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Bell Bomber Brides #1
Hearts in Flight
Serving her country as one of the Women's Army Special Pilots is Maggie Daniels's dearest wish. But there are obstacles to overcome above and beyond the enemies in the Pacific, including her overprotective family, skeptical fellow pilots—and handsome, distant squadron leader Wesley Hicks. Whatever it takes, Maggie will prove herself to Wesley, until she succeeds in winning his admiration…and love.
Wesley can see that Maggie's a first-class pilot. She's also too fearless by half. The war has cost Wesley so much already. Can he let go of his guilt for a chance at happiness—and can he learn to trust in God…and Maggie…enough to believe in love for a lifetime?
288 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published July 1, 2011
45 people are currently reading
175 people want to read
About the author
Patty Smith Hall
60 books171 followersThe author of over 30 books and novellas, Patty lives near the North Georgia Mountains with her husband, Danny. When she's not writing, she's spending time with her family or playing with her two grandsons. Connecting with people who love to read as much as she does is one of her favorite things!.
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Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
February 20, 2022
I was thrilled to receive a review copy a story about the brave women in WWII you never hear about. As I listened to this author speak passionately about women’s service to our country during WWII; I couldn’t wait to dig into reading this historical romance story. Patty Smith Hall is proud to be the 9th generation to be born and raised in Ga, her stomping grounds is Marietta. It was fun to hear about this once quaint little town and how it expanded its size practically overnight when the Bell Plant was built there.
It was fun to learn the history of Marietta and feel the sense of community of years past, as I read Patty’s book. I enjoyed Maggie Daniel’s fight to serve her country as one of the Women’s Army Special Pilots. She was driven to succeed and be the best at her craft. There were the natural obstacles to overcome like a woman working in a male dominated field, but Maggie didn’t let that stop her.
She could dish it out as well as take it, Maggie says, “Let’s get this straight. I’m not your honey or baby, and I’m certainly not a doll. And if you’d taken the time to read the up-dated info on the B-29, you would have figured out that the glitches with engine burnout have been resolved, as well as the refueling problem.”
It was easy to be strong when she butted heads with her male counterparts until she gets a letter threatening her life if she didn’t stop flying immediately. She doesn’t believe it until one of her female pilots has an accident. Was that accident meant for her? Her friend Debra says, “I want a family Maggie, Flying is just one part of who I am? What about the other parts of our lives? What happens when we can’t fly planes anymore?”
The inner-struggle - should she sell out her dreams and do what other women did? Stay home, get married and raise a family. This thought hadn’t occurred to her until she meets a handsome; squadron leader Wesley Hicks. She’s out to prove she’s just as good as any man when it came to flying a plane. Wesley finds himself trying to protect her for her own good! Sparks fly in more than one way between Wesley and Maggie! Loved the sparing and their internal struggle to do the right thing! It was interesting to learn about brave women pilots who served our country with their talents and life. This author’s passion for history and Marietta, GA shine throughout the pages of this novel. I can’t wait to read the sequel!
I’m thankful for the review copy of a book that answers the question, “What does it mean when someone says; God has healed me from the inside out? How can I let God touch the hurts in my heart and be healed?”
Denise says, “You can only live with your heart shut down for so long. Eventually you will fight for your healing or you will die… Some even find God when their lives fall apart!....Sometimes a person has to die in order to really live. ..Hungry for something real?.. (tired of just going through the motions of life and feeling numb inside?) Want to feel alive? Seek whatever helps you rediscover that carefree childlike heart I know is in there somewhere – that is what you should be doing to Feel Alive!”
This is a walk Denise’s characters have gone on and/or just started down the path. I enjoyed this cast so much, they are fun, bold and each have been knocked around by life. Each has a different result and story to tell.
Scarlett Jo is a Pastor’s wife that’s fun and doesn’t care what people think about her. Denise writes, “Scarlett Jo hadn’t simply survived her life. She had learned how to live in spite of it- and not to worry too much about the perceptions of others.”
Scarlett Jo is fun loving, free spirited and an inspirational person! I loved her voice and her outlook on life she says, “Oh, child do you not know about couponing?...I’m feeding a pack of wolves at my house. If I didn’t know how to coupon, my children would have had to eat me by now. But if you ever want to learn how to do it, you just let me know. It is crazy girl! I can go to a store and leave and they’ve paid me money.” (I want to learn – teach me! Teach Me! Grin!)
