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One Vote
When the President-elect, a Democrat, dies shortly after the Presidential Election, the nation is thrown into Constitutional chaos as the Democratic Party tries to hold its 272 Presidential Electors together. One Elector balks and two are bought off, creating a stalemate. Read how one Faithless Elector affects the future of the entire nation.
332 pages, Paperback
Published December 5, 2023
About the author
J. Stewart Willis
13 books23 followersJ. Stewart Willis, a graduate of West Point and Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute has had a varied life as from time in Vietnam with the173rd Airborne Brigade, sixteen years as a professor of physics at West Point, a manager with the TRW for communications projects and the Nuclear Waste Project at Yucca Mountain in Nevada and as Mayor, for nine years, of the Town of Washington, Virginia. Now he is pursuing a lifetime dream of writing fiction.
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Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews
January 22, 2021
Let me begin simply. I loved this book. “One Vote” is a great read. The story is solid. I love a political thriller and this book is all that and more. What is delightful about “One Vote” is the unexpected nature of the tension which holds the story together. It is a simple idea but J. Stewart Willis does an incredible job of delivering on the idea. The introduction of the characters is well done. The story is rock solid. Okay. Before you start looking at the rating and wondering how you laud all these compliments on the novel and only give it a middle of the road rating. Well, it’s simple – there are a few flaws that stop it from being the slam dunk best book I’ve read this year that tie my hands as a reviewer when I read a book. Let me explain.
I liked the premise and the story; it is a delightful political novel. The writing held my attention from beginning to end. The mechanics are solid here. J. Stewart Willis weaves a great political thriller. I like the idea of man versus society – it is done incredibly well in “One Vote.” I believe the storytelling and as I read I could see the story really occurring. As a reader I sympathize with the fate of the everyman and enjoyed the backbone of the everyman as well. Perhaps, it is how the author introduces the everyman that makes him so relatable. He is not a big politico. He is simply a politico. In a time of politics over conscience One Vote suggests the real heroes are the ones who listen to their conscience and do not rely solely on politics. J. Stewart Willis offers a tightly written tale. Love the seeming simple action of one man which causes so much in its aftermath. Good storytelling. Characters are well thought out. Liked everything about the story and plot of “One Vote.” Highly recommended.
That said, there are some issues. There is some uneven formatting and grammatical errors in this novel and I would recommend a once over by a good editor. If these glitches had been addressed this would probably be my favorite book of the year. Once I began, the story is compelling enough to try to overlook the simple mechanical mistakes of a great story but the issues are sadly too distracting to the reader. I do hope to seem more from J. Stewart Willis in the future. Great potential.
I liked the premise and the story; it is a delightful political novel. The writing held my attention from beginning to end. The mechanics are solid here. J. Stewart Willis weaves a great political thriller. I like the idea of man versus society – it is done incredibly well in “One Vote.” I believe the storytelling and as I read I could see the story really occurring. As a reader I sympathize with the fate of the everyman and enjoyed the backbone of the everyman as well. Perhaps, it is how the author introduces the everyman that makes him so relatable. He is not a big politico. He is simply a politico. In a time of politics over conscience One Vote suggests the real heroes are the ones who listen to their conscience and do not rely solely on politics. J. Stewart Willis offers a tightly written tale. Love the seeming simple action of one man which causes so much in its aftermath. Good storytelling. Characters are well thought out. Liked everything about the story and plot of “One Vote.” Highly recommended.
That said, there are some issues. There is some uneven formatting and grammatical errors in this novel and I would recommend a once over by a good editor. If these glitches had been addressed this would probably be my favorite book of the year. Once I began, the story is compelling enough to try to overlook the simple mechanical mistakes of a great story but the issues are sadly too distracting to the reader. I do hope to seem more from J. Stewart Willis in the future. Great potential.
January 23, 2021
This story is preserves political suspense at its best.
