Before the Snow Flies REVIEWS
The Military Writers Society of America (MWSA) Review
Review by Betsy Beard (June 2023)
Part romance, part courtroom drama, part mystery, and part literary fiction, Before the Snow Flies by John Wemlinger has something for everyone to enjoy. Revolving around Major David Keller, a double amputee returning home from Afghanistan in June—by way of Landstuhl and Walter Reed—the storyline leads readers through family issues, small-town politics, post-traumatic stress episodes, and well-kept secrets. Dynamic characters and a well described setting enhance the story. Throughout the book, the question lingers as to whether David will attain his goal of completing suicide before the snow flies. The reader is kept wondering whether an old flame will reignite or past jealousies will douse the flame. The suspense drives the story to the final page when the reader discovers if hope will triumph over fear.
Author's Synopsis
Major David Keller was well on his way to becoming a general when a roadside bomb in Afghanistan took his legs. Angry, grieving, and carrying a loaded gun, David returns home to mend a few fences before using that gun to end his life. But before the snow flies, his family, his community, and Maggie McCall, someone he's tried to forget, will prove to him that life in the small town of Onekama, Michigan, can be great once again--if he will only let it--and if murder doesn't get in the way
Format(s) for review: Paper and Kindle
Review Genre: Fiction—Romance
Number of Pages: 313
Word Count: 80K
Michigan in Books Review
Review by: Mr. Tom Powers on his blogspot, “Michigan in Books”, 1 July, 2019
John Wemlinger's latest engrossing book is a deeply felt and emotionally honest novel that chronicles the life-altering ramifications faced by a Michigan Afghan war veteran who loses both legs to a roadside bomb. It seemed inevitable Major David Keller would eventually wear a general's star until the day he became a double amputee with a severe case of PTSD. It changed everything, including his will to live. He decided he would rather commit suicide than live in a wheelchair, but he has to convince his army psychiatrists he isn't serious about suicide before they will let him go home. He hides the fact he went to a gun show and bought a pistol and goes home in late spring with plans to end his life before the snow flies.
Compounding his readjustment to civilian life and the loss of both legs is the fact Keller left his hometown of Onekema, Michigan for West Point under a cloud. He never returned home or communicated with his father or brother (now the county DA) from the day he left 16 years ago. Onekema welcomes home their hometown boy as a hero but David returns filled with doubt, remorse, and unexpected emotional stress. He argued bitterly with his father, a Vietnam Vet, about joining the army and discovers his dad now suffers from dementia and may not even know him. His high school sweetheart who he cut all contact with on leaving has suffered emotional and physical abuse from an unbalanced and violent ex-husband.
It is a long difficult road to recovery and an equally painful re-entry into his family and hometown society. Keller wants to put everything right with his family and ex-girlfriend before winter but life becomes even more complicated when he has a run-in with the law.
The author is a native of Onekema and a retired army colonel. He is adept at capturing the ambiance and closeness of small Michigan towns, his characters are well drawn, and the plot is hugely involving and at times will leave readers breathless with anticipation. Wemlinger is especially effective at portraying with honesty and compassion the psychological damage of life-changing wounds and suffering from PTSD. He makes Keller's struggle to overcome his wounds profoundly and emotionally realistic. You can not read this book and be unmoved. It deserves to be on any number of lists of Best Books of 2019.
Before the Snow Flies by John Wemlinger. Mission Point Press. 2019. $16.99
Amazon Reviews
Rolla B: 5.0 out of 5 stars | A Soldier's Story of Tragedy and Recovery
Reviewed in the United States on April 19, 2019 | Verified Purchase
“As each of John Wemlinger’s books have, this book tells the story of a soldier. John is a story teller and this one may be his best. It combines the action we saw in his first novel with the romance we enjoyed in his second book. The plot is well developed and sure held my attention. The characters are well defined and most are likable, but not all. The novel brings to life the significant problems which our soldiers face upon return to civilian life after experiencing war and the tragedy which goes with war. It’s well crafted and is a page turner!”
T. R.: 5.0 out of 5 stars | A great story about heroism, love, small town values and the human spirit.
Reviewed in the United States on August 11, 2019 | Verified Purchase
“Set in the small resort town of Onekama, Michigan, on Lake Michigan, Wemlinger has expertly woven a story of heroism, love, values and eternal hope in mankind with his latest novel. Major Dave Keller left Onekama and never looked back following a falling out with his family. He went to West Point and served six tours in Afghanistan. His stellar military career ended when he became the sole survivor of an IED explosion which took his legs. Wracked with survivor guilt and PTSD, he returns home to reconnect, make amends, and then execute his plan take his own life. As his plan unfolds, many things happen to him which renews his will to live and often leaves the reader breathless or teary eyed. A great read and uplifting story of the human experience.”
