I will be coming back to this book when I am in the right head space: for now I was not able to finish it unfortunately.

This was such an interesting read! I found myself so engrossed in the story, the characters had such incredible arcs, and I can't wait to follow this author's journey!

⭐️ It is 1937 and tensions are high. A spectacular air race around Europe seeks to promote unity among a group of young pilots, but distrust and animosity are rife. The British and sole female contestant, Stella North, is determined to prove not only her skill, but also her identity as her Nansen passport declares her 'stateless'.
However, barely a few hours in, Stella is witness to a horrifying attack when a contestant's plane is forced out of the air and crashes. Was this the work of another competitor desperate to win? Was the attack random or premeditated and, most importantly, will it happen again?
With the competition heating up and the death ruled an accident, Stella is left to form her own investigation. Can she find allies among her fellow competitors or will suspicion and deceit bring them all down?

⭐️I’ve loved all of Elizabeth Wein’s books that I’ve read, and this was no exception. I love the focus on flying and how her main characters are always something special. Stateless manages to combine the fun of flying, the political tensions of WW2, and the thrill of the mystery surrounding the crash. This was a very different take on the usual YA and also war era books, and I really recommend it.

Elizabeth Wein has created another intriguing historical thriller full of key details and intrigue that will engage YA readers.

Set around a European flying competition seemingly designed to foster good relations in the interwar period, Stella North the sole female competitor representing Great Britain, is thrown into a deathly battle of wits and mistaken identity.

Considering themes of displacement, identity and belonging, Wein has created yet another engaging and subtly informative novel that will hook the reader along for the ride.

Elizabeth Wein at her best: pilots, girls, achieving great things and doing so with impactful, no-nonsense narrative voice. I am so glad she continues to come up with different ways to revisit her favourite areas of expertise in each new book. This one, for example, a bit unusually focuses in a place and time a bit further from the war, but the story is great as usual.

Thanks to Netgalley for the arc of Stateless.

Elizabeth Wein is one of my standout authors of young adult historical fiction so I had high expectations for her latest novel Stateless and it certainly did not disappoint. The fast-paced gripping murder mystery plot is perfectly executed through the captivating storytelling she has become known for and it had me on my toes throughout my entire read. The frequent twists and turns made it nearly impossible to put the book down and even made me audibly gasp at one point.
The narrative is split into multiple parts, each focusing on an individual leg of the race and taking us right across Europe. We’re given a map of the race route at the beginning of the novel and this was such a nice touch; there really is a special place in my heart for books containing maps. As with all novels by Elizabeth Wein, Stateless was clearly meticulously researched and history is seamlessly woven into the story. I particularly liked the little nods to lesser-known historical elements within the story such as Nansen passports and the 1930s Hamburg music scene.
Stateless provides a really interesting commentary on the politics and international relations of Europe during in the inter-war period. The narrative explores the international understanding of what was going on in Germany under Nazi rule and through the character of Sebastian, the German competitor, we also get an insight into how Nazi Germany used propaganda to deceive the German population.
The emotive description of Stella’s experience flying directly over the battlefields of the Great War, where the outline of the trenches remained visible as a reminder of what happened there and how recently, was truly moving.
The growing friendships and camaraderie between the young pilots was fantastically written. However, one of my biggest gripes with the book was the description of the Swiss pilot as having “acne-ravaged skin”. This was the extent of the description we really get of his appearance which was disappointing as I’m passionate that acne should not be used as a negative appearance descriptor as people, fictional or otherwise, are more than the appearance of their skin.
Throughout Stateless we have a beautiful slowburn will they or won’t they romance between Stella and Tony, although it was nice to see this included as a small supporting plot line rather than becoming the sole focus of the story. It did seem to hint at times towards a love triangle between the two of them and Sebastian but this never went anywhere.
One aspect of the narrative I didn’t enjoy was the repeated use of chapter changes mid-way through a conversation between characters. There seemed to be very little point to this and it broke the flow of the dialogue. I did also grow incredibly tired of hearing the phrase “hell’s bells” but I do appreciate that it was a commonly used phrase during the early twentieth century.
The ending of the story does open up to a potential sequel and I think it would be really interesting to return to the characters later down the line, particularly during the Second World War. I for one don’t feel ready to part with any of the characters from Stateless so would welcome a second novel with open arms.
Overall, Stateless is a powerful and incredibly gripping piece of historical fiction which has truly cemented Elizabeth Wein’s reign as queen of young adult historical fiction. It really has potential to be the best historical fiction book of 2023.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
I have posted an extended review on my blog www.yourschloe.co.uk and the post is linked.

