Author
Richard Howells Watkins
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Books by Richard Howells Watkins
Nerve enough
"Nerve Enough" by Richard Howells Watkins is a thrilling short story set in the early 20th century that showcases the daring exploits of early aviation. The narrative focuses on the T. M. O. Transportation Co., formed by three ambitious pilots—Jim Tyler, Burt Minster, and Delevan O’Connell—who aspire to rise in the burgeoning industry of aerial passenger transport. The story revolves around themes of courage, camaraderie, and the high stakes of stunting and stunt-flying amid the risks associated with this nascent form of travel. In the story, the partners face a series of unfortunate events that lead them from a respectable aerial transportation business to becoming struggling "gipsy fliers." As they attempt to revive their fortunes at a local fair, they concoct a risky plan to jump simultaneously from their plane with parachutes in a race to the ground, testing their nerve and resolve. When an accident occurs, Del finds himself precariously dangling from the plane, prompting Burt to jump after him. The tale culminates in a tense moment where camaraderie triumphs over adversity, as the duo manages a successful parachute landing, reigniting their hopes for a brighter future and newfound success in their aviation venture.
His to fly
"His to Fly" by Richard Howells Watkins is a short story published in the late 1920s, where the characters navigate the challenges of early aviation. The narrative revolves around two pilots, Beak Becket and Jerry Tabor, as they grapple with their complicated partnership while flying a biplane. Central to the story is the theme of ambition and the tension between experience and inexperience in pursuit of flight. The plot unfolds as Jerry and Beak prepare for a flight, highlighting their contentious relationship. Beak, a seasoned pilot, often belittles Jerry, who is eager to prove himself. Tensions rise during their journey, particularly when the realities of aerial navigation become perilous amid fog and dwindling fuel. As the story climaxes with a malfunction and impending disaster, Jerry's decisive moment comes when he must choose between saving himself by jumping with a parachute or taking control of the plane that he partly owns. In a courageous act of determination, Jerry takes over the cockpit, demonstrating growth and asserting his newfound identity as a pilot, ultimately leading to their precarious landing.
The air splasher
"The Air Splasher" by Richard Howells Watkins is a thrilling aviation adventure written in the late 1920s. This novel chronicles the daring exploits of King Horn, a stunt pilot known for his reckless flying and numerous crashes, as he grapples with the consequences of his death-defying career. The story likely explores themes of bravery, love, and the quest for self-identity amid the adrenaline-fueled world of aviation. In "The Air Splasher," readers are introduced to King Horn, whose risky aerial performances captivate crowds while simultaneously endangering his life. After a particularly harrowing crash, he realizes that his reckless reputation may jeopardize his future as a pilot. The emotional core of the narrative unfolds as Horn develops deeper feelings for Lyle Tennant, the daughter of his employer. When faced with a life-threatening situation involving transporting a group of important passengers, including Lyle's father, Horn's skills are put to the ultimate test. His heroic actions not only solidify his place in aviation history but also lead him to confront his reckless self-image, revealing a newfound maturity and commitment to safer flying and to Lyle. The novel concludes with Horn earning respect and paving the way for a more stable life.