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Virgin Flight
Can love triumph in the battle between duty and desire?
Beryl Jenkinson is a young dreamer determined to break free. Though bound to her family’s garage, her heart dreams of taking flight with Attagirls, the brave women piloting planes across the nation to play a vital role in the war effort.
Odette de Lavigne embodies the allure of a World War Two pin-up glamorous, seductive, and a masterful pilot. But beneath her carefree demeanor lies a poignant secret.
Their destinies collide when Odette literally crashes into Beryl’s life, sparking a blaze of passion and an enduring infatuation. Fate reunites them at the ATA, but can love conquer the clash between duty and enchanting desire?
Beryl Jenkinson is a young dreamer determined to break free. Though bound to her family’s garage, her heart dreams of taking flight with Attagirls, the brave women piloting planes across the nation to play a vital role in the war effort.
Odette de Lavigne embodies the allure of a World War Two pin-up glamorous, seductive, and a masterful pilot. But beneath her carefree demeanor lies a poignant secret.
Their destinies collide when Odette literally crashes into Beryl’s life, sparking a blaze of passion and an enduring infatuation. Fate reunites them at the ATA, but can love conquer the clash between duty and enchanting desire?
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Published July 9, 2024
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
April 15, 2025
E.V. Bancroft is bringing me new knowledge about English efforts during the war and the ATA, educating me while giving me good love stories. It's awful to realize that without World War II, women might have had to wait much longer for opportunities beyond obeying men. Beryl and Odette are both strong and talented women; Odette is a bit mysterious, both glamorous and scarred; Beryl is optimistic and brave. Their dynamic throughout the book is Beryl wanting more and Odette fighting it, but giving Beryl enough to keep her hooked, like the worst drug dealer. It's a slow burn, so much so that it takes years, which felt realistic, although the repetitive dynamic frustrated me at times. But don't worry, they eventually take the leap after a swooning scene and once again, Bancroft gives historical women a HEA. 😍
August 5, 2024
A lovely, old fashioned romance
Virgin Flight is a historical novel of days past where same sex couples couldn’t be together openly for fear of losing loved ones and their livelihoods.
But instead of getting the standard tired, tragic ending we get a romance - a HEA. How refreshing!
Virgin Flight is a historical novel of days past where same sex couples couldn’t be together openly for fear of losing loved ones and their livelihoods.
But instead of getting the standard tired, tragic ending we get a romance - a HEA. How refreshing!
December 30, 2024
Skilled aviatrix Odette de Lavigne manages to land her sabotaged aircraft in a farmers field only to be rescued by a sixteen year old daughter of the local mechanic, Beryl Jenkinson. Beryl’s crush on the beautiful French pilot confirms her own understanding of her attraction to women. Years later when the ATA is formed, Beryl volunteers and discovers one of the trainers is the lovely Odette. Odette knows the risks involved in pursuing any romantic relationship in the military. Beryl only has eyes for Odette.
I like reading stories featuring women serving in any capacity in the military and this was no exception. Odette, while not afraid to take risks as she shuttles damaged aircraft from one base to another, is aware of the dangers of pursuing a romantic relationship, especially a forbidden one during war time. Beryl is the eager pup who can barely disguise her infatuation with Odette. There were times when Beryl’s immaturity, meant to ramp up the tension, felt overdone and caused the story to drag. The exciting ending and epilogue saved the book.
3.5 stars
I like reading stories featuring women serving in any capacity in the military and this was no exception. Odette, while not afraid to take risks as she shuttles damaged aircraft from one base to another, is aware of the dangers of pursuing a romantic relationship, especially a forbidden one during war time. Beryl is the eager pup who can barely disguise her infatuation with Odette. There were times when Beryl’s immaturity, meant to ramp up the tension, felt overdone and caused the story to drag. The exciting ending and epilogue saved the book.
3.5 stars
November 29, 2023
Lovely!
Beryl meets Odette, a pilot during World War Two, who literally crashes into her life and changes everything. Inspired by Odette and following her dreams, Beryl is reunited with Odette when she gets the opportunity to fly planes and be part of the war efforts, but their attraction to one another is less than ideal if the truth of their connection and relationship is discovered.
An exciting story, set in times where extra care had to be taken if your feelings didn’t fit societal norms. It was magical the connection Beryl and Odette shard from the very first moment they met. Beryl was full of hope and determination to follow her dreams and be what Odette had already accomplished and it was a most infectious spirit that never left her, even in challenging or more difficult times. It spurred her on, fuelled her desires, ambitions, and hopes for more both in her career, and life with Odette. She really did drive everything once she knew she and Odette shared similar views and a mutual attraction. Her spirit excited me and I was honoured to join her on this journey.
