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Ever After Mysteries #3
When the Pilot Falls
In 1923, there aren’t many pilots, but Willie Labeau didn’t let that stop… her.
A bear of a man, Hugh Taylor, needs a stunt plane pilot, and despite their rocky introduction, Willie sets off for golden California and a new life as his pilot. There’s just one little thing she has to do in addition to flying.
Leave his past alone. Period.
When the flame of her own curiosity becomes fanned by encouragement from Willie’s sister, the feisty pilot can’t help but do just a little investigating.
And Hugh vanishes.
Friends rally around her, and with all the information she can find in hand, Willie sets off to rescue Hugh and battle the evil family holding him hostage.
A fierce air race, a sincere act of humility—are they enough to free Hugh and give Willie a chance to be with him… forever?
Find out in this next book in the Ever After Mysteries, combining beloved fairy tales and mysteries. When the Pilot Falls offers a retelling of “East of the Sun, West of the Moon” that will keep you gripped to the edge of your seat as you watch hearts soar and daring dos.
A bear of a man, Hugh Taylor, needs a stunt plane pilot, and despite their rocky introduction, Willie sets off for golden California and a new life as his pilot. There’s just one little thing she has to do in addition to flying.
Leave his past alone. Period.
When the flame of her own curiosity becomes fanned by encouragement from Willie’s sister, the feisty pilot can’t help but do just a little investigating.
And Hugh vanishes.
Friends rally around her, and with all the information she can find in hand, Willie sets off to rescue Hugh and battle the evil family holding him hostage.
A fierce air race, a sincere act of humility—are they enough to free Hugh and give Willie a chance to be with him… forever?
Find out in this next book in the Ever After Mysteries, combining beloved fairy tales and mysteries. When the Pilot Falls offers a retelling of “East of the Sun, West of the Moon” that will keep you gripped to the edge of your seat as you watch hearts soar and daring dos.
204 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 7, 2021
1 person is currently reading
49 people want to read
About the author
April Hayman
6 books41 followersApril Hayman lives in the high desert of California with her husband and their three sons. During the day, she focuses on homeschooling the boys and working on client projects. She writes at night when the temperature outside is only somewhat cooler than during the day.
April collects fountain pens, has too many pen pals (and always looking for more), journals sporadically, creates art when she can squeeze it in, and hordes stationery.
April collects fountain pens, has too many pen pals (and always looking for more), journals sporadically, creates art when she can squeeze it in, and hordes stationery.
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
September 17, 2021
Travel back to the days of bi-wing planes and stunt shows in this intriguing tale of hidden pasts and thwarted love. Set during prohibition, this story has the glamour of Hollywood stunt flying and a criminal family feud.
The heroine, Willie, is a female stunt pilot with tenacity who will not let obstacles like crashing her plane get in her way. The hero, Hugh, is a man of conviction and stands by his word.
This was an engaging, exciting story and took us into the world of a mobster kingpin and his manipulative daughter. A nice, quick read with a solid faith thread and justice prevailing.
*I received a complimentary copy of this ebook from Celebrate Lit. I was not required to give a favorable review. All opinions are my own.*
The heroine, Willie, is a female stunt pilot with tenacity who will not let obstacles like crashing her plane get in her way. The hero, Hugh, is a man of conviction and stands by his word.
This was an engaging, exciting story and took us into the world of a mobster kingpin and his manipulative daughter. A nice, quick read with a solid faith thread and justice prevailing.
*I received a complimentary copy of this ebook from Celebrate Lit. I was not required to give a favorable review. All opinions are my own.*
October 21, 2021
What vivacious extraordinary characters—a petite lady and a huge, gentle giant. In this retelling of “East of the Sun, West of the Moon” the new-to-me author takes the reader to 1923 Kansas to Ward’s Flying Circus then on a wild journey to California where the true mystery begins.
I love the intrigue and historical element. Fairy tales and happily ever afters are not a well thought out plan. Not at all. Sometimes there is no plan or clue to what needs to happen. I enjoyed flying along as a passenger with Willie and Hugh. I love to fly but never would I attempt stunts and loops. Yet, the characters make me want to think I would. The loops and circles are part of life. God does have a plan and a purpose if I stop long enough to listen and heed his flight plan.
I love the intrigue and historical element. Fairy tales and happily ever afters are not a well thought out plan. Not at all. Sometimes there is no plan or clue to what needs to happen. I enjoyed flying along as a passenger with Willie and Hugh. I love to fly but never would I attempt stunts and loops. Yet, the characters make me want to think I would. The loops and circles are part of life. God does have a plan and a purpose if I stop long enough to listen and heed his flight plan.
October 17, 2021
I really enjoyed reading about a woman pilot with the setting in the early 1920s. Willie is an exception character with fierceness and skills that other pilots wish they had. She wasn’t well received as a pilot because who ever heard of a woman pilot. I cheered when she took to the skies and did stunts that took my breath away. Her life changes when she goes to Hollywood as a stunt pilot. What an exciting time she had as she improved her skills.
