Review of McDowell
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Stacy K
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Review of McDowell
[Following is a volunteer review of "McDowell" by William H. Coles.]
"McDowell" by William H. Coles is an intriguing and captivating novel that revolves around the life of surgeon Hiram McDowell. From the very beginning of the book, the reader is immediately hooked as they witness McDowell's callous act of abandoning his climbing partner to die on a mountain in Nepal. The author masterfully develops McDowell's character in a way that evokes an intense dislike from the reader. Despite being a brilliant doctor, a generous philanthropist, and a skilled climber who appears to have it all, those who know him closely view him as a manipulative narcissist.
Throughout the book, the reader is taken on an emotional roller coaster as they witness McDowell's selfish and morally questionable behavior. We see this when McDowell breaks a promise to a colleague to secure a vote to make him President of the International College of Surgeons, and once he achieves his goal, he reneges on his promise. McDowell's cheating on his wife and his foul way of speaking to people further establish his selfishness. However, amidst all this, the author shows how McDowell has a soft spot for his children, Sophie, Billie, and Ann. Unfortunately, this tenderness for his family leads to his downfall.
The novel's first jaw-dropping moment occurs when the reader witnesses the horrific events caused by McDowell's grandson, Jeremy, and then Jeremy's controversial death. This leaves the reader questioning McDowell's intentions and soul, and surprisingly, rooting for him.
Part Two of the novel focuses on McDowell's escape to freedom and the different characters he encounters on his journey. The author's incorporation of various characters helps McDowell discover his humane side. McDowell's goal is to write a memoir to clear his name of the accusations of being a cold-blooded murderer, which appears selfish. However, as he befriends people from different walks of life, a true change begins to happen within him.
At the end of the novel, the author delivers a powerful and poignant message as an act of kindness and empathy leads to McDowell's final demise.
Overall, I rate this book a 5 out of 5. The author's incredible skill in character development and plot twists kept me on the edge of my seat throughout the book. The use of supporting characters added depth and complexity to the story, making it an unforgettable read.
******
McDowell
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon | on Smashwords
"McDowell" by William H. Coles is an intriguing and captivating novel that revolves around the life of surgeon Hiram McDowell. From the very beginning of the book, the reader is immediately hooked as they witness McDowell's callous act of abandoning his climbing partner to die on a mountain in Nepal. The author masterfully develops McDowell's character in a way that evokes an intense dislike from the reader. Despite being a brilliant doctor, a generous philanthropist, and a skilled climber who appears to have it all, those who know him closely view him as a manipulative narcissist.
Throughout the book, the reader is taken on an emotional roller coaster as they witness McDowell's selfish and morally questionable behavior. We see this when McDowell breaks a promise to a colleague to secure a vote to make him President of the International College of Surgeons, and once he achieves his goal, he reneges on his promise. McDowell's cheating on his wife and his foul way of speaking to people further establish his selfishness. However, amidst all this, the author shows how McDowell has a soft spot for his children, Sophie, Billie, and Ann. Unfortunately, this tenderness for his family leads to his downfall.
The novel's first jaw-dropping moment occurs when the reader witnesses the horrific events caused by McDowell's grandson, Jeremy, and then Jeremy's controversial death. This leaves the reader questioning McDowell's intentions and soul, and surprisingly, rooting for him.
Part Two of the novel focuses on McDowell's escape to freedom and the different characters he encounters on his journey. The author's incorporation of various characters helps McDowell discover his humane side. McDowell's goal is to write a memoir to clear his name of the accusations of being a cold-blooded murderer, which appears selfish. However, as he befriends people from different walks of life, a true change begins to happen within him.
At the end of the novel, the author delivers a powerful and poignant message as an act of kindness and empathy leads to McDowell's final demise.
Overall, I rate this book a 5 out of 5. The author's incredible skill in character development and plot twists kept me on the edge of my seat throughout the book. The use of supporting characters added depth and complexity to the story, making it an unforgettable read.
******
McDowell
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon | on Smashwords
Latest Review: Mouse Trax by M.H. Dixon
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David Samanthaa
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William H. Coles has created a memorable character in McDowell. His journey from arrogance to humility is both realistic and moving. The book's exploration of themes such as redemption, family, and personal growth is handled with great sensitivity and depth.
Latest Review: Totem by Charlie Sheldon