As with all great romances that happen under difficult circumstances the story wasn’t without its drama. There was already so much going on with the war, and their own wariness of being discovered that Odette rightly had concerns and tried to protect them both from what acting on such feelings and being caught would mean for them both professionally and personally. Odette was a big personality, so it was easy to understand how Beryl had been instantly taken with her and determined to explore their shared feelings.
I really enjoyed the story, couldn’t put it down as I just needed to know if they could find a way and overcome judgement and fear to really indulge one another in what they truly wanted.
Beryl meets Odette, a pilot during World War Two, who literally crashes into her life and changes everything. Inspired by Odette and following her dreams, Beryl is reunited with Odette when she gets the opportunity to fly planes and be part of the war efforts, but their attraction to one another is less than ideal if the truth of their connection and relationship is discovered.
An exciting story, set in times where extra care had to be taken if your feelings didn’t fit societal norms. It was magical the connection Beryl and Odette shard from the very first moment they met. Beryl was full of hope and determination to follow her dreams and be what Odette had already accomplished and it was a most infectious spirit that never left her, even in challenging or more difficult times. It spurred her on, fuelled her desires, ambitions, and hopes for more both in her career, and life with Odette. She really did drive everything once she knew she and Odette shared similar views and a mutual attraction. Her spirit excited me and I was honoured to join her on this journey.
As with all great romances that happen under difficult circumstances the story wasn’t without its drama. There was already so much going on with the war, and their own wariness of being discovered that Odette rightly had concerns and tried to protect them both from what acting on such feelings and being caught would mean for them both professionally and personally. Odette was a big personality, so it was easy to understand how Beryl had been instantly taken with her and determined to explore their shared feelings.
I really enjoyed the story, couldn’t put it down as I just needed to know if they could find a way and overcome judgement and fear to really indulge one another in what they truly wanted.
December 29, 2023
3.5⭐️ Nice historical sapphic fiction about female pilots during WWII. I liked this one and especially Beryl, she was brave and had the courage of her convictions throughout the book. Odette was a mixture of femme and adventurous which was a rare mix in any character I’ve read. The epilogue was excellent and moved the rating up for me.
January 31, 2024
There was a lot for me to like about this story. Lovable characters, set during WWII, the main characters involved in an interesting occupation, and an authentic feel to the period without suffering too much from homophobia, I found this book thoroughly enjoyable.
November 3, 2023
Virgin Flight
By E. V. Bancroft
Wow what a ride! I read this in 2 sittings probably would have been 1 if going to work with no sleep was an option.
This story has 2 main protagonists - Odette and Beryl. We meet them both when Odette’s plane is forced to land near Beryl’s family garage in a time when women pilots were seen as a novelty and Aviation was still in a somewhat experimental stage. Beryl is a teenager and Odette a woman who has lived, loved and lost. She has shuttered her heart off and her life is flying, it is the only constant and her only love that she knows won’t break her heart.
World War 2 breaks out and there is a need for pilots and due to the shortage of men for these roles, women are given opportunities that they would not have normally been allowed to even think about doing! They both end up employed by the ATA and fly around the UK delivering beat up, damaged or new aircraft to wherever they need to.
The story follows these 2 through the trials and tribulations of a world at war that firstly sees women as lesser than men especially when it comes to being a pilot (= putting their lives at risk in planes that men have refused to fly because they are headed for the scrap heap but the women of the ATA take in their stride and know that one false move could impact all of the female pilots - present and future) and being gay will cost you your job, your friends and your family.
Their close knit friendship group of Joyce, Maisie, Odette, and Beryl share in the joys and sadness that living during wartime can sometimes bring. This friendship allows the reader to meet an array of secondary characters that come from all parts of the societal hierarchy - war is a great equalizer. Although, at times you see that having money or land allows you a few extra perks during war time rationing.
The historical aspect of this story is what helps drive the narrative and I found the writing to be quite engaging and vivid - at times I felt like I was riding along in the planes with these fearless pilots as they tackled the daily challenges of flying in different types of planes at different stages of their wartime life cycle! From the new faster spitfires to the older slower open cockpits as well as Ansons and Hurricanes.
The underpinning storyline of will they or won’t they get together (Odette and Beryl) keeps you turning the pages as you are cheering from the sidelines for them to give each other a chance and to just be brave.
So, if you enjoy a little bit of historical fiction spiced up with a good amount of f2f romance, grab a copy of this novel, strap yourself in, put your tray table in the upright position and enjoy the flight!
Disclaimer - This book was provided to me as an ARC, and in return I have provided an honest and unbiased review of the story.
By E. V. Bancroft
Wow what a ride! I read this in 2 sittings probably would have been 1 if going to work with no sleep was an option.
