Review of Not Just Another War Story

[Donna Walker]

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "Not Just Another War Story" by Wayne G MacDowell.]

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4 out of 5 stars

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Amidst the throes of 1942, with the Second World War in full swing across Europe, we're introduced to Steve Carmichael, a cattle farmer hailing from Florida. Driven by a resolute spirit, he takes it upon himself to contribute to the war effort, enlisting in the air force and embarking on a journey of transformation to become a skilled B-17 bomber. Following his successful training and an emotional farewell to his father, Steve departs for his new station, the Chelveston base in England. Here, set against the backdrop of war-ravaged landscapes, he prepares to face the formidable challenge of completing 30 missions with the esteemed 305 Bombardment Group and their 366th Squadron, all while nurturing the hope of reuniting with loved ones back home in the United States.

Steve's path is one fraught with danger; he is fully aware that the hazardous nature of his assignments may exact a toll on his team, including himself. Not Another War Story paints a vivid portrait of Steve's odyssey, intertwined with his crew and his steadfast companion, Howard Barclay Von Dyke III, affectionately known as Howie. Together with their crew, they navigate the treacherous skies over enemy territories. Steve then undertakes an arduous journey through occupied lands, including the Netherlands, Belgium, and France, with invaluable assistance from the individuals working for the Underground Resistance.

The narrative stands as a testament to the meticulous research undertaken by the author, Wayne G. MacDowell, evident in the rich geographical descriptions that bring settings to life. Each chateau gracing Steve's passage through France feels palpably authentic. The connection with the characters deepens with each page as their struggles and decisions resonate, fostering a heartfelt concern for not only Steve's wellbeing but that of the Underground that is helping him evade capture. Through the author's craftsmanship, readers gain a fresh perspective on the wartime ordeals endured by airmen and ground crews during WWII. The emotional bonds, not only among individuals but also with the aircraft they serve, are eloquently captured, making for a poignant reading experience. The infusion of romance within the narrative enriches its tapestry, enhancing its complexity.

Not Another War Story excels in providing a vivid chronicle of the daily lives of air bombers and their encounters. While there is an abundance of descriptions detailing places, sustenance, and conversations, the narrative predominantly lacks a suspenseful or thrilling undercurrent, rendering it relatively tranquil. The portrayal of Steve's perilous journey through occupied territories occasionally prioritises scenic descriptions over the gravity of the situation, momentarily diluting the tension.

My primary criticism lies in the book's lack of structured chapters, which lead to abrupt transitions between different locales and require a sustained commitment from the reader. A more organised chapter arrangement would likely have enhanced the overall reading experience. Despite its professional editing, the formatting could have benefited from refinement. The recurrent depiction of battle scenes occasionally verges on redundancy, arguably without necessitating such intricate detail for each bombing mission.

Reflectively, Not Another War Story warrants a commendable 4 out of 5 stars. It remains an engrossing read, despite the desire for a more reader-friendly chapter structure. Historical fiction enthusiasts, war story aficionados, and aviation enthusiasts alike will find something of value within its pages. The novel artfully encapsulates the nuances of wartime existence, leaving an indelible impression on those who engage with its narrative.

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Not Just Another War Story
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[Okewunmi Pelumi]

The author of this book did a great job. I also like this review. Thanks for sharing it

[Cara Wilding]

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "Not Just Another War Story" by Wayne G MacDowell.]

Amidst the throes of 1942, with the Second World War in full swing across Europe, we're introduced to Steve Carmichael, a cattle farmer hailing from Florida. Driven by a resolute spirit, he takes it upon himself to contribute to the war effort, enlisting in the air force and embarking on a journey of transformation to become a skilled B-17 bomber.

The narrative stands as a testament to the meticulous research undertaken by the author, Wayne G. MacDowell, evident in the rich geographical descriptions that bring settings to life. Each chateau gracing Steve's passage through France feels palpably authentic. The connection with the characters deepens with each page as their struggles and decisions resonate, fostering a heartfelt concern for not only Steve's wellbeing but that of the Underground that is helping him evade capture. Through the author's craftsmanship, readers gain a fresh perspective on the wartime ordeals endured by airmen and ground crews during WWII. The emotional bonds, not only among individuals but also with the aircraft they serve, are eloquently captured, making for a poignant reading experience.

This was a beautifully written review! I've read more non-fiction than fiction on WWII, but this description is eerily similar to what I've read in those books. It sounds like the experiences of both the airmen and the crews during WWII were interesting, but what I really like is how you acknowledged the emotional connection that the crews had with the aircraft that they served. I enjoyed your review, thanks so much for sharing!