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The Last Jump: A Novel of World War II
J.P. Kilroy, a middle-aged divorced journalist, regrets ignoring his mother’s only deathbed request. Even her last letter, which exposed the existence of a dark family secret, could not motivate him to reconcile with the father who abandoned them thirty years ago. When he receives an invitation from the White House to attend a long overdue Medal of Honor awards ceremony, he also discovers his estranged father, an honoree, had recently passed away.
Was the secret now lost forever? The only fragile links remaining to the past are four aging veterans who served with his father. His only hope of unraveling the mystery rests with the free-spirited Sky Johnson, a rough and tumble paratrooper, Frank West, the studious company commander, Harley Tidrick, Omaha Beach veteran and cousin of his father’s best wartime friend and Lincoln Abraham, the only living black honoree at the African-American Medal of Honor ceremony.
Kilroy reaches out to them in an effort to uncover the truth but soon discovers the four men not only know the secret, they all took a solemn oath never to reveal it. Undaunted, and with the aid of Cynthia Powers, an alluring Army press liaison, he accepts the challenge to engage the veterans and cajole them into revealing the truth by any means necessary. Their conversations become a verbal odyssey and flashback to the racially charged attitudes in America during the War. Kilroy learns about the altruism and contributions of Americans on the Homefront, the plight of women volunteer pilots and factory workers and the extraordinary dedication and self-sacrifice of the average citizen. He is taken back in time to a country in grave danger but a country as united as never before or since. But the old warriors stubbornly resist.
One by one the aging men begin to pass on. As the last one dies, Kilroy’s hopes are dashed. But one reaches from beyond the grave to identify the only other living person who has the answer and Kilroy races death to reach her. His ardent wish is that the revelation will finally relieve his guilt and assuage the soul of his beloved mother.
Redemption is possible…if only he can get there in time!
Stars and Flags Best Historical Fiction Book - 2011
IAN Book Of The Year - Historical Fiction – 2015
Book Excellence Award Winner - Military – 2017
Was the secret now lost forever? The only fragile links remaining to the past are four aging veterans who served with his father. His only hope of unraveling the mystery rests with the free-spirited Sky Johnson, a rough and tumble paratrooper, Frank West, the studious company commander, Harley Tidrick, Omaha Beach veteran and cousin of his father’s best wartime friend and Lincoln Abraham, the only living black honoree at the African-American Medal of Honor ceremony.
Kilroy reaches out to them in an effort to uncover the truth but soon discovers the four men not only know the secret, they all took a solemn oath never to reveal it. Undaunted, and with the aid of Cynthia Powers, an alluring Army press liaison, he accepts the challenge to engage the veterans and cajole them into revealing the truth by any means necessary. Their conversations become a verbal odyssey and flashback to the racially charged attitudes in America during the War. Kilroy learns about the altruism and contributions of Americans on the Homefront, the plight of women volunteer pilots and factory workers and the extraordinary dedication and self-sacrifice of the average citizen. He is taken back in time to a country in grave danger but a country as united as never before or since. But the old warriors stubbornly resist.
One by one the aging men begin to pass on. As the last one dies, Kilroy’s hopes are dashed. But one reaches from beyond the grave to identify the only other living person who has the answer and Kilroy races death to reach her. His ardent wish is that the revelation will finally relieve his guilt and assuage the soul of his beloved mother.
Redemption is possible…if only he can get there in time!
Stars and Flags Best Historical Fiction Book - 2011
IAN Book Of The Year - Historical Fiction – 2015
Book Excellence Award Winner - Military – 2017
531 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 27, 2010
54 people are currently reading
476 people want to read
About the author
John E. Nevola
4 books15 followersJohn E. Nevola is the author of the Amazon top ten customer rated and award winning historical novel, The Last Jump - A Novel of World War II. He recently published the sequel, The Final Flag. The study of this conflict has been the author's lifelong passion and he weaves a compelling tale of honor, courage and sacrifice set in a historically accurate backdrop in an extraordinary time in American history. He is a veteran of the United States Army and a member of the Military Writer's Society of America.
Nevola was born in New York City and is a graduate of Cardinal Hayes High School and the College of Aeronautics. He resides in Mt Arlington, New Jersey with Josephine, his wife of 54 years. They have four children and seven grandchildren.
Book profits are donated to assist children of the fallen through the Freedom Alliance Scholarship Fund.
Nevola was born in New York City and is a graduate of Cardinal Hayes High School and the College of Aeronautics. He resides in Mt Arlington, New Jersey with Josephine, his wife of 54 years. They have four children and seven grandchildren.