Hugh was a large man but I think his demeanor was quite gentlemanly when it came to being around Willie. His size may intimidate others, but not Willie. She finds him intriguing but he will not share anything about his family. Willie was a little upset that he didn’t trust her enough to confide in her.
I wasn’t familiar with the fairytale this story was loosely based on so I had to read it. My curiosity got the best of me and I had to know more details to see how the author interpreted the fairytale. I must say her creativity was amazing and I love the direction she took readers where greed, power and jealousy are found in several characters. I liked how Hugh protected Willie by going away. There is where the story really gets good.
We are introduced to Queenie who happens to be a pilot like Willie. I did not like Queenie at all because she was arrogant, prideful and deceitful. There is much at stake for Queenie and her family as they are involved with dealings that could put them behind bars. Her tricks find Hugh in a situation that could cost him his happiness. The action starts when Willie and Queenie decide to fight for the person they love. The author captivated me by how these two women were going to duel it out. What an edge of your seat moment as the planes come to life as danger draws near. Who will win the race? Can Hugh be saved from making a big mistake? These questions can be found in the pages of this story that draws on the emotions of greed and deception to take what they want. In the end, does greed pay off?
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.
Hugh was a large man but I think his demeanor was quite gentlemanly when it came to being around Willie. His size may intimidate others, but not Willie. She finds him intriguing but he will not share anything about his family. Willie was a little upset that he didn’t trust her enough to confide in her.
I wasn’t familiar with the fairytale this story was loosely based on so I had to read it. My curiosity got the best of me and I had to know more details to see how the author interpreted the fairytale. I must say her creativity was amazing and I love the direction she took readers where greed, power and jealousy are found in several characters. I liked how Hugh protected Willie by going away. There is where the story really gets good.
We are introduced to Queenie who happens to be a pilot like Willie. I did not like Queenie at all because she was arrogant, prideful and deceitful. There is much at stake for Queenie and her family as they are involved with dealings that could put them behind bars. Her tricks find Hugh in a situation that could cost him his happiness. The action starts when Willie and Queenie decide to fight for the person they love. The author captivated me by how these two women were going to duel it out. What an edge of your seat moment as the planes come to life as danger draws near. Who will win the race? Can Hugh be saved from making a big mistake? These questions can be found in the pages of this story that draws on the emotions of greed and deception to take what they want. In the end, does greed pay off?
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.
October 27, 2021
I really enjoyed the 1920s aviation backdrop for this story. It’s an unusual take on some popular issues of the day, and is well written and engaging.
There are a couple of starkly contrasting father/daughter relationships that are powerful reminders of a father’s influence. One taught character, and the other, well, did not.
Willie’s personality, her matter-of-fact way of being different from the norm, the expected, was great. Her skills as a pilot are impressive and terrifying.
Her sense of justice and determination to protect or rescue those who need her, are especially inspiring.
Hugh was in an impossible situation. And he had a lot of people counting on him to do something that no one should have been asked to do.
His biggest desire is to protect his loved ones, even if it means giving up everything he ever wanted for himself. To me, that speaks volumes about his character. He’s a man I would like to have as a friend!
I received an advanced copy of the book from #celebratelit and chose to review it here. All thoughts are my own.
There are a couple of starkly contrasting father/daughter relationships that are powerful reminders of a father’s influence. One taught character, and the other, well, did not.
Willie’s personality, her matter-of-fact way of being different from the norm, the expected, was great. Her skills as a pilot are impressive and terrifying.
Her sense of justice and determination to protect or rescue those who need her, are especially inspiring.
Hugh was in an impossible situation. And he had a lot of people counting on him to do something that no one should have been asked to do.
His biggest desire is to protect his loved ones, even if it means giving up everything he ever wanted for himself. To me, that speaks volumes about his character. He’s a man I would like to have as a friend!
I received an advanced copy of the book from #celebratelit and chose to review it here. All thoughts are my own.
October 29, 2021
A “humdinger” of a tail
(Yes, I spelled that on purpose)
When the Pilot Falls was a sky-riding adventure worth enjoying with a heroine spunky enough to keep any man on his toes. Honestly, as I read the book, I saw it in black and white in my mind. Like the early movies, the talkies, with the bad audio and over-dramatic make-up. My imagination was wild and it can be fully blamed on April Hayman.
Ms. Hayman placed me in the cockpit of the Jenny, the sound stages of old Hollywood, and the outskirts of a midwest town with captivating precision. She placed me smack dab in the middle of the Prohibition era, giving me a glimpse of liquor running and early mob life. It was entertaining and insightful.
I am enjoying these retellings that CelebrateLit Publishing has put together with these authors. I look forward to the rest of the collection.
***I was provided a copy of this book from the publisher so that I may give an honest viewpoint. A positive review was not required but freely given.