This story has 2 main protagonists - Odette and Beryl. We meet them both when Odette’s plane is forced to land near Beryl’s family garage in a time when women pilots were seen as a novelty and Aviation was still in a somewhat experimental stage. Beryl is a teenager and Odette a woman who has lived, loved and lost. She has shuttered her heart off and her life is flying, it is the only constant and her only love that she knows won’t break her heart.
World War 2 breaks out and there is a need for pilots and due to the shortage of men for these roles, women are given opportunities that they would not have normally been allowed to even think about doing! They both end up employed by the ATA and fly around the UK delivering beat up, damaged or new aircraft to wherever they need to.
The story follows these 2 through the trials and tribulations of a world at war that firstly sees women as lesser than men especially when it comes to being a pilot (= putting their lives at risk in planes that men have refused to fly because they are headed for the scrap heap but the women of the ATA take in their stride and know that one false move could impact all of the female pilots - present and future) and being gay will cost you your job, your friends and your family.
Their close knit friendship group of Joyce, Maisie, Odette, and Beryl share in the joys and sadness that living during wartime can sometimes bring. This friendship allows the reader to meet an array of secondary characters that come from all parts of the societal hierarchy - war is a great equalizer. Although, at times you see that having money or land allows you a few extra perks during war time rationing.
The historical aspect of this story is what helps drive the narrative and I found the writing to be quite engaging and vivid - at times I felt like I was riding along in the planes with these fearless pilots as they tackled the daily challenges of flying in different types of planes at different stages of their wartime life cycle! From the new faster spitfires to the older slower open cockpits as well as Ansons and Hurricanes.
The underpinning storyline of will they or won’t they get together (Odette and Beryl) keeps you turning the pages as you are cheering from the sidelines for them to give each other a chance and to just be brave.
So, if you enjoy a little bit of historical fiction spiced up with a good amount of f2f romance, grab a copy of this novel, strap yourself in, put your tray table in the upright position and enjoy the flight!
Disclaimer - This book was provided to me as an ARC, and in return I have provided an honest and unbiased review of the story.
November 3, 2023
“Virgin Flight” is a touching historical romance primarily set in the UK during World War II amongst women pilots of the Air Transport Auxiliary. These dedicated women ferried planes back and forth across the country to free up male pilots for what were considered more dangerous flying duties overseas or in combat.
The focus of the story is on Beryl, a mechanical whiz who yearns to fly, and Odette, the mysterious and exotic French pilot she is drawn to. From an initial meeting years before the war, to continuing interactions, Beryl, is steadfast in her attraction.
Bancroft skillfully incorporates historical information about the ATA’s mission and history and information about the various planes that are flown. She accomplishes this without overburdening the story with tedious details that con so often bog stories down.
There is an undercurrent of tension throughout the book because of the attitudes and lack of legal protections for same-sex couples. The fear of being found out and thrown out of the ATA is a constant, looming presence for the characters.
I’m not usually one for historical romances, but this is a very charming and sweet book that drew me in. It was hard to put down, and I thoroughly enjoyed it.
The focus of the story is on Beryl, a mechanical whiz who yearns to fly, and Odette, the mysterious and exotic French pilot she is drawn to. From an initial meeting years before the war, to continuing interactions, Beryl, is steadfast in her attraction.
Bancroft skillfully incorporates historical information about the ATA’s mission and history and information about the various planes that are flown. She accomplishes this without overburdening the story with tedious details that con so often bog stories down.
There is an undercurrent of tension throughout the book because of the attitudes and lack of legal protections for same-sex couples. The fear of being found out and thrown out of the ATA is a constant, looming presence for the characters.
I’m not usually one for historical romances, but this is a very charming and sweet book that drew me in. It was hard to put down, and I thoroughly enjoyed it.
November 3, 2023
E.V. Bancroft's latest novel takes us up into the clouds, and back to the fresh air of the 1930s at the beginning of her story of love among the clouds. As always her characters are delightful, real, and vulnerable, and the setting is very well-researched. Her knowledge of flying is extensive and almost persuades one to take lessons in aviation.
A delightful love story to blow away the dreary clouds of autumn, and one I heartily recommended
A delightful love story to blow away the dreary clouds of autumn, and one I heartily recommended
December 5, 2023
Excellent portrayal of the difficulties of being a lesbian in the women's pre-military. Hiding, stuffing down feelings. Living when women can do the work only while men are off to war. What patience Beryl had with Odette.
November 3, 2023
This phenomenal book is everything I hoped it would be and so much more. Rich characters, laughs, tears and a captivating story, all wrapped up in the drama and romance of the 1940's.