Book profits are donated to assist children of the fallen through the Freedom Alliance Scholarship Fund.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
August 19, 2015
The Last Jump: A Novel of World War II is the story of middle-aged journalist, J. P. Kilroy, who is invited in 1997 to go to a ceremony at the White House to accept the Medal of Honor for his dead father. When his mother was dying, she had told him he needed to find his father who had left years ago but J. P. never had. He felt his father could not get over J. P.'s going to Canada to avoid Vietnam War. While at the ceremony J. P. meets a number of his father’s old war buddies and wanting to know more about his father he goes out to dinner with them. As he is a journalist, he tapes the conversation and when he uses the rest room the men acknowledge they are keeping a secret from him. This piques his interest but also some of the things they had said about his father intrigued him so he is determined to figure it out what the men are keeping from him.
The book then follows J. P. as he has conversations with his father’s old buddies and the story flashes back so we get to know J. P.’s father and his best friend, both with the last name of Kilroy. You see how Jake and Johnny meet, become friends and go through their training and then on to Europe as paratroopers. They were excellent soldiers and found themselves behind enemy lines. Nevola gives you historical and military information about the battles they are involved in and you get a real feel for the horror of the war. You are on Omaha Beach with them as the bullets buzz by.
In addition to seeing the front lines, both of the men have girls back in the states so you get to see what it was like in America during the war. There is a glimpse of the women who were working in the shipyards, and those who were WACS and flying airplanes to transporting goods but not allowed in combat situations. You saw how the role of women was changing and how the people back home were sacrificing for the war.
The story progresses and J. P. is older, now 60 and wiser. His father’s old friends are dying off. He had told he has everything he needs to figure out the secret but he still can’t solve it until he meets someone else connected to his father and it all comes together.
This book has romance, mystery, and action. As it the story moves between time periods and places, Nevola has the geographical place and date as the chapter titles so there is no confusion. I also appreciated the quotations that begin each chapter. Nevola has done his homework and gives the historical background and though a few times I felt like I was reading a history book, most of the time the fictional story and historical information flowed smoothly. Since the story is dealing with soldiers there is some salty language and there are several graphic descriptions of the horrors of the war.
This is a sweeping novel that gives a picture of a different time in America and Nevola has given the reader a sense of why Tom Brokaw called that generation the Greatest Generation.
The book then follows J. P. as he has conversations with his father’s old buddies and the story flashes back so we get to know J. P.’s father and his best friend, both with the last name of Kilroy. You see how Jake and Johnny meet, become friends and go through their training and then on to Europe as paratroopers. They were excellent soldiers and found themselves behind enemy lines. Nevola gives you historical and military information about the battles they are involved in and you get a real feel for the horror of the war. You are on Omaha Beach with them as the bullets buzz by.
In addition to seeing the front lines, both of the men have girls back in the states so you get to see what it was like in America during the war. There is a glimpse of the women who were working in the shipyards, and those who were WACS and flying airplanes to transporting goods but not allowed in combat situations. You saw how the role of women was changing and how the people back home were sacrificing for the war.
The story progresses and J. P. is older, now 60 and wiser. His father’s old friends are dying off. He had told he has everything he needs to figure out the secret but he still can’t solve it until he meets someone else connected to his father and it all comes together.
This book has romance, mystery, and action. As it the story moves between time periods and places, Nevola has the geographical place and date as the chapter titles so there is no confusion. I also appreciated the quotations that begin each chapter. Nevola has done his homework and gives the historical background and though a few times I felt like I was reading a history book, most of the time the fictional story and historical information flowed smoothly. Since the story is dealing with soldiers there is some salty language and there are several graphic descriptions of the horrors of the war.
This is a sweeping novel that gives a picture of a different time in America and Nevola has given the reader a sense of why Tom Brokaw called that generation the Greatest Generation.
July 10, 2012
Will you join up?
I"m doing something a little different this time. Let's talk about everything that is good before looking at the other side.
For the historians in us, this is an excellent read. If you know nothing of WWII in Europe, Mr. Nevola is going to take the reader on a great tour from North Africa to to Berchtesgarden and home. He does an excellent job in detailing the fear and terror the parachutist faced as they were dropped behind enemy lines and struggled to perform their mission orders even when all appears to be lost. For those who have a hard time understanding how Germans could lose battles they should have won, you find out how American Grit overcomes professionally trained soldiers who had been fighting for four years and battle hardened. What the Germans could never train for was American ingenuity and tenacity. Germany decided to start the conflict and relied on traditional military tactics to carry them to victory. One thing the manuals never taught was how to combat the human spirit. Our men and boys were drafted or signed up to do a job. Our men wanted to get back home to their sweethearts and jobs and each time one of their own was killed, it triggered an un-ending desire to avenge their buddies deaths and return to their lives and jobs.
Mr. Nevola does a wonderful job in detailing how fiercely loyal the men were to each other. He also provides a great look into a country that became united, no matter what political affiliations people were. America had three common enemies, Japan, Germany and Italy.
