The Only Living Lady Parachutist
(Paperback)
Publishing Details
The Only Living Lady Parachutist
By (Author) Catherine Clarke
Idle Fancy Press
Idle Fancy Press
28th June 2021
New Zealand
Classifications
General
Fiction
Short-listed for NZSA Lilian Ida Smith Award 2015
Physical Properties
Paperback
280
Width 152mm, Height 229mm, Spine 21mm
430g
Description
Haunted by her brother's death, daredevil Lillian tests her courage by joining the Van Tassel balloon act with her sister Ruby. Together they risk their lives for fame and fortune by parachuting from smoke balloons throughout Australia, but the feisty Lillian struggles to choose between love and her perilous career. 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. Many years later, as Lillian relates her fanciful version of those events, she must find a deeper courage to reveal the truth about her past. Based on the real life of a strong and unconventional woman trying to make her name, Lillian's story is too incredible to be left untold.
Reviews
Spinning lies is the best way to keep her listeners spellbound. So, will she tell all... A real page-turner! (Lyn Potter, NZ Booklovers)
A life full of drama - step right up, pay your shilling, and enjoy the spectacle. (Bronwyn Elsmore, FlaxFlower)
The book is a great piece of historical fiction, meticulously researched. (Alyson Baker, Alysontheblog)
A most satisfying story of...ups and downs and a grand time is guaranteed for all. (Terry Toner, The Book Show, Radio Southland)
Author Bio
Catherine Clarke's ancestral heritage replete with stories of adventure, scandal, and lunacy inspired her degree in English and History. Selected for a New Zealand Society of Authors' Mentorship and manuscript assessment, The Only Living Lady Parachutist was shortlisted for the Lilian Ida Smith Award. Catherine lives in Wellington and works as a medical laboratory scientist. For the extensive research behind the real people and events in The Only Living Lady Parachutist visit catherineclarkeauthor.com
