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The Pilot's Daughter
The glitzy days of 1920s New York meet the devastation of those left behind in World War II in a new, delectable historical novel from USA Today bestselling author Meredith Jaeger.
In the final months of World War II, San Francisco newspaper secretary Ellie Morgan should be planning her wedding and subsequent exit from the newsroom into domestic life. Instead, Ellie, who harbors dreams of having her own column, is using all the skills she's learned as a would-be reporter to try to uncover any scrap of evidence that her missing pilot father is still alive. But when she discovers a stack of love letters from a woman who is not her mother in his possessions, her already fragile world goes into a tailspin, and she vows to find out the truth about the father she loves—and the woman who loved him back.
When Ellie arrives on her aunt Iris's doorstep, clutching a stack of letters and uttering a name Iris hasn't heard in decades, Iris is terrified. She's hidden her past as a Ziegfeld Follies showgirl from her family, and her experiences in New York City in the 1920s could reveal much more than the origin of her brother-in-law's alleged affair. Iris's heady days in the spotlight weren't enough to outshine the darker underbelly of Jazz Age New York, and she's spent the past twenty years believing that her actions in those days led to murder.
Together the two women embark on a cross-country mission to find the truth in the City That Never Sleeps, a journey that just might shatter everything they thought they knew—not only about the past but about their own futures.
Inspired by a true Jazz Age murder cold case that captivated the nation, and the fact that more than 72,000 Americans still remain unaccounted for from World War II, The Pilot's Daughter is a page-turning exploration of the stories we tell ourselves and of how well we can truly know those we love.
In the final months of World War II, San Francisco newspaper secretary Ellie Morgan should be planning her wedding and subsequent exit from the newsroom into domestic life. Instead, Ellie, who harbors dreams of having her own column, is using all the skills she's learned as a would-be reporter to try to uncover any scrap of evidence that her missing pilot father is still alive. But when she discovers a stack of love letters from a woman who is not her mother in his possessions, her already fragile world goes into a tailspin, and she vows to find out the truth about the father she loves—and the woman who loved him back.
When Ellie arrives on her aunt Iris's doorstep, clutching a stack of letters and uttering a name Iris hasn't heard in decades, Iris is terrified. She's hidden her past as a Ziegfeld Follies showgirl from her family, and her experiences in New York City in the 1920s could reveal much more than the origin of her brother-in-law's alleged affair. Iris's heady days in the spotlight weren't enough to outshine the darker underbelly of Jazz Age New York, and she's spent the past twenty years believing that her actions in those days led to murder.
Together the two women embark on a cross-country mission to find the truth in the City That Never Sleeps, a journey that just might shatter everything they thought they knew—not only about the past but about their own futures.
Inspired by a true Jazz Age murder cold case that captivated the nation, and the fact that more than 72,000 Americans still remain unaccounted for from World War II, The Pilot's Daughter is a page-turning exploration of the stories we tell ourselves and of how well we can truly know those we love.
Audible Audio
First published November 2, 2021
About the author
Meredith Jaeger
4 books324 followersMeredith Jaeger is the USA Today bestselling author of four dual-timeline historical novels: THE INCORRIGIBLES, THE PILOT'S DAUGHTER, BOARDWALK SUMMER and THE DRESSMAKER'S DOWRY. She's a native of the San Francisco Bay Area, where she was raised by a Swiss father and an American mother.
THE INCORRIGIBLES is a Historical Novel Society's editor's choice in Historical Novel's Review magazine. Editor Kathryn Bashaar writes, "I found the book hard to put down and read all 354 pages in just two days. Highly recommended."
Publishers Weekly called it, "moving and well-researched" while NYT bestselling author Katy Hayes says, "Jaeger is a master storyteller" and NYT bestselling author Lori Nelson Spielman says, "One of those rare books that both captivates and elucidates. I savored every page."
Meredith lives in the San Francisco Bay Area with her husband, two young children and neurotic Chihuahua-mix rescue. Follow her on Instagram @meredithjaegerauthor
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 199 reviews
March 1, 2021
I can't wait to share this novel with you. I've put a lot of research and heart into it, and also I've drawn from my personal experience with grief. It is based on both a real-life 1920s murder cold case, and the fact that today, more than 72,000 Americans remain unaccounted for from WWII. I feel it's my best novel yet, and I hope you enjoy reading it as much as I enjoyed writing it!
June 30, 2021
I've long been a fan of Meredith Jaeger, and her latest, THE PILOT'S DAUGHTER, is her best work yet.
Ambitious Ellie is looking for clues that her missing father, a WWII pilot, is still alive. But amid her search, she discovers he may have harbored a dark secret. Ellie's search begins to intermingle with the scandalous history of her aunt Iris, whose former experience as a showgirl brings us straight into the heart of the 1920s Jazz Age--rife with its own unsolved mystery.
In this layered tale of mystery and discovery, Jaeger masterfully develops the characters of two brave women who ultimately find closure by way of determination, self-empowerment, and forgiveness.
