Susan Gessford: Into a little known history. Everyone has seen pigeons, and thought little if their intelligence and keen sense of space. We don’t think of them as loyal or able to imprint with humans. Susan and her grandfather knew. The story of Duchess is inspiring and amazing. This book is a glimpse into a very hard time for England, and Europe. You’ll be spellbound at the twists and turns the story takes, and how satisfying the ending is.
United States on Sep 27, 2023
Alisa Rettschlag: Through this beautiful story about lost love and the trials of war, I learned so much about the amazing abilities of pigeons! I loved this book. It’s going on my “favorites “ list.
United States on Sep 19, 2023
Charlotte W.: I was not familiar with Alan Hlad as an author, but I will now read more of his books. This novel captured my heart from beginning to end. The characters were well rounded with even the villain showing some good actions. This novel centers around the important role carrier pigeons played in WWII. While the author builds a page-turning narrative, he, also, causes you to care deeply about a pigeon and a pig, as well. I highly recommend this well researched novel that brings to life the everyday perils of London and surrounding areas during WWII.
United States on Sep 14, 2023
Jan Stockton: for Susan and her Ollie from Maine. But, there is consolation in that their landing is equal to their take offs!
A wonderful story about the role of pigeons in WWII, unrequieted loves, and their dedication to the cause of freedom., as well as those who chose to dedicate themselves only to personal glory or fame.
Hlad captured the love and dedication that exists between mankind and other creatures, when people take time to relate to them on their level. Modern warfare has their dogs; The Civil War had their horses and mules; WWI & II had their pigeons and hogs. This story highlihts the bonds that exist between the species when mankind creates the trust, love, and protection with their best friends. I suspected that Ollie and Susan would find one another because of their devotion to each other, through the help of their best friend, Duchess.
The inner conflicts, lack of understanding, and the external battles fought are superbly created through dialogue, character, and physical barriers encountered during war.
I did find 3 minor editorials, but nothing significant enough to deter the reader.
A great story by a masterful storyteller! Hlad hit this one out...
United States on Sep 02, 2023
Kindle Customer: A page turner about a young man (wanting ti be a pilot in the RAF) and a young woman (who raises homing pidgeons for war intelligence). They meet accidentally on a train out of London on 1940, and how their lives unfold after the man defends her against an airman who is overly friendly against the young woman’s will.
Intriguing story of the London and area Blitz and how a single we’ll meaning act can change the course of lives forever.
Canada on Aug 22, 2023
janet fulton: I really liked this book has I read a lot of world war 2 fiction,it was amazing the bravery of a pigeon who would have thought how they contributed to the war effort in that way.I really loved the ending too and I recommend you get this book you won't be dissapointed.
United Kingdom on Feb 17, 2022
Hayley h: WARNIBG: don’t continue to read if you want a spoiler.
I loved this book, I was so ensconced in it.. but I did not enjoy the ending. I know this sounds quite petty but it actually really annoyed me. I think I attach myself to characters in books with a full heart and when the ending isn’t what I want it to be, I get quite displaced. I know in reality the world is all good, but come on Author .. I think you should have gone down a different path. Let us have some happiness amongst the devastation.. fiction or not.
Australia on Jun 24, 2021
Robert Olivier: Did not realize the significance of pigeons during the war.
Canada on May 15, 2021
Louise B.: I loved the book, expected a different ending but very interesting. Growing up We had a neighbour who had 5 "Pigeons Voyageurs."
I could hear the bombs. British people were so strong.
Anxious to read the new one Churchill's Secret Messenger. I have read a lot about women spies during WW2 but this one bears my maiden name, makes it more special.
Canada on Apr 25, 2021
Alan Hlad's Novel 'The Long Flight Home': A Captivating Tale of Adventure and Discovery | Barbara Davis: Preserving Joyful Conclusions | Kristin Hannah's Novel "The Nightingale" - A Story of Love, Loss and Survival during WWII | |
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B2B Rating |
86
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99
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97
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Sale off | $6 OFF | $7 OFF | $10 OFF |
Total Reviews | 161 reviews | 2 reviews | 1 reviews |
Publisher | A John Scognamiglio Book; Reprint edition | Lake Union Publishing | St. Martin's Griffin; Reprint edition |
Dimensions | 5.47 x 0.96 x 8.24 inches | 5.5 x 1 x 8.25 inches; 14.4 Ounces | 5.55 x 1.55 x 8.25 inches; 1.2 Pounds |
ISBN-10 | 1496721683 | 1542021472 | 1250080401, 9781250080400 |
Literary Fiction (Books) | Literary Fiction | Literary Fiction | |
Item Weight | 11.2 ounces | ||
Customer Reviews | 4.5/5 stars of 2,899 ratings | 4.6/5 stars of 88,652 ratings | 4.7/5 stars of 289,762 ratings |
Language | English | English | English |
Paperback | 384 pages | ||
ISBN-13 | 978-1496721686 | 978-1542021470 | 978-1250080400 |
World War II Historical Fiction (Books) | World War II Historical Fiction | World War II Historical Fiction | World War II Historical Fiction |
Best Sellers Rank | #134 in World War II Historical Fiction #314 in 20th Century Historical Fiction#2,312 in Literary Fiction | #3 in World War II Historical Fiction #15 in Family Life Fiction #44 in Literary Fiction | #2 in World War II Historical Fiction #8 in Family Life Fiction #17 in Women's Domestic Life Fiction |
20th Century Historical Fiction | 20th Century Historical Fiction |
geekgirl: Based on true events that happened in England during WWII, I had a difficult time putting this book down. The characters are lovely; likable, believable, and the story is incredibly interesting. Duchess is so sweet and intelligent....a lovely pet indeed. And I don't want to be a spoiler; just want to say I enjoyed it, and highly recommend this book.
United States on Sep 29, 2023