The Airline Girl

Lizzie Page

397 pages February 2026 Manuscript in English Original publisher: BookoutureHistorical Fiction

Audrey dreams of a life of adventure, even as she plans for a future as a homemaker. But when an unexpected opportunity promises a world of new experiences, will Audrey grab it with both hands – or stick to the path she’s always been on…? 

England, 1947: In the rubble-filled streets of post-war London, nineteen-year-old Audrey is devastated to lose her job when the men return from war. But her mum needs her more than ever since she was injured in the bombings, and her beloved fiancé Martin wants her to focus on building their life together, so her future seems set.

Yet Audrey can’t help but wonder if there’s more to life than keeping a home and raising a family. And when she hears about a chance to train as one of England’s first airline stewardesses, her heart leaps. The problem is, Martin doesn’t want his wife working, and the airline itself insists that no married women need apply… 

But there’s still a year until the wedding and Audrey’s mum insists she must seize the opportunity of a lifetime. And while hiding her engagement from her new bosses and the women training alongside her feels shameful, it’s nothing compared to the joy and pride she feels in the skies. 

So when Martin insists they bring the wedding forward, her heart cracks at the idea of giving up her new life to be firmly grounded in London. She has a choice to make. Abandon her dreams and accept the future she always thought would be hers – or make a decision that will change her life forever…?

Reviews

An inspiring, hopeful yet heart-breaking historical novel that will have you reaching for the tissues while encouraging you to go after your heart’s desires. Perfect for fans of Diney Costeloe, Shirley Dickson and Sandy Taylor.