It’s 1962, the dawn of the jet-set era. Hope takes flight for two Pan Am stewardesses navigating an adventurous new life in a novel about love, friendship, and escape by the bestselling author of The Memory of Us and Until We Meet.
Welcome to a glamorous gateway to the jet age.
Judy Goodman and Beverly Caldwell have different reasons for putting continents and oceans between themselves and their disparate pasts, but they have the same desire—to earn a coveted position on an elite team of stewardesses for Pan American Airlines. For Judy, running away from an oppressive marriage in small-town Pennsylvania is a risk she must take. And for Beverly, leaving behind the gilded cage of New York society will allow her to pursue a future of her own making.
Embracing the culture, etiquette, and strict rules of a thrilling and unpredictable new world above the clouds, Judy and Beverly are bound for faraway destinations and opportunities that other women dare only to dream about. But as they build a deep friendship, encounter love and danger, and discover what’s truly important, Judy and Beverly must also confront the secrets that could change their lives all over again—and forever.
Camille recently left an award-winning real estate career in San Antonio to become a full-time writer. Along with her husband of 27 years, she home schooled their four children - most of whom are now grown. She has a bucket list that is never-ending, and uses her adventures to inspire her writing. She's lived in Texas, Colorado, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and California, and spends enough time in Hawai'i to feel like a local. She's traveled to four continents (so far), and met Mother Teresa and Pope John Paul II. She just about fainted when she had a chance to meet her musical idol, Paul McCartney, too. Camille studied political science in college, but found working on actual campaigns much more fun. She overdoses on goodies at farmers markets (justifying them by her support for local bakeries), and belts out Broadway tunes whenever the moment strikes. There's almost nothing she wouldn't try, so long as it does't involve heights, roller skates, or anything illegal.
She appreciates you stopping by, and welcomes you to reach out and share a love of books!
In 1962, the Jet Set era, only Fashion Models and Movie Stars garnered more notoriety than a Pan Am stewardess.
Only 1 in 50 applicants would be offered the opportunity to attend training, and 30% of those young women would not last until graduation.
Those chosen could not wear contact lenses or glasses, and must be willing to cut their hair to the approved hairstyle and wear Revlon Persian Melon lipstick and a light coating of blue eyeshadow to match the coveted signature royal blue uniform with the pill box hats. Weight checks would also be conducted throughout training and the 6 month probationary period.
Since you couldn’t be married, over be over age of 35, (until that changed in the early 1970’s) the average career span was 18 months-but it was a glamorous lifestyle that many envied but few could obtain.
“Come Fly With Me” is a story named after the Frank Sinatra classic, based on the history of this ICONIC airline, which follows the story of TWO hopeful young women as they navigate the rigorous training and first year of flying-BUT it is also about their ENDURING friendship.
Judy Goodman was running away from an abusive marriage in a small town, so she will have to lie about being “SINGLE” when she applies for the position.
Beverly Caldwell grew up in New York society and was expected to marry a suitor from another respectable family rather than pursue a future of her own making.
The story unfolds from their alternating POV’s in the PAST, and from an unnamed narrator in the PRESENT from Mo’orea, French Polynesia.
As a career flight attendant myself, this story brought back fond memories, and some “not so fond” such as my days in training. (She only touched on the emergency drills you go through!) When I was hired by another major airline in the 80’s, we still had to weigh in, and be willing to cut our hair and don the preferred RED lipstick 💄 of the times, and HEELS 👠 are still a must to this day!
Although it might help if you are interested in this career or the airline industry or if you enjoyed the nostalgia of the 2011 ABC TV show, Pan Am-EVERY reader will be able to relate to Judy and Beverly’s LOYAL and unwavering friendship.
The ending brought tears to my eyes! I won’t soon forget it.
DO READ the Author’s note in its entirety when you finish! Heartbreaking 💔
This title is NOW AVAILABLE!
Thank You to Lake Union Publishing for the gifted ARC provided through NetGalley. As always, these are my candid thoughts!
