Love at First Flight

by Linda Shenton Matchett

Can two people emerge from the clouds of past hurt to find a silver lining of love?
Evelyn Reid would rather fly than do anything else, so when war engulfs the U.S., she joins the Women's Auxiliary Ferrying Squadron. One of the program's top pilots, she is tapped for pursuit plane training...the dream of a lifetime until she discovers the instructor is her ex-fiancé, Jasper MacPherson.
Collecting enough points to rotate stateside, fighter pilot Jasper MacPherson is assigned to teach the WAFS how to fly the army way. Bad enough to be training women, but things take a turn for the worse when his former fiancée shows up as one of his students.
Love at First Flight is a Christian historic romance.

Genres: World War II

194 pages, Paperback

Published September 15, 2020

About the author

Linda Shenton Matchett writes about ordinary people who did extraordinary things in days gone by. A self-professed history geek, she is a volunteer archivist and docent at the Wright Museum of World War II. Linda has published more than twenty-five books. When not writing, she enjoys exploring historical sites and immersing herself in the imaginary worlds created by other authors.

Reviews

[Jeanie]

I thoroughly enjoyed this delightful WWII novel! This talented author writes compelling Christian romances with WWII settings and mysteries. Expressions of faith are shared as a natural part of the characters’ lives. Situations may be different, but the expressed faith and prayers can be appreciated by Christian women of any age today. The history is well-researched; I have read at least one other novel about women pilots. It is sad to see reactions of many men to the women who chose these positions for the love of flying and desire to contribute to the cause.

Evelyn knew from childhood that she wanted to be a pilot. There were few opportunities for women to do so, leading many to settle for crop dusting or being instructors. Evelyn had been invited to join what became WASP, Women Airforce Service Pilots. She would have the opportunity to train on various military aircraft and ferry them to the men will take them where needed by the US military. It was like a dream come true for women unable to work as airline pilots.

Evelyn had to crash land a plane she was training on due to mechanical failure. Someone helped her get out and away from the aircraft before it caught fire. The base in Brownsville, Texas was a long way from her Wisconsin home; that Jasper was working where she was training had to have been by the Lord’s design despite her not seeing it that way. Evelyn thought Jasper was a mechanic; it wasn’t until her first instrumentation class that she learned he was an instructor. He was also a Captain and a decorated pilot who had been on many overseas missions.

Evelyn’s concern regarding the crash is that it was not pilot error and described what happened before mechanical failure. It wasn’t the first time it had happened at this base or at other bases. Some women died when their planes were sabotaged, but not yet at hers. Some of the mechanics resented that women were flying and wanted to end the program.

The days in Jasper’s class were challenging, especially when he volunteered to be the instructor to certify her on the various planes. He found reasons for them to be together, whether it was as her instructor, discussing the reality of the sabotage, and even to go to a party with him at the officer’s club. Evelyn was not interested in him as anything other than a friend once they got through apologizing for their part in his breakup with her ten years earlier. The military did not allow women students to date the instructors and that was fine with her. At least until she and Jasper realized they still had feelings for each other. Evelyn’s goals were clear, however, and a decade ago, Jasper didn’t think women should be pilots.

Trying to find the saboteur and fulfill their individual roles brought its share of challenges. Evelyn had a hard time letting go of the past and took offense at things Jasper said. It will soon be time for Evelyn to be transferred to another base where she will fly regularly. Whether they can accomplish their purposes before she flies away is higher up in the air than her favorite P-51. I found the end to be fully satisfying with no loose ends remaining. I highly recommend this to women of all ages who enjoy inspirational mysteries and WWII novels with satisfying friendships and romance.

From a thankful heart: I received a copy of this novel from the author and Celebrate Lit, and this is my honest review.

[Jeanette Fallon]

Sunday, March 28, 2021
Love at First Flight
One night and I finished it! I couldn't put it down. Will Evelyn fulfill her dream? Will Jasper get his wish?