Ambitious Ellie is looking for clues that her missing father, a WWII pilot, is still alive. But amid her search, she discovers he may have harbored a dark secret. Ellie's search begins to intermingle with the scandalous history of her aunt Iris, whose former experience as a showgirl brings us straight into the heart of the 1920s Jazz Age--rife with its own unsolved mystery.
In this layered tale of mystery and discovery, Jaeger masterfully develops the characters of two brave women who ultimately find closure by way of determination, self-empowerment, and forgiveness.
November 2, 2021
With the war's end in sight, Ellie still hadn't heard if her father was alive.
When his uniform arrives, Ellie's faith that he is still living lessens, but when she finds love letters from another woman in the coat’s pocket, she has to find out what was going on. This woman's name is Lillian.
Ellie didn't have a good relationship with her mother so she went to her Aunt Iris's home to ask for advice. Iris actually knew Lillian but didn't tell her how she had known her. She thought Aunt Iris was a secretary in an attorney's office but found out differently.
Ellie and her Aunt Iris went to New York City to find Lillian, but Ellie found out more than she anticipated. Her aunt was brought back to her days as a Ziegfeld Girl and to memories she didn't want to have to remember.
We get to experience New York City and life in the 1920's and 1940's, learn about the Ziegfeld Follies, be reminded how women were expected to stay home instead of going to work, but best of all be treated to another splendid book by Ms. Jaeger.
Most of Ms. Jaeger's characters are wonderful ones you will miss when the book ends. The story line is intriguing with an abundance of family drama.
THE PILOT’S DAUGHTER is Ms. Jaeger’s beautifully written crowning jewel.
Absolutely LOVED this book.
Do not miss reading THE PILOT'S DAUGHTER if you enjoy historical fiction, strong women, and are a fan of life in the 1920’s and 1940’s.
You will NOT be disappointed. 5/5
This book was given to me by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
When his uniform arrives, Ellie's faith that he is still living lessens, but when she finds love letters from another woman in the coat’s pocket, she has to find out what was going on. This woman's name is Lillian.
Ellie didn't have a good relationship with her mother so she went to her Aunt Iris's home to ask for advice. Iris actually knew Lillian but didn't tell her how she had known her. She thought Aunt Iris was a secretary in an attorney's office but found out differently.
Ellie and her Aunt Iris went to New York City to find Lillian, but Ellie found out more than she anticipated. Her aunt was brought back to her days as a Ziegfeld Girl and to memories she didn't want to have to remember.
We get to experience New York City and life in the 1920's and 1940's, learn about the Ziegfeld Follies, be reminded how women were expected to stay home instead of going to work, but best of all be treated to another splendid book by Ms. Jaeger.
Most of Ms. Jaeger's characters are wonderful ones you will miss when the book ends. The story line is intriguing with an abundance of family drama.
THE PILOT’S DAUGHTER is Ms. Jaeger’s beautifully written crowning jewel.
Absolutely LOVED this book.
Do not miss reading THE PILOT'S DAUGHTER if you enjoy historical fiction, strong women, and are a fan of life in the 1920’s and 1940’s.
You will NOT be disappointed. 5/5
This book was given to me by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
November 2, 2021
It’s 1945 and Ellie Morgan, who is working as a secretary at the San Francisco Chronicle, has dreams of becoming a journalist. She is facing the strong possibility that her beloved father, whose plane was shot down over the Adriatic Sea, may not be returning from the war. In a blink of an eye, her life is turned upside down. When her father’s personal effects are shipped home, she finds love letters from a woman living in New York City who is not her mother. Accompanied by her Aunt Iris, Ellie heads east to learn more about Lillian, the mystery woman who has been writing her father throughout the war. Initially hoping Lillian might hold some information that could help Ellie uncover her father’s fate, there is a lot more awaiting her. Aunt Iris confesses that she had been a Ziegfeld Follies showgirl and has been hiding secrets of her own as this engaging story shifts to the early 1920s and Jazz Age New York where a murder of a well-known “goodtime girl” has taken place.
Author Meredith Jaeger is a great storyteller. She has created a tale of two strong women that will keep you glued to learn what happens next. Both timelines are equally engaging. Historical fiction that takes place in New York City is always appealing and pre-Depression Manhattan, with its glitz and glamour, is a favorite period. Books like The Pilot’s Daughter reinforce why I love historical novels. And its intriguing mystery makes this book a true standout.
Many thanks to Dutton / Penguin Publishing Group, NetGalley and the author for the opportunity to read this highly entertaining book prior to its November 2, 2021 publication date.
Rated 4.5 stars.
Review posted on MicheleReader.com.
Author Meredith Jaeger is a great storyteller. She has created a tale of two strong women that will keep you glued to learn what happens next. Both timelines are equally engaging. Historical fiction that takes place in New York City is always appealing and pre-Depression Manhattan, with its glitz and glamour, is a favorite period. Books like The Pilot’s Daughter reinforce why I love historical novels. And its intriguing mystery makes this book a true standout.
Many thanks to Dutton / Penguin Publishing Group, NetGalley and the author for the opportunity to read this highly entertaining book prior to its November 2, 2021 publication date.