This was the perfect book to read while I was travelling from the US to the EU. It takes me one domestic flight, one over the Atlantic, and then one more within the EU. Three flights and four airports later I am safely with my new grandbaby. All those people who support getting us from one city to another by plane have my gratitude, especially the folks who have to stand out on the runways in the winter weather. I am also guessing that the stewardesses from those early days especially find it interested to see their modern counterparts.
I really appreciated the fact that Camille Di Maio purposefully kept this from being a "mattress romp." She focuses on the early 1960's when the Pan Am stewardesses were the cream of the crop and held to very high standards. Also included is the rescue work the airline did in the aftermath of Vietnam.
Judy and Beverly come from very different backgrounds, but both are captured by the sense of adventure and the opportunities to travel the world with Pan Am. They were inspired by Frank Sinatra's "Come Fly With Me" album and made a wish list of all the places they wanted to visit. This is a bittersweet story, but the friendship between the two main characters shines like the sun. I loved visiting exotic locations like Honolulu, Hong Kong, and more along with them.
If you love travel, adventure, and fast friends in your historical fic; give this one a try! Thank you to Lake Union Publishing and NetGalley for a DRC in exchange for an honest review.
Queue Frank Sinatra’s ‘Come Fly With Me’ album, pour yourself a Cosmopolitan and give yourself time to binge-read this fabulous book.
I really enjoyed being swept back to the Golden Age of air travel and rooting for two women who chose to make their bruises and scars of life a catalyst for metamorphosis by enrolling in the Pan Am flight attendant program.
Beverly Caldwell lived a privileged life in New York and had everything a person could want but she wanted something ‘different’.
Judy Goodman also wanted something ‘different’ and was encouraged by a neighbour to leave Pennsylvania and rebuild herself.
Both women were flying towards something as well as flying away from something. It was interesting to read about the career and lifestyle expectations for young women in the early 1960s versus those today. I appreciated the author's reminder that it’s never too late to make up for old mistakes and transform ourselves. It was good to read about those who facilitated a way out and held the light; we all need a friend like Ronelle Rorbaugh. We should strive to be more like Ronelle - chosen sisters to each other.
Things I’ll remember for quite some time: 💙there is beauty in slowing down and appreciating the little joys in life 💙careful not to choose security over love or comfort over relationships 💙choose to use the bruises in life as an opportunity for metamorphosis 💙to place more of a value on the hunger of a purpose
Camille Di Maio is an auto-read author for me because of her ability to quickly invest her readers in her characters’ journeys. Di Maio’s characters tug on my heartstrings and I truly care about what happens to them.
I was gifted this copy by Lake Union Publishing and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
I got transported to the 60s and to "America's Airline to the World".
Judy Gooman has a plan to leave her abusive husband. She has filled out the paperwork to become a stewardess for Pan Am Airlines. She knows the chances are slim, but with the help of her friend and neighbor, she is hoping for the best. Her prayers are answered when she’s selected as one of the few to begin training in Miami. Only 30% of trainees graduate, but Judy is resolute to be among them, eager to trade her small Pennsylvania town for the freedom of the skies.
Beverly Caldwell, a New Yorker from a wealthy family, faces pressure from her father to marry a Wall Street man like himself. Determined to forge her own path, Beverly sees Pan Am as her ticket to independence.
Despite the fierce competition for limited spots, Judy and Beverly form a friendship during training, and their bond only deepens over time. The story captures their triumphs and struggles, mirroring the ups and downs of real life.
Come Fly with Me transports readers to this vibrant era and the pinnacle of Pan Am’s legacy. Camille Di Maio’s meticulous research shines through, offering rich details about the flight attendants’ experiences—from their uniforms and makeup to the rigorous selection process and challenging training.
The novel vividly portrays the golden age of a legendary airline, highlighting the coveted nature of these roles and the extensive requirements stewardesses faced. The descriptions are vivid, and the main characters are likable in their distinct ways.
I’ll eagerly read another book by Camille Di Maio without hesitation.