I enjoyed reading about WWII and the part the women played in fighting this war. They not only were fighting the enemies but had to prove their worth. Not all the women stayed at home on the home front. Evelyn was an example of the women who joined the Women's Auxiliary Ferrying Squadron. I never heard of this group of women. It sure sounded dangerous. I can imagine that the men in their lives frowned upon them doing this.



Evelyn dreamed of flying planes. She would do anything to see this come true. But was it worth what she gave up? Jasper couldn't forget the last time he saw Evelyn. They are brought together after not seeing each other so many years ago. Was this GOD's plan? Was this their chance of rekindling what they lost?

I thoroughly enjoyed the book. Evelyn was determined and not looking for romance. It was a joy to read a character who was intelligent and beautiful. Jasper was intelligent, kind and handsome. They could be a perfect couple.

I received this for free to review from Celebrate Lit.



About the Book
Book: Love at First Flight

Author: Linda Shenton Matchett

Genre: Christian Historical Romance

Release date: September 15, 2020

LAFF coverCan two people emerge from the clouds of past hurt to find a silver lining of love?

Evelyn Reid would rather fly than do anything else, so when war engulfs the U.S., she joins the Women’s Auxiliary Ferrying Squadron. One of the program’s top pilots, she is tapped for pursuit plane training…the dream of a lifetime until she discovers the instructor is her ex-fiancé, Jasper MacPherson.

Collecting enough points to rotate stateside, fighter pilot Jasper MacPherson is assigned to teach the WAFS how to fly the army way. Bad enough to be training women, but things take a turn for the worse when his former fiancée shows up as one of his students.



Click here to get your copy!


About the Author
Linda Matchett Head ShotLinda Shenton Matchett writes about ordinary people who did extraordinary things in days gone by. She is a native of Baltimore, Maryland and was born a stone’s throw from Fort McHenry. Linda has lived in historic places all her life, and is now located in central New Hampshire where her favorite activities include serving as a volunteer docent and archivist for the Wright Museum of WWII, exploring historic sites, and immersing herself in the imaginary worlds created by other authors.



More from Linda
Dear Readers:



It’s all I can do to parallel park my car…well, actually I can’t. I’m terrible at that sort of thing, which is why I’m so impressed with the Women’s Air Service Pilot who served during World War II. Created in August 1943 by merging the Women’s Flying Training Detachment and the Women’s Auxiliary Ferrying Squadron, the WASP was a civilian organization that came under the authority of the Air Force and freed male pilots for combat or other duties. Their leader was the intrepid Jacqueline Cochran, an award winning pilot who set and broke numerous records during her career.



Qualifications for the program were stringent, and of the more than 25,000 women who applied, only 1,800 were accepted. Of that number, 1,074 completed the program. These women flew over sixty million miles and transported every type of military aircraft from the ninety-nine foot long B-29 Bomber that weighted over 100,000 pounds to the P-51 Mustang that could fly at over 400 miles per hour.



The WASP also towed targets for live anti-aircraft gun practice, simulated strafing missions and transported cargo. Thirty-eight WASP members lost their lives and one disappeared while on a ferry mission, her fate still unknown. Disbanded in December 1944, the WASP did not receive military status or benefits for their service. However, after nearly three decades its members were granted veteran status, and in 2009 they were awarded the Congressional Gold Medal.



It is my hope that Love at First Flight honors these brave women in some small way.



Blessings,

Linda Shenton Matchett



Blog Stops
Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, March 24

Texas Book-aholic, March 25

Genesis 5020, March 25

Inklings and notions, March 26

Betti Mace, March 27

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, March 27

Musings of a Sassy Bookish Mama, March 28

A Modern Day Fairy Tale, March 29

Jeanette’s Thoughts, March 29

Hebrews 12 Endurance, March 30

For Him and My Family, March 31

Connect in Fiction, March 31

She Lives To Read, April 1

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, April 2

deb’s Book Review, April 2

Connie’s History Classroom, April 3

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, April 4

Blossoms and Blessings, April 4

Locks, Hooks and Books, April 5

CarpeDiem, April 6

A Novel Pursuit, April 6

.
Giveaway


To celebrate her tour, Linda is giving away the grand prize package of an autographed paperback edition of Love at First Flight, eco-friendly reusable shopping bag with image of Women’s Air Service Pilots, stuffed WASP bear, Norman Rockwell notecards, VJ Day book mark, and I {heart} Spam socks!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://promosimple.com/ps/109d2/love...

