✈️ Book Review: Amelia’s Shadow by Marie Benedict (Kindle Edition, Blaze Collection)
A vivid, inspiring slice of historical fiction about ambition, friendship, and the risks faced by women who dared to fly—Marie Benedict reimagines the real-life bond between Ruth Nichols and Amelia Earhart in this compact, emotionally resonant short.
🧠 Overview
Published on February 22, 2024 as part of Amazon Original Stories’ Blaze Collection, Amelia’s Shadow is a 35-page historical short inspired by true events.
It follows Ruth Nichols, a pioneering aviator with dreams of becoming the world’s greatest female pilot. That dream is complicated when Amelia Earhart—already a rising star dubbed “Lady Lindy”—claims the spotlight Ruth had hoped for.
What begins as a fierce rivalry evolves into a deep friendship as the two women recognize their shared passion for the skies and their commitment to supporting other female pilots. Together, they help form the Ninety-Nines, an all-women flying organization. Over the years, their achievements grow more daring, their risks more personal, and their bond stronger—until tragedy casts a long shadow neither could have foreseen.
✨ Key Themes & Highlights
- 🛩 Trailblazing women: Celebrates the courage and skill of early female aviators.
- 🤝 From rivals to allies: Explores how competition can transform into mutual respect and solidarity.
- 👩✈️ Sisterhood in the skies: The Ninety-Nines as a symbol of collective empowerment.
- ⚠️ Risk and sacrifice: The personal costs of chasing dangerous dreams.
- ✍️ Benedict’s style: Tight, accessible prose with a focus on character emotion and historical texture.
“At first competitors, Ruth soon recognizes they share a passion for the skies and for supporting trailblazing female pilots everywhere.”
💬 Reader Reception
- ⭐ Goodreads rating: ~3.59/5 from over 3,600 ratings
- 📖 Readers praise its engaging portrayal of female friendship and glimpse into aviation history.
- 🧾 Some note that, as a short story, it offers more of a character snapshot than a fully fleshed-out biography—but it succeeds in sparking curiosity about the real Ruth Nichols.
⚠️ Considerations
- 📄 Short format: Best read as a historical vignette rather than a comprehensive account.
- 📚 Part of a themed collection: Works as a standalone, but shares the Blaze focus on “incendiary women” who defy convention.
🏁 Final Verdict
Amelia’s Shadow is a brief but compelling portrait of two aviation icons whose relationship defied the stereotype of women as perpetual rivals. Perfect for readers who enjoy historical fiction about real women who broke barriers, and for those looking for a quick, inspiring read with a bittersweet edge.
