Prolific author Sara Ackerman presents an inspiring, well-researched novel that delves into the stories of two women--living in different eras, 60 years apart--who lives are unexpectedly entwined in The Uncharted Flight of Olivia West.
Through a beautifully braided narrative, two clearly delineated points of view, Ackerman anchors her story on the “The Big Island” of Hawai’i in both 1927 and 1987.
The 1927-part of the story centers on
Olivia “Livy” West, a young, ambitious female pilot trying to measure up and
compete in a male-dominated world. Determined to participate in the Dole Air Race--a
real-life, 2400-mile flight competition that launched in Oakland, Calif., crossed
the Pacific Ocean, and ended in Honolulu, Hawai’i--she wheedles her way to
become a navigator in a race that will test her strength and fortitude.
The 1987-part of the story centers on down-and-out
Wren Summers who suddenly learns that she’s inherited (from a great-uncle) a
piece of land on the Big Island of Hawai’i. The place, however, is a depilated
shambles; a mess. Badly in need of money, Wren goes to sell the land, but soon discovers
an object in the barn that piques her interest—so much so, that she sets her
off on a quest to learn more. Along the way, she dredges up the past and
follows a winding road that leads to chilling, unexpected revelations.
As in her other exciting novels (The
Codebreakers Secret, Radar
Girls), Ackerman displays
great finesse in her understanding of Hawai’i, women, and fast-paced historical
fiction. Filled with spirited romance and suspense, this uplifting, inspiring story adds to Ackerman’s
accomplished body work. The
Uncharted Life of Olivia West will hold great appeal to readers who
admire stories of courageous women determined to live authentic, empowered lives.
The
Uncharted Flight of Olivia West by Sara
Ackerman
Mira
Books (HarperCollins), $18.99 paperback, 9780369747785, 384 pages
Publishing Date: February 6, 2024
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