[Shreedevi Gurumurty]

Can two people emerge from the clouds of past hurt to find a silver lining of love? Evelyn Reid would rather fly than do anything else,so when war engulfs the US, she joins the Women's Auxiliary Ferrying Squadron. One of the program's top pilots,she is tapped for pursuit plane training,the dream of a lifetime until she discovers the instructor is her ex fiancé,Jasper MacPherson.Collecting enough points to rotate stateside, fighter pilot Jasper MacPherson is assigned to teach the WAFS how to fly the army way. Bad enough to be training women, but things take a turn for the worst when his former fiancée shows up as one of his students.The Women's Air Force Service Pilots(WASP), was preceded by the Women's Flying Training Detachment(WFTD) and the Women's Auxiliary Ferrying Squadron (WAFS). Both were organised separately in late 1942. They were pioneering organisations of civilian women pilots, who were attached to the US Army Air Forces to fly military aircraft during WWII. On August 5th, 1943, the WFTD and WAFS merged to create the WASP organisation. The WASP arrangement with the US Army Air Forces ended on December 20th, 1944. During its period of operation, each member's service had freed a male pilot for military combat or other duties.They transported every type of military aircraft; transported cargo etc.Nancy Harkness Love and Jackie Cochran were instrumental in creating a pilot's program for women. Requirements for recruits were they had to be in ages 21-35, finished high school, have a commercial flying license and have 500 hours of flight time and experience in flying across the country. The first group of WAFS were known as the Originals.Betty Gillies was the first woman to show up for training. Many women came from wealthy backgrounds or had husbands with money and influence who helped pay for their expensive pilot training.The rest worked for their lessons.Even though they had a pilot's license, they were retrained to fly the Army way at Avenger Field in Sweetwater, TX.There were many who objected to women flying thinking they couldn't handle it. Some mechanics purposely messed with the plane parts.

[Deana Dick]

What a wonderful story about a subject I don’t think I’ve read much about. I remember women working in factories during the war, but Little has been written about the WASP. I loved learning about the planes and found it fascinating that women were pilots. It was hard for women to be accepted as pilots and this story is a great example of how one woman is determined to succeed. Evelyn worked long flying and became an excellent pilot. I appreciate learning more about these women who sacrificed everything to help their country. Although they weren’t readily accepted, they paved the way for women who wanted to serve their country.

I thought Evelyn was a strong and determined woman. Her desire to fly was evident as she sailed in the sky to do her part for the war. Her past catches up with when her training instructor happens to be an old boyfriend. To say that Evelyn and Jasper parted in bad terms is an understatement. There are a few bumps as they navigate working together again.

I thought the mystery of who was sabotaging the planes that women were flying was very intriguing. It is not hard to imagine that some men didn’t like the idea of female pilots. They believed women should be at home and not in the sky. Evelyn has a few close calls as she starts to have mechanical problems. Can you imagine flying a big plane and suddenly realize you could crash?

I loved how the author weaved faith throughout the story. Both Jasper and a Evelyn find themselves relying on God to guide them as they decide to start their relationship again. It was fun to read how they started to slowly trust each other again, Evelyn finds herself asking God to help her forgive Jasper . I loved the story and hope there will be more about this group of women.

I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.

[Erin]

This is one of my favorite authors for WWII novels so I knew I was going to love this book. And of course, it did not disappoint. I love the history of the novels and all the preparation and research that goes into them. You always walk away from these books by this author wanting to learn more and know more about the events in history that are talked about.