(Yes, I spelled that on purpose)
When the Pilot Falls was a sky-riding adventure worth enjoying with a heroine spunky enough to keep any man on his toes. Honestly, as I read the book, I saw it in black and white in my mind. Like the early movies, the talkies, with the bad audio and over-dramatic make-up. My imagination was wild and it can be fully blamed on April Hayman.
Ms. Hayman placed me in the cockpit of the Jenny, the sound stages of old Hollywood, and the outskirts of a midwest town with captivating precision. She placed me smack dab in the middle of the Prohibition era, giving me a glimpse of liquor running and early mob life. It was entertaining and insightful.
I am enjoying these retellings that CelebrateLit Publishing has put together with these authors. I look forward to the rest of the collection.
***I was provided a copy of this book from the publisher so that I may give an honest viewpoint. A positive review was not required but freely given.
October 28, 2021
This is the first book I've read by April Hayman, and it certainly won't be the last. She took this fairy tale and made it her own, bringing Willie and Hugh to life in a rip-roaring adventure that put Willie in the pilot seat. I couldn't read it fast enough yet didn't want it to end. Willie's strength of character and her willingness to put everything on the line, combined with Hugh's gentle giant spirit made this book unputdownable. I loved the solid spiritual thread and the fact that Willie never gave up. The secondary characters were not caricatures or unimportant stand-ins, and they helped the story along instead of being there for the sake of taking up space. I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. I was not required to leave a positive review. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
October 30, 2021
A romantic mystery full of unexpected twists and turns, April Hayman pens the third installment in the Ever After Mysteries, “When the Pilot Falls.” I have to say that this is now my favorite book in the series, due in part to the fact that I am unfamiliar with the original fairy tale from which it is adapted, “East of the Sun, West of the Moon.” As such, I truly went into this one without any idea of the plot or characters, and I love that because it kept me in anticipation throughout. As always, I avoid reading book summaries, so I became privy to the crime itself alongside the figures in the story and was unable to predict the outcome. To me, that is the best kind of mystery!
Hayman confronts some of the most challenging issues of 1920s America while infusing the narrative with humor and intriguing characters. Opening in Kansas in 1923, “When the Pilot Falls” features barnstormer Willie Labeau, an intrepid female pilot who speaks her mind and has no problem wearing trousers. Her philosophy is likewise straightforward: “Everything was simpler in the air. She only had to worry about the plane.” However, as a woman in a predominantly male profession, she is considered easily replaceable, and when she ends up back at home, she laments to her father that “I’m just so tired of it. Of trying to prove myself over and over. And when I do the right thing, it doesn’t do me any good.” He tells her that “If things were that bad, you might have asked for help before it got out of hand. But that’s in the past and something to learn from for the future,” a reply that proves to be prophetic in the next leg of her journey. She becomes a Hollywood stunt pilot, working for Hugh Taylor under the curious condition that she doesn’t pry into his family life. Things seem nearly idyllic until her new life comes crashing down when Hugh vanishes.
There is a plethora of action and background in each chapter of “When the Pilot Falls,” yet it never feels overwhelming or confounding. The story is clean, with references to characters praying but no overt religious content. Estie, an African-American female pilot, is my favorite secondary character. Not only is she groundbreaking in aviation, she is loyal and dauntless, as are her family members. They contribute so much to the second half of the story, and they are witty and enterprising. Conversely, Queenie makes a repulsive villainess, and Hayman uses her character and the era of Prohibition to great effect in establishing the climax of the plot. It all makes for a story that flies along so quickly that it’s nearly impossible to put down!
I received a complimentary copy of this book through Celebrate Lit and was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are my own.
Hayman confronts some of the most challenging issues of 1920s America while infusing the narrative with humor and intriguing characters. Opening in Kansas in 1923, “When the Pilot Falls” features barnstormer Willie Labeau, an intrepid female pilot who speaks her mind and has no problem wearing trousers. Her philosophy is likewise straightforward: “Everything was simpler in the air. She only had to worry about the plane.” However, as a woman in a predominantly male profession, she is considered easily replaceable, and when she ends up back at home, she laments to her father that “I’m just so tired of it. Of trying to prove myself over and over. And when I do the right thing, it doesn’t do me any good.” He tells her that “If things were that bad, you might have asked for help before it got out of hand. But that’s in the past and something to learn from for the future,” a reply that proves to be prophetic in the next leg of her journey. She becomes a Hollywood stunt pilot, working for Hugh Taylor under the curious condition that she doesn’t pry into his family life. Things seem nearly idyllic until her new life comes crashing down when Hugh vanishes.
There is a plethora of action and background in each chapter of “When the Pilot Falls,” yet it never feels overwhelming or confounding. The story is clean, with references to characters praying but no overt religious content. Estie, an African-American female pilot, is my favorite secondary character. Not only is she groundbreaking in aviation, she is loyal and dauntless, as are her family members. They contribute so much to the second half of the story, and they are witty and enterprising. Conversely, Queenie makes a repulsive villainess, and Hayman uses her character and the era of Prohibition to great effect in establishing the climax of the plot. It all makes for a story that flies along so quickly that it’s nearly impossible to put down!