Cliffhanger: No
5/5 Fangs
A complimentary copy was provided by Lake Union Publishing via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
The time is 1962 and Judy Goodman is going to escape from her abusive husband Henry. She took the train and interviewed for a job as a Pan Am stewardess. Back then there were not many career options for women, and this was a way for her to escape. Her neighbor Ronell gives her the right plan and means to get away. Beverly has grown up as the daughter of the king of Wall Street. She is a wonderful and loyal friend who wants to have a life of her own and see the entire world. Meeting each other in their training group will change both of their lives forever.
We get alternating POV chapters from Beverly and Judy, along with shorter interludes by a present-day unnamed octogenarian, we aren’t sure of her identity until the 3rd act.
This is a classic “women’s book club” historical fiction book, with criticisms of the patriarchal culture of the time while still indulging in the nostalgia for the time period. This was very respectfully done. The ending was quite emotional. I would love to read this in the lobby of the TWA hotel, this is a classic aviation travel setting. There is a wonderful playlist on Spotify someone made called TWA hotel. It would be perfect to listen to as you read.
The audiobook narrators had good performances with intonation and pacing. It was easy to follow on audio.
As for me, I was gifted the audio version by NetGalley/lake union/brilliance audio. This was in exchange for an honest review. Book to be published 2/18/25
This amazing book takes the reader back in time to the early 1960’s in American History. The story is about the friendship between two stewardess’ (not flight attendants) Judy and Beverly, and their different reasons for seeking employment on the prestigious Pan American Airlines.
In Come Fly With Me, author Camille Di Maio, fills the pages with dreamy descriptions of exotic destinations experienced by Judy and Beverly. They both make a list of the cities that Pan American flies that they are determined to see. Sounds like a beautiful adventure!
With all adventures and dreams in life, it is usually preceded a need. The need to be free and independent from oppressive circumstances. Di Maio develops both Judy’s and Beverly’s reasons for wanting freedom.
As employees Pan American Airlines Judy and Beverly are considered ambassadors or representatives of America. I enjoyed the patriotism and the pursuit of excellence, and being part of a team, even a family displayed by the duo and the company.
But it was not all roses, stewardesses (their preferred titles) had to buy their own uniforms, have actual weigh ins and remain single. Training was grueling and excellence demanded. Most applicants did not pass the training. A fact that I was not aware of.
If you are a fan of historical fiction, you will love this book. Di Maio relates actual historical events with all the exotic locations, Beverly is especially interested current events. I applaud her ability to make me feel like I was in the 1960’s.
If you are expecting some kind of female empowerment because these women are among the first to be given the opportunity to be financially independent from a man, you might be disappointed. It just seemed like they were acting their age and looking for love. Personally, I find this refreshing, but others might not like it.
Will I read a book by Camille DiMaio again? Yes, I fully appreciated and enjoyed her ability to transport me to a time before I was born. I plan to read all the books. Stay tuned for more reviews by this author in the future!
Thank you to Netgalley and Lake Union Publishing for providing me with a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. The opinions expressed in this review are own.
Both women are running from something - Judy, an abusive husband - Beverly, a life of luxury that she was tired of and wanted to make it on her own.
Both women meet at Pan Am's exclusive school for airline attendants.
What a rough ride back in the 1960's with all the rules and restrictions put on flight attendants.
Ms. Di Maio did marvelous research about Pan Am - a very classy, glamorous place to work with high standards, and she gives us two characters you will be cheering on to make it to their goals as well as sharing what the life of flight attendants is like both at work and in their personal lives.
Another heartfelt storyline and wonderful characters that are signature Camille. 4/5
Thank you to the publisher for a copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
Oh how I just love historical fiction. I felt like this book took me a bit to finish because I genuinely didn’t want it to end. I SAVORED this story…it was just so beautiful. I 1000% will recommend this book to anyone and everyone who will listen to me.
This book had so much potential. However, it didn't click for me. I kept waiting for it to take off, and it never really did. The setup is great: Judy fleeing a crappy marriage in Pennsylvania, Beverly ditching her posh New York life, both chasing freedom through Pan Am’s elite stewardess program. The retro vibes are fun, think Mad Men meets Catch Me If You Can.
