I am a huge fan of this author. But this book fell a little bit short for me. I just didn’t feel the connection that I usually feel. That does not mean you don’t need to read it…YES! Go get it and read it. Read all her books. You will not be sorry!

I received an advanced digital copy of this book from the author, publisher and NetGalley.com. Thanks to all for the opportunity to read and review. The opinions expressed in this review are my own.

Red Sky over Hawaii is an excellently researched and written piece of WWII historical fiction. From the setting to the characters, it is an engaging read from start to finish.

5 out of 5 stars. Highly recommended.

I absolutely love any book that is set in Hawaii, especially if it focuses on Pearl Harbor. I've been a interested in this time in history every since I was able to visit Pearl Harbor back in 2011. When this book became available I needed to get my hands on it. Unfortunately, it fell to the pile of TBR, but after a year was able to pick it up.
This book was a beautiful focus on characters and the bonds that they form. All the characters are likeable and you find yourself rooting for each one and relating to each, which is sometimes difficult to do in a historical fiction. I also love that this story took place on the Big Island. Most stories that take place in Hawaii are set on the primary tourist island and not the surrounding ones that are focused more on culture and daily life.

I haven’t read many books centered on Hawaii during World War II. Starting right around Pearl Harbor, this tells a story of finding your own family and how certain groups were treated so poorly due to assumptions. It kept you wondering what was going to happen and how to stand up for what you believe in.

Red Sky Over Hawaii is historical fiction at it finest! A compelling, unique storyline, a rich setting and strong sense of place, wonderful characters, simply stunning writing, and even a fun dose of magical realism brought this book full circle into a very memorable historical fiction read.

Inspired by true event of WW2 and the results of the attack on Pearl Harbor, this story takes place in rural Hawaii, following Lana as she returns home to attempt to repair her relationship with her estranged father, only she arrives too late and what she discovers is shocking... a secret property in a remote Hawaii rainforest. Suspicions are already high and the tension strong. What follows is a powerful and sharp story of family, love, and doing the right thing even when it feels impossible.

One of the highlights here was just how atmospheric the writing is. Ackerman has such an incredible talent for bringing Hawaii to life on the pages, and that’s exactly what the reader gets to experience here. I truly got lost in it all. I also really appreciated how she brought a fresh perspective and insight into WW2 with this story, all through this cast of quirky characters and the events and circumstances surrounding them.

I can’t sing this books praises enough and would highly recommend it to all historical fiction lovers, especially those with a love for magic on the side!

Thank you so much to NetGalley and MIRA for the gifted e-copy.

Love Sara Ackerman's writing so much. She writes beautiful historical fiction and this one is no different. Atmospheric with strong female characters!

Review will be posted on 3/19/21
Obviously the attack on Pearl Harbor had a profound impact on people's lives, especially for those who lived on Hawaii. Lana Hitchcock receives a message from her father that he is sick, so she decides to head back home to the Big Island of Hawaii. She hopes to repair her fractured relationship with her father, but instead she is too late and now she has to deal with the problems he left behind. First up, she finds out her father has a secret hideout hidden in the forest at the base of Kilauea Volcano. What could this be about? Meanwhile, Lana is trying to sort through her life and starts to bear witness to the consequences of Pearl Harbor as some of her neighbors are considered "suspicious" by those in charge. Ultimately, her neighbors, specifically the parents of two German girls, are being rounded up with their little ones left behind. Hawaii isn't sure if the Japanese are going to attack again and they are unsure who is a sympathizer. Lana ends up helping the two young German girls, Marie and Coco, because she is unsure how long will their parents be detained. She also helps a Japanese fisherman and his son. There's only one thing to do before they are rounded up by the authorities: take them to her dad's secret hideout in Volcano. Red Sky Over Hawaii by Sara Ackerman is a memorable audio book that highlights not only the implications of Pearl Harbor on the island of Hawaii, but it illustrates the suspicion many had towards their neighbors, the prejudice, and the upsetting consequences.

Lana is an interesting character and one that I enjoyed in Red Sky Over Hawaii. She's the kind of main character that you can't help but root for and I enjoyed her determination to do the right thing for her friends. It's very upsetting to learn this side of history, specifically the detention centers, the ugly prejudices, and how Americans became so suspicious of our neighbors, but it's an important lesson to learn and I think Ackerman shares it well. Lana also has a chance for romance in this novel, which was also done well, especially since she is trying to get over her failing marriage and numerous heartaches.

One thing I can always count on Ackerman to showcase is Hawaii and all its beauty. She really sets the stage and it's a nice mental vacation. Readers feel like they are there on Hawaii and enjoying the gorgeous foliage, the beautiful sights, sounds, and smells. I haven't been to the Big Island in over ten years, but she took me back there. I can really tell that Ackerman was born in Hawaii and currently lives there, because her depictions are so very vivid. Red Sky Over Hawaii can be a serious historical tale, but it's extremely evocative, which I especially appreciated since I have been longing to travel.

If you are looking for an audio book that will not only teach you about history, but will also transport you to the beautiful island of Hawaii, look no further! While Red Sky Over Hawaii wasn't my favorite of Ackerman's novels, I still really enjoyed this tale about bravery, friendship, and the importance of doing what is right during difficult times. Even though the story takes place during WWII, it's themes are actually very timely.

Are you a fan of Ackerman's novels? Have you read Red Sky Over Hawaii? Do you like books set in Hawaii? Let me know in the comments below.