Rated 4.5 stars.
Review posted on MicheleReader.com.
September 15, 2021
Having recently finished “The Pilot’s Daughter” by Meredith Jaeger, I am happy to have had the chance for the preview; thank you NetGalley and PENGUIN GROUP Dutton!
This is by far the best historical fiction book that I have read in months! The isolation, and methods Ms. Jaeger used to “escape” while writing during the pandemic has led to an amazing story! I can’t remember when I have ever read the last line in a book and immediately began searching for the PBS documentary recommended in the Author’s Note... Nova: The Last B-24. I found it on Amazon Prime Video and it was fascinating! I love learning new things from stories!! I even “Googled” to discover more about “the Broadway Butterfly” mystery too!
The dual timelines were both set in the past with just one generation separating Ellie and her Aunt Iris’ stories. Each was equally entertaining, emotional, mysterious and full of so many historical details. I am glad to have come across this as a preview selection and will keep one of my very favorite memories of the story close to me. Mayflower Donuts at the beginning of the story… and Mayflower Donuts at the very end!!
"Don't ever dim your shine for anyone."
This is by far the best historical fiction book that I have read in months! The isolation, and methods Ms. Jaeger used to “escape” while writing during the pandemic has led to an amazing story! I can’t remember when I have ever read the last line in a book and immediately began searching for the PBS documentary recommended in the Author’s Note... Nova: The Last B-24. I found it on Amazon Prime Video and it was fascinating! I love learning new things from stories!! I even “Googled” to discover more about “the Broadway Butterfly” mystery too!
The dual timelines were both set in the past with just one generation separating Ellie and her Aunt Iris’ stories. Each was equally entertaining, emotional, mysterious and full of so many historical details. I am glad to have come across this as a preview selection and will keep one of my very favorite memories of the story close to me. Mayflower Donuts at the beginning of the story… and Mayflower Donuts at the very end!!
"Don't ever dim your shine for anyone."
December 29, 2021
Within the first few chapters I could see this being a movie.
June 1, 2021
Meredith Jaeger proves, yet again, that she is a brilliant storyteller. Layered with drama and danger, The Pilot’s Daughter is historical fiction at its finest. Jaeger masterfully alternates between 1945 San Francisco, where a talented and determined young woman struggles to find her place in a man’s world, and New York City’s glamorous Ziegfeld Theater, circa 1923, where a riveting, decades-old mystery is finally unraveled. The Pilot’s Daughter is a timeless, multigenerational masterpiece that will leave you breathless, hopeful, and deeply satisfied. A triumph of hope and love, forgiveness and empowerment, Jaeger weaves a beautifully rendered tale of romance and redemption that will linger long after the last page is turned. If you’re looking for the perfect blend of history and mystery, look no farther than Meredith Jaeger’s The Pilot’s Daughter. You won’t be disappointed!
April 12, 2022
Browsing book covers on my Kindle I was captivated by the cover with a woman holding a letter in her hand facing Times Square noting that one of the signs advertised "Ziegfeld Follies." As the daughter of a WWII Army veteran and a U.S. Cadet Nurse who loves jazz I was further intrigued by the highlight, "A Novel of WWII and the Jazz Age."
Meredith Jaeger's writing touched my heart beyond any anticipation I had or could have imagined prior to reading the opening pages of the novel. A quote from "The Philadelphia Inquirer, January 19, 1941" is shared prior to the "Prelude" that occurs in "New York City, March 15, 1923." As the reader turns the page, Ellie Morgan is introduced living in "San Francisco, January 1945 recalling the Western Union telegram that had been sent to Ellie's mother 6 weeks earlier from the Secretary of War. How can this mother and daughter possibly move forward?
I encourage all readers to read the "Author's Note" that shares the author's inspiration for this compelling and powerful novel. As heartbreaking as some chapters were to read I could never have stopped reading this story. Rich with details of the 1920's in Manhattan and 1945 in San Francisco, relationships of family and friends, murder and mystery, the darkness behind the glitter of the Ziegfeld Follies, and the unspoken reality that lingers when a loved one does not return from war is suspenseful, riveting, and poignant. For all who appreciate well-written and especially well researched historical fiction it is not to be missed.
Meredith Jaeger's writing touched my heart beyond any anticipation I had or could have imagined prior to reading the opening pages of the novel. A quote from "The Philadelphia Inquirer, January 19, 1941" is shared prior to the "Prelude" that occurs in "New York City, March 15, 1923." As the reader turns the page, Ellie Morgan is introduced living in "San Francisco, January 1945 recalling the Western Union telegram that had been sent to Ellie's mother 6 weeks earlier from the Secretary of War. How can this mother and daughter possibly move forward?
I encourage all readers to read the "Author's Note" that shares the author's inspiration for this compelling and powerful novel. As heartbreaking as some chapters were to read I could never have stopped reading this story. Rich with details of the 1920's in Manhattan and 1945 in San Francisco, relationships of family and friends, murder and mystery, the darkness behind the glitter of the Ziegfeld Follies, and the unspoken reality that lingers when a loved one does not return from war is suspenseful, riveting, and poignant. For all who appreciate well-written and especially well researched historical fiction it is not to be missed.