Virgin Flight tells the story of Beryl, a young woman captured by the excitement of flying at a time when, but for the increasing presence of the world war, women were less than commonplace in the cockpit. Beryl is immediately a likeable and relatable lead - bold, naive, endearing, and ambitious - and when she finds herself rescuing a stranded pilot in the form of Odette, you can almost sense the explosion of all of her desires colliding at once.
As Beryl navigates her pathway to womanhood, and the skies, she brings along several supporting characters who are equally well-crafted by the author, and less than halfway through the book you feel like the entire cast are long time friends who you could actually spend time with.
E.V. Bancroft does an excellent job of building out a world and cast of characters so believable that you almost forget they are imagined. With impressive historical accuracy and a willingness to weave all of the drama that the World War II era brings into the storyline, this is a book worth reading, even for those who usually steer clear of historical romance.
Virgin Flight was a difficult book to put down, and an impossible book to forget, and will definitely be added to my re-read pile. I feel certain that even after multiple reads, I will find myself captivated by the characters, swept away by the romance, and desperately hoping that the book is longer than I remember it. A must read for any fans of historical fiction circa WWII, and worth picking up for those who are simply fans of a well written romance with masterfully crafted characters and a storyline that holds you long after you've read the last page.
Disclaimer: I was provided a copy of this book with no expectation or requirement beyond an honest review of the story... which is what I have written.
Virgin Flight tells the story of Beryl, a young woman captured by the excitement of flying at a time when, but for the increasing presence of the world war, women were less than commonplace in the cockpit. Beryl is immediately a likeable and relatable lead - bold, naive, endearing, and ambitious - and when she finds herself rescuing a stranded pilot in the form of Odette, you can almost sense the explosion of all of her desires colliding at once.
As Beryl navigates her pathway to womanhood, and the skies, she brings along several supporting characters who are equally well-crafted by the author, and less than halfway through the book you feel like the entire cast are long time friends who you could actually spend time with.
E.V. Bancroft does an excellent job of building out a world and cast of characters so believable that you almost forget they are imagined. With impressive historical accuracy and a willingness to weave all of the drama that the World War II era brings into the storyline, this is a book worth reading, even for those who usually steer clear of historical romance.
Virgin Flight was a difficult book to put down, and an impossible book to forget, and will definitely be added to my re-read pile. I feel certain that even after multiple reads, I will find myself captivated by the characters, swept away by the romance, and desperately hoping that the book is longer than I remember it. A must read for any fans of historical fiction circa WWII, and worth picking up for those who are simply fans of a well written romance with masterfully crafted characters and a storyline that holds you long after you've read the last page.
Disclaimer: I was provided a copy of this book with no expectation or requirement beyond an honest review of the story... which is what I have written.
December 30, 2023
Heightened Love
This was a wonderfully told story. I am admittedly not a fan of the extremely slow burn, but this was certainly worth the wait. The actual plot is riveting enough that the reader enjoys the intensified slow build to the romance. What really sets this apart is that given the content, and timeframe a slow build is absolutely appropriate to the plot line. That makes all of the difference to me. There was no feigned angst, it was a natural and believable part of the storyline. However, what seals the deal is that although the spice level is mild, what actually makes it elevated spicy is the intense feelings the characters share. The author is gentle with the love scenes but she still doesn’t skimp out on the reader. It’s a deft hand that utilized and the story is made all the better for it. There are some poignant lines about what it means to be a woman who has agency in a time where women had none, and what it means to be a woman who loves a woman and claim that space. This was definitely one where I was sad to see the characters go, but they will remain in my memory.
This was a wonderfully told story. I am admittedly not a fan of the extremely slow burn, but this was certainly worth the wait. The actual plot is riveting enough that the reader enjoys the intensified slow build to the romance. What really sets this apart is that given the content, and timeframe a slow build is absolutely appropriate to the plot line. That makes all of the difference to me. There was no feigned angst, it was a natural and believable part of the storyline. However, what seals the deal is that although the spice level is mild, what actually makes it elevated spicy is the intense feelings the characters share. The author is gentle with the love scenes but she still doesn’t skimp out on the reader. It’s a deft hand that utilized and the story is made all the better for it. There are some poignant lines about what it means to be a woman who has agency in a time where women had none, and what it means to be a woman who loves a woman and claim that space. This was definitely one where I was sad to see the characters go, but they will remain in my memory.
October 25, 2023
The Virgin Flight by E.V. Bancroft is a historical romance set around wartime Britain where same-sex couples were very much taboo. The story eloquently portrays Beryl Jenkinson’s passion for flying and her hidden affection for pilot Odette de Lavigne. Little does Beryl realise how their paths would cross in these unpredictable and perilous times.
What a page turner! A very memorable book that keeps you turning the pages and coming back for more. I literally did not want this book to end.