As someone who’s binge-watched Pan Am (RIP to the best show), I kept waiting for these big plot moments that didn't happen.
Here’s the thing: so many historical fiction books today want to look progressive without actually engaging with real struggle. This was one of those. Judy’s abusive marriage is treated as a plot device to get her into a cute uniform, not as the trauma it clearly is. There’s no reckoning. No real sense that the flight toward freedom actually requires unpacking the baggage. Real growth would involve Judy confronting power dynamics, not just swapping out a controlling husband for a charming other with softer lighting.
Beverly, too, floats through the story in a way that feels disconnected from the stakes. There are glimpses of interesting class commentary but they’re brushed past like layovers, brief, sanitized, and ultimately safe.
It’s readable, sure. Charming at times. And the writing is great.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Back in the 1960s, there was a raunchy but fun book called Coffee, Tea or Me about the adventures of 2 airline stewardesses. This book has the same basic premise but with many serious overtones. Not based on raunchiness but more about friendships and the real life of flight attendants, who are no longer called stewardesses.
Extensive research was done by the author by interviewing former stewardesses. The 1960s were considered the Golden Age of travel. The requirements were strict, both for the appearances and behaviour of employees. I knew about some of it, some was new to me. The details about the industry are quite factual but the author acknowledges that she had to bend a few facts to fit into the storyline cohesively.
I love the title, based on a Frank Sinatra song that was popular in the 1960s. Come Fly With Me. One of the featured stewardesses was enticed by this song to choose this career path.
The 2 main characters, Judy and Beverly came from totally different backgrounds but forged a wonderful relationship. They both grew from their choices.
There was an unexpected turn at the end of the book. It was hinted at throughout but, it still was a surprise. Again, it was based on a real life incident.
Enjoyable story. Wonderful cover, so reminiscent!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the Advance Readers Copy.
Come Fly with Me By: Camille Di Maio Pub Date: February 18, 2025 Publisher: Lake Union Publishing
First off, this cover is ABSOLUTLEY STUNNING! I love the era of the 60’s and women were ready to discover a world outside the typical norm at that time. Although some wanted love, it was not always the traditional marriage and kids after school. Some wanted to explore the world and make their way. Pan Am gave some the opportunity to fly with them and offer a whole new world to many. We have Judy Goodman and Beverly Caldwell who have their own reasons to making it though training to be the best and land the job of lifetime. Judy is fleeing a marriage and wanting a new life. She is leaving a small town in Pennsylvania. Beverly wants to pave her way and leave behind the expectations of New York society. These two build a unique and solid bond as the build a friendship and help each other with their dreams. With romance, intrigue, danger, friendship, heartache, travel and so much more. This novel is such a joy to read that I read in one sitting. Come Fly with Me is one of my favorite Frank Sinatra songs, and this plays a part in the story. Thank you Suzy Approved Book Tours, author Di Maio and Netgalley for gifted copies.
It's clear the author was thorough in her research into the lives of Pan Am stewardesses in the early sixties. I just feel she could have put more work into a more enthralling plot. I also struggled with the conflicting presentation of strong independent women and having both characters tie themselves to men. I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I have always been obsessed and fascinated with the glory days of air travel- and Pan Am has been the hallmark of that era for me. This book absolutely immersed me in the glamorous world of flight attendants and what air travel used to be- seven course meals and chic uniforms...I was captivated. But the real heart and soul of this lovely novel is womanhood. Strength and perseverance and bravery- just so inspiring and beautiful. Fantastic!
Meet two young women choosing to slip the bonds of their respective lives for very personal reasons by applying to be stewardesses for Pan Am in the early 1960s. The lure of travel and adventure captured their hearts. Di Maio does an exceptional job of not only nailing the time period, but how different the mores and choices were. Both Beverly and Judy find themselves and their lives changed through the experience and their friendship as the bedrock of the change. Wonderful characters and descriptions of lovely places.
