Best of Best Review is proud to announce that Dr. Michael J. Cooper, a retired pediatric cardiologist and acclaimed historical fiction writer, has been honored with the prestigious award for Best Writer of Historical Novels Set in the Middle East of 2025. Dr. Cooper’s storytelling stands as a bridge of understanding, connecting past and present with profound insights into history, identity, and hope.

A deep connection to the land of Israel and the Middle East fuels Dr. Cooper's narratives. His writing reflects both his professional background and personal journey. Born in Berkeley, California, Dr. Cooper emigrated to Israel in 1966, where he lived through the final year of Jerusalem’s division between Israel and Jordan. This pivotal period in history greatly influenced his understanding of the region, shaping his future work as both a physician and a writer.

A Legacy of Compassion and Reconciliation

Dr. Cooper’s dedication to healing hearts is not limited to his medical practice. His extensive volunteer work over the past two decades has seen him provide vital medical care to Palestinian children in need, further cementing his commitment to reconciliation and peace. His novels mirror this mission, blending historical accuracy with powerful messages of coexistence and unity.

His writing began as a personal response to the sorrow of the assassination of Israeli Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin in 1995. His novels focus on the complex web of relationships that define the Holy Land and challenge readers to see beyond political and cultural divides. Dr. Cooper’s unique ability to weave rich historical narratives with empathy for all people, regardless of background, sets him apart from others in the literary world.

Award-Winning Novels with a Deep Sense of Place

Dr. Cooper’s literary accomplishments speak for themselves:

• Foxes in the Vineyard (2011) – A gripping 1948 espionage tale set in Jerusalem at the birth of Israel, this debut novel won the Grand Prize in the Indie Publishing Contest.

• Wages of Empire (2022) – Set in WWI-era Ottoman Palestine, this coming-of-age story won the CIBA Rossetti Award and the prestigious First Place in the CIBA Hemingway Award for Wartime Historical Fiction. It became an Amazon #1 Bestseller in 2024.

• Crossroads of Empire (2023) – The sequel to Wages of Empire, this novel explores Jerusalem’s history and is a winner of the First Place CIBA Hemingway Award for Wartime Historical Fiction. It also reached #1 on Amazon in 2024.

• The Rabbi's Knight (Due September 2025) – A thrilling narrative set in the Holy Land at the end of the Crusades, The Rabbi's Knight will further solidify Dr. Cooper’s place as a master of historical fiction.

Each of these novels stands alone, yet they are interconnected by themes of memory, identity, and the enduring spirit of the Holy Land. Dr. Cooper’s meticulous research and immersive storytelling invite readers into the heart of the Middle East, where history, faith, and culture intersect in poignant and often surprising ways.

A Commitment to the Past and Future

Dr. Cooper’s commitment to preserving the stories of the Middle East, particularly those of Jerusalem, echoes his medical career’s dedication to healing. Through his novels, he seeks to heal the emotional divides that persist in the region and foster greater understanding between communities. His belief that “with a common goal, all people of good faith can work together to find solutions” resonates deeply throughout his work.

Readers, critics, and scholars alike have praised Dr. Cooper’s writing for its authenticity, emotional depth, and powerful historical insights. As Andrew Kaplan, New York Times Best-Selling Author, notes, his novel Wages of Empire is “masterful storytelling” that compels readers to “furiously turn the pages.” Publishers Weekly lauds Crossroads of Empire for its superb storytelling, original narrative, and unforgettable imagery.

Why Dr. Michael J. Cooper Stands Out

• Historical Accuracy: Dr. Cooper’s novels are grounded in deep research, offering readers a nuanced and accurate portrayal of the Middle East’s complex history.

• Rich, Engaging Narratives: His storytelling combines suspense, adventure, and emotional depth, making his works not only informative but thoroughly captivating.

• Commitment to Peace: Dr. Cooper’s lifelong work in both medicine and literature is rooted in a belief in reconciliation, coexistence, and the power of storytelling to bring about understanding.

• Award-Winning Craftsmanship: With multiple awards, including the 2023 CIBA Hemingway Award and recognition as a #1 Amazon Bestseller, Dr. Cooper has earned his place among the top historical fiction authors.

Pros of Dr. Michael J. Cooper’s Historical Fiction

• In-depth, authentic portrayal of Middle Eastern history

• Thought-provoking themes of reconciliation and coexistence

• Richly developed characters and suspenseful plots

• Multiple award-winning works and critically acclaimed storytelling

You can discover more about Dr. Michael J. Cooper’s novels, upcoming releases, and insightful reflections on his website michaeljcooper.net.

For more updates on his work and passion for storytelling, you can follow him on his social media platforms:

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