Ghosts in the Sky

In this fascinating new novel from Lincolnshire author Maurice Bird, we are introduced to the aircrew of a Lancaster Bomber involved in the many bombing raids over Germany and Italy. “I make frequent visits to the Lincolnshire Aviation Heritage Centre at East Kirkby,” explains Maurice. “Whilst there I spend quiet time in its small chapel. It was after such a visit I woke up during the night with the book in my head.”

"The large aircraft stood proud on the apron of one of the bomber stations dotted around the country. In less than eight hours both the men and machine would begin their journey towards Germany. Their aim being to disrupt and eventually cripple the enemy’s war machine."

Ghosts in the Sky is a thrilling read with a feeling of true action, following the journey of seven young men from their raw beginnings as recruits, to the stage where they have transformed into a well-oiled war machine. Along the way the group comes across intrigue, romance, drama, danger and anxiety as they venture further into their journey, giving thought to the young men, some still in their teens, who have failed to return from the bombing raids.

Readers will be familiar with the instances in this novel, whether experienced by a son or daughter, brother or sister, a second generation relation or friend. However, only those associated with the crew can really appreciate the hurt and pain associated with the frequent occurrences of a bomber being lost on a mission…

Drawing attention to those who were killed, especially at such an early age, Ghosts in the Sky also looks to the people they left behind, offering some comfort with the thought that those who died did not just disappear – that they are still with us today.