I liked this story a lot!  Right from the beginning, the excitement begins with a glimpse of the ending.  But it is not a spoiler.  Christina is the daughter of Lt Col Patrick Matthews who is a test pilot for Boeing.  He had wanted to be an astronaut, but did not qualify.  Chris loses her mother at 12 yrs of age, and through her next 10 years or so, struggles with the deep loss.  Her father has also become distant to her, thus she became very independent early in life.  She was a tomboy: tough, confident, and one who's motto is, "Never give in, never give up."  At a young age she had a solitary goal that she has set for her future.  Finished with high school, Chris and her two very close girl friends form a close bond through the early college years.  Chris decides to take flying lessons and her flight instructor feels she has a natural talent.  The three girls face many challenges, and Chris seems to be the most logical and confident of the girls.  She confronts every conflict they are faced with and becomes a hero.  This story is simply written, easy to read, and may be more suited for older teenagers, but I absolutely loved it.  Perhaps because it sparked my memories of flying years ago in a Beechcraft Bonanza where I experienced many adventures.  I think this story may encourage many young people to set such high goals.  I strongly recommend this book if you like high action adventure.  I will be reading the sequel soon!