The characters in this novel welcome you in as family. They’re situations will tug at your heart. What I love about Denise’s books are this, you’ll be having a good time reading then all of a sudden she cleverly interweaves spiritual truths that pierce your heart, make you stop and think. Denise will help you “See lies you believe.” You’ll laugh out loud and get teary eyed in parts of this story, a winning combination.
I really liked Scarlett Jo’s husband too he says, “I watch people. I take in people. And to be honest, I learn a great deal about them by what they don’t say.”
I highly recommend this novel and the non-fiction companion book called Reclaiming your Heart! It’s a win win combination. A book you’ll want to put on your summer reading list. Did I mention I just love the cover of this book too! It’s a keeper!
It was fun to learn the history of Marietta and feel the sense of community of years past, as I read Patty’s book. I enjoyed Maggie Daniel’s fight to serve her country as one of the Women’s Army Special Pilots. She was driven to succeed and be the best at her craft. There were the natural obstacles to overcome like a woman working in a male dominated field, but Maggie didn’t let that stop her.
She could dish it out as well as take it, Maggie says, “Let’s get this straight. I’m not your honey or baby, and I’m certainly not a doll. And if you’d taken the time to read the up-dated info on the B-29, you would have figured out that the glitches with engine burnout have been resolved, as well as the refueling problem.”
It was easy to be strong when she butted heads with her male counterparts until she gets a letter threatening her life if she didn’t stop flying immediately. She doesn’t believe it until one of her female pilots has an accident. Was that accident meant for her? Her friend Debra says, “I want a family Maggie, Flying is just one part of who I am? What about the other parts of our lives? What happens when we can’t fly planes anymore?”
The inner-struggle - should she sell out her dreams and do what other women did? Stay home, get married and raise a family. This thought hadn’t occurred to her until she meets a handsome; squadron leader Wesley Hicks. She’s out to prove she’s just as good as any man when it came to flying a plane. Wesley finds himself trying to protect her for her own good! Sparks fly in more than one way between Wesley and Maggie! Loved the sparing and their internal struggle to do the right thing! It was interesting to learn about brave women pilots who served our country with their talents and life. This author’s passion for history and Marietta, GA shine throughout the pages of this novel. I can’t wait to read the sequel!
I’m thankful for the review copy of a book that answers the question, “What does it mean when someone says; God has healed me from the inside out? How can I let God touch the hurts in my heart and be healed?”
Denise says, “You can only live with your heart shut down for so long. Eventually you will fight for your healing or you will die… Some even find God when their lives fall apart!....Sometimes a person has to die in order to really live. ..Hungry for something real?.. (tired of just going through the motions of life and feeling numb inside?) Want to feel alive? Seek whatever helps you rediscover that carefree childlike heart I know is in there somewhere – that is what you should be doing to Feel Alive!”
This is a walk Denise’s characters have gone on and/or just started down the path. I enjoyed this cast so much, they are fun, bold and each have been knocked around by life. Each has a different result and story to tell.
Scarlett Jo is a Pastor’s wife that’s fun and doesn’t care what people think about her. Denise writes, “Scarlett Jo hadn’t simply survived her life. She had learned how to live in spite of it- and not to worry too much about the perceptions of others.”
Scarlett Jo is fun loving, free spirited and an inspirational person! I loved her voice and her outlook on life she says, “Oh, child do you not know about couponing?...I’m feeding a pack of wolves at my house. If I didn’t know how to coupon, my children would have had to eat me by now. But if you ever want to learn how to do it, you just let me know. It is crazy girl! I can go to a store and leave and they’ve paid me money.” (I want to learn – teach me! Teach Me! Grin!)
The characters in this novel welcome you in as family. They’re situations will tug at your heart. What I love about Denise’s books are this, you’ll be having a good time reading then all of a sudden she cleverly interweaves spiritual truths that pierce your heart, make you stop and think. Denise will help you “See lies you believe.” You’ll laugh out loud and get teary eyed in parts of this story, a winning combination.
I really liked Scarlett Jo’s husband too he says, “I watch people. I take in people. And to be honest, I learn a great deal about them by what they don’t say.”
I highly recommend this novel and the non-fiction companion book called Reclaiming your Heart! It’s a win win combination. A book you’ll want to put on your summer reading list. Did I mention I just love the cover of this book too! It’s a keeper!