Ladies, there is a very heart warming story through the travel. Many women were faced with the unnerving thought of if and when their man would return. WWII propelled woman into the work force and guaranteed their place in rebuilding a battered country. Their contribution to date is still not at the forefront of fueling the labor that allowed the industrial base to blossom overnight. The woman of this age were just as strong and resolute as the men who fought on the battlefields. At times they made decisions(about love) that would be shunned today so they could sleep at night. Their men were in for the long haul as were they. How many women today could bare a loved one being gone for over two or three years and then being forced to make a decision about waiting for him after receiving the dreaded Western Union Telegram? I believe Goldie was in a movie portraying women of this time. She did a commendable job.
What didn't I like. The constant time line changes in the first third of the book was very distracting and I almost didn't finish this. Just as I was settling in and understanding the characters, the time line switches back to 1942 or 1997. I realize Mr. Nevola was paralleling the lives of Macie, Jake, John, Nora, Rose, Sky, Harry, and the son J.P. Kilroy, but it was overdone for my tastes. I felt at times I was in a tennis match for the first third of the book.
Overall, this is a must read for those who wish to know the mindsets and steadfastness of our "Greatest Generation."
August 9, 2012
I never thought I'd agree with Ollie North about ANYTHING, but we both love and endorse this book!
The novel opens with a reporter trying to find out about his father's past, particularly his actions during WWII. As the reader is carried from present day to the 1940s, from WWII in Europe&the home front to modern day Washington, much is to be learned.
I wasn't nearly as excited about his father's "secret" as I was absorbed in the historical facts the author presented. This book holds so much information regarding battles, geography and military history!
I'm a child of the 60s...and Nevola certainly comes across as a "hawk" regarding WWII (and rightly so!) As I read, though, I felt CLOSE to these men and women. I found myself feeling a renewed sense of patriotism and understanding for people of MY father's generation.
Just a remarkable book! The story is fine....but the EMOTION and history are totally genuine.
The novel opens with a reporter trying to find out about his father's past, particularly his actions during WWII. As the reader is carried from present day to the 1940s, from WWII in Europe&the home front to modern day Washington, much is to be learned.
I wasn't nearly as excited about his father's "secret" as I was absorbed in the historical facts the author presented. This book holds so much information regarding battles, geography and military history!
I'm a child of the 60s...and Nevola certainly comes across as a "hawk" regarding WWII (and rightly so!) As I read, though, I felt CLOSE to these men and women. I found myself feeling a renewed sense of patriotism and understanding for people of MY father's generation.
Just a remarkable book! The story is fine....but the EMOTION and history are totally genuine.
May 30, 2013
"The Last Jump" is a fitting tribute to the Greatest Generation. It begins in modern day when the government makes a decision to seek out and honor African American soldiers from World War II that deserved, but were overlooked for the highest military award - The Medal of Honor for heroic actions during that war. John P. Kilroy, a white journalist, was also invited to Washington, accepting the MOH posthumously for the actions of his father in the same battle. However, it was in a separate ceremony without fanfare so the significance of the main ceremony remained a tribute to only the black former soldiers.
John P. wanted to learn more about his father and took this opportunity to interview his former friends: the four MOH recipients. He learned so much about him, but there was something missing - a secret,none of them would share. Readers are taken back to the beginning of the war, each survivor adding to the storyline which spans the entire war. John's father, John P Kilroy and John Kilroy - not related - were enemies during training and then later become the best of friends - inseparable! John P was married and John (Jake) had a fiance, their stories are also told while they support the war effort by working in the ship building yards, testing and flying aircraft - later transporting them to the front, and learning about how difficult life is as civilians during the war.
Uncovering the secret, a pact made sixty years earlier, became a quest for the truth. Years pass since their initial introduction in Washington, but he continues to push them - hoping one of them will slip and spill the beans before the former comrades take it to their graves.
The historical facts within seem accurate and offer the reader an up close and personal look at the day-to-day activities of those young men during war. If you don't know much about the great war, "The Last Jump" is a refreshing story about love, sacrifice, dedication and honor - also learning about history at the same time. The ending is not expected and will leave you with mouth agape. Highly recommended! Great job Mr. Nevola!
John Podlaski, author
[[ASIN:B003R4Z5U6 Cherries - A Vietnam War Novel]]
John P. wanted to learn more about his father and took this opportunity to interview his former friends: the four MOH recipients. He learned so much about him, but there was something missing - a secret,none of them would share. Readers are taken back to the beginning of the war, each survivor adding to the storyline which spans the entire war. John's father, John P Kilroy and John Kilroy - not related - were enemies during training and then later become the best of friends - inseparable! John P was married and John (Jake) had a fiance, their stories are also told while they support the war effort by working in the ship building yards, testing and flying aircraft - later transporting them to the front, and learning about how difficult life is as civilians during the war.
Uncovering the secret, a pact made sixty years earlier, became a quest for the truth. Years pass since their initial introduction in Washington, but he continues to push them - hoping one of them will slip and spill the beans before the former comrades take it to their graves.
The historical facts within seem accurate and offer the reader an up close and personal look at the day-to-day activities of those young men during war. If you don't know much about the great war, "The Last Jump" is a refreshing story about love, sacrifice, dedication and honor - also learning about history at the same time. The ending is not expected and will leave you with mouth agape. Highly recommended! Great job Mr. Nevola!
