Bookseller Blaise H calls No Small Thing: A Novel of the American Revolution “definitely a recommendation,” praising its “depth and flesh.” With richly drawn characters like Anthony Carter, Edward Shields, and Lady Katherine Trent, the newest novel from New York Times bestseller Harold Coyle invites readers to experience the American Revolution not just through battlefield strategy, but also through the eyes of those whose lives are irrevocably changed by it. Whether you're drawn to the grit of the front lines, the moral dilemmas of divided loyalties, or the required resilience born of desperation, No Small Thing offers it all.
If your book club is ready to explore this compelling story, we’ve put together a set of thoughtful questions to spark discussion. From character motivations to historical parallels, these prompts are designed to help you dig deeper into the novel’s themes—and maybe even challenge your own understanding of liberty, sacrifice, and identity.
1. Anthony Carter undergoes a major transformation throughout the novel. What moments define his growth, and how does his relationship with Anton de Chevalier shape his identity? How has your relationship with your parents shaped your identity?
2. Lady Katherine Shields is a complex figure navigating loyalty, motherhood, and power. How do her choices reflect the broader tensions of the American Revolution? What was a time you had to choose between family and another outside party? What choice did you make?
3. How does Harold Coyle portray the emotional and psychological toll of war on young soldiers like Edward Shields and Morgan Preston? What is consistent and what is different throughout the past and the present military experience?
4. Anton de Chevalier is both an outsider and a participant in the American Revolution. What does his perspective add to the story, and how does his personal journey mirror the larger conflict? Have you ever entered into something for one reason, but found another?
5. The novel features multiple strong female characters. How do women like Kat Trent and Sarah Carter influence the course of events, both publicly and privately? Who’s an impactful woman in your life today?
6. What role does class and social status play in the decisions characters make—especially in the divided loyalties between Patriots and Loyalists? Are there times that you’re aware of your class and social status today?
7. How does the novel balance historical accuracy with fictional storytelling? Were there any historical moments or figures that stood out to you?
8. The theme of “freedom” is central to the novel. How do different characters interpret what freedom means, and how does that shape their actions? What does freedom mean to you?
9. What did you think of the multi-perspective narrative structure? Did it enhance your understanding of the period’s complexity, or did it challenge your ability to connect with certain characters? Who did you want to read more about?
10. If you could ask Harold Coyle one question about the book, what would it be? If you could ask a character from the book one question, what would it be?
Get your copy of No Small Thing: A Novel of the American Revolution today! If you are interested in ordering bulk copies of this title for your book club or would like to connect with the author, please reach out via email to discuss opportunities at info.masterwingspublishing.com.
We also would love to hear any of your thoughts on these topics, or any additional questions that would be a good fit for this list! Find us on Facebook and Instagram.