The premise of this book drew me in, and, from the first chapter, I was enthralled. An engrossing adventure, with an array of interesting characters and twists in the plot. Themes of friendship, loyalty, and mystery. Great pacing and exposition throughout, I would recommend this book to young readers and historical fiction fans.

I struggled with this book. On the one hand, it was a refreshingly hopeful account of a very turbulent time but, on the other hand, everything felt very shallow.

I liked the concept of the story, and I enjoyed learning about a period of time that I, admittedly, don't know much about. I also liked all the sections that focused on the planes and the flying. It was obvious while reading that this was a topic that the author is very passionate about! The author managed to keep the plot moving really well and, even though I felt the pacing was a bit off at times, ultimately, the plot twists and turns are what kept me reading.

However, I struggled to connect to most of the characters. This was probably because there were so many of them to keep track of. Stella, the character through who's eyes we witness the story, didn't read like a main character to me at all! I felt like I knew more about Tony (the love interest) by the end of the book than I knew about Stella, which was disappointing considering how I was anticipating a book with a lot of girl power. Instead I felt like Stella spent most of the story worrying about Tony and Sebastian (the other maybe love interest in a love triangle plot that never really went anywhere). The villain was pretty obvious from the beginning (it's a historical novel set in WW2 I think anyone could guess the villain before even opening the book) but I did get shocked by a few of the twists concerning the other characters. I also felt the book ended really abruptly! We got the big action scene and then all of a sudden all was well with no real explanation of how it got to be that way. I would've liked to see a bit more about what happened to all the characters after the big finale but instead the book just ended kind of vaguely...

I really do think this was a case of an amazing concept with not the best execution and, sadly, this meant that the book didn't live up to my expectations.

STATELESS was such a good read, following the competitors of a fictional air race designed to promote piece that goes horribly wrong when one of their members is murdered.

Having a crime scene in the air is such a good idea! The evidence is all wiped away by a crash or the wind or the perpetrator just flying off. It makes it hard to build up a case, giving a really believable reason for the kids not to want to take it to the adults - it's suspicions and hearsay against a drive to promote peace.

There is a very tense sequence when Stella, Tony (French delegation), and Sebastian are being hunted through Hamburg, with the Gestapo on their trail. It was also a sequence that shows off just how much research must have gone into the book, all sorts of little details that made their slipping in and out of places and sneaking through the city so vivd.

I liked that not all the Germans were painted as villains. The book does not shy away from discussing the persecution happening in 1937, and while there are Nazi villains in this book, through Sebastian (the German entrant), the book looked at how propaganda at this stage was able to effectively cover up events.

There is also a lot of teamwork between the competitors in this book, once they've worked out they are in danger. Even knowing that the book is set only two years before the outbreak of WW2, it was so hopeful to see them all team up - particularly as most didn't know exactly what was happening, just that one of their number was in danger. In the context of everything happening in Europe - particularly Ukraine - in the last few years, it felt powerful and hopeful.

It is a book about belonging too. Many of the characters are refugees and even those who aren't are put into boxes by the press looking for stories. The many bilingual (or multi-lingual) characters like Stella and Tony aren't in their countries of birth and have had to put down roots in other places, emotionally linked to more than one place while being defined by only one by the competition. Then there is the fact that there is a lot of patronising attention on Stella, the only woman. It all leads to a great examination of what it is to belong, and what defines that.

I look forward to more books by Elizabeth Wein!

An exciting adventure set in WWII with a female lead. This will be perfect for teens wanting an interesting historical novel

Stateless is a brilliant historical fiction novel, full of mystery and suspense. It is set in 1937, when Europe is on the brink of WWII, and our protagonist is invited to participate in a youth air race to promote peace in Europe. As soon as the race started the action kicked off, and I was absolutely hooked in. Sabotage, secrets, and not knowing who to trust keeps the tension high throughout.

It is so interesting reading a story with a cast of characters from a range of European countries and backgrounds, Germans and Jews, veterans of WWI and young civil war fighters alike, knowing what is to come. I also learnt things I didn't know about this time period and overall found everything fascinating.