I received a complimentary copy of this book through Celebrate Lit and was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are my own.
October 25, 2021
When the Pilot Falls is written by April Hayman. This is a fairytale retelling, historical story. This is part of the Ever After Mystery series. A series that is written by a variety of authors. They are stand alone books, but tied together by a central theme of fairytale retelling. This is book number 3 of 8. This is the first book that I have read by this author - and it will NOT be my last.
I was not familiar with the fairytale " East of the Sun, West of the Moon" that this is based off of. I had to go read a bit about it before I got started. The author did a good job bringing her story to life. In the fairytale - a white bear rescues a girl from an impoverished situation. This book is set in the 1920's. We see Willie, a female pilot who does stunts and flies like a professional. When the circus that she is working with takes the side of a piolet who was trying to throw a trick, Willie finds herself without a job and having to head home to her run down family shack.
Hugh is a large man. A bear like man as he is described. He comes from a broken past and has been banished to the west coast. He finds and recruits Willie to be the pilot on Hollywood stunts. What he does not count on is how he falls for her but will not let her completely get to know him. Willie enjoys Hugh, and looks past his flaws of his large stature. She enjoys what she is doing. Until she decides to dig into Hugh's past.
Willie wants to know where he came from - even if Hugh wants to keep it hidden. Doing so, causes Hugh to disappear and Willie to go on a quest to try and find him. Once Willie recovers from her stunt plane crash, she sets out east to Kentucky to try and find Hugh. What she didn't count on was what he was hiding from her.
The author did a great job on historical research. Willie reminds me of Amelia Earhart - wanting to push past the stereotypes of women wearing pants and flying airplanes. The author has created a fun, historical mystery. This book does touch on bootleggers and illegal alcohol sales during prohibition.
I received a copy of this book through the Celebrate Lit Blogging Program - all thoughts are my own.
I was not familiar with the fairytale " East of the Sun, West of the Moon" that this is based off of. I had to go read a bit about it before I got started. The author did a good job bringing her story to life. In the fairytale - a white bear rescues a girl from an impoverished situation. This book is set in the 1920's. We see Willie, a female pilot who does stunts and flies like a professional. When the circus that she is working with takes the side of a piolet who was trying to throw a trick, Willie finds herself without a job and having to head home to her run down family shack.
Hugh is a large man. A bear like man as he is described. He comes from a broken past and has been banished to the west coast. He finds and recruits Willie to be the pilot on Hollywood stunts. What he does not count on is how he falls for her but will not let her completely get to know him. Willie enjoys Hugh, and looks past his flaws of his large stature. She enjoys what she is doing. Until she decides to dig into Hugh's past.
Willie wants to know where he came from - even if Hugh wants to keep it hidden. Doing so, causes Hugh to disappear and Willie to go on a quest to try and find him. Once Willie recovers from her stunt plane crash, she sets out east to Kentucky to try and find Hugh. What she didn't count on was what he was hiding from her.
The author did a great job on historical research. Willie reminds me of Amelia Earhart - wanting to push past the stereotypes of women wearing pants and flying airplanes. The author has created a fun, historical mystery. This book does touch on bootleggers and illegal alcohol sales during prohibition.
I received a copy of this book through the Celebrate Lit Blogging Program - all thoughts are my own.
October 18, 2021
I have read a few books in this series and they are always interesting. When the Pilot Falls by April Hayman is Book 3 in the Ever After Mysteries series. It is a Historical Fiction book based on a Fairytale,
Pilots in 1923 were a rarity, but Willie Labeau was not going to let that deter her from becoming a Pilot. She decides to move to California to become the Stunt Plane Pilot for a man named Hugh Taylor. The only conditions of her job are to be his pilot but she also must not know about his past. Willie's sister encourages her to do some snooping to find out about Hugh's past and that is when Hugh disappears. Willie's friends help her trace him down and discovers that he is being held hostage by a Family. Willie is determined to rescue him from the family. Will she succeed in rescuing Hugh? Is there a romantic connection between Willie and Hugh?
WOW, lots of twists and turns make this story very interesting. Willie is one determined Woman, the most determined I have ever seen/read about. Hugh is a mysterious person and his demeanor at times is rough. The Historical time setting of 1923 was a time of History that has always been a favorite time period of mine due to the Prohibition time. I am looking forward to the next book in this series. I highly recommend this for anyone who loves a GOOD Mystery and Historical read! GREAT BOOK!
Pilots in 1923 were a rarity, but Willie Labeau was not going to let that deter her from becoming a Pilot. She decides to move to California to become the Stunt Plane Pilot for a man named Hugh Taylor. The only conditions of her job are to be his pilot but she also must not know about his past. Willie's sister encourages her to do some snooping to find out about Hugh's past and that is when Hugh disappears. Willie's friends help her trace him down and discovers that he is being held hostage by a Family. Willie is determined to rescue him from the family. Will she succeed in rescuing Hugh? Is there a romantic connection between Willie and Hugh?