Marie: 5.0 out of 5 stars | Another great read!
Reviewed in the United States on May 3, 2019 | Verified Purchase
“As in John's previous books, he has developed realistic characters and situations that keep you turning pages and wanting to know more. This story has several plot lines that intersect and readers of varied backgrounds will be able to relate to them.. As a veteran himself, the author is able to convey the feelings and struggles of returning veterans, especially those suffering from injuries or PTSD.
You won't want this finely developed story to end and we can only hope for a sequel!!”
Pamela Fabish: 5.0 out of 5 stars | An outstanding work for people facing difficult decisions in their lives.
Reviewed in the United States on December 11, 2019 | Verified Purchase
“John Wemlinger has crafted an incredible story about the exceedingly hard choices facing an ex soldier who returns to his small hometown in Michigan. The development of the characters keeps the reader entertained and questioning which route the protagonist will follow. It is wonderfully engaging and keeps the reader guessing until the end. In short, it does an great job of building suspense for all the players in this story that will assist the reader in coping with difficult, but all too common issues.”
pamiam: 5.0 out of 5 stars | Excellent!!
Reviewed in the United States on April 30, 2019 | Verified Purchase
“Just finished "Before the Snow Flies". I absolutely loved it. I didn't think it was possible, but it was even better than "Winter's Bloom". All during the trial, I felt like I was reading a John Grisham book. I love knowing all the places in Onekama that you talk about! Loved all the characters!! Loved the story!! You are truly a gifted storyteller!! My only problem now is my book hangover...”
Kathy Greenacre: 5.0 out of 5 stars | A New John Wemlinger Novel Set in Michigan
Reviewed in the United States on June 15, 2019 | Verified Purchase
“As usual, John Wemlinger has written a very readable and touching story. He keeps improving with every novel he writes. As the wife of a Vietnam veteran, I truly enjoy the perspective he provides as a military man himself.”
Sherrie Boak: 5.0 out of 5 stars | A book that you will want to read from cover to cover the minute start page 1.
Reviewed in the United States on January 7, 2020 | Verified Purchase
“Great book that I could not put down once I started reading it. Bought it with two others by the same author (Winters Bloom and Operation Light Switch) thinking they would be my summer reads, and so well written in description and feelings I read all three in 1 week.
The details were as if I was "there" during everything. Looking forward to other books in the future. Can't wait till he is at a book club or book signing near me so I can get them signed.”
Kathleen H. Crum: 5.0 out of 5 stars | Great read.... you won't be disappointed!
Reviewed in the United States on February 29, 2020 | Verified Purchase
“I read this book a short while ago and I am just getting around to reviewing it. Like his other books this one was well written and very realistic. The story really draws you in and it's hard to put down. John does a great job of raising awareness of real life issues with PTSD, woven into a beautiful love story. I look forward to his next book. I highly recommend this author to all my friends.... you will not be disappointed!”
Thomas E. Johnson: 5.0 out of 5 stars | You’re going to love this book!
Reviewed in the United States on April 6, 2019 | Verified Purchase
“A great and captivating read from cover to cover. Well researched with a bevy of interesting characters and a super story. This would be a GREAT motion picture. Hollywood - check this one out.”
dgsidekick: 5.0 out of 5 stars | This book highlights the problems faced by those with PTSD and physical trauma.
Reviewed in the United States on May 24, 2019 | Verified Purchase
“This book is an easy read, with emphasis on military PTSD and suicide. It has an important message. If only all our military could have the kind of support David received!”
mildred J kenny: 4.0 out of 5 stars | From that area
Reviewed in the United States on July 29, 2019 | Verified Purchase
“Very interesting. Familiar with places mentioned in book.”
Becky S.: 5.0 out of 5 stars | Great read!
Reviewed in the United States on April 26, 2019 | Verified Purchase
“This is a wonderful and heartbreaking story! So glad it had a happy ending. Being from Michigan I enjoyed all the references to real places and people. Wemlinger's writing just keeps getting better with each book!”
