Aces Up

"Aces Up" by Covington Clarke is a historical fiction novel set during World War I. It tells the story of Tex Yancey, nicknamed "The Flying Fool," and his squadron of American pilots serving in the American Expeditionary Force. While awaiting their planes and the chance to prove themselves in combat, the pilots form bonds of friendship and rivalry. Frustration mounts as they are assigned a new instructor, Lieutenant McGee, who comes from the British Royal Flying Corps, causing tension amongst the squadron members. As the pilots navigate the challenges of service, their identities are tested, setting the scene for a story about the realities of war.