In Falling Snow (Mary-Rose MacColl, A&U)

When Iris, an elderly widow, receives an invitation to a reunion in France, where she worked as a nurse during the First World War, she’s determined to go. But Iris’ journey summons memories of a bittersweet past: of her first love, her best friend and a tragedy that changed everything. In Falling Snow is the latest novel from Vogel-shortlisted author Mary-Rose MacColl, and it’s an evocative and intriguing tale that encapsulates the horrors of war and the powerful legacy of love. As Iris recalls her wartime experience, she draws the reader deep into her past, eventually revealing the tragic secret that has shaped the rest of her life. Interwoven with this is the story of Grace, Iris’ granddaughter, a headstrong doctor with a family of her own in 1970s Brisbane. Both women’s voices are compelling and believable, and their differing perspectives offer insights into the changing role of female medical professionals during the 20th century. MacColl skilfully blends meticulous historical research with a moving human narrative: In Falling Snow may be one among many novels about wartime love and heroism, but it’s a well-executed and gripping piece of popular fiction.

Carody Culver is a bookseller at Black Cat Books in Brisbane, a PhD student and a freelance reviewer

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Category: Reviews