John J Kelley

I thoroughly enjoyed this debut novel by John Kelley. I have a penchant for WWI era stories and this was pleasurable. The story goes back and forth between Joshua's time in the Army posted in the Lorraine region of France and his time after returning home to his small mountain town in Virginia. Another plus for me was the family dynamic and how the characters were all well written and came through the story with their voices. We often think that when we leave our homes and families that only we change, but this story illustrated how much things change for those that leave and those that stay. All the well written characters were completely believable. The author did a great job of tying in historic happenings to give the book a rich back story, the flu epidemic, lingering prejudice and war in Europe and Paris during the war. I loved the brother, Scott and his wonderful musical talent. Joshua's parent's relationship, while painful to read at times, was completely realistic. I read this as part of a book club I organize and can't wait to discuss "The Fallen Snow" with the other members. I eagerly await the next book by John Kelley.… (meer)

A welcome addition to any library. I found this volume to be quite interesting. There is something about reading about the early days of our country that fascinates me personally. Even the exploration of the love of two brothers, Scott and Joshua, is so eloquently written, one cannot help feel its pull. Then in true simple elegance, all of these stories are wrapped up under a beautiful blanket of fresh fallen snow.


After the war Joshua finds his true self, as well, and more. He finds love. The story of Joshua and Aiden is eloquently played out through flashbacks. It slowly evolves into a remarkable story. This book was very well written and a good read for all.… (meer)