Come Fly with Me: A Journey Above the Clouds
As a devoted fan of Camille di Maio, I’ve always found her storytelling to be a masterclass in creating captivating, historical narratives. When I first laid eyes on Come Fly with Me, I was instantly drawn to the idea of a tale set in the glamorous world of Pan American Airlines during the 1960s. After all, who wouldn’t want to be whisked away to an era defined by elegance, adventure, and the allure of air travel?
In this beautifully crafted novel, di Maio introduces us to Judy Goodman and Beverly Caldwell—two dynamic women who meet while pursuing their dreams of becoming stewardesses for Pan Am. Their journeys are rich with both hope and heartache: Judy is escaping an abusive marriage in small-town Pennsylvania, while Beverly is determined to break free from the constraints of New York society. The way their lives intertwine is both poignant and empowering, creating a narrative tapestry woven with shared struggles and profound friendship.
What struck me most about this book was its exploration of resilience. Judy and Beverly’s stories are infused with themes of sacrifice, courage, and the pursuit of autonomy in a time when societal expectations often held women back. Di Maio’s meticulous research shines through, as she breathes life into the Golden Age of Air Travel. Through her lyrical prose, you can almost hear the echoes of Frank Sinatra’s "Come Fly with Me" playing softly in the background, perfectly aligning with the vibrant setting of the early 1960s.
The dual perspectives of Judy and Beverly allow readers to connect deeply with both characters, each depicting a unique journey filled with its own hurdles. The narrative masterfully shifts between their viewpoints and even offers glimpses into the idyllic yet challenging life on the islands of Mo’orea, French Polynesia. This storytelling technique enhances the depth of their friendship and underscores the sacrifices each woman makes.
One absolutely memorable moment in the book comes when Judy reflects on her newfound freedom while navigating the skies—“Above the clouds, the chaos of my past felt a world away.” This quote resonated with me profoundly, illustrating how the characters use their time aboard the planes as an escape from their realities, transforming their lives one flight at a time.
Having enjoyed both the eBook and the audiobook—narrated by the talented Carly Robins, Dominique Salvacion, and Sherri Slater—I found the audio experience to elevate the storytelling even further. The narrators brought Judy and Beverly to life, making their emotions and victories palpable and engaging.
I wholeheartedly recommend Come Fly with Me to fans of historical fiction, strong female leads, and any readers looking to be transported to a time of glamour and courage. It’s a tale that will leave you feeling enriched and empowered, and with each page, you might just find a piece of your own story reflected in Judy and Beverly’s journey. For me, this book isn’t just a read; it’s an experience that reminds us of the bravery it takes to forge our own paths.
Thank you to Lake Union Publishing and Brilliance Audio for providing me with an advanced review and listening copy. Mark your calendars for February 18, 2025, because you won’t want to miss this enchanting tale!
Rating: ★★★★★
For more insights, check out my blog at JudithDCollins.com and join the conversation on social media @JudithDCollins!