WWII is a time period that I enjoy. My husband reenacts the era and I have been to several with him. Plus the fashion of the 30s and 40s is my favorite so it has made me do more research on the time period as well.

Something I don’t have in common with the heroine in the novel is flying. I have never had a desire to fly an airplane. In fact, I’m not even that comfortable riding on airplanes. I’ve been on them twice now in all my years and can’t say it’s my favorite thing.

I enjoyed watching Evelyn and Jasper have quite the relationship and that’s fun to watch as it grows and develops and heals throughout the book. So you’ve got romance which is fun, but you’ve also got suspense and mystery as someone is against women pilots and is sabotaging the planes.

This was a fun novel that read quickly. I enjoyed every minute of it and can’t wait to get another by this author to read through the night. Hopefully, you get the chance to read it as well. If so, come back and let me know what you thought!

I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received through 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.

[Kendra Neal]

Christian Historical Romance is always a great genre to read. I really
have come to adore books by Linda Shenton Matchett and Love at
First Flight is the latest book by Linda Shenton Matchett that I have
read.

The setting and time period is WWII. Evelyn Reid has always
dreamed of being a Pilot and flying. Her took the opportunity
during War time to enlist in the Women’s Auxiliary Ferrying Squadron
(WAFS). Her turn to train for the elite Pursuit Plane Training and she
is excited. Her excitement turns to shock when she learns that her
ex-fiance, Jasper MacPherson, is tapped to be her Instructor. Jasper
is just as shocked when he sees Evelyn's name on his student list.
The 2 of them are determined to make it through the training, especially
Evelyn, who is a strong and determined woman. During the training,
Evelyn has a near accident. due to mechanical issues with the plane.
Could someone be not happy that WAFS are training and trying to
destroy their planes? Will Evelyn accomplish her goal of Flying?
Will Evelyn and Jasper be able to reconcile or do they not want
to have a romance again?

I really enjoyed this short, but exciting book by Linda Shenton
Matchett. The relationship between Evelyn and Jasper was rocky
to begin, but seeing Second Chances happen, melted me. I really
appreciated how the author told of the 2 leaning on God to guide
them in the possibility of a reconciliation. I was so interested
in the time period, the WAFS and the whole story line that I
finished the book in a couple of hours. GREAT BOOK!

[Connie Hill]

Love at First Flight By: Linda Shenton Matchett is a Christian Historical Romance. This book is set in 1944 during World War II. I have read several books by this author and I have always enjoyed them. The author has done careful research to ensure the story was as historically accurate as possible. One of my favorite things is that she lists the 38 WASP who lost their lives while on duty. This is a shorter read.

In this book, we see Evelyn Reid. She has big dreams of flying with the WASP. She knows she wants to serve her country. However, her instructor is her ex-fiance Jasper MacPherson. Evelyn is strong and determined to do her best. She knows that this is a real opportunity and despite her ex fiance being her instructor she wants to prove herself -and for all women that they can do what men have already been doing.

There is a bit of a mystery - some of the plans are found to have been sabotaged. Evelyn has a few close incidents where my heart was in my throat while I was reading. When Evelyn had to crash land - I gasped. However, she knows it was not her fault and she knew that someone had tampered with the plane. The author has also done a wonderful job weaving in the faith element. Both Evelyn and Jasper rely on God to keep them safe while they are flying and when they are navigating working together again.

I enjoyed this story. Great characters, well written and researched story line and a great tribute to women who came before us.

I received a copy of this book through the Celebrate Lit Blogging program - all thoughts are my own.

[Randi Sampson]

If you enjoy WWII fiction and are looking for a shorter read, Love At First Flight might be just the book you're looking for!

In this book, we are introduced to Evelyn Reid who has joined the Women’s Auxiliary Ferrying Squadron and is well on her way to accomplishing her dream of flying. And the instructor given the responsibility of teaching her and the other WAFS women to fly? Her ex-fiance! What follows is a quick read with just the right blend of history, romance and a little bit of mystery too!