WOW, lots of twists and turns make this story very interesting. Willie is one determined Woman, the most determined I have ever seen/read about. Hugh is a mysterious person and his demeanor at times is rough. The Historical time setting of 1923 was a time of History that has always been a favorite time period of mine due to the Prohibition time. I am looking forward to the next book in this series. I highly recommend this for anyone who loves a GOOD Mystery and Historical read! GREAT BOOK!
October 20, 2021
There is something nostalgic and just warms all the readers vibes in me when I get to read about the early years of the 1900’s, and aeroplanes are one thing that has always intrigued me. To have a cozy mystery centered around this time period that includes a female pilot on a stunt airplane is even more fascinating. While it wasn’t unheard of, it certainly was not a common every day occurrence, and author April Hayman really illustrates the hurdles female, especially female pilots, had to jump in order to be respected in this line of work.
Short stories are hard to write! Well, not that I have ever done any, but I can only imagine. You need to engage the audience, make it not seemed rushed, and then wrap it all up with a big red bow.
I feel like Hayman really engaged her audience; I laughed so hard at one intense seen and in a moment of weakness, our knight in shining armor calls Willie, “Wilfrede” to which she replies, “Call me Willie”. It was that whole “You smell like sweet red plums and grilled cheese sandwiches” moment that I LOVE about intense moments.
The story was action packed, sweet romance, and a little something for everyone! I think you will enjoy it! These “Ever After” series take a fairy tale and twist them to create a the collection that we get to read and love.
Short stories are hard to write! Well, not that I have ever done any, but I can only imagine. You need to engage the audience, make it not seemed rushed, and then wrap it all up with a big red bow.
I feel like Hayman really engaged her audience; I laughed so hard at one intense seen and in a moment of weakness, our knight in shining armor calls Willie, “Wilfrede” to which she replies, “Call me Willie”. It was that whole “You smell like sweet red plums and grilled cheese sandwiches” moment that I LOVE about intense moments.
The story was action packed, sweet romance, and a little something for everyone! I think you will enjoy it! These “Ever After” series take a fairy tale and twist them to create a the collection that we get to read and love.
November 4, 2021
I have never heard of the fairytale that this book is based on but I bet it’s an amazing one because I loved this book. It read fast and fun as you laughed along with the characters and really wanted to give the stink eye to the bad ones.
I’m not a fan of planes and flying so I didn’t relate too well with the main character about flying but I can see her passion leaping off the pages. Flying was predominantly a male area during this time period so it’s fun to see Willie in the role of a pilot and going against the stereotypes of the period.
I love going back in time and this was an amazing way to do it. The characters playing off of each other was fun and I loved the strategy involved with getting the bad guys their comeuppance.
Don’t believe me that it’s an obscure fairy tale and you’re going to love this retelling? Just go pick up a copy of your own. I’m loving this series!
I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from Celebrate Lit. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.
I’m not a fan of planes and flying so I didn’t relate too well with the main character about flying but I can see her passion leaping off the pages. Flying was predominantly a male area during this time period so it’s fun to see Willie in the role of a pilot and going against the stereotypes of the period.
I love going back in time and this was an amazing way to do it. The characters playing off of each other was fun and I loved the strategy involved with getting the bad guys their comeuppance.
Don’t believe me that it’s an obscure fairy tale and you’re going to love this retelling? Just go pick up a copy of your own. I’m loving this series!
I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from Celebrate Lit. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.
October 15, 2021
What I think you should know:
When The Pilot Falls is a Christian Historical Fiction, Fairytale Retelling by April Hayman It. is the second book in the Ever After Mysteries Series, a series of standalone novels set in the 1920s, all as different fairytale retellings. This story is set in 1923 and features Willie Labeau, a female stunt pilot.
What you might need to know:
I will be honest somehow I have never read “East of the Sun, West of the Moon”, however that did not diminish my enjoyment of this story!
What I think about this book:
Growing up I was fascinated by Amelia Earhart and other female groundbreakers so I was excited to read a story with a female pilot. Hayman created a really fun, strong Heroine whose story I could not wait to read. Hugh was an interesting character, I loved seeing Hugh and Willie’s relationship grow. This story had everything it needed to create a wonderful story; Excitement, Friendship, Danger, Organized Crime and Love. I can’t wait to read more in this series and by the author.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Celebrate Lit, this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.
When The Pilot Falls is a Christian Historical Fiction, Fairytale Retelling by April Hayman It. is the second book in the Ever After Mysteries Series, a series of standalone novels set in the 1920s, all as different fairytale retellings. This story is set in 1923 and features Willie Labeau, a female stunt pilot.
What you might need to know:
I will be honest somehow I have never read “East of the Sun, West of the Moon”, however that did not diminish my enjoyment of this story!