June 25, 2011
I enjoyed Hearts in Flight by Patty Smith Hall! This is a wonderful historical romance set during WW2. The heroine is a member of the women's Army Special Pilots working on the home front. This is Patty's debut novel, and she did a great job with developing characters that you care about, and a plot that keeps you turning the pages. .
August 29, 2011
Patty has written such a great story! Maggie and Wesley's story will appeal to everyone. Patty has a style of writing that will draw you in. If you haven't picked up this book--do so now!
April 2, 2017
This book is a fabulous historical novel centered around the women in the WASP (Women’s Air Force Service Pilots) program. It’s not only anchored in the days of the economic depression, but it brings out facts and ways of life during that time period that interest the reader. It also opens the reader’s eyes to how a woman pilot was treated by the male pilots during that time.
What I loved: The characters were believable and likable, but what I loved most about this book was the author’s writing style. She certainly has a way with words…the best that I’ve read for a while. Here is a short excerpt from the book that I loved:
“Maggie took a careful step, her hand firmly in his. She let him lead her, though she knew every root and rock in this particular hill, indulging in a bit of make-believe. Like the fizz of a soda squirting out of the soda fountain, she felt all bubbly inside. Her foot slipped, the magic replaced by reality.”
What I didn’t like: Even though the novel was excellent, and the plot and characters were engaging enough to keep me turning pages, it did not stop me from noticing several typographical errors … mistakes I'm surprised her editor didn't catch.
Over all, I give this book five stars. I loved it, and my husband loved it as I read it to him. I highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys reading a good romance or historical novel.
What I loved: The characters were believable and likable, but what I loved most about this book was the author’s writing style. She certainly has a way with words…the best that I’ve read for a while. Here is a short excerpt from the book that I loved:
“Maggie took a careful step, her hand firmly in his. She let him lead her, though she knew every root and rock in this particular hill, indulging in a bit of make-believe. Like the fizz of a soda squirting out of the soda fountain, she felt all bubbly inside. Her foot slipped, the magic replaced by reality.”
What I didn’t like: Even though the novel was excellent, and the plot and characters were engaging enough to keep me turning pages, it did not stop me from noticing several typographical errors … mistakes I'm surprised her editor didn't catch.
Over all, I give this book five stars. I loved it, and my husband loved it as I read it to him. I highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys reading a good romance or historical novel.
January 21, 2012
Originally posted: http://creativemadnessmama.com/blog/2... with author photo and me!
One awesome thing that happened while I was still in Georgia (and very pregnant with AppleBlossom) was that I went to a luncheon with a fellow avid reader and authors. It was awesome! I got to meet my favorite Julie Lessman in person finally! And I met some other authors who as I’m reading them I find them to be new favorites as well (such as Missy Tippens and Patty Smith Hall)! Not only are these ladies great prayer personalities but they are such fabulous authors as well and truly keep me up at all hours (when I should be sleeping – I have young babies people!) So anyway, when Patty asked me if I wanted to read her debut novel that I knew was in the works you better believe I jumped at the chance. Only issue being, her novel was released right about the same time that OrangeBlossom was born (you too, Julie, but I know you still love me – I’ll read it soon I promise!).
Hearts in Flight was a fabulous read. If you know me, you know I am not a fan of mass market paperback format, but the story is good. Truly entertaining. I loved the characters, I mean come on, her name was Maggie! What’s not to love there? Definitely makes me partial. This is another one that had me thinking about the hard times during a bit of economic depression and thinking of how it relates to today’s economy and what tidbits we could learn. (I recently learned near the Enginerd’s parents house there is a Hooverville! Did you know they still existed, or rather again? Times are really hard.) Maggie has spunk and it shows on every page. Then there is her romantic interest Daniel. Um. My Enginerd is Daniel, so Margaret and Daniel. Seriously even if I didn’t like the plot, I’d love Patty. ;)
There is a great bit of suspense with the romance and a bunch of historical facts that I did not know anything about (like the WASP). I’m intrigued, I’m entertained and happy as a reader. I want more!