John Podlaski, author
[[ASIN:B003R4Z5U6 Cherries - A Vietnam War Novel]]
July 15, 2013
I read this book on my Kindle, inspite of the fact that this website says it is not available through Kindle. It was, in fact, a free edition through the Prime account. I was interested in this book primarily because my father in law was a paratrooper at the tail end of WWII. Although he never jumped into battle, he trained alot of men who did. It was an excellent read, probably moreso for the history buffs than me. It did give me a personal insight of the horrors of WWII, that the veterans rarely discuss.
June 12, 2012
It was truly a 5. I'd even give it a plus!
June 15, 2025
Not my usual genre, but I am so glad I read this.
Fascinating study of D-Day, battles before and after, the first black paratroopers. The characters were fascinating. Long, but well worth my time.
Fascinating study of D-Day, battles before and after, the first black paratroopers. The characters were fascinating. Long, but well worth my time.
July 22, 2012
After a shaky start I really enjoyed this book. Nevola does a great job of humanizing his characters, describing wartime life in America and for soldiers serving in Europe, and bringing some of the emotions of combat to life. The relationships between the characters are simple but very vibrant.
Nevola uses a lot of military terminology without explanation; for the people most likely to read The Last Jump this won't be a problem but if you haven't read much military literature or served then you might be lost at points (Google). On the other hand Nevola does a great job of bringing historical context to his depictions of the Home Front. I may suggest portions of this book to students for their clear portrayal of historical events such as rationing and women going to work in factories. If you're not familiar with the key battles involving American forces in Europe during WWII you're going to want a map; in the kindle edition there are no maps (I don't know about the paperback and hardcover versions). I knew the basics of all the battles described and I still wished I'd had a map handy to reference some of the precise geographic details.
Like most of us, Nevola is at his worst and silliest when his politics intrude. I mean, does anyone buy that President Clinton was so stupid and inept to think that African American voters could be bought at the cost of a medal awarded to a black veteran? Clinton was a first-class manipulator but he was no dummy and understood black voters as well as any white politician ever has. Most of Nevola's politics are Silent Majority style diatribes against imaginary enemies who teach school children that America was equivalent to Nazi Germany or "so-called Civil Rights leaders" who apparently tell black people not to work hard or have dignity. If you're not a fan of Sarah Palin and Herman Cain you'll probably reject some of it as not only wrong but detracting from the narrative. However, Nevola's politics don't take up nearly as much of the book as I'd feared from the opening scenes, and the meat of it is still a good old-fashioned war story about brothers in arms, the chaos and terror of the war, and the changing America that waits their return.
Nevola uses a lot of military terminology without explanation; for the people most likely to read The Last Jump this won't be a problem but if you haven't read much military literature or served then you might be lost at points (Google). On the other hand Nevola does a great job of bringing historical context to his depictions of the Home Front. I may suggest portions of this book to students for their clear portrayal of historical events such as rationing and women going to work in factories. If you're not familiar with the key battles involving American forces in Europe during WWII you're going to want a map; in the kindle edition there are no maps (I don't know about the paperback and hardcover versions). I knew the basics of all the battles described and I still wished I'd had a map handy to reference some of the precise geographic details.
Like most of us, Nevola is at his worst and silliest when his politics intrude. I mean, does anyone buy that President Clinton was so stupid and inept to think that African American voters could be bought at the cost of a medal awarded to a black veteran? Clinton was a first-class manipulator but he was no dummy and understood black voters as well as any white politician ever has. Most of Nevola's politics are Silent Majority style diatribes against imaginary enemies who teach school children that America was equivalent to Nazi Germany or "so-called Civil Rights leaders" who apparently tell black people not to work hard or have dignity. If you're not a fan of Sarah Palin and Herman Cain you'll probably reject some of it as not only wrong but detracting from the narrative. However, Nevola's politics don't take up nearly as much of the book as I'd feared from the opening scenes, and the meat of it is still a good old-fashioned war story about brothers in arms, the chaos and terror of the war, and the changing America that waits their return.
April 19, 2013
I haven't read too much WWII fiction, but I gotta admit, this was great. The essence of the story is about two men, Jake and Johnny, who start out as bitter enemies only to end up closer than most real brothers along the way. The story unfolds as the now grown son of Johnny, acting on his mother's dying wish, begins looking into his father's past for an old family secret.
Throughout the story real-life figures such as James Gavin and Dwight Eisenhower make effective appearances that fit in well with the story. Nevola does a great job re-creating the atmosphere of the time period. Nevola also introduces African-American soldiers and their experience, which was interesting to learn about and fit smoothly into the story. In all, this story flows well and is very readable.
Of particular interest if the implicit portrayal of the "great generation" as simple humans that did what everyone would on their situation, including great acts and recognized atrocities that nevertheless did not hinder the great cause they were fighting for.