What I think about this book:
Growing up I was fascinated by Amelia Earhart and other female groundbreakers so I was excited to read a story with a female pilot. Hayman created a really fun, strong Heroine whose story I could not wait to read. Hugh was an interesting character, I loved seeing Hugh and Willie’s relationship grow. This story had everything it needed to create a wonderful story; Excitement, Friendship, Danger, Organized Crime and Love. I can’t wait to read more in this series and by the author.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Celebrate Lit, this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.
October 21, 2021
When the Pilot Falls by author April Hayman is a Christian historical fiction that begins with a thrill. It captured my attention and had me fully engaged in the story immediately. It is part of the Ever After Mystery Series.
Set in 1923, this is the story of Willie. She is a female bi-wing stunt plane pilot. Wow! I never expected to encounter that in reading Christian Fiction. It is also the tale of Hugh. He is a great guy and man of his word. There are secondary characters that stand out. I was able to become invested in the lives of Willie and Hugh through the excellent storytelling.
This tale takes Willie into the middle of a Prohibition era feud between two major crime families. There is mystery, intrigue, romance, adventure, action, and history rolled up into one splendid story with some spiritual and life lessons sprinkled throughout.
I would recommend this book. It is a quick, entertaining read. It is another good verses evil fairy tale retelling. I enjoyed the way the author writes and look forward to seeing more from her. This gets a 4 star rating from me. Celebrate Lit provided a copy but these are my own words.
Set in 1923, this is the story of Willie. She is a female bi-wing stunt plane pilot. Wow! I never expected to encounter that in reading Christian Fiction. It is also the tale of Hugh. He is a great guy and man of his word. There are secondary characters that stand out. I was able to become invested in the lives of Willie and Hugh through the excellent storytelling.
This tale takes Willie into the middle of a Prohibition era feud between two major crime families. There is mystery, intrigue, romance, adventure, action, and history rolled up into one splendid story with some spiritual and life lessons sprinkled throughout.
I would recommend this book. It is a quick, entertaining read. It is another good verses evil fairy tale retelling. I enjoyed the way the author writes and look forward to seeing more from her. This gets a 4 star rating from me. Celebrate Lit provided a copy but these are my own words.
October 25, 2021
I loved When the Pilot Falls, it was such a unique retelling and I was gripped from the beginning. I especially loved how halfway through the book it took a turn that I was not expecting, and I loved that!
I enjoyed getting to know the characters/ Willie was great and dynamic. I love that she was a pilot and doing something that was unconventional, but still feminine. I also liked Hugh and felt like he was a great male lead. However, I still don’t fully understand the whole thing that happened to him in the second half. I also loved the side characters, especially Estie, I would live to read a story with her as the main character.
I loved the backdrop of the 1920s and learning about the early days f aviation and just how far we have come since then as far as flying goes.
Overall, I really enjoyed When the Pilot Falls and I look forward to reading more from April Hayman in the future. 4/5 Stars.
*I received a copy of this book from the author and Celebrate Lit in exchange for my honest review.
I enjoyed getting to know the characters/ Willie was great and dynamic. I love that she was a pilot and doing something that was unconventional, but still feminine. I also liked Hugh and felt like he was a great male lead. However, I still don’t fully understand the whole thing that happened to him in the second half. I also loved the side characters, especially Estie, I would live to read a story with her as the main character.
I loved the backdrop of the 1920s and learning about the early days f aviation and just how far we have come since then as far as flying goes.
Overall, I really enjoyed When the Pilot Falls and I look forward to reading more from April Hayman in the future. 4/5 Stars.
*I received a copy of this book from the author and Celebrate Lit in exchange for my honest review.
October 29, 2021
When the Pilot Falls takes a traditional fairytale and turns it into a book set in the 1920s. As part of the Ever After Mysteries series, this book captured my imagination and my sense of adventure. Willie Labeau flies planes despite being a woman. Hugh Taylor needs a stunt pilot in Hollywood. When Willie unexpectedly finds herself without a job, Hugh along with Willie’s family convinces her to go to Hollywood.
Once they arrive in Hollywood, they seem to live an idyllic life until it isn’t. Hugh refuses to talk about his family, but Willie knows he needs to talk. Eventually, Hugh disappears, and Willie sets out, determined to find and rescue him. Twists and turns take the reader through the end of the story.
The ending of this book, along with the epilogue, provides the perfect conclusion to this story. So if you enjoy mysteries with adventure thrown in, along with fairytales, check out this book for yourself. I promise it will be worth your time.
I received a complimentary copy of this book, but this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.
Once they arrive in Hollywood, they seem to live an idyllic life until it isn’t. Hugh refuses to talk about his family, but Willie knows he needs to talk. Eventually, Hugh disappears, and Willie sets out, determined to find and rescue him. Twists and turns take the reader through the end of the story.