TITLE: COME FLY WITH ME AUTHOR: CAMILLE DI MAIO PUB DATE: 02.18.2025
It’s 1962, the dawn of the jet-set era. Hope takes flight for two Pan Am stewardesses navigating an adventurous new life in a novel about love, friendship, and escape by the bestselling author of The Memory of Us and Until We Meet.
THOUGHTS:
I loved being whisked away in the glamorous world of stewardesses as part of an elite team for Pan American Airlines. I still think flying off to a different continent is glamorous and I always imagined how fun it would be to travel for a living. For the past few days, I have been immersed into the lives of Judy Goodman and Beverly Caldwell - who come from completely opposite worlds. Judy, escaping an abusive marriage from small town PA, and Beverly trying to find her own way away from NY society. I enjoyed the well researched world of aviation of the time, and the historical perspective of the glittering and the not quite glittering aspects of training as a stewardess and Pan Am. The most delightful part of this book is seeing the friendship between these women and all their trials and tribulations. Such a good book!
Wow, this was such a fun historical fiction read! A heartfelt story about two women, Judy and Beverly, who meet at Pan Am Flight Attendant school in the 60’s. I learned so much about what it took to get a job as a stewardess, especially back in the 60’s. It was so strict with the appearances of the women and the things they had to do, like weighing in regularly, haircuts, and makeup. These two women develop such an unwavering bond and friendship. Beverly is leaving her high society life in NYC and Judy is running from an abusive marriage. I loved reading about their relationship and the places they went. This was just an overall fantastic and well researched book. I can't wait to read Di Maio’s backlist. Highly recommend it.
Thank you to the publisher and Suzy approved book tours for the gifted copy. All opinions are my own.
This was an unexpected delight. I've not read anything about being a stewardess before and this was so good and so well researched. You could tell that a lot of love went into writing this novel. It was a book that will stay with me a good while.
Two women who could not be more different. Both wanting to escape their lives. Their pasts. One from an abusive tyrant of a husband. The other from her overbearing father.
Judy was married to man who loved to put his hands on her. He didn't want her to have any friends or family. Not even children. As that would take away from him. Her life was to revolve completely around him and what he wanted out of the marriage. She had to give up all of her hopes and dreams. He was a smooth talker when wooing her. He captured her heart completely and then changed after they married...
Beverly came from wealth. She never lacked for anything. Other than the love she craved from her parents. It was like she was an accessory for them rather than their child. At times her mother could be warm but for the most part she just seemed to ignore her daughter. Her father had her life all planned out. Get married to a rich man and let them combine power. Beverly had other ideas.
Both young women wanted to become Pan Am Stewardesses. Each for very different reasons. They become the very best of friends in their journey. Claiming to be sisters even though they were not related. They were both only children. Both wanted to find a better kind of life. One with happiness and real love.
This book gave me so many good feels. A little bit of tears too. Ok a lot of tears at one point. Deep love that would last a lifetime. I laughed and cried. I felt such hope for these two young women. They were the perfect match. They rooted each other on no matter what lay ahead. They complimented each other. They both found love and happiness. Then tragedy hit. One was lost...
This story is told from each ladies point of view. You get to know them well. This book was so good. So emotional in every way. I learned a lot about being a Stewardess for Pan America in the sixties. The author did a great job of researching and letting you know in her Author's Notes at the end. Don't miss that part.
I have read and enjoyed all of Camille Di Maio's historical fiction novels over the past nine years and am thrilled that she has a new one available. I loved Come Fly with Me, which is about the Pan Am stewardesses in the 1960s. It was so fascinating to learn how much work went into being a stewardess (yes, that was the word used back then) and all the training involved. The story also had idyllic travel, romance, friendship, and an element of danger.
Both Judy and Beverly were sympathetic characters and I cared about what was happening in their lives. I loved their friendship and how they looked after each other. It was sweet and endearing. I also loved the settings where the story took place, especially Hawaii, as I really want to go there. I felt like I was on vacation while reading this novel and appreciated the balance of the mini-trips with the hard work that went into their jobs and the drama in their lives outside of work and travel.