MT: 5.0 out of 5 stars | Another Best Seller
Reviewed in the United States on August 22, 2019 | Verified Purchase
“Great story and a real issue that needs to be dealt with our returning hero’s. Thank you John for bringing this forward!”
Diane brooks: 5.0 out of 5 stars | This is a book that grabs you right away. A 5 star for sure
Reviewed in the United States on April 27, 2019 | Verified Purchase
“Loved this book. Once I started I couldn't put it down. I read it in three evenings.”
T. Powers: 5.0 out of 5 stars | A Powerful Look at the Wounds of War
Reviewed in the United States on September 19, 2019
“John Wemlinger's latest engrossing book is a deeply felt and emotionally honest novel that chronicles the life-altering ramifications faced by a Michigan Afghan war veteran who loses both legs to a roadside bomb. It seemed inevitable Major David Keller would eventually wear a general's star until the day he became a double amputee with a severe case of PTSD. It changed everything, including his will to live. He decided he would rather commit suicide than live in a wheelchair, but he has to convince his army psychiatrists he isn't serious about suicide before they will let him go home. He hides the fact he went to a gun show and bought a pistol and goes home in late spring with plans to end his life before the snow flies.
Compounding his readjustment to civilian life and the loss of both legs is the fact Keller left his hometown of Onekema, Michigan for West Point under a cloud. He never returned home or communicated with his father or brother (now the county DA) from the day he left 16 years ago. Onekema welcomes home their hometown boy as a hero but David returns filled with doubt, remorse, and unexpected emotional stress. He argued bitterly with his father, a Vietnam Vet, about joining the army and discovers his dad now suffers from dementia and may not even know him. His high school sweetheart who he cut all contact with on leaving has suffered emotional and physical abuse from an unbalanced and violent ex-husband.
It is a long difficult road to recovery and an equally painful re-entry into his family and hometown society. Keller wants to put everything right with his family and ex-girlfriend before winter but life becomes even more complicated when he has a run-in with the law.
The author is a native of Onekema and a retired army colonel. He is adept at capturing the ambiance and closeness of small Michigan towns, his characters are well drawn, and the plot is hugely involving and at times will leave readers breathless with anticipation. Wemlinger is especially effective at portraying with honesty and compassion the psychological damage of life-changing wounds and suffering from PTSD. He makes Keller's struggle to overcome his wounds profoundly and emotionally realistic. You can not read this book and be unmoved. It deserves to be on any number of lists of Best Books of 2019.”
Military Mom: 5.0 out of 5 stars | Military Mom
Reviewed in the United States on April 6, 2019
“As usual, I loved this new book written by John Wemlinger! As a military mom whose son was injured and medically evacuated to Germany, I found this story to be so realistic. My son didn't lose his legs however, he was seriously ill so I remember my experience well. John was able to tell David's story from his perspective which gave me new insight into what our soldiers who are injured go through.
The story was well researched and detailed. I was often "on the edge of my seat" wondering what would happen next. PTSD is a serious mental health condition that is often misunderstood and I felt that John did a very good job of helping the average reader gain new knowledge regarding it. The love of a good woman added just the right touch of romance too.
The ending left me to wonder....is there more? I certainly hope there will be as I've thoroughly enjoyed all of John's books so far. I highly recommend that you take the time to read Before the Snow Flies.”
Rhonda Bennett: 5.0 out of 5 stars | Really a great book (spoiler alert)
Reviewed in the United States on September 23, 2019
“This story really hit home for me, as both the daughter and granddaughter of men who proudly served their country. I saw firsthand the effects of PTSD on a person's life. I also related personally to the dark place David found himself in, where there seemed to be only one way out. Mr. Wemlinger did a superb job of relaying that feeling of hopelessness, but then pulling David's character back from the edge through his relationships with those who care about him. I loved the fact that the book portrayed David as a fully fleshed out person who was at once a hero and deeply troubled and flawed.”
Jim Driver: 5.0 out of 5 stars | Give yourself plenty of time because you won’t want to put it down!
Reviewed in the United States on May 20, 2019
“I can’t recall ever reading a book in two days. Started on a Sunday, went to work on Monday. Played 9 holes of golf, had dinner and started reading Before the Snow Flies. Finished at 9pm. My point? You can’t put this book down! Absolutely fantastic book. Another thing: this book moves! No long drawn out chapters of explanation. Get to the point and let’s go. Great book for both men & women, military or non military. Read it!”
