Welcome to my author website for The Only Living Lady Parachutist my novel about Lillian, a remarkable but little-known woman who earned her living by jumping from a hot air balloon in 1890s Australia and New Zealand — a story of courage and ambition, and the consequences of secrets and lies.
Haunted by her brother’s death, daredevil Lillian tests her courage by joining the Van Tassel balloon act with her sister Ruby. Together they risk their lives for fame and fortune by parachuting from smoke balloons throughout Australia, but the feisty Lillian struggles to choose between love and her perilous career.
Determined to take control of the balloon circuit and provide for her children, Lillian travels to New Zealand only to clash with charlatans, showmen, and disgruntled crowds when her exhibitions fall short of their expectations.
A cascade of betrayals and reconciliations leads to one last-ditch ascent from which there is no turning back. Many years later, as Lillian relates her fanciful version of those events, she must find a deeper courage to reveal the truth about her past.
Based on the real life of a strong and unconventional woman trying to make her name, Lillian’s story is too incredible to be left untold.
Explore my blog for the research behind the real characters and events in The Only Living Lady Parachutist.
Catherine Clarke 