Historical fiction set around WWII happen to be among my favorites, but I find that most I have personally read tend to focus more overseas, so I thought it was interesting to see this perspective from stateside as well. I had never heard of the WAFS prior to this, so it was really interesting to learn more about this actual program. While I knew that women stepped up and played vital roles in the war at home, I don't suppose I really knew quite the extent of that. In addition to enjoying WWII stories, I also really enjoy a second chance romance so this really was a great combination for me.

It's a very quick read, perfect for those who might not have quite as much time to devote to reading as they'd like. If you enjoy historical romance, this is one to check out!

**I received a complimentary copy of this book for consideration. All thoughts are my own.

[Patti Whitson Stephenson She Lives to Read]

I always love reading a Christian historical fiction book and learning something new. That was the case with this book. I’m not sure that I had ever heard of the “Women’s Auxiliary Ferrying Squadron” that served in World War II, and this made for very interesting reading. These women were well-trained military pilots that risked their lives to further the war effort. The author makes a dedication at the beginning of the book to the 38 women that lost their lives in this service to their country.

There’s a sweet romance that runs throughout the book, and I liked Evelyn and Jasper as a couple. But it truly was the history in this book that held my attention as I read about these strong, determined women who worked under tremendous pressure. Their role was sometimes misunderstood and often not appreciated, but they were an example to all who knew them of patriotic service.

My only wish about this book is that it was a full-length novel. The author did a great job in making this shorter book seem complete, but I would have a loved a longer novel that included a deeper look into the lives of some of the other ladies who appeared in the story. This isn’t a negative comment, but one meant to show how much I enjoyed this author’s writing style.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.

[Kelly-Ann ~ Sassy Bookish Mama]

What a great story based on a subject that I don't think it is often read about in fiction books. The WASP or Women Airforce Service Pilots, were brave women who served during WWII to free male pilots for combat roles. This was a good read about this part of history even though women weren't truly accepted in this role. The character of Evelyn was written perfectly. She is a determined woman who wants to succeed in everything she does especially as a pilot. Unfortunately for her the instructor she is assigned is a past boyfriend and you can tell right away that things did not end so well for them.

This is a new to me author. She did a great job and interweaving faith throughout the whole story. There is also an element of mystery and of course romance. It was a sweet short story about fully relying on God and no one else. I recommend you pick this short read if you enjoy WWII type stories. I have added Ms. Matchett to my very long list of to-be-read authors!

I received this book from the publisher. I was not required to post a positive review. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.

[Ava]

One of my top genres of books to read is historical fiction. I love learning about the life and times of people of places and events that I would not otherwise experience. Love at First Flight takes place during WWII. It is a very quick and easy read. I think it only took me one night, or maybe two, to read it. Even though it was shorter than I expected, it wasn't too short.

I admired the courage of Evelyn for not only entering a field that had been previously dominated by men but also to do so during wartime. Jasper was an interesting character, seemingly against women flying planes but learning to not only accept but to encourage and fight for them - especially the girl he loves!

When I become immersed and interested in the setting of a book, I will sometimes look it up on Google Maps (or the equivalent) to see where it is and how far away it is from me. I loved the description of the beach that they went to. It surprised me that it was at the southernmost tip of Texas. I don't know that I'll ever get to see it, but I sure would like to!

Overall, I enjoyed this book. I enjoyed stepping into the lives of women pilots during WWII.

[Patti Pierce]

I love reading works of historical fiction, and Love at First Flight proved to be worth reading. Being a woman who loves to fly, Evelyn comes to life on the pages of this book. When she comes across her ex-fiance as one of her instructors, life quickly becomes more complicated. Jasper MacPherson initially resents having to teach women, but he finds himself dealing with the situation. This book is a fast and enjoyable read.

Linda Shenton Matchett combines excellent storylines, realistic characters, and an enjoyable mix of historical facts to create powerful stories that pull me into the books. This book follows my expectations of a book by this author. I love the speed this story progresses and how this story concludes. So if you like Christian historical romances, check out this book for yourself.

I received a complimentary copy of this book, but this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.