Laura: 5.0 out of 5 stars | Beautifully Written
Reviewed in the United States on March 31, 2020
“John Wemlinger writes from his heart as a gentleman and experience as a serviceman. Thank you for both! I had the pleasure of meeting him last summer and purchased two books. I chose to read this book first for the simple reason-I live in Onekama. The characters and places are so real. I felt chills as I read on. The issues soldiers face in battle and once they come home are written about with honesty. The novel deals with PTSD and physical and mental disorders
that serviceman must live with. Every cloud has a silver lining and with love and family, one can find peace and cope with anything. Awesome read!”
Maria: 5.0 out of 5 stars | loved it
Reviewed in the United States on January 1, 2020
“I thoroughly enjoyed this book.. made me realize what these War Vets suffer with PTSD... this brought it home to alot of people.. great writing .. great story ... this is the first book I have read from this author.”
Mary Jo: 5.0 out of 5 stars | Great read any time of the year
Reviewed in the United States on June 28, 2019
“I really enjoyed the plot, the characters, and the pace of this book. I live in Onekama, Michigan so it was great fun to see names of our local stores, restaurants, etc. in print. Would recommend it. Might be interesting as a book club read, too.”
Gene B: 5.0 out of 5 stars | Great story!
Reviewed in the United States on April 30, 2019
“A superb story-teller and a pristine writer! I love the way he incorporates real places into his writing, and it's always interesting to see a women's basketball team, their coach and a successful player-graduate involved. The story addresses issues in today's society: War, PTSD, VA hospitals, alcohol/drug abuse, local politics, criminal trials, teenage love, and more.”
david swanson: 5.0 out of 5 stars | His Best Book
Reviewed in the United States on July 18, 2019
“I've read all three of Wemlinger's books and they just keep getting better and better. For all of us who have lived our lives in comfortable peace, this book vividly brings home the fact that when the young men we send off to war come home, the war is by no means over for them. In this book there is romance, there is crime, but mostly, there is a touching and heartfelt story of both the mental and physical trauma that our injured servicemen have to live with for the rest of their lives. A darned good read.”
Sally Eichorn: 5.0 out of 5 stars | An injured soldier can live life successfully with the help of family, community, and professionals.
Reviewed in the United States on December 7, 2019
“Before the Snow Flies is a well written novel about the life of an injured soldier returning home with many challenges facing him. Not only is this a good story, the reader learns a lot about PTSD and the effects of terrible war injuries. The author was very knowledgeable about the help these soldiers can get and that there is hope for a good life after war.”
paula magargee: 5.0 out of 5 stars | Returning home after war can take as much courage as going to war
Reviewed in the United States on February 24, 2020
“I had the opportunity to meet John, the author, last week. He captures the reader in the very first chapter. this book brings to focus some of the struggles that our servicemen have to deal with when they return to their home and families and how a community supported one of its heroes. PTSD, survivors remorse, depression....they are all real. Thank you John for capturing the emotions of the characters so expertly. Cant wait to read the next book.”
joseph w baumgartner: 5.0 out of 5 stars | Yet another great book from an amazing author!
Reviewed in the United States on June 24, 2019
“I picked up this book and just like his other two, I didn’t put it down until I finished it. It’s a great story that brings much needed awareness to the life of our wounded veterans. As I read, I felt that I had returned to the shores of Lake Michigan and enjoyed it tremendously. The characters are beautifully developed and the plot won’t let you go until you’ve read the last page. Everyone should read this book!”
Kindle Customer: 5.0 out of 5 stars | Very Poignant
Reviewed in the United States on June 11, 2019
“Lovely romance from a current military slant. I've read his other book; Winter's Bloom and can recommend them both. This author is headed in the right direction.”
Karla: 5.0 out of 5 stars | You must read!!!!!
Reviewed in the United States on November 18, 2019
“305 pages in less than 4 hours ... This book is a must read people! Poignant, honest, revealing, shocking, heart warming. It will show you the best of humanity, but also reach into places we'd rather not go. Wow! Your daughter was right, sir, your best book, YET.”