The love-story parts seemed a little high-school-ish, with blood-pacts and "secrets" and that kind of stuff. But, other than, that it was effectively and successfully integrated into the plot.
But other than that, this was a great read. And thanks to the author for providing me with a free copy! I very much appreciate it.
Throughout the story real-life figures such as James Gavin and Dwight Eisenhower make effective appearances that fit in well with the story. Nevola does a great job re-creating the atmosphere of the time period. Nevola also introduces African-American soldiers and their experience, which was interesting to learn about and fit smoothly into the story. In all, this story flows well and is very readable.
Of particular interest if the implicit portrayal of the "great generation" as simple humans that did what everyone would on their situation, including great acts and recognized atrocities that nevertheless did not hinder the great cause they were fighting for.
The love-story parts seemed a little high-school-ish, with blood-pacts and "secrets" and that kind of stuff. But, other than, that it was effectively and successfully integrated into the plot.
But other than that, this was a great read. And thanks to the author for providing me with a free copy! I very much appreciate it.
July 13, 2012
As I was reading this book, I found myself skimming over portions that were muddled in which regiment, battalion, company, etc. was doing whatever, wherever. I suppose the author felt that was necessary for historical accuracy for WWII buffs. That and one, yes only one, usage of the wrong word, are all I can mention in a negative vein of this remarkable debut novel.
Others have written long synopses of the storyline so I will not compete with their summaries. I would rather focus on the brilliance of bringing a number of characters to life. I found myself really caring about each and every one of the main characters and even a couple of the others.
The story and impact on me grew as I read this epic novel. The further I read, the more I cared. As I neared the final 50-60 pages, I was really emotionally involved. In fact, as a big burly person, I was surprised that tears came to my eyes. Anyone with a shred of humanity will be engrossed by this book.
Others have written long synopses of the storyline so I will not compete with their summaries. I would rather focus on the brilliance of bringing a number of characters to life. I found myself really caring about each and every one of the main characters and even a couple of the others.
The story and impact on me grew as I read this epic novel. The further I read, the more I cared. As I neared the final 50-60 pages, I was really emotionally involved. In fact, as a big burly person, I was surprised that tears came to my eyes. Anyone with a shred of humanity will be engrossed by this book.
June 15, 2012
The Last Jump, although a very plausible fiction tale, is laden with wonderfully crafted WW2 highlights. This book did an excellent job of paying homage to the men and women of the WW2 era, those both abroad and on the home front. The essence of the story is about two men, Jake and Johnny, who start out as bitter enemies only to end up closer than most real brothers along the way. The story unfolds as the now grown son of Johnny, acting on his mother's dying wish, begins looking into his father's past for an old family secret. This is a very well written and edited novel, and a great read for any military buffs out there.
June 17, 2012
Not a bad read, especially for free. The author took an story about friends/war buddies and a pact they made -- with some interesting twists -- and intertwined it with a TON of detail about 82nd Airborne paratroopers in Europe in WW II. Chapters popped back and forth from action in the 1940s, stateside and Europe, to the protagonist's life in the 1990s/2000s. Depending on your love for military history, you might enjoy it a lot (or feel that the research seemed to be slathered on a bit thick from time to time, as I did).
March 10, 2013
This novel is EXTREMELY long and for me to say that, it really must be. I think the author was trying to please everyone, which doesn't work. He would go into very descriptive detail about military equipment and machinery, but he also had whole sections that were more like a romance novel than a war story. It also has horrible language so I don't recommend it even if you are in the mood for an epic novel. For all these reasons I had to move on to other reads, but I don't know if I am done with it for good.
August 16, 2014
It took me well over 100 pages to actually get into this book and I did find myself skimming over some of the factual details when it came to battalions, CO's, and squadrons. Honestly, I couldn't keep them all straight. There were parts of the story that I couldn't put down and others I couldn't wait to get over with. This book does make you think about the WWII generation and how courageous and dedicated Americans were. I would recommend this book but it definitely could've been shortened.
December 27, 2015
Excellent book!! If you like WWII novels, read this one!
June 22, 2012
Great book with historical info about WWII.
November 18, 2012
I would love to give this 5 stars, but I'm reviewing a book, not the subject matter. I'm a stickler for order, and this book jumps around a lot. It also got a bit long winded towards the end.
December 6, 2012
A World War II story. This story was great but I felt it had too much military stuff that made it at times hard to get through.
July 30, 2017
Heartfelt personal war drama.
Excellent!! Totally absorbing from beginning to end. Kind of story and writing that tugs at your heart and makes you really think. Thanks for penning this story and many, many thanks to the men and women of the greatest generation!!!
Excellent!! Totally absorbing from beginning to end. Kind of story and writing that tugs at your heart and makes you really think. Thanks for penning this story and many, many thanks to the men and women of the greatest generation!!!
November 13, 2018
Great detailed story covering a group of WWII paratroopers. So inspirational!