[SK]

This book was a very short (156 pages), easy, & non-offensive WW2 read. The main story is the interpersonal relationship between top woman pilot, Evelyn Reid, and fighter pilot & newly established instructor of women pilots at Sweetwater, Texas, Jasper MacPherson. The story opens with Evelyn experiencing a gripping flying incident, which could have ended in death. As she exits her plane, she runs into Jasper, who along with his many credentials is her ex-fiancé.
We are told a wee bit of history concerning women pilots with the WAFS. We live the struggles of being a woman, a pilot, and the highs-and-lows of various cultural expectations; all through the eyes of Evelyn. We see how the establishment adapted or didn’t adapt to the women pilots through Jasper’s lived experiences.
Toss in a little bit of mystery and mischief and you have this WW2 vignette.

[Marguerite Gray]

In the historical WWII genre, it’s not often for a novel to come along set in the US. I forgot what a major role the work in the continental US did to propel the end of the war. This novel takes place in Brownsville, Texas. I’ve been there, and Matchett’s description is accurate—hot and dusty with a unique beauty.
Besides offering a view of states side wartime, the active role of women in the war shines through the WASP program. Headway is made even though not fully realized. Love is difficult in normal situations. But wartime? Romance blossoms and can quickly be extinguished. In wartime or pandemic or economic depression romance and love have roles, but will the sacrifice be worth it? As I read this novel, I put myself into a war and wonder what role I would play? Would I love or leave?

[Amy]

Love at First Flight is another good World War II era book by Linda Shenton Matchett. At under one hundred sixty pages long, it was quite easy to have it read in just a few short hours. I thought it was definitely worth a read. I enjoyed getting to know Evelyn and Jasper. It was interesting getting a glimpse what it was like to train for the Women’s Auxiliary Ferrying Squadron. It is not something I have learned much about and was fascinated to find more about it.

Love at First Flight will be getting four stars from me. I recommend this one for readers who enjoy quick, clean and inspiring historical romance. I look forward to more books like this by Linda Shenton Matchett in the future.

I received a copy of Love at First Flight from the publisher. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.

[Betti]

Is it sabotage or just an accident?

It’s 1944. Evelyn has wanted to fly since she was a child and finally her dream is coming true. She is a WASP - Women Air Service Pilot. She is ferrying planes from place to place, learning to fly many different types of planes...in other words, her career is shaping up to be exactly the one she hoped for. When small glitches start to happen, the kind any good mechanic should and would catch, the idea of sabotage or even treason comes into question.

Jasper is a flight instructor that Evelyn has known since college. Will their previous relationship affect her ability to be promoted? Vandalism, assault and more open the way for an investigation that should provide the answers - or is there more to what is going on here?

This ARC was received through Shortwave Press and CelebrateLit. The impressions and comments are my own and were in no way solicited.

[Ashley Dawn]

This was a neat book. Evelyn has wanted to fly her whole life and it's not the time period where that is 'normal' for women. She has to work hard and then fat intervenes.

Jasper is a good guy. He is determined to help Evelyn and for them to spend plenty of time together. I loved their interactions. There is quite a bit going on, it isn't just a simple romance and I liked that. The author obviously loves the time period and is very knowledgeable about it. Overall it was a really good book.

4/5.



Thank you to the author/publisher for the review copy of the book via Celebrate Lit. I received this book in exchange for an honest review and the opinions stated above are 100% mine.

[PAMpublish]

Informational story about the training of WAFS during WWII to assist in transport of planes to needed destinations. Evelyn, who was a crop duster by profession, learns an old boyfriend with different goals for her was her instructor. Now ten years later, both matured, they are still attracted to one another with the goal of attempting to find a saboteur of the airplanes. Enjoyable romance, great cover and title of a lesser known time and skills for women. However, would have been more complete to learn of the fate of the mechanic shot during the ultimate confrontation and the after results of it all. Also, did not detect much of a Christian-based theme despite indicated in the genre. Otherwise a clean quick read and romance that will maintain your attention throughout.