The character chemistry and emotional connection shines through. I was completely engrossed in their future, feeling every struggle and experiencing the highs and lows alongside them.
The meticulous research that went into this book was evident, as the scene setting effortlessly placed me amid the action. I have a new respect for a trade during the wartime I was unaware of, the ATA.
Another perfectly executed story by E.V. Bancroft. I wait with bated breath to see if there will be another historical romance from this author.
I received an ARC for my honest review.
What a page turner! A very memorable book that keeps you turning the pages and coming back for more. I literally did not want this book to end.
The character chemistry and emotional connection shines through. I was completely engrossed in their future, feeling every struggle and experiencing the highs and lows alongside them.
The meticulous research that went into this book was evident, as the scene setting effortlessly placed me amid the action. I have a new respect for a trade during the wartime I was unaware of, the ATA.
Another perfectly executed story by E.V. Bancroft. I wait with bated breath to see if there will be another historical romance from this author.
I received an ARC for my honest review.
October 28, 2023
As a fan of aviation, this story has been a really good read. I live in Dayton, Ohio where human flight was born. Some of the aircraft in this story are housed at the Air Force Museum not far from my home. So reading about Odette and Beryl flying these amazing machines was a really good way to spend a rainy day.
E.V. has written a really good take on the women who shuttled aircraft during the war. It was a big deal back then to see a female pilot, unlike today. The main characters that she’s written in this story take their time falling in love, but once they admit their feelings the story really takes off. (Hee Hee, see what I did there?) The friends that they share through their journey are important to the storyline and add to this book in their own individual ways.
The flow of this book is easy to follow and kept me reading all day until I read The End. If you’re a fan of historical stories, this one is a great choice to pick up. E.V. has done a really good job with this work and I know you won’t be disappointed picking this book up!
E.V. has written a really good take on the women who shuttled aircraft during the war. It was a big deal back then to see a female pilot, unlike today. The main characters that she’s written in this story take their time falling in love, but once they admit their feelings the story really takes off. (Hee Hee, see what I did there?) The friends that they share through their journey are important to the storyline and add to this book in their own individual ways.
The flow of this book is easy to follow and kept me reading all day until I read The End. If you’re a fan of historical stories, this one is a great choice to pick up. E.V. has done a really good job with this work and I know you won’t be disappointed picking this book up!
November 2, 2023
Virgin Flight is an intoxicating journey through the lives of women who are pilots in the 1940’s and wartime UK. Their lives, their problems and how they manage to deal with misogyny are clearly shown. Whilst this is a story, it is a weaving of the truth of history and the lives of the women that went before, written beautifully by Bancroft.
The main characters Odette and Beryl are opposites in many ways, but both get the feeling of freedom that flying brings and the cynicism of Odette and naivety of Beryl just add to the spice. Their romance is very slow burn and as always with Bancroft the reader is drawn along with the same hopes and hesitations as the characters.
This is a superb book and kept me engaged with flying, the descriptions of the planes and the whole world of the ATA and the risks the women took. We need more books like this to remind us that women have come a long way since then, and perhaps some points are still true today.
An excellent read on many levels.
The main characters Odette and Beryl are opposites in many ways, but both get the feeling of freedom that flying brings and the cynicism of Odette and naivety of Beryl just add to the spice. Their romance is very slow burn and as always with Bancroft the reader is drawn along with the same hopes and hesitations as the characters.
This is a superb book and kept me engaged with flying, the descriptions of the planes and the whole world of the ATA and the risks the women took. We need more books like this to remind us that women have come a long way since then, and perhaps some points are still true today.
An excellent read on many levels.
November 3, 2023
I absolutely adored this book. I don't read historical fiction very often but this story sounded like one I would enjoy and I wasn't wrong. Beryl meets Odette as a teenager and it only fuels her drive to become a pilot as well as her attraction to women. Odette is a terrific pilot who keeps her focus on the skies because looking anywhere else may open up emotions she doesn't want to revisit. When they are back together again in a professional capacity years later, Beryl is all grown up and that attraction is still there. As they navigate their duties in support of the ongoing war, their relationship also takes flight.
E.V. Bancroft has created a terrific story with well developed characters in a setting that presents many challenges for them. The historical setting and descriptiveness struck a perfect balance with the characters' story. Overall, this is a great read with MCs and a supporting cast that will keep you engaged and leave you with a better snapshot of that place in time.
E.V. Bancroft has created a terrific story with well developed characters in a setting that presents many challenges for them. The historical setting and descriptiveness struck a perfect balance with the characters' story. Overall, this is a great read with MCs and a supporting cast that will keep you engaged and leave you with a better snapshot of that place in time.