The ending of this book, along with the epilogue, provides the perfect conclusion to this story. So if you enjoy mysteries with adventure thrown in, along with fairytales, check out this book for yourself. I promise it will be worth your time.
I received a complimentary copy of this book, but this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.
September 12, 2021
When the Pilot Falls is April Hayman’s contribution to the Ever After Mysteries series. I have read and enjoyed the previous books in this series. I found this one was a great addition to it. I adored Willie right from the start. She showed such courage, determination and bravery that would inspire so many. It is a quick read but full of action and adventure with twists and turns that I did not see coming. Great read!
I am giving When the Pilot Falls four and a half stars. I recommend it for readers who enjoy reading clean historical suspense. I look forward to the next installment from the Ever After Mysteries series, Murder at the Empire by Cathe Swanson.
I received a digital copy of When the Pilot Falls from the publisher, but was not required to write a positive review. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.
I am giving When the Pilot Falls four and a half stars. I recommend it for readers who enjoy reading clean historical suspense. I look forward to the next installment from the Ever After Mysteries series, Murder at the Empire by Cathe Swanson.
I received a digital copy of When the Pilot Falls from the publisher, but was not required to write a positive review. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.
September 25, 2021
Fantastic addition to the Ever After Mysteries series. New-to-me author pens a heroine full of spunk and daring. A female pilot who is not afraid to face the unknown, in search of love. Her journey lands her straight in the middle of the criminal underworld of feuding families during the Prohibition.
With Willie's exploits in stunt flying and a high stakes air race, Ms. Hayman keeps her readers engaged from the first page to the last with an expertly paced plot and eclectic cast of characters. I also liked the fact that it is a retelling of a fairytale I had not previously encountered and had to read a quick synopsis before I began the book.
Looking forward to reading more in this series. I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author/publisher. I was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.
With Willie's exploits in stunt flying and a high stakes air race, Ms. Hayman keeps her readers engaged from the first page to the last with an expertly paced plot and eclectic cast of characters. I also liked the fact that it is a retelling of a fairytale I had not previously encountered and had to read a quick synopsis before I began the book.
Looking forward to reading more in this series. I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author/publisher. I was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.
October 16, 2021
I am not familiar with the fairy tale this novel is based upon but did find it an enjoyable novel to read. I really like the idea of a female stunt pilot in an era when such an accomplishment was unheard of. Willie is a capable woman in addition to being a great pilot. Her nemesis is Queenie, almost a caricature of a spoiled rich woman. And then there is Hugh, a big man yet held captive by the scheming family of Queenie. He seemed to be the caricature of a giant bound and rendered helpless. These are characters fairy tales are made of.
I found Hayman's writing style a bit choppy. The narrative did not seem to flow smoothly. Nonetheless, this is a good tale of a capable heroine battling a wicked woman with a loving but helpless giant nearby.
I received a complimentary digital copy of this book through Celebrate Lit. My comments are an independent and honest review.
I found Hayman's writing style a bit choppy. The narrative did not seem to flow smoothly. Nonetheless, this is a good tale of a capable heroine battling a wicked woman with a loving but helpless giant nearby.
I received a complimentary digital copy of this book through Celebrate Lit. My comments are an independent and honest review.
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October 22, 2021When the Pilot Falls is the third book the Ever After Mysteries series. This is a series that takes classic fairy tales and gives them a classic murder mystery twist. They are each a retelling of a different fairy tale, written by a different author and as such, each can be read as a standalone.
This book is the retelling of East of the Sun, West of the Moon. I must admit this isn't a story that I was familiar with, so I cannot say how close it played to the original fairy tale or speak to any nods made to it... Still, even without any prior knowledge on the original story it was based on, I found this to be an enjoyable mystery read anyway. If you enjoy historical fiction and mysteries, this is definitely one worth checking out.
**I received a complimentary copy of this book for consideration. All thoughts are my own.
This book is the retelling of East of the Sun, West of the Moon. I must admit this isn't a story that I was familiar with, so I cannot say how close it played to the original fairy tale or speak to any nods made to it... Still, even without any prior knowledge on the original story it was based on, I found this to be an enjoyable mystery read anyway. If you enjoy historical fiction and mysteries, this is definitely one worth checking out.
**I received a complimentary copy of this book for consideration. All thoughts are my own.
October 26, 2021
Surprise! A female stunt pilot, Willie Labeau, pulls off astounding airplane tricks, and she’s pretty good at investigating too. As if danger in the air doing flying shows in 1923 wasn’t enough, she gets involved in other risky flying adventures and then falls for Hugh Taylor, a man with a hidden past. This historical slice of time reveals airobatics and a wild life in that setting. The characters come across as authentic and intriguing, and the story contains plenty of tension and suspense. Danger threatens, not only from flying episodes but from humans too. You can’t help but admire brash and heroic Willie as her daring takes her to scary situations and sees her through. The original plot tugs readers to fly along, if they can hold on and survive the thrills and spills. I think this could be fun for a book club discussion. I received a copy from Celebrate Lit. All opinions are my own.