*Thanks to Patty for sending me a copy for review.*
One awesome thing that happened while I was still in Georgia (and very pregnant with AppleBlossom) was that I went to a luncheon with a fellow avid reader and authors. It was awesome! I got to meet my favorite Julie Lessman in person finally! And I met some other authors who as I’m reading them I find them to be new favorites as well (such as Missy Tippens and Patty Smith Hall)! Not only are these ladies great prayer personalities but they are such fabulous authors as well and truly keep me up at all hours (when I should be sleeping – I have young babies people!) So anyway, when Patty asked me if I wanted to read her debut novel that I knew was in the works you better believe I jumped at the chance. Only issue being, her novel was released right about the same time that OrangeBlossom was born (you too, Julie, but I know you still love me – I’ll read it soon I promise!).
Hearts in Flight was a fabulous read. If you know me, you know I am not a fan of mass market paperback format, but the story is good. Truly entertaining. I loved the characters, I mean come on, her name was Maggie! What’s not to love there? Definitely makes me partial. This is another one that had me thinking about the hard times during a bit of economic depression and thinking of how it relates to today’s economy and what tidbits we could learn. (I recently learned near the Enginerd’s parents house there is a Hooverville! Did you know they still existed, or rather again? Times are really hard.) Maggie has spunk and it shows on every page. Then there is her romantic interest Daniel. Um. My Enginerd is Daniel, so Margaret and Daniel. Seriously even if I didn’t like the plot, I’d love Patty. ;)
There is a great bit of suspense with the romance and a bunch of historical facts that I did not know anything about (like the WASP). I’m intrigued, I’m entertained and happy as a reader. I want more!
*Thanks to Patty for sending me a copy for review.*
October 18, 2011
Title: HEARTS IN FLIGHT
Author: Patty Smith Hall
Publisher: Love Inspired Historicals
July 2011
ISBN: 978-0-373-82878-4
Genre: Inspirational/historical romance
Maggie Daniels has long dreamed of flying in the Women’s Army Special Pilots, instead of just the family crop dusting business. She has a family emergency when a family member is killed in the war, but she is anxious to do her part—so when Captain Wesley Hicks shows up on at her crop duster she is quick to jump at his job offer.
Wesley is hesitant to take on a woman. He has all sorts of questions for her, questions that Maggie feels is unfair—no man would have to answer them. She knows she’ll have to prove herself.
Wesley recognizes that Maggie is a good pilot—but she is too dangerous. The war has already cost Wesley more than he wanted to pay. Can Wesley learn to trust God—and Maggie—to believe in a lifetime of love?
I had the pleasure of reading the first few chapters of this in a critique group and I always wondered how it turned out, so I was glad to see it come to print. It has changed considerably since the days of the first draft, and the final draft is much more polished.
Wesley is a dreamy hero. Strong. Courageous. And hurting. Maggie is a tomboy, bound and determined to get her way in life—a very strong heroine. Set during the days of World War II, this is a book that will tug your heart strings. Discussion questions are included at the end of the book. $5.75. 278 pages.
Author: Patty Smith Hall
Publisher: Love Inspired Historicals
July 2011
ISBN: 978-0-373-82878-4
Genre: Inspirational/historical romance
Maggie Daniels has long dreamed of flying in the Women’s Army Special Pilots, instead of just the family crop dusting business. She has a family emergency when a family member is killed in the war, but she is anxious to do her part—so when Captain Wesley Hicks shows up on at her crop duster she is quick to jump at his job offer.
Wesley is hesitant to take on a woman. He has all sorts of questions for her, questions that Maggie feels is unfair—no man would have to answer them. She knows she’ll have to prove herself.
Wesley recognizes that Maggie is a good pilot—but she is too dangerous. The war has already cost Wesley more than he wanted to pay. Can Wesley learn to trust God—and Maggie—to believe in a lifetime of love?
I had the pleasure of reading the first few chapters of this in a critique group and I always wondered how it turned out, so I was glad to see it come to print. It has changed considerably since the days of the first draft, and the final draft is much more polished.
Wesley is a dreamy hero. Strong. Courageous. And hurting. Maggie is a tomboy, bound and determined to get her way in life—a very strong heroine. Set during the days of World War II, this is a book that will tug your heart strings. Discussion questions are included at the end of the book. $5.75. 278 pages.
July 7, 2011
This is a perfect example of the Love Inspired Line. Love the World War II setting and the strong, brave heroine who dreamed to fly.
May 2, 2012
This book was delightful!
Such a wonderful cast of characters!