Given that when I received this book it coincided with the US presidential election race, the plotline intrigued me and I figured that the story would be both enlightening and educational into just how the College Electoral system worked. The story was indeed enlightening and educational with the added thriller aspects made for a really enjoyable read and has immediately become one of my favorite political thrillers I have read. Left me wondering just how far away from the fact some of the story plot points were from the actual happenings of this year's US elections.
Stewart pulls the reader into an exciting and tension-filled tale that will captivate your imagination; blow your mind about potential conspiracies, and make you wonder when it all went wrong. Fiction that reads like reality; a reality that feels like fiction-you be the judge where the black and white slowly bleeds into grey.
If you are a politics junkie, like me, then you don't want to miss this one. You won't be sorry.
Given that when I received this book it coincided with the US presidential election race, the plotline intrigued me and I figured that the story would be both enlightening and educational into just how the College Electoral system worked. The story was indeed enlightening and educational with the added thriller aspects made for a really enjoyable read and has immediately become one of my favorite political thrillers I have read. Left me wondering just how far away from the fact some of the story plot points were from the actual happenings of this year's US elections.
Stewart pulls the reader into an exciting and tension-filled tale that will captivate your imagination; blow your mind about potential conspiracies, and make you wonder when it all went wrong. Fiction that reads like reality; a reality that feels like fiction-you be the judge where the black and white slowly bleeds into grey.
If you are a politics junkie, like me, then you don't want to miss this one. You won't be sorry.
February 28, 2021
The good. What a delightful political novel. I liked the premise and the story. The writing held my attention from beginning to end. The mechanics are solid here. J. Stewart Willis weaves a great political thriller. Like the idea of man versus society. It is done incredibly well in One Vote. Believe the storytelling and as I read I could see the story really occurring. As a reader I sympathize with the fate of the everyman. Enjoyed the backbone of the everyman as well. Perhaps, it is how the author introduces the every man that makes him so relatable. He is not a big politico. He is simply a politico. In a time of politics over conscience One Vote suggests the real heroes are the ones who listen to their conscience and do not rely solely on politics. J. Stewart Willis offers a tightly written tale. Love the seeming simple action of one man which causes so much in its aftermath. Good storytelling. Characters are well thought out. Liked everything about the story and plot of One Vote. Highly recommended.
January 24, 2021
This is the book that so many of us need to read, think about, and act upon.
It is essential for anyone interested in local or national politics. Willis does an exceptional job illustrating how everyday citizens can affect change. The format is clear, entertaining, and educational. I am involved with politics yet I learned about reading the experiences of people getting involved, especially the FitzBourne family.
I am part of the League of Women Voters Board Member responsible for Voter Services activities. In my role, I plan to recommend and refer this book to other League members and volunteers, and anyone else who wants a more effective and fair election process.
J. Stewart Willis is quite passionate about this topic, and it comes through in his writing. It inspired me to do even more. I believe there is collective energy emerging in our country to change the status quo. Per Ms. Grete, "One Vote can make a difference.” I hope Ms. Grete is right.
It is essential for anyone interested in local or national politics. Willis does an exceptional job illustrating how everyday citizens can affect change. The format is clear, entertaining, and educational. I am involved with politics yet I learned about reading the experiences of people getting involved, especially the FitzBourne family.
I am part of the League of Women Voters Board Member responsible for Voter Services activities. In my role, I plan to recommend and refer this book to other League members and volunteers, and anyone else who wants a more effective and fair election process.
J. Stewart Willis is quite passionate about this topic, and it comes through in his writing. It inspired me to do even more. I believe there is collective energy emerging in our country to change the status quo. Per Ms. Grete, "One Vote can make a difference.” I hope Ms. Grete is right.
January 26, 2021
This is the first book I've read from the author and I must say that he is becoming a favorite writer of mine. His ability to create characters with vivid personalities makes his stories an easy, memorable, and definitely enjoyable read.