June 22, 2021
Meredith Jaeger's two previous novels sparked my love affair with historical fiction. THE PILOT'S DAUGHTER once again showcases her remarkable talent in creating stunning worlds that are so enticing you'll never want to leave. Blending fact and fiction and alternating timelines between the glittering backdrop of the Ziegfeld Follies and the devastating reality of those left behind in World War II, THE PILOT'S DAUGHTER takes us on an enthralling journey of two women determined to live by their own rules despite the strict societal expectations placed on them. Expertly written with compelling characters and an intriguing mystery begging for answers, this luminous, captivating story inspires, entertains, and completely satisfies.
August 28, 2022
The Pilot Who Didn't Return from WWII
In San Francisco, young reporter Ellie feels devastated to receive an old uniform of her missing pilot father, signifying he really is dead. But when she finds a letter from her father's New York lover in the pocket of the uniform, she has to pursue this lead. Perhaps her father's mistress will know what has happened to him.
Though Ellie's mother is a cruel critic, only growing colder after her husband went missing, Ellie's aunt Iris has been a loving force in her life. Ellie doesn't understand why Iris hesitates when Ellie asks her aunt to join her trip across the country.
Turns out that Iris has her own sordid New York City history. She was a famous burlesque dancer who was wooed then owned by a wealthy sociopath. Lucky to get out of NYC alive, Iris fears returning to Broadway. However, she agrees to help her niece.
The story alternates between Ellie's search for answers about her father in the 1940s with Iris's celebrity whirlwind in the 1920s. Iris clawing to escape the clutches of a bad man engrossed me more than Ellie's journey, though I enjoyed the common themes of forgiveness and career development in a time of limited rights for women in both stories. I can't imagine living in an era when men often viewed women as their property.
I also enjoyed the part about half-sisters building their relationship over time.
In San Francisco, young reporter Ellie feels devastated to receive an old uniform of her missing pilot father, signifying he really is dead. But when she finds a letter from her father's New York lover in the pocket of the uniform, she has to pursue this lead. Perhaps her father's mistress will know what has happened to him.
Though Ellie's mother is a cruel critic, only growing colder after her husband went missing, Ellie's aunt Iris has been a loving force in her life. Ellie doesn't understand why Iris hesitates when Ellie asks her aunt to join her trip across the country.
Turns out that Iris has her own sordid New York City history. She was a famous burlesque dancer who was wooed then owned by a wealthy sociopath. Lucky to get out of NYC alive, Iris fears returning to Broadway. However, she agrees to help her niece.
The story alternates between Ellie's search for answers about her father in the 1940s with Iris's celebrity whirlwind in the 1920s. Iris clawing to escape the clutches of a bad man engrossed me more than Ellie's journey, though I enjoyed the common themes of forgiveness and career development in a time of limited rights for women in both stories. I can't imagine living in an era when men often viewed women as their property.
I also enjoyed the part about half-sisters building their relationship over time.
November 12, 2021
Duel timeline of the 1920’s in NYC and 1945 San Francisco. Interesting fact that this story is based off a real life murder and missing servicemen from WWII.
There is so much going on within the story! You have a cold case murder mystery, family secrets, father missing in action, major scandals going on and a love story that make you wonder about the outcome.
Main character, Ellie, is working as a secretary for a newspaper editor in San Francisco. She’s not very happy with her job but feels it is the best she can do for now. When her father, who is a pilot is reported missing in action, Ellie is filled with grief and wants answers.
Definitely a story filled with fascinating history….
Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher and author for the opportunity to give my honest opinion about this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
There is so much going on within the story! You have a cold case murder mystery, family secrets, father missing in action, major scandals going on and a love story that make you wonder about the outcome.
Main character, Ellie, is working as a secretary for a newspaper editor in San Francisco. She’s not very happy with her job but feels it is the best she can do for now. When her father, who is a pilot is reported missing in action, Ellie is filled with grief and wants answers.
Definitely a story filled with fascinating history….
Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher and author for the opportunity to give my honest opinion about this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
January 17, 2022
Another book with a dual timeline where one was far superior to the other. Ellie is a young secretary at the local newspaper and engaged to be married in 1945 when she and her mother get a telegram that her father's plane has been shot down in WWII. Now this was my first issue with this book. Ellie's father had to be in his mid 40's at least and he's a pilot in WWII? I'm not saying that it is impossible but highly unlikely seeing as how the average age of American pilots was 21. Ellie is convinced that her father is just missing and not dead and that it is her job to find him. She gets a clue of where to start looking when she receives her father's personal items, including letters from his mistress, Lillian. It turns out that her father had a second family in NYC and that Ellie has a half-sister, Lucy. Ellie enlists her Aunt Iris to travel with her to NYC to track down Lillian and Lucy. Iris reluctantly agrees but is fearful of facing her past in NYC. Flashback to 1922 in NYC and we see that Iris is the lead dancer in the Ziegfeld Follies, although her family thinks that she is working as a secretary. She is the one who introduced Lillian to Ellie's father, not knowing that they started and maintained a long love affair. Iris' life turns upside down when she starts dating a rich but mysterious man, John. He lavishes her with gifts of furs and diamonds. At first Iris laps up the attention but she then begins to get fearful of his possessiveness. She finds out that he is lying to her about his life - he is not a married man from Boston but a married man from Philadelphia who is married to the daughter of the richest man in America. He has to keep the affair quiet or risk his marriage and money. So he buys Iris an apartment where they can stay rather than risk being seen in hotels and he demands that she quit her job dancing. Iris goes to the theater but does not quit. Instead, she gives away her jewelry to an up and comer named Dot King and buys a one way ticket back home. But John has had her followed and she is taken back to the apartment, her ticket confiscated, and she is held captive for months. It doesn't take long before Iris suspects that John is having an affair with DOT King, which is confirmed by items in the gossip column. She hopes that this is her ticket out. But when Iris becomes pregnant, John beats her until she miscarries and then plans to have her killed. Iris escapes with the help of the maid and moves back home, only to be shocked when, months later, Dot is found dead in the apartment wearing Iris' old jewelry and Iris knows that John must be guilty. Back to 1945, Ellie & Iris find Lillian and Lucy and they are all awful to each other until emotions calm down. Ellie suspects that Lillian isn't telling them the whole story so she does some sleuthing and eventually suspects that Lillian had something to do with Dot's death. Lillian spills the truth that she was working for the mob as a spotter and targeted Dot as an easy mark. The robbery went bad and Dot ended up dead. For me, once we figured out the end of that mystery, the book should have ended. The next 100 pages or so were unnecessary fluff about Ellie fighting to become a columnist at the paper and ending her engagement with her controlling fiancé. We also get more on Iris' return home and how she and little Ellie bonded and how she met her husband at work. It was almost as if the author couldn't find a way to end the book. Weird. Iris' timeline was far more interesting and successful. Ellie's chapters were draining from all her hand wringing, drama and immature emotional reactions to everything.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 11, 2021
Meredith Jaeger has done it again! In THE PILOT’S DAUGHTER, she’s turned her talent for compelling characters and immersive settings to 1945 San Francisco, and the story of Ellie, an aspiring journalist, looking to find her place professionally while searching for answers to the recent disappearance of her father, a pilot in the war. But when Ellie discovers a collection of love letters to her father from a woman in New York City who isn’t her mother, Ellie knows she has to travel east to uncover the truth. Joining her on the cross-country trip is Ellie’s beloved aunt, Iris—who carries the weight of her own secrets as a Ziegfeld Follies showgirl in her youth. When the two women arrive in New York, a cold-case murder involving a fellow showgirl resurfaces, and the questions that have carried them so far from home may finally bring them closer to the answers they seek. Shifting effortlessly between two time periods, Jaeger weaves a poignant and suspenseful tale, building a layered mystery while she draws us deep into the deliciously glitzy and often dangerous world of Jazz Age New York. But it is the tender and endearing bond between Ellie and Iris that is the beating heart of this propulsive novel—their connection so heartfelt and authentic that makes it easy to root for both women as they journey to find answers—and forgiveness. I won’t soon forget Ellie or Iris, and though I raced through the pages to the satisfying end, I did so conflicted—I so didn’t want to give up their company!
December 10, 2021
Excellent! My first audio book. I have recommended it to my wife.
July 13, 2021
I read a lot of WWII set novels. As one of my go-to genres, I was very excited to read The Pilot's Daughter. This book is one of courage and discovery -- following a dual-narrative of both Ellie and her aunt, Iris.
It's 1945 and Ellie's life is flipped upside down as she not only recieves news of her father's death, but also discovers love letters he's written to another woman across the country. As she wrestles with grief, Ellie and her aunt head across the country to uncover the truth. Full of determination and perseverance, both these women move outside of the typical roles society has placed upon them -- and I loved that these characters made bold decisions in a way that still felt very realistic.
While I enjoyed the book overall, I didn't connect with this story as deeply as I was hoping to. Having read a lot of WWII novels, I was missing a bit of a spark with this one. (And that's solely reader's preference.) I also felt that while the mystery angle was interesting, the stakes were too low in the 1945 timeline for me to feel that heightened sense of suspense.
I did, however, love the inspiration behind this story. I'd never heard of the Ziegfeld Follies and this was a fascinating bit of history that the author merged with a real-world, cold case. I would definitely check out more works by this author in the future! 3.5 stars.
It's 1945 and Ellie's life is flipped upside down as she not only recieves news of her father's death, but also discovers love letters he's written to another woman across the country. As she wrestles with grief, Ellie and her aunt head across the country to uncover the truth. Full of determination and perseverance, both these women move outside of the typical roles society has placed upon them -- and I loved that these characters made bold decisions in a way that still felt very realistic.
While I enjoyed the book overall, I didn't connect with this story as deeply as I was hoping to. Having read a lot of WWII novels, I was missing a bit of a spark with this one. (And that's solely reader's preference.) I also felt that while the mystery angle was interesting, the stakes were too low in the 1945 timeline for me to feel that heightened sense of suspense.