February 12, 2013
Every American Should Read This Novel at Least Once!
The Last Jump: A Novel of World War Two
By John E. Nevola
In this fictional account of World War II, John E. Nevola manages to successfully combine the politics and economics of the time, the shifting roles in society, the sacrifices and hardships that were faced by both Soldiers and civilians and the frailty of life and love during this period of history. The novel begins when modern day journalist J.P Kilroy is summoned to the White House to stand in for his deceased father in receiving his Medal of Honor for his actions during World War II. While attending the ceremony, J.P recalls his promise to his mother just before her death, to reconnect with his father and discover the truth behind the secret she, his estranged father, and all their friends had kept since World War II. While at the medal ceremony, J.P. meets the men that his father had been closest to when they fought their way across Europe as members of both the 82nd and 101st Airborne Divisions. After convincing his father’s war buddies to have dinner with him the night after the awards ceremony J.P. learns that, there is indeed a secret surrounding his father that the men all swore they would take to their graves. From there the book switches between modern day J.P. Kilroy, his father and friends fighting their way across Europe, their families in the U.S. and the roles that they played in supporting the war effort. As an active duty Soldier with four combat deployments and former member of the 82nd Airborne, many parts of this novel definitely returned me to times and places from my past. I was transported back to Airborne School, from the physical training pits to the 250 foot tower (the great Oongowa), from our mornings running in circles, but somehow always going uphill to feeling the air blast and opening shock after exiting the door on your first jump.
After reading Mr. Nevola’s novel and prior to writing this, I read several other people’s reviews of his work to gauge what comments had been made in the past. Of all the reviews I read, the only negative criticism that I felt was in any way justified, was one critics comment that it was hard to follow the story line initially as it switched back and forth between two main characters named John Kilroy and one of their son’s by the same name. I had the same thought at first, but once the reader recognizes that, the John Kilroy’s were all from different states, one was John Kilroy, one “Jake” Kilroy, and one “J.P.” Kilroy, the issue becomes null and void. Do not let this in any way dissuade you from enjoying this wonderful story.
Mr. Nevola has seemingly done the impossible by combining so many different aspects of a great story into one work. Within the pages of this book, there is truly something for everyone. The author started with a great story and added romance, loyalty, history, suspense, sacrifice, determination and long buried secrets into one tale. The novel immerses the reader in the climate and pulse of the nation and world during the war by viewing events through the eyes of the characters. While the novel does detail many of the battles and events of the war it does not make them seem like a history lesson. Instead, they are important details that affect our lives as we journey through the story, liberating Sicily, parachuting from planes over Normandy and doing our best to keep ourselves and buddies alive through the bitter cold and fighting in the Ardennes Forest during the Battle of the Bulge. We observe as women and African Americans finally gain the opportunity to prove their love for the country and value as people, while still having to fight against the prejudices that face them. There are romances and friendships throughout the story that remind us of a better time, a time of national unity, without being naive or overly simplistic. No matter what you enjoy in a story you will find it within the pages of this novel. Additionally, if you are a member of the military, a veteran, a fan of military or U.S. history, or know someone who needs to be reminded what our country once stood together for, then you need to read this book.
The Last Jump: A Novel of World War Two
By John E. Nevola
In this fictional account of World War II, John E. Nevola manages to successfully combine the politics and economics of the time, the shifting roles in society, the sacrifices and hardships that were faced by both Soldiers and civilians and the frailty of life and love during this period of history. The novel begins when modern day journalist J.P Kilroy is summoned to the White House to stand in for his deceased father in receiving his Medal of Honor for his actions during World War II. While attending the ceremony, J.P recalls his promise to his mother just before her death, to reconnect with his father and discover the truth behind the secret she, his estranged father, and all their friends had kept since World War II. While at the medal ceremony, J.P. meets the men that his father had been closest to when they fought their way across Europe as members of both the 82nd and 101st Airborne Divisions. After convincing his father’s war buddies to have dinner with him the night after the awards ceremony J.P. learns that, there is indeed a secret surrounding his father that the men all swore they would take to their graves. From there the book switches between modern day J.P. Kilroy, his father and friends fighting their way across Europe, their families in the U.S. and the roles that they played in supporting the war effort. As an active duty Soldier with four combat deployments and former member of the 82nd Airborne, many parts of this novel definitely returned me to times and places from my past. I was transported back to Airborne School, from the physical training pits to the 250 foot tower (the great Oongowa), from our mornings running in circles, but somehow always going uphill to feeling the air blast and opening shock after exiting the door on your first jump.
After reading Mr. Nevola’s novel and prior to writing this, I read several other people’s reviews of his work to gauge what comments had been made in the past. Of all the reviews I read, the only negative criticism that I felt was in any way justified, was one critics comment that it was hard to follow the story line initially as it switched back and forth between two main characters named John Kilroy and one of their son’s by the same name. I had the same thought at first, but once the reader recognizes that, the John Kilroy’s were all from different states, one was John Kilroy, one “Jake” Kilroy, and one “J.P.” Kilroy, the issue becomes null and void. Do not let this in any way dissuade you from enjoying this wonderful story.