[Melissa]

I enjoyed this look into the WASP and what they had to fight against as women. Much has changed since then.

As always, this was a quick and good read by Linda. She had me fooled when it came to who was sabotaging the planes.

Evelyn is a strong woman but she doesn’t loose her femininity while standing up for what she believes in.

The romance between Evelyn and Jasper is sweet but also has a lot of tension since they have a past together, but will they have a future?

You’ll have to read to see how that all plays out.

A copy of this book was given to me through Celebrate Lit. All opinions are my own

[Debbie]

"Love at First Flight " by Linda Shenton Matchett is a love story and a story about second chances. It is a short read and not really a mystery but there is a mystery of who is sabotaging the planes and why? This story also reminds readers that we are to follow Christ and not trying to do our own thing.
If you want a fun read and a clean romance and a little bit about the WAFS, then this book is for you!

I was given a complimentary copy by the author and Celebrate Lit and these opinions are my own.

[Becky Dempsey]

I enjoyed reading this book. I found the book to be well written with a nice flow. I liked the biblical faith element that ran through the book. It was fun learning more about the WASP program. There isn't a lot of romance since they knew each other already and basically just realizing they never stopped loving each other. I look forward to reading more books by Linda Shenton Matchett.

I got a free copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own and given voluntarily. No compensation was received for my review.

[Jennifer J.]

A great grabber from the start; extraordinarily well-researched and fascinating storyline. Filled with adventure, suspense and romance. Written with well-developed characters and memorable details. This author really knows her genre and promises her readers a great read every time! I highly recommend this one be added to your TBR!

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this book. A favorable review was not required, no compensation was received, and all views expressed are my own.

[Sharon Dean]

Oh my! I was never a history buff but after reading Evelyn’s story, I’m very excited to read more. It’s a topic I never thought about before, how hard it was for women to be in the military years ago and the struggles they went through. Evelyn showed us some of that. And Jasper shared a males perspective as well. As did many other characters throughout. An intriguing history lesson mixed with a story of second chances and finding the love your meant to have. Highly recommend this read.
I was given a copy from the publisher but was not required to leave a review. These thoughts are my own.

[Barbara M. Britton]

Matchett does it again with delightful characters doing their patriotic duty in war and finding romance along the way. Evelyn Reid is a bold pilot helping the U.S. forces fight in WWII. Unfortunately not all soldiers were on board with women pilots in the WASP program. Can Evelyn survive having an old flame as a flight squadron commander? Dealing with Jasper will make flying in war times a piece of marble cake. Don't miss this WWII second chance romance.

[Jay Schlaitzer]

Flying is for soaring

This story explored the joy of flying that some people seem to have from birth and how that can be confusing for the other parts of your life. It also addressed many issues that women with that love use to have to address. I enjoyed this book very much.

[Renee]

What a good book! I really enjoyed reading about some of the roles of women in WW2. It was interesting along with some romance and mystery thrown into the mix.

[Aminata Coote]

3.5 stars

This was a sweet second-chance romance.  Evelyn is a member of the Women's Auxiliary Ferrying Quadron, a job she loves. When her ex-boyfriend turns out to be one of her instructors, Evelyn is not happy.

Jasper is not the same immature young man Evelyn loved in college, so why do they keep having the same fights?

Love at First Flight explored the topic of whether people could change or not. Both Jasper and Evelyn  had matured since their relationship broke up but they kept falling into the same cycles, at least at the beginning.

I enjoyed learning the history the female civilians who worked with the military ferrying planes but for me, this story just didn't have enough tension. Apart from the arguments and a bit of tension between some of the military and the women, there wasn't a lot of drama and I kept expecting more...now this is completely my fault but after reading Spies and Sweethearts I was expecting more if the same heart-stopping tension.

Love at First Flight was a sweet story that reminded the reader that above all things they should be following Christ and not trying to do their own thing. I received an advanced reader's copy from the publishers through Celebrate Lit; a positive review was not required.