I did, however, love the inspiration behind this story. I'd never heard of the Ziegfeld Follies and this was a fascinating bit of history that the author merged with a real-world, cold case. I would definitely check out more works by this author in the future! 3.5 stars.
January 29, 2022
I am a pilot’s daughter, sister and at some point, in time I was going to be a pilot myself.
So, this book, regardless of being a mysterious historical fiction was a must-read for me.
Ellie Morgan is preparing her wedding; she is a newspaper secretary in San Francisco, and she always dreamt of having her own column. She is also using her skills to find evidence that proves her missing father is still alive. While she is scraping every piece of evidence, she finds a stack of love letters that were not written by her mother, nothing can stop her now, she has to find the truth about her father and this woman.
The story is inspired by a Jazz Age murder cold case. I enjoyed Ellie’s growth throughout the story. Her story kept me turning pages, made me cry, kept me fascinated and at the edge of my seat.
So, this book, regardless of being a mysterious historical fiction was a must-read for me.
Ellie Morgan is preparing her wedding; she is a newspaper secretary in San Francisco, and she always dreamt of having her own column. She is also using her skills to find evidence that proves her missing father is still alive. While she is scraping every piece of evidence, she finds a stack of love letters that were not written by her mother, nothing can stop her now, she has to find the truth about her father and this woman.
The story is inspired by a Jazz Age murder cold case. I enjoyed Ellie’s growth throughout the story. Her story kept me turning pages, made me cry, kept me fascinated and at the edge of my seat.
March 9, 2022
This is Historical Fiction with dual story lines...one in the mid 1940's and the other in the 1920's. I haven't read this author before. This one wasn't quite what I thought it would be. I liked the exploration when it came to female fortitude in both time lines. Both MCs developed that through life experiences.
My only issue was that this was light when it came to the little details that bring a story to life. When it came to relationships and characteristics, there was a lot of telling and not as much showing. I wish more detail was given to emotion and inner baggage. So 2 or 3 stars? I'll round up to 3.
My only issue was that this was light when it came to the little details that bring a story to life. When it came to relationships and characteristics, there was a lot of telling and not as much showing. I wish more detail was given to emotion and inner baggage. So 2 or 3 stars? I'll round up to 3.
November 1, 2021
4.5 star historical fiction read set in New York and San Francisco about a young woman, Ellie, trying to find out if her WWII pilot father has survived when she learns that his plane has been sh0t down. As she does so, she delves into his past, and learns about her mother’s life and that of her mother’s sister, Iris, and her friends who were showgirls in the Ziegfeld Follies in the 1920s. The 1920s time period and the look at the role of women is fascinating and the author really succeeds in making the time period feel like a character itself. There are also great descriptions of New York and its beautiful buildings - I compare the loveliness of these descriptions to those of Fiona Davis in her historical novels; The pacing was generally consistent throughout and the use of the dual timelines to tell the story was effective. I did find the 1920s story to be more interesting than the later timeline but both came together nicely in a good ending. Solid historical fiction. The Pilot’ Daughter is out on November 2, 2021.
Thanks to Penguin Group Dutton Books and Netgalley for an advance reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
Thanks to Penguin Group Dutton Books and Netgalley for an advance reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
November 24, 2021
More than I expected
I have to stop my heart from racing in order to write this review. I absolutely loved this novel. It was original and heart warming. Lots of books talk about the war but this book takes place during world war two and 1920s New York and San Francisco. It starts with Ellie getting a letter from the army that her dads plane had been reported as missing in action. She doesn't believe her father died so she starts to look into his disappearance. Things get more and more complicated and Ellie has to deal with a lot of different things that aren't as she expected. She learns about her dad in a way she never would have before. This book touched me deep and I just think it was incredible.
I have to stop my heart from racing in order to write this review. I absolutely loved this novel. It was original and heart warming. Lots of books talk about the war but this book takes place during world war two and 1920s New York and San Francisco. It starts with Ellie getting a letter from the army that her dads plane had been reported as missing in action. She doesn't believe her father died so she starts to look into his disappearance. Things get more and more complicated and Ellie has to deal with a lot of different things that aren't as she expected. She learns about her dad in a way she never would have before. This book touched me deep and I just think it was incredible.
February 21, 2022
I love a novel based on real stories and the sad truth that 72,000 lives were never given proper endings after WWII is a tragedy worth 72,000 novels. Meredith Jaeger has written a well-paced, well-researched novel with an undercurrent of mystery and a unique setting despite how many books from the WWII era have saturated the book market in recent years. The dual timelines take you from 1945 San Francisco, where an ambitious young woman struggles to find her place and use her talents as a journalist in a man’s world, and 1923 New York City within the glamorous Ziegfeld Theater where a riveting, decades-old mystery is unwound.
Ellie gets a letter from the army that her dad's plane had been reported as missing in action, but she can't accept or believe her father is dead, so of course, she starts looking into his disappearance. She discovers love letters that weren't from her mother and the journey begins. Her aunt Iris accompanies her to New York with her own secrets and their bond is one of the best aspects of the novel. I recommend this if you love family history mysteries or stories of generational bonding.
