Island of Sweet Pies and Soldiers

When her husband mysteriously disappears and rumors swirl about his loyalties, a mother must rely on the remarkable power of friendship in war-torn Hawaii

It’s 1944, combat in the Pacific is intensifying, and Violet Iverson and her daughter, Ella, are piecing their lives back together one year after her husband vanished. As suspicions about his loyalties surface, Violet suspects Ella knows something. But Ella refuses to talk. Something—or someone—has scared her.

Violet enjoys the camaraderie of her friends as they open a pie stand for the soldiers training on the island for a secret mission. But even these women face their own wartime challenges as prejudice against the island Japanese pits neighbor against neighbor. And then there’s the matter of Sergeant Stone, a brash marine who comes to Violet’s aid when the women are accused of spying. She struggles with her feelings of guilt but can’t deny the burning attraction—or her fear of losing another man when Stone ships out for Iwo Jima.

Set amid the tropical beauty of Hawaii, Island of Sweet Pies and Soldiers offers a fresh perspective on World War II as it presents timeless depictions of female friendship, the bond between a mother and her child, and the enduring power of love even in the darkest times.


My Review

I just loved the whole package of this book. I loved the story, time period (WWII), and the characters. A very character driven story. A must read! Island of Sweet Pies and Soldiers by Sara Ackerman.

Instantly, I was transported back in time and on the tropical island of Hawaii. It was like I was right there with Violet, Ella, and the other women. While, the men are present in this story; it is the women that brought the story to life with their powerful voices, story, and personalities. This is what I am speaking of when I mention character driven story.

Ella seemed so mature for her age. Partly this had to do with the big secret she was keeping. Also, she was protective of her mother. Because the story was so good, I didn't try to rush it by worrying about what this big secret was that Ella was keeping until the reveal. Which, I want to comment on the ending did end on a good solid note. There is nothing worse than reading a book only to get a weak ending. Ms. Ackerman has a new fan in me.


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