The Philosopher's Flight

I thoroughly enjoyed reading Tom Miller's first novel in a series: The Philosopher's Flight (#915).  It's partly historical fiction - set against a background of World War I-, part science fiction and part fantasy.  It really has everything going for it - a hero to root for in Robert Candarelli Weekes, fighting the stigma of sexism in his desire to serve in the prestigious Rescue and Evacuation Corps in the War against all odds - plus action, adventure, danger, villains, humor and magic.

Robert has inherited his ability to fly from his mother in rural Montana where she works for the county.  But boys aren't supposed to fly at all, so how can he be considered for a spot in the military reserved for females?  By qualifying for a special spot reserved for males at the all-female Radcliffe College in Cambridge, Massachusetts.  It won't be easy, considering that Boston is also the home base of the Trencher movement, vehemently and violently opposed to Philosophical practitioners.  Facing opposition both on and off campus, Robert still manages to find loyal friends and a way to make his mark.

Something I read in the reviews about this series compared it to L. Frank Baum for adults, and I think that's a good analogy.  There's enough realism to ground it in a world we're familiar with, with enough fantasy to make it somewhat akin to steampunk novels.  It's a really addictive blend.  I can't wait to read the second book in this series, The Philosopher's War.  Highly recommended!