A very interesting read. Has a young adult dystopian novel feel but is set in the past rather than the future. Full of action and has some twists and turns.

In August 1937, young pilots representing various European nations participate in an air race meant to foster international peace and cooperation. The novel is told from the point of view of 17-year-old Stella North, a Russian émigré flying for her adopted nation of Great Britain. On the first leg of the competition, Stella witnesses a plane force another plane to crash into the English Channel. Further acts of sabotage make it clear to Stella that another competitor or one of the experienced pilots serving as chaperones is trying to kill off the competition. But who can Stella trust? Strange alliances form as the young pilots work together for protection from the flying menace.

This is an exciting mystery/thriller/adventure that takes place against the backdrop of the Spanish Civil War, the rise of Nazi Germany, and the calm before the storm of World War II. ( )

I really enjoyed the pacing and mix of mystery and adventure in this novel, taking place in 20th century Europe as tensions continue to rise and Nazis are gaining power ahead of the Second World War. For readers who are unsure how "plane-heavy" this book is, there is a great balance of plot and detail regarding flight and planes (without being tedious or boring!) and I appreciated the sprinkling of romance/tension throughout the story. I did wish there was a bit more depth and character development but I can't exactly pinpoint why they felt a bit flat for me. ( )

This is a romance story. Not something I would choose to read. I found it an easy read. Good character development. I was drawn into Miss Stella North, age 17. Europe’s first youth air race was from August 22nd to 30th, 1937. Twelve young fliers, representing their nation in a “Circuit of Nations Olympics of the Air”, for the purpose of “Promoting Peace through Sport among our young people today”. War is imminent. It starts in Salisbury with stops in Brussels, Geneva, Venice, Prague, Hamburg, Amsterdam and ends in Paris. You quickly learn that someone wants to sabotage the event but not for the reasons you would think. ( )

Stateless is a clean YA book about a female teen pilot who witnesses a plane being deliberately knocked out of the sky in what is supposed to be a friendly international race. This book is full of intrigue, suspense, and a little romance. Set in a time just before WW2, Stella not only witnesses a fellow contestant knocked out of the sky, but she herself is subject to sabotage, and chased in the air. This book kept me guessing and feeling the suspense of the situation right to the end. Thoroughly enjoyed this book and will recommend it to teens. ( )