Member Reviews
Kathleen D, Reviewer
4 ⭐️
I enjoyed reading this interesting well written story about the life and travels of Clarence Dover, a Conchie. With action and drama this was a true page turner!
Hazel Barker wrote this biography of her Uncle Clarence based on conversations she had with him, his war diaries, research on the Friends Ambulance Unit in India and China during World War II and letters and documents relating to him.
Clarence and his mother are my favourites, although I liked the whole Dover family and Clarence's friends and work buddies.
I strongly suggest that you read the Authors' Note, Acknowledgements and Prologue first.
I missed the Prologue (it was at the end of my advanced copy).
I recommend this book to anyone interested in reading a great story set during World War II.
Thank you to Hazel Barker, Rhiza Press and NetGalley for an advanced reader copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Rhonda N, Reviewer
World War II holds a true fascination for me. My uncle was killed in WWII in Normandy, France at the age of nineteen. As I read the true story of Clarence Dover's conscientious objector status, I did not see why soldiers would be so offended. He did after all join the Friend's Ambulance Unit (FAU). He risked his own life to save the lives of those who were fighting and killing. He was serving and honoring God in the best way he knew how by refusing to bear arms and kill other young men. I can also see the viewpoint of those who chose to fight to protect our freedom. They also were doing what they felt was right for them.
Clarence Dover has a reason for being referred to as Chocolate Soldier but I will let the reader discover that for themselves so as not to spoil the book. Readers will also be interested to see how Clarence's family and friends view him at the end of the war when they all return home.
I rated this book 4 stars as I would have liked a little more emotional connection with Clarence and the other main characters.
I received a copy of this book from netgalley. I was not required to write a review of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
