Angels Three: The Karen Perry Story

“Haunting, yet inspirational.” —Publishers Weekly “An absorbing read.” —Kirkus Reviews

They were airborne for six minutes. And then they were gone. On Thanksgiving eve 2011, Karen Perry’s life changed forever when her three young children and their father died in a plane that crashed into Superstition Mountain in Arizona. The story made national headlines and was featured on the Oprah Winfrey Network as part of its Super Soul Sunday series. Everyone wanted to know—how does a mother comprehend, let alone process, such a loss? “Angels Three” takes readers deep inside Karen Perry’s world of aviation, the challenges of parenting special needs children, and the indescribable pain of every parent’s worst fear come true. This skilled pilot and grieving mother is left to search for clues about what happened that night, and why. Her search for the truth leads to a startling revelation, legal battle with the Federal Aviation Administration, and a troubling question: Was the crash avoidable?

From the author of “Burning Shield: The Jason Schechterle Story”—an “inspiring true story” (Kirkus Reviews) that “celebrates the resilience of the human spirit” (Publishers Weekly)—comes another gripping biography, a tragic and ultimately hopeful story of perseverance in the face of unimaginable loss.

Reviews

“Amid Karen Perry’s terrible tragedy is the inspiring story of the deep and passionate support she received from her colleagues at Delta Air Lines. Her journey is a remarkable one, and we are proud to have her as a member of the Delta family.” —Richard H. Anderson, CEO, Delta Air Lines

“I read ‘Angels Three: The Karen Perry Story’ with a heavy heart. The Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) had concerns with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) airspace changes before this tragedy occurred. I applaud Karen for her bravery in writing this book and sharing the lessons to be learned. By telling her story I am hopeful the memory of the six victims—including her three children and their father—will make a difference by educating pilots and policymakers so this kind of tragedy never happens again.” —Mark Baker, President and CEO, Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association.

“Karen Perry’s story is one of heartbreaking sorrow and transcendent strength. Her experience speaks to the resiliency of the human spirit, inspiring each of us to find that light within ourselves.” —Ashley Davis Bush, author of “Transcending Loss”

“A wonderfully written book. As the author relays the details, you will be immediately immersed into Karen Perry’s life and personal journey. While it is an unfortunate and painful turn of events that take place, you are left inspired by the strength of the human spirit. Highly recommend.” —Gina Quarles, author of “The Accidental Purpose”

“A life-changing story from a remarkable woman of courage, strength, and wisdom. The book has inspired me to dig deeper into my own spiritual search. Karen Perry’s breakthrough is a constant reminder of God’s plan and love for all of us.” —Jonas Elrod, writer/director of “In Deep Shift” (Oprah Winfrey Network)

“The poignant remembrance ‘Angels Three: The Karen Perry Story’ introduces us to the three loves of her life—Morgan, Logan, and Luke—her love of aviation, and reminds us of the beauty and frailty of life. The book is a story of finding purpose out of chaos and the courage and determination required to rebuild.” —Suzanne Skeeters, captain, Delta Air Lines

“‘Angels Three: The Karen Perry Story’ is a beautifully written book about a woman’s life journey, her incomprehensible loss and, ultimately, her extraordinary courage. This is a true story full of honesty and riveting detail that leaves you forever moved.” —Paul Babeu, Pinal County Sheriff