I enjoyed the political science lessons throughout this book. I also enjoyed how the descriptions made me feel a part of the story. All the characters, even the secondary and tertiary ones are well-thought-out. They feel real in their emotions and motivations. The story does start to drag a bit in the middle, but it picks up again near the end for a thrilling end. Willis brilliantly carries you into their world, and then keeps you enthralled for the full length of the story. Nothing ever gets completely happy until the very last chapter--sometimes the last couple pages. That is a sign of an excellent author!
I guess I learn something new every day. I would definitely recommend this to anyone who would like to read it.
I enjoyed the political science lessons throughout this book. I also enjoyed how the descriptions made me feel a part of the story. All the characters, even the secondary and tertiary ones are well-thought-out. They feel real in their emotions and motivations. The story does start to drag a bit in the middle, but it picks up again near the end for a thrilling end. Willis brilliantly carries you into their world, and then keeps you enthralled for the full length of the story. Nothing ever gets completely happy until the very last chapter--sometimes the last couple pages. That is a sign of an excellent author!
I guess I learn something new every day. I would definitely recommend this to anyone who would like to read it.
January 26, 2021
This book is written from the omnipresent third person's view. Giving me the feeling of being introduced to each character and has made me preoccupied while reading this book, with the characters in living their respective lives.
The lead character in this book makes head-scratching decisions that may lead his family in danger, and there were times I felt uneasy about what was going on. Of course, the author knew where he was going, and I didn't. I enjoyed how there were reactions to true life events woven into the plot of the story. It made a fictional character come alive by his reactions and choices based on an event I remember.
This is a political novel at its best – the kind of book your teachers made you read. It's entertaining, suspenseful, and leaves the reader with the desire to pick up another of Willis' books.
I can't wait to see what he's working on next. I highly recommend One Vote.
The lead character in this book makes head-scratching decisions that may lead his family in danger, and there were times I felt uneasy about what was going on. Of course, the author knew where he was going, and I didn't. I enjoyed how there were reactions to true life events woven into the plot of the story. It made a fictional character come alive by his reactions and choices based on an event I remember.
This is a political novel at its best – the kind of book your teachers made you read. It's entertaining, suspenseful, and leaves the reader with the desire to pick up another of Willis' books.
I can't wait to see what he's working on next. I highly recommend One Vote.
January 23, 2021
I was on the edge of my seat the entire time, devouring this story as fast as I could!
J. Stewart Willis has amazing plotting skills, he is so good! I was sorry when I reached the end of the story. A very satisfying ending, I might add. All of that determined work to reveal the plot to control the presidency, bit by bit, is amazing. So many pieces and moving parts that ultimately fit together with unbelievable precision.
There is so much I loved about this book, the characters, even minor players come across with depth. It seems so real. The dialogues are very organic and bring the characters to life. Settings and action are commendable, it all adds up to an exciting book to read. The best and worst part of this story is how real it seemed. I worry that it might come true.
I give "ONE VOTE" a score of 5 stars!
J. Stewart Willis has amazing plotting skills, he is so good! I was sorry when I reached the end of the story. A very satisfying ending, I might add. All of that determined work to reveal the plot to control the presidency, bit by bit, is amazing. So many pieces and moving parts that ultimately fit together with unbelievable precision.
There is so much I loved about this book, the characters, even minor players come across with depth. It seems so real. The dialogues are very organic and bring the characters to life. Settings and action are commendable, it all adds up to an exciting book to read. The best and worst part of this story is how real it seemed. I worry that it might come true.
I give "ONE VOTE" a score of 5 stars!
January 28, 2021
J. Stewart Willis tells a fascinating story with suspense and humor, educating us along the way.
Personally, I love authors who write with "strength". He has a way to present reality in its raw, dangerous, cruel nature, not only without idealistic or moralistic lenses but also with pragmatism.
This makes the writing tighter, more concise, and straight to the point. It also has a kind of physical power – the power that makes you ignore all the fuss and subtleties and lets you go straight to the point (it might sound strange, but I do believe that a great writer has to be physically and mentally strong).