A clever, dramatic YA historical mystery, recommended for all. Fans of Code Name Verity and Wein's other books will definitely enjoy it.

Another historical fiction masterclass from Elizabeth Wein where the relationships developed interwar become more challenged than ever.

I loved this. Elizabeth Wein, as far as I'm concerned, can do very little wrong in writing about pilots, war, tensions, etc. She goes a little bit further back in time this time, going back to the interwar period as tensions are rising and these young pilots will soon be fighting and flying for their countries.
Based on the idea of an international race between pilots from different European countries, our main character is Stella North, a pilot travelling on a Nansen passport and representing the UK. As the only female pilot flying, Stella's already in a strange position, but as the race gets underway, strange happenings lead to suspicion of sabotage in the race, and Stella needs to find out what's happening before she's the next victim of a mysterious disappearance. Excellent characterisation, thrilling mystery, and Wein's typical detailed nuance of writing.

A fast paced, action packed, and tense YA historical fiction that I read as fast as I could and throughly enjoyed.
Well written, excellent storytelling, fleshed out and interesting characters.
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this arc, all opinions are mine

This book had me on the edge of my seat with excitement, intrigue and nerves. It’s a brilliant blend of history and mystery (hey that rhymes!).

I picked this book up because the setting and premise intrigued me, and it absolutely delivered! It’s an immersive depiction of pre-war Europe, with tensions running high but conflict not yet inevitable. I’ve never read any of Elizabeth Wein’s other books, but her aviation expertise makes it a seamless read.

At the centre of this we have a very mixed, very mysterious set of characters. I really like stories where a group of strangers are thrown together; it puts the reader at the same starting point as the characters themselves, and its fascinating to see how they get to know each other, and what they start to uncover about each other’s secrets and pasts. It was done particularly well here, sometimes being lead in one direction, sometimes in another.

The story is told from the perspective of Stella, who is perceptive but wary of those around her. I really felt like I was right there in the action with her, watching the events of the novel play out around me and figuring out who I could trust. I hated the times when I had to stop reading, because I was desperate to know what happened next!

This setting and premise is the perfect place to explore themes of national identity, loyalty, and bridging divides. It feels particularly poignant in this day and age to be discussing refugees and what it means to have a homeland. There were some incredibly moving moments and passages, and this book is going to be a welcome addition to many bookshelves and libraries.

I received a free copy for review. All opinions are my own.

Stateless is Elizabeth When's latest novel. It follows a group of 12 young pilots as they take part in a flying competition meant to encourage friendship in Europe. This is 1937 Europe though. There is war in Spain, fascist dictators are in charge in Germany and Italy and subsequent tensions in the countries are reflected amongst the group.
Stella North is competing for Britain but she is stateless: a refugee from Russia,, who fled to Britain after the Russian Revolution and subsequent war. Trying to find her place in the world and terrified someone will discover her stateless secret she is the only woman competing. As the group race around Europe there are hidden tensions that seem to have no relation to the race. Sabotaged planes, a dead competitor, chased by the police Stella and the group attempt to stay one step ahead and work out what is going on..
An excellent exciting read that will appeal to readers.

Gripping adventure set over Europe in 1937. Twelve teenagers compete in a Youth Air Race aimed to promote peace in Europe, but despite the organisers good intentions, sabotage, old resentments and death stalk the contestants.
Incredibly written with realistic characters facing danger in the air, on the ground, from political beliefs and desire for revenge.

I have no doubt this is an excellent and fundamentally important novel. The setting and premise were incredible and there was a lot going on. It also is a timely reflection of current politics and immigration in today's world. It was also very well written.

However, despite all of this I couldn't get myself super into this book, and while some chapters blew me away I struggled to stay invested as a whole. It was a decent book but it didn't wow me.

Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an e-arc of this in exchange for an honest review.

Stateless is a thrilling ride around Europe in 1937 with Stella, the only female competitor in an air race she is fearless, determined and inspirational.
This books keeps you on the edge of your seat as you join Stella in her cockpit and witness the damage and dangers of war for Europe, even in peace time.
There is mystery, adventure, friendship, loyalty and love threaded throughout the book. You really feel you are there with her, you want her to succeed, along with her fellow competitors. We all learn there is more to life than coming first.