The Only Living Lady Parachutist

Discover the thrilling tale of 'The Only Living Lady Parachutist' by Catherine Clarke, a riveting historical fiction that captures the essence of courage and ambition in the competitive world of 1890s ballooning. This captivating paperback tells the story of Lillian, a daring female parachutist who takes to the skies in search of fame and fortune across Australia and New Zealand. With dimensions of 152 x 229 mm and 280 pages of enthralling narrative, this book dives deep into the life of Lillian, who, after the tragic loss of her brother, tests her limits on the trapeze and faces the perils of skydiving from hot air balloons. As she battles both personal demons and societal expectations, Lillian's journey is fraught with thrilling yet daunting challenges. Will she choose love or the soaring heights of her exhilarating career? Engage with this blend of adventure and emotion, where the tension between dreams and reality unfolds. Perfect for fans of historical narratives filled with strong female protagonists and adventurous themes. Add 'The Only Living Lady Parachutist' to your collection today and immerse yourself in a world where courage meets the thrill of parachuting and the struggles of motherhood in a bygone era.

Author: Catherine Clarke Publisher: Idle Fancy Press
Bind: paperback
Dimensions: 152 x 229 mm
Pages: 280
Publication Date: 28-06-2021

The balloon — now fully inflated — was restive and impatient, straining at the circle of men and boys holding it. Lillian’s scanty costume attracted even more admiring glances. All eyes stared at her in a blur of dread and desire as she positioned herself on the trapeze. ‘Ready … I mean right,’ she said with a catch in her voice. The professor gave the command and the men holding the balloon released their grip and stepped back. Testing her courage after her brother’s death, daredevil Lillian and her sister Ruby risk their lives for fame and fortune by parachuting from hot air smoke balloons throughout Australia and New Zealand. Feisty Lillian struggles to choose between love and her perilous career but in the competitive 1890s era of ballooning, is she brave enough to confront the truth about her past? Determined to take control of the balloon circuit and provide for her children, Lillian travels to New Zealand only to clash with charlatans, showmen, and disgruntled crowds when her exhibitions fall short of their expectations. A cascade of betrayals and reconciliations culminate in one last-ditch ascent from which there is no turning back.