I especially loved the mentions of Frank Sinatra, as it made me think of my late paternal grandfather.
I could have done without the foreshadowing, as I knew something bad was coming. However, I didn't know how it would play out, so that was still shocking when everything was revealed.
Overall, another great novel from a fabulous historical fiction writer! I definitely recommend checking this one out. I am excited to attend an online author chat when she'll be speaking with my friend's book club later this month.
let’s preface this by saying I study tourism in college, I love aviation & get the subject in class. Decently written & well researched! I love the history route taken in the context of past aviation history. I was so excited to read this at first.
the book starts with two female protagonists, judy (who wants to escape her abusive husband) & beverly (upper east side manhattan rich girl ) who both wanna work as stewardesses (cabin crew) for prestigious airline carrier pan american in the sixties
it was so funny to see the same airport (iata) codes I have to study in class in a book, genuinely know the pain they went through to study all of them for my upcoming finals.
I tried to enjoy this read even though it could be boring at most times. About 10 chapters in i felt like the plot was barely progressing and I genuinely had no idea where the story was going? Was it a romance? I found it to be over explaining at certain points.
While the excessive research about aviation in the sixties this must’ve taken to write a book like this was impressive. It was overshadowing the plot at points and giving too much information making it hard to focus on what was really happening.
It was hard for me to connect with the characters which ended up with ultimately me giving this book a 2.5/5 stars, the research was impressive but the plot was rather boring and not really enjoyable for me after like 10 chapters. I had such high hopes for this book, unfortunately they weren’t reached and I was left rather disappointed.
Thank you to netgalley for the arc, in exchange for an honest review.
Camille Di Maio at her best! It's 1962 and Judy Goodman and Beverly Caldwell long to spread their wings. Hailing from two different worlds, the women enlist in the Pan Am stewardess program, escaping the confines of their past. Up in the sky, the women become fast friends, sharing heartache and secrets, challenges and love.
Di Maio tells a well-crafted and expertly researched story of courage and enduring friendship. She weaves the POVs and jumps from past to present effortlessly while capturing the golden era of Pan Am. I've never read a Di Maio novel without shedding some tears knowing I've just taken a beautiful journey with characters I won't soon forget.
This amazing book tells the story of two incredible women, from very different backgrounds, as they begin their adventures as stewardesses for Pan Am airlines back in 1962, with some chapters in the present day. Both Judy and Beverly had very different reasons for seeking independence and adventure traveling the world. Camille Di Maio truly made their stories come alive as they went through the hiring process and their training. The process was daunting as only one in fifty applicants would be hired, and they would have to be willing to wear the makeup and hairstyles required, and keep their weight and figures within a set limit. I loved how strong they both were and the friendship that developed between Beverly and Judy. They loved amazing, strong, heartbreaking lives and every moment had me enthralled. I will admit that the book had me crying in a few spots, so be ready. If you enjoy historical fiction with strong, brave, empathetic characters, you definitely need to read this book!
Thank you, Camille Di Maio, Lake Union Publishing, and Netgalley for providing me with an e-arc. The content of my review has not been affected by this.
This was quite an enjoyable story!! I love everything about it! I wasn't certain I'd get drawn into it because I thought planes and stewardesses didn't sound too intriguing to me. But I'm glad I was proven wrong! The 2 MCs were phenomenal! I loved learning about what kinda lives they were coming from and all that they experienced in the present. I found their friendship to be absolutely beautiful and one to be admired! Learning what it took to be terrific stewardesses was very interesting and fascinating! Of course, I despised the one husband. But was blown away regarding the strength and courage it had to have taken for Judy to be free and make a better life for herself. Their was a very sad part, yet it was also beautiful and spoke to the bond that Judy and Beverly built with one another! Highly recommend this if you enjoy historical fiction!
