climbed the medical hierarchy like a predator, leaving shattered expectations in his wake. Ambition was his oxygen, manipulation his weapon.

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