October 24, 2021
I liked this story. I always enjoy reading stories where characters are put into careers that aren't 'normal' for that time period. I loved Willie. She was so determined and tenacious. Most at that time period didn't think that was how a woman 'should' be but I loved it.
I was intrigued greatly when Hugh disappeared. I liked him and while he was a big man, he treated Willie as a gentleman should. The planes and flying scenes were wonderfully written and described. I'm not a plane person at all and it made me want to learn to fly and feel the rush and just be in the clouds.
4/5
Thank you to the author/publisher for the review copy of this book via Celebrate Lit. I received this book in exchange for an honest review and the opinions stated above are 100% mine.
I was intrigued greatly when Hugh disappeared. I liked him and while he was a big man, he treated Willie as a gentleman should. The planes and flying scenes were wonderfully written and described. I'm not a plane person at all and it made me want to learn to fly and feel the rush and just be in the clouds.
4/5
Thank you to the author/publisher for the review copy of this book via Celebrate Lit. I received this book in exchange for an honest review and the opinions stated above are 100% mine.
November 2, 2021
This is the third book in the Every Mysteries series but you don't have to read them in any particular order. They are written by different authors and focus on different fairy tales. I have to say I have absolutely no clue about this fairy tale. I have never read it before or even heard of it. It was a different type of story and the characters were pretty good.
I can't really put my finger on it but there is something that felt like it was missing. However if you enjoy Christian retellings of fairy tales then you may just enjoy this one.
I received a copy of this book through Celebrate Lit. I was not required to post a positive review. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
I can't really put my finger on it but there is something that felt like it was missing. However if you enjoy Christian retellings of fairy tales then you may just enjoy this one.
I received a copy of this book through Celebrate Lit. I was not required to post a positive review. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
October 18, 2021
I have enjoyed this series and the fun mysteries that includes that showcase different fairy tales. While I wasn't as familiar with this fairytale, I kind of liked it that way, since then I didn't speculate as much about what was going to happen. I enjoyed the characters and how the author brings the time period to life. I enjoyed getting to know Willie and Hugh as Willie seeks to help him out. The background of flying and a female pilot at a time when that was almost unheard of was a delight too. This is a wonderful mystery to pick up and enjoy!
I recieved this book from Celebrate Lit. This is my honest review.
I recieved this book from Celebrate Lit. This is my honest review.
October 6, 2021
This book was so interesting! It takes place during Prohibition, and Willie is a woman ahead of her time! She loves to fly, though most people can't understand a woman piloting a plane! She meets Hugh, and off to California she goes, to fly a stunt plane! There's a mystery surrounding Hugh, one he won't tell her about. When Hugh vanishes, will Willie be able to find him, though Hugh doesn't want her involved? If she finds him, will they able to have a happy life????
I received a complimentary copy of this book, was not required to leave a review, and the opinion expressed is my own.
I received a complimentary copy of this book, was not required to leave a review, and the opinion expressed is my own.
October 27, 2021
This is the third book in the series and it was an ok a read but it didn't really kept my interest as much as the other two. I think it might be that I am not familiar with the tale of " East of the Sun, West of the Moon". Since I'm not I will think of this book as a love story. Toward the end of the story I had to keep turning the pages because I had to know what happened and and who won the race and the man!
I received a complimentary from the author and Celebrate Lit and these opinions are my own.
I received a complimentary from the author and Celebrate Lit and these opinions are my own.
October 7, 2021
An interesting story about a female pilot in a male dominated Era. The story moved rather quickly, I wish there had been more back story on the characters and more of an explanation on how they feel about each other. It was a quick enjoyable read.
January 3, 2022
Loved it!
When the Pilot Falls takes place at a time of Prohibition and when women weren't respected very much, especially a woman that was doing "a man's job." This story has a little mystery, romance, and adventure and I really enjoyed it!
When the Pilot Falls takes place at a time of Prohibition and when women weren't respected very much, especially a woman that was doing "a man's job." This story has a little mystery, romance, and adventure and I really enjoyed it!
April 19, 2023
Loved this story!!
What a great tale! I loved that it was set in the ‘20s….not sure which fairy tale this was, but loved the strong heroine & hero. Plus I LOVE epilogues!! On to the next one!!!
What a great tale! I loved that it was set in the ‘20s….not sure which fairy tale this was, but loved the strong heroine & hero. Plus I LOVE epilogues!! On to the next one!!!
November 9, 2025
When the Pilot Falls is full of fast flying action and stunts. I liked the touch of romance and mystery it has. It was a fast fun read. I did read “East of the Sun, West of the Moon” to see how it related to this book. I could see the similarities in the two stories. I look forward to reading other Ever After Mysteries.
I received a digital copy of When the Pilot Falls from the publisher, but was not required to write a positive review. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.
I received a digital copy of When the Pilot Falls from the publisher, but was not required to write a positive review. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.
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