December 6, 2023
I loved this book!
It’s a pacey book with characters full of depth, integrity and humour . It hurtles towards an ending which is both witty and profound.
The heroine Beryl is lovable from the first page to the last .
We are back in the social landscape of WWII where E.V set her 1st novel, Warm Pearls and Paper Cranes. However this time we are in the thick of life ATA life. We are watching the daring and the elation of these young women soaring high through the echelons of a male dominate world.
We are invited deep into their lives. Their sustaining friendships and their love affairs .Seeing them navigate this new territory of equality with men. The portrait of the gay scene in the forces of war time England was for me both revelatory and heart breaking .
E.V.,now so comfortable in her Sapphic novel prose, has added something new. Alongside her deftness of crafting endearing and authentic characters and her trade mark rigorous research, there is something new between the pages…… a thriller writer is emerging
Open the pages and see for yourself !
It’s a pacey book with characters full of depth, integrity and humour . It hurtles towards an ending which is both witty and profound.
The heroine Beryl is lovable from the first page to the last .
We are back in the social landscape of WWII where E.V set her 1st novel, Warm Pearls and Paper Cranes. However this time we are in the thick of life ATA life. We are watching the daring and the elation of these young women soaring high through the echelons of a male dominate world.
We are invited deep into their lives. Their sustaining friendships and their love affairs .Seeing them navigate this new territory of equality with men. The portrait of the gay scene in the forces of war time England was for me both revelatory and heart breaking .
E.V.,now so comfortable in her Sapphic novel prose, has added something new. Alongside her deftness of crafting endearing and authentic characters and her trade mark rigorous research, there is something new between the pages…… a thriller writer is emerging
Open the pages and see for yourself !
October 18, 2023
Fasten your seatbelts, you’re in for a ride.
Expect slow-burn, engine-rumbling romance. Aerial views of war-time England. Friendships that flourish between the women that keep calm and carry on. And a romantic relationship that sparks from the very first pages until the epilogue.
E.V. Bancroft has a strong track record for bringing us love stories set against the Second World War. ‘Warm Pearls and Paper Cranes’ remains one of my fave reads. This new book is set during a similar time period, and the story is just as rich and insightful in its depiction.
The main characters, Odette and Beryl, are perfect for each other. Both driven by the desire to soar above the clouds and into each other’s arms.
There are twists and turns along the way and some really dramatic action which has you turning the page to find out what happens.
As ever, E.V. has taken a snapshot of history and it bounces off the page for us. Add this to your reading list - you won’t be disappointed.
Expect slow-burn, engine-rumbling romance. Aerial views of war-time England. Friendships that flourish between the women that keep calm and carry on. And a romantic relationship that sparks from the very first pages until the epilogue.
E.V. Bancroft has a strong track record for bringing us love stories set against the Second World War. ‘Warm Pearls and Paper Cranes’ remains one of my fave reads. This new book is set during a similar time period, and the story is just as rich and insightful in its depiction.
The main characters, Odette and Beryl, are perfect for each other. Both driven by the desire to soar above the clouds and into each other’s arms.
There are twists and turns along the way and some really dramatic action which has you turning the page to find out what happens.
As ever, E.V. has taken a snapshot of history and it bounces off the page for us. Add this to your reading list - you won’t be disappointed.
October 22, 2023
Wow what a great romance! I love E.V. Bancroft but she's outdone herself. Odette and Beryl are a couple you aren't going to be leaving behind when you finish the book. The attraction between the two is palpable and you are drawn deeply into their romance. Odette is a fascinating, strong yet vulnerable woman who has a secret. Beryl bound by family duty and yet determined to have her freedom. They're such a lovely couple.
The background of the war and the Attagirls are richly drawn and you feel the devastating impact of war and the bravery of each of them.
This is a very rich book with characters, a love story you're going to cherish forever and beautifully drawn characters in a time when people were challenged beyond measure but still retained their abilities to love, cherish each other and what they had.
I urge everyone to explore this book and get lost. This will certainly be going to my family and friends as Christmas presents.
The background of the war and the Attagirls are richly drawn and you feel the devastating impact of war and the bravery of each of them.
This is a very rich book with characters, a love story you're going to cherish forever and beautifully drawn characters in a time when people were challenged beyond measure but still retained their abilities to love, cherish each other and what they had.
I urge everyone to explore this book and get lost. This will certainly be going to my family and friends as Christmas presents.
April 22, 2025
This was another wonderful E.V. Bancroft novel set in England during WWII, centered around the women in the Air Transport Auxiliary.
The story began when 16 year Beryl old aided with the emergency landing of a plane from the flying circus. The French pilot was Odette, who was taken in for the night by Beryl’s family.
