Review of McDowell
Posted: 12 Jul 2024, 01:04
[Following is a volunteer review of "McDowell" by William H. Coles.]
"McDowell" by William H. Coles follows the life of Hiram McDowell, a skilled and ambitious surgeon who leads a polygamous life. Hiram is driven and relentless in pursuing his goals, showing little concern for others' feelings. Despite being in his third marriage and facing a downward spiral, he remains indifferent. Eventually, his life unravels to the point where he ends up in prison. This marks the beginning of a profound journey of self-discovery and redemption for Hiram.
The narrative revolves around Hiram McDowell, who, after the death of his second wife, Sophie, married Carole, his third wife. Prior to meeting Hiram, Carole had already raised two children, Tracy and Candace. Consequently, the couple assumed joint parental responsibility for their upbringing. Additionally, Hiram harbored ambitions of becoming president of the prestigious International College of Surgeons. To aid his colleague Michael O'Leary in achieving his own aspirations, Hiram made a commitment to support him. However, a significant mistake made by Hiram's son, Billie, complicates matters.
The character of Sophie captivated me most. Throughout the narrative, she navigated a series of challenges, including the loss of a friend, the complexities of a same-sex relationship, and issues with self-esteem. Her growth was evident as the story progressed. Conversely, I did not like Hiram McDowell's interactions with women. Viewing them as emotionless objects revealed his self-centered and arrogant nature, creating a complex reaction where he is simultaneously repelling and intriguing as a protagonist. The novel's ending was completely unexpected.
“McDowell” proves to be a thoroughly engaging read. Although the narrative includes some profanity and a few intimate scenes, it steers clear of being overtly erotic. The compelling storyline compels me to award “McDowell” a rating of 5 out of 5 stars. On a deeper level, the novel imparts a valuable lesson on the pitfalls of self-pride, highlighting how easily we can stumble when arrogance takes hold. I suggest this book to anyone who enjoys fiction and appreciates a compelling, fast-paced narrative with depth.
******
McDowell
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon | on Smashwords
"McDowell" by William H. Coles follows the life of Hiram McDowell, a skilled and ambitious surgeon who leads a polygamous life. Hiram is driven and relentless in pursuing his goals, showing little concern for others' feelings. Despite being in his third marriage and facing a downward spiral, he remains indifferent. Eventually, his life unravels to the point where he ends up in prison. This marks the beginning of a profound journey of self-discovery and redemption for Hiram.
The narrative revolves around Hiram McDowell, who, after the death of his second wife, Sophie, married Carole, his third wife. Prior to meeting Hiram, Carole had already raised two children, Tracy and Candace. Consequently, the couple assumed joint parental responsibility for their upbringing. Additionally, Hiram harbored ambitions of becoming president of the prestigious International College of Surgeons. To aid his colleague Michael O'Leary in achieving his own aspirations, Hiram made a commitment to support him. However, a significant mistake made by Hiram's son, Billie, complicates matters.
The character of Sophie captivated me most. Throughout the narrative, she navigated a series of challenges, including the loss of a friend, the complexities of a same-sex relationship, and issues with self-esteem. Her growth was evident as the story progressed. Conversely, I did not like Hiram McDowell's interactions with women. Viewing them as emotionless objects revealed his self-centered and arrogant nature, creating a complex reaction where he is simultaneously repelling and intriguing as a protagonist. The novel's ending was completely unexpected.
“McDowell” proves to be a thoroughly engaging read. Although the narrative includes some profanity and a few intimate scenes, it steers clear of being overtly erotic. The compelling storyline compels me to award “McDowell” a rating of 5 out of 5 stars. On a deeper level, the novel imparts a valuable lesson on the pitfalls of self-pride, highlighting how easily we can stumble when arrogance takes hold. I suggest this book to anyone who enjoys fiction and appreciates a compelling, fast-paced narrative with depth.
******
McDowell
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon | on Smashwords