1962…Pan Am Airlines is the only airline with international flights and Judy and Beverly want as much distance as possible away from their current living situations!! These ladies will experience love, friendship and so much more on their travels around the world. The women hold lots of secrets that might eventually catch up to them!! Make sure you read the Author’s Note at the end of the book!!!!
I loved this book! This is the fifth book by this author that I've read, and one of my favorites. 2 young ladies try out to be Flight Attendants with Pan Am in the 1960s. Judy is hoping to get selected from the many applicants to escape the abusive marriage she is in. Back then, they had many rules for their stewardesses and being married was one the things that was forbidden. Beverly has grown up with the privileges of the wealthy. She wants no part of that lifestyle. She is fiercely independent and wants to make it on her own. The two girls become best friends and fly to many destinations together. I highly recommend this great, clean story!
I’ve always been fascinated by the stories of Pan-Am, and so I was intrigued by the logline for Camille Di Maio’s Come Fly With Me.
Come Fly with Me takes place in 1962, during the dawn of the jet-set era and follows two young women wanting more out of life. Judy Goodman is looking to leave an erratic marriage and thinks Pan-Am is her ticket out. Beverly Caldwell is a New York socialite who wants adventure…and nothing to do with her upper class Park Avenue life. During their long training at Pan-Am’s Miami training center, they form a budding friendship and during their travels, they learn what’s really important in life.
For me, this book was perfectly fine. Judy and Beverly had a beautiful friendship and I loved the stark contrast between the two ladies. I loved their love stories and their adventures. I just found myself wanting a bit more in regards to plot. This story is definitely more character driven…but I just wanted a bit more to happen. I lived for the settings though and the writing was beautiful.
Thank you to Netgalley and Lake Union Publishing for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I was lucky enough to be a beta reader for this and can’t wait for the finished product. The amount of research Camille did was unbelievable. Equal parts historical and escape this novel transports you in time and place. Wonderful story and narration.
Camille di Maio (favorite author) and master storyteller returns with a dazzling and beautifully written heartfelt tale of two women, best friends, back to 1962 and the glamorous Pan American Airlines with COME FLY WITH ME.
You will be transported to the Golden Age of Air Travel!
About...
Judy Goodman and Beverly Caldwell meet but do not realize how each other will impact one another's life. They both are striving for a position as stewardesses for Pan American Airlines.
Judy is running away from an abusive marriage in small-town Pennsylvania. As a stewardess, she is not allowed to be married, but she must keep this a secret to leave her husband and make an independent life for herself.
Beverly is leaving behind the New York society that will allow her to pursue a future of her own. She does not want to marry someone her dad thinks is good for business.
Enter the world of rules, adventure, etiquette, social, and culture above the clouds. The two women form a friendship and are loyal to one another. They both have secrets, sacrifice, and tragedy.
My thoughts...
"COME FLY WITH ME is enthralling! Beautifully written, meticulously researched, and richly evocative.”
Everything Camille Di Maio writes is meticulously researched and elegantly told with grace and finesse. All her books are fascinating and bring to life a piece of important history, leaving you feeling empowered, informed, and enriched.
I have read every book she has written; she is a top writer. If you have not read her books, I highly recommend them. Her prose is lyrical and vivid, and her characters are heartfelt and highly relatable. You will find a piece of yourself in Judy and Beverly. Friendships in this story are formed from shared adversity, scars of life, and shared experiences. I love books set in this period and enjoyed the friendship between these women.
The title fits the Frank Sinatra song, and the 1960s come alive on the page. You will be in awe of these courageous women who risked their lives —flexible, adventurous, organized, and fearless. Their bravery will inspire you.
Told from POV: Judy, Beverly, and Mo'orea, French Polynesia.
Audiobook...
I read the ebook and listened to the audiobook narrated by the talented Carly Robins, Dominique Salvacion, and Sherri Slater, elevating the story and making the characters come alive for an engaging listening experience.
Recs...
COME FLY WITH ME is for fans of the author and those who enjoy strong women and historical fiction.
Thanks to Lake Union Publishing and Brilliance Audio for an advanced review and listening copy in exchange for my honest thoughts.