The Recommended Reading Order
The Cole Family Trilogy (also known as the Cole Trilogy or Cole series) by Noah Gordon is a chronological, multi-generational historical fiction saga. Because the narrative advances systematically through history and follows descendants of the same family, readers should read the books in their publication order. The publication order perfectly mirrors the chronological timeline of the family's lineage.
- The Physician (1986) – Set in the 11th century. Follows Rob J. Cole as he travels from England to Persia to study under the famous physician Ibn Sina (Avicenna).
- Shaman (1992) – Set in the 19th century. Follows Dr. Robert Judson Cole as he practices medicine on the Illinois frontier and during the American Civil War.
- Matters of Choice (1995) – Set in the 20th century. Follows Dr. Roberta Jeanne d'Arc Cole as she navigates modern medicine and women's health choices in Boston.
Publication Order vs. Chronological Order
Unlike some expansive sagas, there is no divergence between publication order and chronological order in the Cole Family Trilogy. Reading them in the sequence they were written is the best and only logical path, as it allows you to trace the evolution of medicine and the inheritance of the Cole family's mystical healing gift—the ability to touch a patient and sense if they are close to death.
Alternative Titles and Editions
When searching for the final book, keep in mind that Matters of Choice was published under the alternative title Choices in the United Kingdom and some other international markets. The trilogy has also been collected in various single-volume omnibus editions titled The Cole Trilogy.
Adaptations and Spin-offs
While there are no official book spin-offs, co-authored continuations, or sister series, the first book, The Physician, was adapted into a major German-produced English-language film in 2013. Directed by Philipp Stölzl, the movie stars Tom Payne, Ben Kingsley, and Stellan Skarsgård.