It had suspense in it, which kept me guessing!
Looking forward to reading more books from Patty Smith Hall!
Such a wonderful cast of characters!
It had suspense in it, which kept me guessing!
Looking forward to reading more books from Patty Smith Hall!
October 15, 2020
Georgia,1943.Serving her country as one of the Women's Army Special Pilots is Maggie Daniel's dearest wish.But there are obstacles to overcome above and beyond the enemies of the Pacific,including her overprotective family,skeptical fellow pilots-and handsome,distant squadron leader Wesley Hicks.Whatever it takes,Maggie will prove herself to Wesley,until she succeeds in winning his admiration...and love.Wesley can see that Maggie's a first class pilot.She's also too fearless by half.The war has cost Wesley so much already.Can he let go of his guilt for a chance at happiness-and can he learn to trust in God...and Maggie...enough to believe in love for a lifetime? The Bell Bomber Plant, now known as Air Force Plant 6, is a government owned,contractor operated aerospace facility at Dobbins Air Reserve Base in Marietta,GA, currently owned by the USAF and operated by Lockheed Martin Aeronautics.The plant,originally occupied by Bell Aircraft,began operation in April 1943 and was intended specifically to produce B-29 Superfortresses under license from Boeing.During WWII, airlines worked closely with the military to coordinate the transport of aircraft, cargo, and personnel nationally and internationally. Hundreds of airliners were drafted for the war effort and placed under the control of the Air Transport Command(ATC), formed in June 1942 at the order of USAAF leader Gen.Henry H."Hap" Arnold,who wanted to unify civilian and military air transport operations.The ATC combined the efforts of Ferry Command,which moved combat aircraft,and the Air Service Command,which moved cargo and personnel.The ATC's Ferrying Command,which included the famous WASP,replaced the AAFC and delivered newly built aircraft from their factories to training bases or ports of embarkation.From there,the aircraft were flown to overseas destinations including war zones.Male pilots were concerned about the B-29 as it was a very heavy bomber and the plane was considered dangerous and cumbersome,and so women from the WASP were tasked to fly it to showcase its reliability, and put the men to shame.
May 16, 2021
I was given a free copy of this audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
A great romance set in a historical setting in US history. I enjoyed this story learning about one more facet of women's contribution to the war effort and the prejudices she had to overcome. Margaret Rose was always different and when her focus turned from crop duster to a member of the Women's Army Special Pilots her family wished otherwise. When harrowing experiences and a chance for love and marriage arise, she proves she can have it all.
A great romance set in a historical setting in US history. I enjoyed this story learning about one more facet of women's contribution to the war effort and the prejudices she had to overcome. Margaret Rose was always different and when her focus turned from crop duster to a member of the Women's Army Special Pilots her family wished otherwise. When harrowing experiences and a chance for love and marriage arise, she proves she can have it all.
June 17, 2021
This was my first Patty Smith Hall's book. This is the first book in the Bell Bomber Brides Series. I liked Maggie and Westley’s story. Maggie, a woman’s Army Special Pilot, is smart, strong, and fearless. I like the historical story and the slow burn romance. The supporting characters are interesting. This is a beautiful clean romance. Cindy Piller did a good job with the narration. I was given a free review copy of the audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
November 18, 2023
This had all the makings of a WWII historical romance I would love.
- Female pilot
- MMC is her superior
- she’s trying to prove herself
- charming
But…..it relied a little too much on the whole god thing and prayers. The formatting needed some help also. Plus, there were so many instances in which the author used the wrong word.
It also just…..ended.
- Female pilot
- MMC is her superior
- she’s trying to prove herself
- charming
But…..it relied a little too much on the whole god thing and prayers. The formatting needed some help also. Plus, there were so many instances in which the author used the wrong word.
It also just…..ended.
August 4, 2020
Wonderful Read
I’m hooked! I loved this book. Loved the setting and the characters-Wesley and Maggie. It has a storyline that keeps you engaged and wanting to read it to the end!!
I’m hooked! I loved this book. Loved the setting and the characters-Wesley and Maggie. It has a storyline that keeps you engaged and wanting to read it to the end!!
July 13, 2011
I really enjoyed reading Patty's book. It was interesting reading about the WASP
September 27, 2011
A cute story, and surprisingly unreligious for an "inspirational" novel.
Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews