W.B. Edwards' novel, Finding Rosie is a complicated, yet short novel...It does a good job of evoking the joy and obsession many people find in the ocean...This isn't exactly a happy narrative, as Paul and Rosie's love was never ideal, nor conventional. ..(but) for a slice of life story that can make you think about your life choices, Finding Rosie is an enjoyable read.

"In Finding Rosie, author W.B. Edwards shows all sides of humanity during one of the most complex times in history. The main character of this story has to deal with quite a few changes as he leaves his carefree past to fight in a war. War is never easy, and Edwards shows just how difficult it can be through rich dialogue, active narrative, and detailed settings that provide just enough information to make the reader feel present throughout the story...There are many many things to like about this book. Readers who devour books will appreciate the large print that eases the strain on their eyes. The story is well told in a logical manner that is interesting and thought provoking. The cover of the book is interesting, compelling, and suited to the era. The back cover blurb will make readers want to open the book to see what it’s all about."

[Following is an excerpt from an official OnlineBookClub.org review by MarisaRose, May 4, 2019,]

Finding Rosie by W.B. Edwards follows Paul Sutton, a young Californian, and his life during and after his Naval service ……(his) story is broken up into multiple parts, focusing on two main periods: Paul’s life in California two years after his return from the war, and Paul’s (time).…. in the Philippines. Although set against the backdrop of the Vietnam War, rather than a typical war story, this book is a literary tale about one young man’s search for purpose and understanding… …throughout the narrative…. Rosie, the title character, cleverly appears as a symbol for many things ... Rosie doesn’t make an appearance until about halfway through the book. Rather, Rosie is presented as a constant theme, an ever present thought in the back of Paul’s mind. The idea of Rosie tied in nicely with Paul’s confusion about life post-Vietnam: Was Rosie simply a means to get through the most turbulent and unknown time of Paul’s life? Or was she really the one that got away?  ……This is the second book I’ve read by Edwards, and I was happy to see the author’s literary talent radiating from the pages again. Finding Rosie is a thoughtful, complex, and poignant tale that I highly recommend to readers who enjoy literary historical fiction, especially novels that focus on psychological aspects of life. … Finding Rosie earns a strong 3 out of 4 stars.

Sometimes, you get a taste of love when you're miles away from home. Is it worth it to go back afterward? How far would you be willing to travel for love?

W.B. Edwards' first novel, Finding Rosie, follows California surfer, Paul Sutton, when he returns home from (his Navy service in)the Philippines...As he re-adjusts to life in America, he realizes that something is missing. He starts to think about Rosie, a beautiful woman whom he dated during his Navy service. As time goes on, Paul misses her more and more. Eventually, he decides to return to the Philippines to find her. The question is whether he is prepared for what awaits him there. Paul's story was unique, yet relatable. I think that many people have found romance on vacations or travel expeditions and there is always the question of whether it is truly something worth returning for. There were also a few surprises in the story which I did not see coming. I really appreciated these twists because each deepened the plot and gave me a greater insight into the characters.The author's descriptions of Filipino culture and lifestyle were another feature of the story that I enjoyed. Through Paul's eyes, I got a glimpse of what life in the Philippines looked like in the past.  Since I genuinely enjoyed the book, I rate it 3 out of 4 stars.

A Five-star Readers’ Favorite review by Deborah Lloyd published 9/16/2020

“Paul Sutton and Don Frank, who just graduated high school in Santa Monica, were surfing buddies. The Vietnam War and the draft were in full swing. Both young men joined the Naval Air Reserves, and both were stationed at Subic Bay in the Philippines. When the men were off duty, they usually went into Olongapo City to drink, listen to music, talk, and dance with bar hostesses. These were local women who were paid to cater to the American soldiers. Paul met Rosie who was beautiful and different than the other women. He also was in a serious relationship with Mary back home. In Finding Rosie by W. B. Edwards, a realistic portrayal of the many effects of the Vietnam War are described.

This book is written in several parts from the mid-sixties through 1973. The author organized the account into several parts, going back and forth between the two decades. The hard decisions young men had to make in this era are shown. This included military service during a controversial war, living in a different culture, the effects for women in those countries, and readjusting to life in America. Although much information is given, the personal element makes this an engaging and interesting read. The style of writing is fast-paced, filled with exciting moments. Paul’s connection to Rosie is strong, and he questions the decisions he makes. Author W. B. Edwards has penned a captivating story in Finding Rosie. A wonderful read that will be especially enjoyed by those who lived through those challenging times.”