Six years later Beryl had taken Odette’s advice of attending the flight training at the Air Transport Auxiliary. Her trainer actually was Odette.
Beryl always desired Odette, who held her off with her attitude of living in the now, feeling that her life would never make it out of the war.
Things eventually changed and love bloomed but there was a lot that happened before this happened. It all allowed for an amazing listening experience, narrated by Juanita McMahon.
I really loved this book and think E.V. Bancroft is a skilled writer, wonderful at communicating the emotions and happenings that make her novels so good.
The story began when 16 year Beryl old aided with the emergency landing of a plane from the flying circus. The French pilot was Odette, who was taken in for the night by Beryl’s family.
Six years later Beryl had taken Odette’s advice of attending the flight training at the Air Transport Auxiliary. Her trainer actually was Odette.
Beryl always desired Odette, who held her off with her attitude of living in the now, feeling that her life would never make it out of the war.
Things eventually changed and love bloomed but there was a lot that happened before this happened. It all allowed for an amazing listening experience, narrated by Juanita McMahon.
I really loved this book and think E.V. Bancroft is a skilled writer, wonderful at communicating the emotions and happenings that make her novels so good.
October 5, 2023
From the first page, I was pulled into this historical story of Beryl, who dreams of flying a plane one day and Odette the amazingly skilled pilot who walked into her life. I recently became a fan of historical romance and this book does not disappoint! The push and pull between the main characters, the amazing details by the author, and what I assume to be accuracy of how people had to deal with life on a daily basis while a war was going on all around them is so detailed. To imagine how incredibly difficult it must have been to be a lesbian in the 1930's, to find other lesbian's and to find a way to act of your attraction. I love these strong, fierce, independent women and everything they did for the war effort and how they managed to find each other along the way. A beautifully told story that will stick with me for days. Bravo E.V. Bancroft!
October 29, 2023
In the prologue, it's 1934 and 16 year old Beryl rescues a female pilot, Odette, when her plane's fuel line is sabotaged. Beryl is instantly smitten and also dreams of becoming a pilot herself. The book then moves forward to WWII in England where Beryl is a plane mechanic still hoping to fly and encounters Odette again. Eventually Beryl gets her wish and most of the book is the push-pull between the two women, with Odette determined not to get involved and only focus on flying while Beryl wants more.
I was provided an ARC by the publisher.
The research was excellent, all about the planes in use during that time and the details of flight. The issue I had with the book was how long it took for any kind of engaging plot point to appear (about the 2/3 mark). Most of the book was the ongoing push-pull which didn't advance the plot.
I was provided an ARC by the publisher.
The research was excellent, all about the planes in use during that time and the details of flight. The issue I had with the book was how long it took for any kind of engaging plot point to appear (about the 2/3 mark). Most of the book was the ongoing push-pull which didn't advance the plot.
November 6, 2023
“Virgin Flight” is a touching historical romance about women pilots of the Air Transport Auxiliary, primarily set in the UK during World War II. Beryl is the young dreamer and Odette the older, weary women trying to make it in a man's world. Of course, without women WWII would not have turned out as positive as it did. They meet when Odette's plane lands on Beryl's farm because of a broken fuel pipe. Wartime makes strange bedfellows and they each find themselves attracted to each other, but it is a few years before Beryl can actually join the ATA. They shouldn't get involved but love waits for no woman. E.V. Bancroft is a wonderful writer who does her research and her historical knowledge helps to move the story along and keep you interested. Women in Uniform, aviation in its early years set in Britain. What more could a history buff want?
April 15, 2024
I am in total awe regarding the level of research and the depth of knowledge and detail that is in this book. And to keep all of that information at a level accessible to the reader who knows nothing about planes and mechanics and flying organisations. Not to mention the general war time knowledge required.
I do like historical faction - and this has a great story to situate it in as well.
I read it in one sitting - Beryl and Odette kept me interested. A very clever way of introducing Odette to the story - whilst exploring the awakening desires of 16 year old Beryl.
The emotions were well written - not just within the will they/won't they relationship, but also about their fear of discovery, and the fear of losing each other and their friends/family through their wartime activities. And just being in the wrong place when bombs were dropping.
Well played.
I do like historical faction - and this has a great story to situate it in as well.
I read it in one sitting - Beryl and Odette kept me interested. A very clever way of introducing Odette to the story - whilst exploring the awakening desires of 16 year old Beryl.
The emotions were well written - not just within the will they/won't they relationship, but also about their fear of discovery, and the fear of losing each other and their friends/family through their wartime activities. And just being in the wrong place when bombs were dropping.
Well played.