Mr. Nevola has seemingly done the impossible by combining so many different aspects of a great story into one work. Within the pages of this book, there is truly something for everyone. The author started with a great story and added romance, loyalty, history, suspense, sacrifice, determination and long buried secrets into one tale. The novel immerses the reader in the climate and pulse of the nation and world during the war by viewing events through the eyes of the characters. While the novel does detail many of the battles and events of the war it does not make them seem like a history lesson. Instead, they are important details that affect our lives as we journey through the story, liberating Sicily, parachuting from planes over Normandy and doing our best to keep ourselves and buddies alive through the bitter cold and fighting in the Ardennes Forest during the Battle of the Bulge. We observe as women and African Americans finally gain the opportunity to prove their love for the country and value as people, while still having to fight against the prejudices that face them. There are romances and friendships throughout the story that remind us of a better time, a time of national unity, without being naive or overly simplistic. No matter what you enjoy in a story you will find it within the pages of this novel. Additionally, if you are a member of the military, a veteran, a fan of military or U.S. history, or know someone who needs to be reminded what our country once stood together for, then you need to read this book.
June 29, 2015
At the center of John E. Nevola's novel The Last Jump is a son's quest to understand the war that so affected his estranged father. But while the son's search is important to moving the story forward, it is a relatively small portion of this expansive homage to the Greatest Generation – the men and women who served their country in WWII either in combat or on the home front in an era when patriotism meant far more than slapping a yellow ribbon magnet on the side of your car.
At the heart of the novel are two American paratroopers, both named John Kilroy. Though the two young men are not related, they become the closest of friends as they endure the rigors of airborne training and, later, combat in Sicily and northern Europe. The novel explores the bonds of such friendship and the promises and obligations they create.
Nevola also examines the contributions made at home by women who gave up their youthful years to build ships, tanks, and planes for the war effort, and African American soldiers who labored behind the lines waiting for their chance to show their mettle in combat. Nevola argues that the contributions made by these men and women cracked open the door that led to greater equality for blacks and women. Certainly, it took several more decades for that door to open wider – and it still needs to swing wider – but it was the actions of the Greatest Generation that gave the door the initial shove.
The research that went into The Last Jump was intricate and detailed. The book brings together the best of such writers as Anton Myer and Herman Wouk, with a good dose of Michael/Jeff Shaara thrown in.
If you are an ardent reader of military history, you will love this novel. If you are a Baby Boomer who never talked to your parents about the war, or of a later generation and would like to understand what your grandparents endured during WWII, you should read this book.
At the heart of the novel are two American paratroopers, both named John Kilroy. Though the two young men are not related, they become the closest of friends as they endure the rigors of airborne training and, later, combat in Sicily and northern Europe. The novel explores the bonds of such friendship and the promises and obligations they create.
Nevola also examines the contributions made at home by women who gave up their youthful years to build ships, tanks, and planes for the war effort, and African American soldiers who labored behind the lines waiting for their chance to show their mettle in combat. Nevola argues that the contributions made by these men and women cracked open the door that led to greater equality for blacks and women. Certainly, it took several more decades for that door to open wider – and it still needs to swing wider – but it was the actions of the Greatest Generation that gave the door the initial shove.
The research that went into The Last Jump was intricate and detailed. The book brings together the best of such writers as Anton Myer and Herman Wouk, with a good dose of Michael/Jeff Shaara thrown in.
If you are an ardent reader of military history, you will love this novel. If you are a Baby Boomer who never talked to your parents about the war, or of a later generation and would like to understand what your grandparents endured during WWII, you should read this book.
July 3, 2013
This is a tale of duty and an appreciation of the dedication, sacrifice and service of the front line wartime soldier. (From a very American point of view).
It has flaws. In some places far too many details are presented which causes an annoying unevenness. For example; In Chap 37 JP takes Frank to lunch and we get reams of pace-slowing comment: what they each decide to eat; the wine decision and selection; how Frank folds and places his wind-breaker and cap; the long-winded comparison of the Vietnam conflict, Japanese vs German approach, and the nature of total war (this actually comes in two long rambling sections that could easily be condensed to one telling paragraph); the buttering of fresh bread, cutting and chewing of lobster etc. etc. This is a hard chapter to get through and is not the only example of failing to let the reader's imagination provide the detail.
In some places background military research material is added when it ought not to be. The different story lines are not well-handled and make for a choppy passage instead of smooth transitions and the whole would benefit from a restructure.
Despite the occasional turgid flow, the atmosphere is well-caught, very reminiscent in many scenes of 'Band of Brothers', both in comment and dialogue, and is worth the effort.
