The Hazelbourne Ladies Motorcycle and Flying Club
By Helen Simonson 2024
A PARADE BEST BOOK OF THE YEAR
 
Yes, the publication of this work was nearly two years ago. However, I’m a  s l o w  reader. I suppose that’s why I’m a slow writer. A little insight to me: I must form a film, at least tons of individual photos, in my mind as I read. If my brain can’t “see” something, then I must revise, edit and rephotograph/re-film that scene repeatedly until the picture not only makes sense, but is complete.

So, there’s that.

Back to the characters of this sea-side resort. Simonson shows readers the lesser-seen losses of war, in particular post-World War I in high-society England.
England is hurting from deep scars, seen and unseen. She is also celebrating the win with her allies.

The author intertwines the main characters in a natural way with observations and experiences of Constance Haverhill.

There are poignant displays from characters that mask emotional pain such as: an ever inappropriately attired Poppy Wirrall and her motorcycle, her brother Harris who is bitter from his treatment of being an invalid and desperate to fly again, and Klaus. Very interesting to me, Simonson has added Klaus, thus adding a bit of discomfort to various scenes. Will anyone see beyond his German origins?

How common it is for people to treat others by what they see, for what another person appears to be. Not who they are, or desire to become. Ah, but we are human. We tend to judge situations and individuals by our own experiences, our beliefs. It’s how we protect ourselves, how we bond with like minds, how we develop into deep-rooted adults and grow old.

Now, is this story somewhat predictable? Perhaps parts. Then again, the author teaches her readers that life holds surprises, twists, and happy forevers can happen. But for everyone?

The Hazelbourne Ladies Motorcycle and Flying Club is worth your time. This is a relatively light read, yet evokes many emotions and memories. Don’t let the lack of reviews discourage you!
 
I’d also like to mention Ann Perry’s WWI five-book series beginning with, No Graves as Yet: World War I, Book 1. In contrasting style to Simonson's, Perry's books are a deeply remarkable experience from the front lines, to the Secret Service Bureau, to England’s privileged college students and teachers.




Rainey is a Colorado native, loving her mountains, plains, & four-footed creatures.
She is a blog contributor at RMFW.org, and a brand new SinC member.
Rainey writes Historical Fiction, attempts ASL & drawing, and remains in the workforce. But she’ll never learn to swim!
She’s plotting additional historical & almost historical fiction. Whatever she writes contains (some type of) family theme.
Pen name: https://www.amazon.com/Frozen-Moose-L-Treloar-ebook/