November 3, 2023
If you enjoy historical fiction, you will love this book. Set during WW2, strong and accomplished women doing their part in a man’s world. Flying every kind of plane possible at the time and they are often in poor condition. SO, it shows off their skill even more. The historical accuracy is spot on and the characters are easy to like, even the ones you think you might not at first glance. My only complaint is that the relationship between the MCs really dragged on, for years, before finally accepting their destiny. The epitome of a slow-burn!! But they get it right in the end!! It probably helps that I love everything flight related, but I think anyone will find something to like in this book.
November 3, 2023
Congratulations E.V. Bancroft for creating a “page turner” with this novel! From the beginning I was hooked on this book, and it was 4 AM when I finished it. The MC’s, Odette, and Beryl worked well together and played off each other’s strengths and weaknesses. There was even a rich/entitled woman named Joyce that I would have liked to slap a couple of times.
There was a lot of research that evidently was done to get the terminology and the novel to correlate with the time period.
The plot takes place in 1934, during WWII, but this is in no way a historical novel, it's just a background for why the women were flying these planes.
There were many twists and turns in this novel, but I guarantee you will enjoy it! Don’t wait, your copy today, and get ready to read a great book!
There was a lot of research that evidently was done to get the terminology and the novel to correlate with the time period.
The plot takes place in 1934, during WWII, but this is in no way a historical novel, it's just a background for why the women were flying these planes.
There were many twists and turns in this novel, but I guarantee you will enjoy it! Don’t wait, your copy today, and get ready to read a great book!
November 15, 2023
What a captivating and compelling read !
E.V. Bancroft has excelled herself, I literally could not put this book down. A fascinating account that transports you to another time and place in history where love between two women had to battle on all fronts.
The two main characters are complex and engaging which drew me in until I felt I knew them. Also their world is described in such vivid detail that it really comes to life. I had little knowledge or real interest in what it was like to a pilot at that time before reading this, but it really gripped me. The back drop of the Air Transport Auxiliary and the flying training was completely absorbing. It took me on a thoroughly enjoyable flight.
Treat yourself, it's one not to miss !
E.V. Bancroft has excelled herself, I literally could not put this book down. A fascinating account that transports you to another time and place in history where love between two women had to battle on all fronts.
The two main characters are complex and engaging which drew me in until I felt I knew them. Also their world is described in such vivid detail that it really comes to life. I had little knowledge or real interest in what it was like to a pilot at that time before reading this, but it really gripped me. The back drop of the Air Transport Auxiliary and the flying training was completely absorbing. It took me on a thoroughly enjoyable flight.
Treat yourself, it's one not to miss !
December 25, 2023
I adore this book! I enjoyed reading every bit of it. The main characters were both alluring and strong in their own right. The star-crossed lovers theme was very exciting to follow, adding World War II in the background, plus homophobia - perfect concoction for a riveting read. The flow of the story was effortless, the author weaved in aeronautics like no one's business (and although it sounded like calculus to me) it was easy to follow and very very interesting to learn!!! I loved it so much!
There were a handful of misspelled or ?misplaced words but other than that, I loved reading this book. I'm glad I found another (new to me) author that I am looking forward to reading all their books!
There were a handful of misspelled or ?misplaced words but other than that, I loved reading this book. I'm glad I found another (new to me) author that I am looking forward to reading all their books!
October 10, 2023
Another great book from EV Bancroft. As always she does a fantastic job of portraying the era in which her book is set. You get a real feel for what a scary and hidden environment these women had to navigate during wartime. You get a great sense of the freedom they feel when they are flying and how frustrating it is that they are not appreciated for the work they are doing and at the same time they can be ousted from their job just for being gay. Both Beryl and Odette are well rounded characters that grow and change as things alter in their lives. You will be rooting for them, through all the twists and turn that life throws at them.
October 25, 2023
Virgin Flight is a slow-burn romance that will pull you in and delightfully whisk you away into the clouds. You’ll fall in love with Odette and Beryl. Odette gives younger Beryl her first plane ride just before WWII. They meet again when they’re both Attagirls, female pilots in the Air Transport Auxiliary.
Author E.V. Bancroft weaves moments where you feel like you’re in the plane’s cockpit. You’ll get a feel for an ATA pilot’s challenging and dangerous job. Odette and Beryl are also falling in love. Like their daring flights, they risk it all to be together. And there’s the secret of the red scarf. Virgin Flight is another brilliant historical romance by E.V. Bancroft.
Author E.V. Bancroft weaves moments where you feel like you’re in the plane’s cockpit. You’ll get a feel for an ATA pilot’s challenging and dangerous job. Odette and Beryl are also falling in love. Like their daring flights, they risk it all to be together. And there’s the secret of the red scarf. Virgin Flight is another brilliant historical romance by E.V. Bancroft.
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