Born and raised in Hawaii, Sara Ackerman is the author of Island of Sweet Pies and Soldiers. When she's not writing or practicing acupuncture, you'll find her in the mountains or in the ocean, which is where most of her inspiration happens.
American Sky (2025) Carolyn Dasher "Smart, immersive, and moving, American Sky is a gorgeously crafted story of heart, determination, family and friendship, and kick-ass women. Buckle up for a spectacular ride!"
Follow Me to Africa (2025) Penny Haw "Follow Me to Africa is a fascinating adventure and a page turning look into the life of Mary Leakey, renowned paleoanthropologist. Combining intrepid women, wild animals, and the raw beauty of the Olduvai Gorge, Penny Haw has crafted a unique and spellbinding tale. Makes me want to book a trip to the Serengeti!"
The Lies We Leave Behind (2024) Noelle Salazar "A story of triumph and heartbreak in equal measure, The Lies We Leave Behind is an incredible journey of a novel. Salazar deftly takes us from the jungles of the Pacific to the English countryside to the bombed-out streets of Hamburg, immersing the reader in a complex web of lies, and leaving us no choice but to fall head over heels for Kate and William. Hold onto your heart for this one!"
The Lost Book of Bonn (2024) Brianna Labuskes "Masterfully woven and intricately rendered, The Lost Book of Bonn is a poignant tale of courage and sacrifice in the face of great evil. Brianna Labuskes gives us a fascinating glimpse into the Edelweiss Pirates and those in Germany who were brave enough to take a stand against the Nazis. Both enlightening and heartrending, this book is impossible to put down!"
The Woman with a Purple Heart (2023) Diane Hanks "A wonderful tribute to a true American hero. Equal parts touching and heartbreaking, The Woman with a Purple Heart paints a vivid picture of what it was like at ground zero in the attack on Pearl Harbor. Historical fiction lovers, put this on your list!"
Hula (2023) Jasmin 'Iolani Hakes "Raw, real and richly layered, Hula is a love letter to Hawai'i, most especially Keaukaha. The words in this novel hit like a hurricane - powerful and intense and imbued with every nuance of island life, from hanabata days to the final paddle out. Brilliantly written and expertly structured, the story of the Naupaka women, and the bitter struggles of the native Hawaiian people, will stay with you long after you've turned the last page. Jasmin 'Iolani Hakes has penned a new classic in Hawaiian literature. I could not put this book down. Maika'i."
Daughters of Victory (2023) Gabriella Saab "Just wow! I was speechless when I finished reading this book. Raw and powerful in its humanity, The Last Checkmate will break your heart and stitch it back together again. Gabriella Saab has given us a rare and wondrous gift. A must-read for all historical fiction lovers."
A Child for the Reich (2022) Andie Newton "Pulls you in on page one and never lets go! A chilling look at a Nazi program most of us have never even heard of... Historical fans will love this one!"
The War Librarian (2022) Addison Armstrong "The War Librarian is an empowering tale of sisterhood and sacrifice, reminding us of the importance of standing up for what is right in the world--even in the face of war and great peril. Timely and enlightening!"
Angels of the Pacific (2022) Elise Hooper "Told in vivid detail and with tremendous heart, Angels of the Pacific is a deeply moving WWII novel that will have you up all night turning the pages. Hooper masterfully brings this little known story of the heroic nurses in the Philippines to life, weaving together fascinating history, an intricate plot, and characters that you will be rooting for the whole way. A must read!"
Glamour Girls (2021) Marty Wingate "Glamour Girls will take you on a fascinating journey into the lives of female pilots in WWII Britain. Blending female friendship with romance and loss, this is vivid and heartfelt read!"
Rescue You (2020) (Dogwood County, book 1) Elysia Whisler "Smart, sexy, and full of heart, Rescue You is one of those warm and fuzzy books you want to stay up reading all night. Elysia Whisler has crafted an unforgettable story of loss and love and the power of finding your own strength. If you love dogs and a great, slow burn romance, this one is for you!"