It has flaws. In some places far too many details are presented which causes an annoying unevenness. For example; In Chap 37 JP takes Frank to lunch and we get reams of pace-slowing comment: what they each decide to eat; the wine decision and selection; how Frank folds and places his wind-breaker and cap; the long-winded comparison of the Vietnam conflict, Japanese vs German approach, and the nature of total war (this actually comes in two long rambling sections that could easily be condensed to one telling paragraph); the buttering of fresh bread, cutting and chewing of lobster etc. etc. This is a hard chapter to get through and is not the only example of failing to let the reader's imagination provide the detail.
In some places background military research material is added when it ought not to be. The different story lines are not well-handled and make for a choppy passage instead of smooth transitions and the whole would benefit from a restructure.
Despite the occasional turgid flow, the atmosphere is well-caught, very reminiscent in many scenes of 'Band of Brothers', both in comment and dialogue, and is worth the effort.
November 27, 2016
This book turned out to be better than I was expecting it to be. The main story is a mystery about the principal character that I was not able to guess in advance, and which leans on the honor, principals, and mores of the WWII era and its "greatest generation." At the same time, the book provided some historical information on the paratroopers of WWII, which was interesting in and of itself, along with a little bit of history of U.S. Army Rangers (who were not paratroopers). The battle campaigns of the D-Day invasion and the march towards the Rhine River and Germany were also discussed, along with the soldiers impressions of General Eisenhower's generals, including Montgomery and Patton, which I also liked. I'd have liked to read more about the American homefront, but there was some of that in the book, which I enjoyed.
August 20, 2013
This is a great Novel about a country that came together to win a war. Everyone did there part. It was a wonderfl tribute to all those that sacrificed for the cause. It is about a middle age man John P Kilroy who is a journalist who has been asked to come collect his fathers Medal of Honor along with severl African Americans who were denied it long ago. When his mother died she told him to seek out his father because he had a secret. John has to rely on his father friends who are also receiving awards. He tells them that he wants to get to know his dad and there starts the journey of a group of men telling him about his father during the war. They are also keeping his secret. Great detail about the war itself. Also love the stories of a brotherhood that took care of each other.
March 9, 2013
The Last Jump is a fascinating novel of World War II built upon the actions of three young paratroopers. The story begins with a presentation of the Congressional Medal of Honor.
The author builds suspense by flashing back and forth from 1996 to World War II as he tells the story of the jumps made by the three men and the need of the son of one of the three to find the true story of his father's service record.
The book is well written, the action accounts are gripping, and all-in-all good read. I thoroughly enjoyed the book.
Emmett T. Lang, Author
Always A Soldier But Never G.I.: A World War II Soldier's Personal Journey
The author builds suspense by flashing back and forth from 1996 to World War II as he tells the story of the jumps made by the three men and the need of the son of one of the three to find the true story of his father's service record.
The book is well written, the action accounts are gripping, and all-in-all good read. I thoroughly enjoyed the book.
Emmett T. Lang, Author
Always A Soldier But Never G.I.: A World War II Soldier's Personal Journey
October 27, 2014
Great book! I loved the insight into the first paratroopers. I had known about their experiences primarily on D-Day, but hadn't given much thought into the establishment of the division. It was a bit hard to get into because it kept bouncing around to introduce all the characters, but once I was in, I couldn't put it down. ***SPOILER*** I will say that it was a good plot line, but I felt the twist was rather obvious and it was stretched well beyond when most people should get it. I felt the son's character would be smart enough to figure it out earlier.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 18, 2015
What a great story
This book mixes just enough fiction with the non-fiction to make it a story you don't want to end. You can lose yourself in the struggles & triumphs of these characters. I wish people were still made this way. I'm so glad I gave this book a chance, it's not something I would usually read, but now I'm sad it ended. Thank you John E. Nevola for opening my eyes & my heart and showing me what our veterans went through and confine to go through to keep America free.
This book mixes just enough fiction with the non-fiction to make it a story you don't want to end. You can lose yourself in the struggles & triumphs of these characters. I wish people were still made this way. I'm so glad I gave this book a chance, it's not something I would usually read, but now I'm sad it ended. Thank you John E. Nevola for opening my eyes & my heart and showing me what our veterans went through and confine to go through to keep America free.
November 14, 2016
I got this book free one day on Amazon and decided it was time to read it. The premise of the story is about two paratroopers in World War II who become friends and a secret they held to their grave. The son of one is contacted to be a part of a medal ceremony for a black soldier who knew his father and he ultimately uncovers the secret. I enjoyed this for the War flashbacks-however at the beginning, you feel this will be more about the black soldier, but actually he plays a very minor part in the whole story.
November 21, 2012
Historical fiction based on actual events. I wish everyone would read this book. Although it is a work of fiction, the characters, everyday Americans, gladly sacrifice for the war effort. Their main focus is to win the war and bring the soldiers home. As an American, I felt both a sense of pride and shame while reading this book. Pride - these people were so focused on their mission; shame - how we have changed as a country and not always for the good.
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