Ellie gets a letter from the army that her dad's plane had been reported as missing in action, but she can't accept or believe her father is dead, so of course, she starts looking into his disappearance. She discovers love letters that weren't from her mother and the journey begins. Her aunt Iris accompanies her to New York with her own secrets and their bond is one of the best aspects of the novel. I recommend this if you love family history mysteries or stories of generational bonding.
October 23, 2021
The story darts between the early 1920s and 1945. Ellie discovers a secret about her father and travels to NYC, alongside her aunt, to ferret out the truth. Anything about a family mystery grabs my attention. I liked the 2 settings of NYC and San Francisco. It was a story within a story wrapped up within another story. At times, I wondered was this Ellie’s story or Iris’, instead of focusing on the other woman, Lillian. It’s an interesting read. Thanks to Dutton Books and NetGalley for the advance read.
December 21, 2021
Yet another duel-timeline story, which just gets a little old. Happily, the topic was a bit more unique - looking at feminisim and Follies girls. Fun and entertaining, if a bit contrived and 'happily ever after.'
November 11, 2021
Wasn’t as captivated by these characters as others seemed to be … finished just to see if things wrapped up like I thought they would. And they did.
October 23, 2021
I absolutely love when a book dives into the past. Leaving the deeply rich, detailed characters scrambling to uncover the secrets that are still haunting them. The Pilot's Daughter had me in a trance from the first paragraph. I was riveted. Glued to my chair until I finished the last masterfully written word. This is my first Meredith Jaeger novel, and it will certainly not be the last. Her ability to grab your attention with historical details and magnificent strong female characters will leave you wanting more and not being able to set the book down.
Ellie Morgan has always had an extremely close, unbreakable bond with her father. She has missed him dearly since he left to fight the German's. She thought she understood him and there were never any secrets between them. Her world is rocked when her father goes missing in action and amongst his personal effects, she discovers love letters. She is aghast and cannot believe what is right in front of her. Her mother has always been a cold, hard woman, she has sunk into a deep depression since the news of her husband’s disappearance. She cannot seek comfort from her now or ever before. Ellie turns to her Aunt Iris for support and a possible explanation. As more secrets become known and questions pile up. Leading the two women on a cross-country adventure to New York City. Where you are thrown back and fully immersed in the roaring 20s. Flappers, The Ziegfeld Follies, showgirls, speakeasies, jazz, and a young vibrant Iris. Where the start of this family's secrets lie.
If you enjoy puzzles, a good mystery, family secrets and drama, with a little bit of love thrown in, I cannot suggest a better book. Jaeger builds up the story, piece by piece. Until you are blown away by the discoveries of what people live with in order to survive. I know Ellie and Iris will stay with me; they are such strong, independent women for their time. Thank you to Meredith Jaeger, Penguin Group Dutton, and NetGalley for this fascinating step back in time!
Ellie Morgan has always had an extremely close, unbreakable bond with her father. She has missed him dearly since he left to fight the German's. She thought she understood him and there were never any secrets between them. Her world is rocked when her father goes missing in action and amongst his personal effects, she discovers love letters. She is aghast and cannot believe what is right in front of her. Her mother has always been a cold, hard woman, she has sunk into a deep depression since the news of her husband’s disappearance. She cannot seek comfort from her now or ever before. Ellie turns to her Aunt Iris for support and a possible explanation. As more secrets become known and questions pile up. Leading the two women on a cross-country adventure to New York City. Where you are thrown back and fully immersed in the roaring 20s. Flappers, The Ziegfeld Follies, showgirls, speakeasies, jazz, and a young vibrant Iris. Where the start of this family's secrets lie.
If you enjoy puzzles, a good mystery, family secrets and drama, with a little bit of love thrown in, I cannot suggest a better book. Jaeger builds up the story, piece by piece. Until you are blown away by the discoveries of what people live with in order to survive. I know Ellie and Iris will stay with me; they are such strong, independent women for their time. Thank you to Meredith Jaeger, Penguin Group Dutton, and NetGalley for this fascinating step back in time!
January 15, 2023
4.5 ⭐️ - I really loved this one! It was far more intense and gripping than I was expecting. There is a lot going on in this story - betrayal, family drama, following your dreams and your heart, abusive relationships, and murder are all major plot points. But I was really impressed by how every detail seemed to be important to this story and how it all weaved together so seamlessly. I loved our main characters, Ellie and Iris, so much, and I was so moved by both of their journeys.
I loved the setting of New York City during the 20s and the 40s. I'm really fascinated by the entertainment world during these eras, and I loved all of the descriptions of the Ziegfeld Follies during this time period. There was so much glitz and glamour, and also so much tragedy.
Some of the characters in this book are based off of real people. I don't want to give spoilers for those wanting to read this and who don't already know about the infamous Broadway Butterfly murder of 1923, but just know some creative liberties are taken with the real people in this story and that this book is a work of fiction.