William H. Bedford: 5.0 out of 5 stars | A decorated, wounded vet returns to his hometown to a life he could never have imagined
Reviewed in the United States on February 6, 2020
“This is a wonderful story by a gifted storyteller. It’s easy to read, hard to put down and very timely considering all the veterans returning from multiple deployments. Small town families will quickly relate to the well thought out plot. Having read John’s previous most enjoyable books it may be his best. We look forward to book 4!!!!”
kindlecrazy33: 5.0 out of 5 stars | Heartbreaking but also Uplifting
Reviewed in the United States on August 21, 2019
“I just finished reading "Before the Snow Flies." It was such a well-written book. Heartbreaking, but also uplifting. I am an Official Court Reporter so I enjoyed the court trial portion as well. Just wanted to say thanks for bringing awareness to our struggling veterans and look forward to more of your read, John. God bless!”
Jim Goodwin: 5.0 out of 5 stars | Terrific character development
Reviewed in the United States on April 24, 2019
“You can tell Wemlinger knows the military and it's impact on the veterans who served. The story isn't simply about a wounded vet returning home. There are many twists and turns which makes the book a real page turner. I felt as if I were part of the story and enjoyed it very much.”
Steve Szilvagyi: 5.0 out of 5 stars | A fast-paced, but very timely tale, well-told.
Reviewed in the United States on August 31, 2019
“This is John's third book and I have enjoyed every one. However, his skills as a storyteller are very much in evidence in this story and I found it pulled me on throughout the book, so much so that I was sorry when it ended.”
Terry Vuksanovic: 5.0 out of 5 stars | Tells the reality of returning military Veterans.
Reviewed in the United States on September 11, 2019
“A wonderful read, brings to light the reality of military PTSD and the to often result of suicide. The author keeps the reader engaged with the story line with the ever present reality of a complicated and real consequences of returning military veterans. A great read and looking forward to many more novels.”
Amy Young: 5.0 out of 5 stars | A story for the heart, mind & soul
Reviewed in the United States on April 18, 2020
“Thoroughly enjoyed this book. John’s writing style, and characters, keep you engaged. I appreciated the story line and his ability to keep the reader’s attention. If you are looking for a book to easily sweep you away, this one will do it. I cannot wait to buy my next John Wemlinger. From one Michigander to another, thanks John.”
Betsy: 5.0 out of 5 stars | A great read -- couldn't put it down!
Reviewed in the United States on April 30, 2019
“Literally finished this book in four days!!! Held my attention with the rich character development and suspenseful story line. John balanced genuine emotions with details and drama.”
Amazon Customer: 5.0 out of 5 stars | You've done it again!!!
Reviewed in the United States on April 18, 2019
“Your story is compelling (stayed up late to finish) and your characters have become real to me... they were still with me when I woke. Thank you John for another fine novel that carried me away... I can hear the chants from future readers now.... 'MORE, MORE, MORE!'”
Amazon Customer: 5.0 out of 5 stars | I couldn't put it down
Reviewed in the United States on April 15, 2020
“What an engaging read, I usually read before bed and several nights it was well past my usual lights out time before I forced myself to put this book down. As with John Wemlinger's other books, the story line is concise and easy to follow. Well done John!”
Lynne M Genter: 5.0 out of 5 stars | Great Read !
Reviewed in the United States on January 29, 2020
“What a bittersweet read. I finished reading just before the snow flies in southeast Ohio in 2020. The story line is true and speaks realistically to PTSD. Both Maggie and David are still vividly in my mind and I pray they are well and alive in ONekama.”
Karen013: 5.0 out of 5 stars | Great read
Reviewed in the United States on November 19, 2019
“Very poignant perspective on the views of PTSD from both the military and civilian aspects. Great read, and would recommend to anyone who enjoys a subtle romance.”
Patricia Meyer: 5.0 out of 5 stars | A beautiful story of how love can heal all.
Reviewed in the United States on June 16, 2019
“I liked how this book addressed some very serious concerns with our soldiers, PTSD and suicide. But yet it was a great love story. The end made me hopeful for a sequel.”
karla s wichtner: 5.0 out of 5 stars | Great read!
Reviewed in the United States on May 26, 2019
“I loved this book, great story. I also love that it’s set in northwest Michigan. Can’t wait to read more books by John Wemlinger.”
Robert K. Marshall: 5.0 out of 5 stars | John's best novel yet.
Reviewed in the United States on September 3, 2019
“An excellent novel and a great way to learn about and understand suicide and PTSD as a result of serving our country.”
Martha Zemer: 5.0 out of 5 stars | Remember our veterans❤️
Reviewed in the United States on June 25, 2019
“What a great read! Could not put this book down. Love all the references to our small town Onekama.”