Review by Intel -- McDowell by William H. Coles

[Intel]

[Following is a volunteer review of "McDowell" by William H. Coles.]

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4 out of 4 stars

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McDowell by William H. Coles embarks on the chaotic world of Hiram McDowell, a surgeon who is nothing short of a rich, narcissistic, and somewhat selfish entity. He shows his persona to the audience in the very first pages, blatantly leaving a partner to die in the harsh Nepali Himalayas of 1981. This makes him dislikeable from the beginning, often making one feel the tug of choosing sides based on his charitable achievements and inner monologues.

The first part of the story shows how he is equally passionate about his children, his job, and his not so hidden agendas of power climbing. He keeps friends afar, whilst making a plethora of enemies to last a lifetime. His peculiar ways of parenting and showing affection gives McDowell the perfect twang of narcissism and personality. He wants to share his impact with the world, whether good or bad, it would remain memorable.

Is it too far-fetched to gain redemption? Do our past moments decide our future feats? Can one be so terrible to the point of never deserving love? These are precisely the circumstances Hiram finds himself in. Truly dealing with the consequences from the past, while meeting all kinds of people in life. Although the story revolves around Hiram, the many emotions, and perspectives of the characters around him, are what make the story relatable.

This novel not only captures the reader through its complex and bold plot, but it supplies much satisfaction through writing style. The pacing is indeed slow, and at times I get confused about the time elapsed, but it does not lack any elegance to the way the chapters smoothly transition from one point-of-view to another. Coles truly knows how to keep a reader immersed and waiting in anticipation. Not once was there an emotion that was not properly conveyed through extensive vocabulary and imagery.

McDowell is professionally edited, showing no grammar mistakes. There was neither misuse of conduct nor any sign of sloppiness emanating from the story. I enjoy how it is not only from a first-person point-of-view but gives a rather episodic feel to the finished product. The continuous switch between past and present never displays the difficulty of trouble following and adds the perfect amount of reminiscence to it all.

This story caters to a wide audience, especially those interested in crime and mystery, or the inner works of the human mind. If surprise is right up your alley, then this book is perfect. McDowell is not suitable for children, due to its mature settings and vulgar language (that is minimal, for the most part). For all this reasoning, I give this book a 4 out of 4 stars, making this the perfect read for groups and long-term enjoyment.

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McDowell
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[Ellylion]

William H. Coles is a very interesting author, and I would love to give this book a try I love how he explores a human soul in his works. Thank you for a great review!