I do feel I need to give a content warning for this one as well. There is a lot of detail of domestic abuse that could be hard to read at times.
Overall I really loved reading this book and I know these characters will stay with me. I was so impressed with the author's storytelling and look forward to reading more from her.
I loved the setting of New York City during the 20s and the 40s. I'm really fascinated by the entertainment world during these eras, and I loved all of the descriptions of the Ziegfeld Follies during this time period. There was so much glitz and glamour, and also so much tragedy.
Some of the characters in this book are based off of real people. I don't want to give spoilers for those wanting to read this and who don't already know about the infamous Broadway Butterfly murder of 1923, but just know some creative liberties are taken with the real people in this story and that this book is a work of fiction.
I do feel I need to give a content warning for this one as well. There is a lot of detail of domestic abuse that could be hard to read at times.
Overall I really loved reading this book and I know these characters will stay with me. I was so impressed with the author's storytelling and look forward to reading more from her.
January 2, 2022
I absolutely loved this book! I know it is good historical fiction when I spend a lot of time researching the information on Google and reading about a part of history I hadn't heard of, one that the book has introduced me to. In this case, it was interesting to read about the unsolved murder of a Ziegfeld Follies showgirl and the lifestyle of the showgirls back then.
The story did a good job on the dual timeline between 1923 from Iris's perspective and 1945 from Ellie's timeline where she searches for her dad (WWII pilot) who has been reported missing. The truth of the over 70,000 Americans still accounted for from WWII is haunting, and adds another interesting piece to this story. I enjoyed reading about the glamorous life in NYC during the 1920s.
Over the course of the story, Ellie (the pilot's daughter) finds her backbone, determined to get answers of her father's life, risking her job at the newspaper, and her "well placed" engagement. I loved her relationship with her aunt, Iris, a woman who had her own secret past. A woman who, along with Ellie, takes the precarious journey to resolve the past so they can move on with their lives.
Thank you so much to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me a copy of this book.
The story did a good job on the dual timeline between 1923 from Iris's perspective and 1945 from Ellie's timeline where she searches for her dad (WWII pilot) who has been reported missing. The truth of the over 70,000 Americans still accounted for from WWII is haunting, and adds another interesting piece to this story. I enjoyed reading about the glamorous life in NYC during the 1920s.
Over the course of the story, Ellie (the pilot's daughter) finds her backbone, determined to get answers of her father's life, risking her job at the newspaper, and her "well placed" engagement. I loved her relationship with her aunt, Iris, a woman who had her own secret past. A woman who, along with Ellie, takes the precarious journey to resolve the past so they can move on with their lives.
Thank you so much to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me a copy of this book.
March 21, 2022
So I searched goodreads for this book and there are three books with the exact same title. Weird.
I did not know that the Ziegfeld Follies from the 20s were presented at the New Amsterdam Theatre in New York. I wish I had read this book three weeks ago. I took my 7 year old granddaughter to see Aladdin at this beautiful theater on March 7 and I wish I had known more of its history when I walked in. It is resplendent! Absolutely gorgeous! The Ziegfeld Follies play a part in the story, and another central part of the story is based on a true incident, as explained in the authors note at the end.
The story is told in alternating chapters by Ellie and her Aunt Iris. Ellie is in the present, the present being 1945 at the end of WWII, and Iris’s story is in the past. By the end of chapter 3, I was ready to criticize the fact that Ellie and Iris sound the same.
For the last 20 pages I was crying. The story is emotional and I dropped my criticisms. I enjoyed reading this book.
I did not know that the Ziegfeld Follies from the 20s were presented at the New Amsterdam Theatre in New York. I wish I had read this book three weeks ago. I took my 7 year old granddaughter to see Aladdin at this beautiful theater on March 7 and I wish I had known more of its history when I walked in. It is resplendent! Absolutely gorgeous! The Ziegfeld Follies play a part in the story, and another central part of the story is based on a true incident, as explained in the authors note at the end.
The story is told in alternating chapters by Ellie and her Aunt Iris. Ellie is in the present, the present being 1945 at the end of WWII, and Iris’s story is in the past. By the end of chapter 3, I was ready to criticize the fact that Ellie and Iris sound the same.
For the last 20 pages I was crying. The story is emotional and I dropped my criticisms. I enjoyed reading this book.
November 15, 2023
Pretty good book. I liked they way the author told the earlier story through Iris’s voice and the “current” story through Ellie’s voice as it kept me from losing track of where I was in the story. I really disliked the nicknames the men used “doll face”, “my pet”, etc. it certainly was a different era. I was shocked to find out that part of the story was based on actual events and people! The author did a good job of building her story around those facts.
December 30, 2021
This book was a gift from a friend and has become a new favorite. This is one of those books that I'd love to read again for the first time and would happily recommend it to others.Trauma warning with mild spoilers: this book does contain scenes about a physically abusive/controlling relationship and miscarriage.
January 4, 2024
I love this author’s version of the classic historical fiction/intertwining stories style. I like dressmakers dowry better but this one was still great. Can’t wait to read her new book, The Incorrigibles!
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