It is so obvious that whatever the author described, for the most part, had been researched well or heard about in detail. This authenticity is also what makes this novel an incredible masterwork.
A must-read!
Personally, I love authors who write with "strength". He has a way to present reality in its raw, dangerous, cruel nature, not only without idealistic or moralistic lenses but also with pragmatism.
This makes the writing tighter, more concise, and straight to the point. It also has a kind of physical power – the power that makes you ignore all the fuss and subtleties and lets you go straight to the point (it might sound strange, but I do believe that a great writer has to be physically and mentally strong).
It is so obvious that whatever the author described, for the most part, had been researched well or heard about in detail. This authenticity is also what makes this novel an incredible masterwork.
A must-read!
January 20, 2021
I would call this book a great guide for those who don't think voting is that big of a deal.
One Vote inspires the reader to make an educated decision when exercising his right to vote like Chance FitzBourne the Faithless Elector, and therefore, would make a great addition to political studies classrooms across America. As someone who has read several of J. Stewart Willis' book and follows him on social media, I was pleased with his recent release and his ability to write about American politics with a hopeful tone.
I think everyone who loves this country should read it. It gives an excellent description of why our votes are important and how to inform ourselves to use that vote. I would recommend this book no matter where your political view is.
One Vote inspires the reader to make an educated decision when exercising his right to vote like Chance FitzBourne the Faithless Elector, and therefore, would make a great addition to political studies classrooms across America. As someone who has read several of J. Stewart Willis' book and follows him on social media, I was pleased with his recent release and his ability to write about American politics with a hopeful tone.
I think everyone who loves this country should read it. It gives an excellent description of why our votes are important and how to inform ourselves to use that vote. I would recommend this book no matter where your political view is.
January 25, 2021
For the reader, this novel is a lit fuse: an exercise in tension, perfectly paced.
I didn't expect to love this as much as I did, but I've always had an interest in the presidential selection process, which began when I left school. I had a strong desire to become electoral in our district enabling me to work with the other electoral college committee, and to meet personally the presidential candidates. This never happened because life happened and things change, but I always ponder about its what if’s?
Chance FitzBourne is an amazing, compassionate main character. To see and deal with devastating events that often occur daily, you have to have a strong will, mainly so you can sleep at night. This is a well-written book, and I was rather disappointed once I'd finished it.
I didn't expect to love this as much as I did, but I've always had an interest in the presidential selection process, which began when I left school. I had a strong desire to become electoral in our district enabling me to work with the other electoral college committee, and to meet personally the presidential candidates. This never happened because life happened and things change, but I always ponder about its what if’s?
Chance FitzBourne is an amazing, compassionate main character. To see and deal with devastating events that often occur daily, you have to have a strong will, mainly so you can sleep at night. This is a well-written book, and I was rather disappointed once I'd finished it.
January 26, 2021
One of my favorite books. Ever. I read this book slowly, digesting every chapter. This is a book to reread every election year.
A book that attempts and manages to make sense of something that barely makes any sense at all deserves praise in and of itself. Yet, when the subject in question is as controversial and divisive as today's ineluctable pervasiveness of nationwide politics, addressing such a combustible phenomenon accords particular accolades to those who have the guts to dissect it. As is the case with his previous works, once again J. Stewart Willis displays the same courage, honesty, and depth which have made him one of the most lucid and astute political writers of our time.
A highly recommended read!
A book that attempts and manages to make sense of something that barely makes any sense at all deserves praise in and of itself. Yet, when the subject in question is as controversial and divisive as today's ineluctable pervasiveness of nationwide politics, addressing such a combustible phenomenon accords particular accolades to those who have the guts to dissect it. As is the case with his previous works, once again J. Stewart Willis displays the same courage, honesty, and depth which have made him one of the most lucid and astute political writers of our time.
A highly recommended read!
Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews