The devastating historical novel inspired by the pioneering Scottish aviator, now in paperback
1927. Flight fever is running rampant and daring flyers are all anyone can talk about. And now the Honourable Miss Elsie Mackay, glamorous former film star and regular name in gossip columns, has a new ambition - to be the first woman to fly the Atlantic.
Stella Campbell was once at the heart of world events, working at the Paris Peace Conference she helped forge peace across Europe. Now a decade on, post-war hopes are frayed and marriage and motherhood have worn away Stella's sense of self until she's not sure what remains.
In recent years, Stella's sister Corran has been wrapped up in her books and academic career, determinedly single, or so it seems. But when carefully guarded secrets start to emerge, will she be able to step beyond the constraints of her sex?
Three women, a fearless aviatrix, a jaded wife and a secretive academic strain to reach for their dreams on the cusp of an uncertain future.
Flora Johnston brings to life the tragic story of pioneering Scottish aviator Elsie Mackay who disappeared in 1928 while attempting to be the first person to fly the Atlantic east to west and the first woman in either direction. Johnston's follow-up to
The Paris Peacemakers is a powerful evocation of the 1920s, its sweeping outlook taking in the international aviation race, Glasgow's ship yards and the insidious threat of Mussolini's Italy. Perennial fascination with early female aviators like Amelia Earhart and Amy Johnston.