*Thanks to Mira Books and NetGalley for the complimentary copy of this book for my review*

I've never been a big fan of historical fiction so I always struggle with these. The writing style was fine and I really didn't struggle through the book, I just didn't care for it. I'm sure this book is great for other people that really enjoy the genre but it just wasn't for me. I honestly put this book down a couple of times and then had to remind myself to pick it back up, the author's writing style was about the only thing I did enjoy.

I have been looking forward to reading this novel since I first heard about it, so to say I was excited to receive an advanced digital copy of it is putting it lightly. This was heightened even more by my current interest in historical fiction. Having never previously read Ackerman's works, I was didn't know what to expect in relation to Ackerman's writing style. Though I was initially excited to be diving into such an interesting story, from the story's description, I found it to be lacking at times. I repeatedly found it hard to get into this story, as it felt like there was a depth missing to it that if explored would have made it that much more intriguing to read. The writing style was something I also had to get accustomed to, as it wasn't a smooth transition and didn't necessarily capture my attention initially. Nonetheless, the plot progressed wonderfully and the characters were interesting to read. Though, I truly think more could have been developed in certain sections of the novel, it was nonetheless an enjoy book to read.

eARC was kindly provided by HarperCollins Canada in exchange for an honest review.

So much of the recently published fiction on WWII has taken place in Europe. That makes perfect sense but, of course, America was impacted as well.

In this historical novel, the story is set in Hawaii and centers on a group of characters, including those of German and Japanese heritage, whose lives were upended.

Readers will follow protagonist Lana as she reacts and acts in response to the aftermath of Pearl Harbor, This title also is about Lana’s personal life, including her father’s legacy and her romantic life.

Consider this one if you would like to read an America based WWII story.

While I expected this book to be a bit more fluff, it drew me in and had me fully invested in the characters right away. My family thought these were people I actually knew from my repeated mumblings. I missed living in Hawaii...but I've never actually lived in Hawaii. You get the picture. It was a well-written and engrossing book.

It all starts when Lana gets a call from her father. He's ill, and he's not the kind of guy to admit that easily. She walks out of her husband's home, knowing it's likely she won't come back (they are so done). Anyway, it takes some finagling, but she gets a flight to Hilo to see her father.

Once she finds out her father has already passed, she returns to his house and meets his neighbors. While having breakfast with the neighbors the next day, they're taken in by the FBI because Pearl Harbor was bombed and the neighbors are German. Lana promises to care for the charming daughters of the neighbors.

Soon enough, Lana realizes Hilo probably isn't the safest place for them all, so she decides to take the girls to her father's other property in Volcano. Her father's best friend and his teenager tag along. Oh, and they're Japanese (also wanted for questioning). Her father's friend is in poor health and old, but his philosophy is very calming. She values his input and is grateful to not be the only adult.

The story of Lana's instant responsibility for three kids isn't enough drama for that girl - the author even throws in a romantic interest. Add in a bit of magical realism and I can't do anything else til I've read this story through to its conclusion.

I'd give this book 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for fans of historical fiction. It's also a great message of a woman's resilience and strength to do what's needed.

Thank you for the opportunity to read Red Sky Over Hawaii. Unfortunately, I was not able to get engrossed into the book so I won't be leaving a full review.

I fell in love with Ackerman's writing in The LT's Nurse last year and Red Sky Over Hawaii was among my most anticipated reads for 2020. One thing that Ackerman never fails to deliver is a rich setting for her historical fiction. Even with this story being a glimpse into the past, the tension and fear within the communities is palpable. Medium paced, readers have the chance to experience a bit of rural Hawaii with a dash of magic.

It took me a while to settle in with the characters but, overall, each had their own fun quirks that made them feel authentic and well-rounded. I adored Coco, Marie was a typical pre-teen, and Sailor lent some much needed goofy puppy love to offset some of the heartache. As well rounded each of the characters were, I had trouble identifying with Lana which made this a slower read for me.

I'm also on the fence regarding the romance. I enjoyed the fated aspect, but I wish we had more time to build up the foundation for a romance that doesn't hinge on his relationship with her father. It made her love for him feel a little forced.

That aside, I adored the magical realism and rich Hawaiian culture Ackerman wove into the tale. Hands down, that was my favorite part.

Red Sky Over Hawaii's unique approach to Pearl Harbor and the island internment camps made for a compelling read. While I didn't connect with Lana, I definitely still recommend readers pick this up. Especially if you enjoy rich settings and a dose of magical realism with your history.

*I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

I love historical fiction especially set around Wii and this one was fantastic with engaging characters and a plot the keeps you glue to the page

this was a really well done story, the characters were great and I really enjoyed the WW2 setting. It really added to the immersion.

Loved everything about this book. I loved the setting and time period around the attack on Pearl Harbor. Exquisite writing and characters.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for letting me review this book

I loved everything about this piece of historical fiction. Lana returns to her home after a long estrangement from her father, Jack. Her father is dying, and as she returns, the Japanese attack Pearl Harbor and life in Hawaii changes instantly. She is a day late to see her father, but there in time to see his German neighbors arrested. On the island, many Japanese and Germans, as well as Italians, are arrested without any other reason than their nationality. Lana takes the two daughters, Coco and Marie, to safety at a house her father built in a remote section of the island. In addition, she hides her father’s friend, more Hawaiian than Japanese,but at risk of arrest. It is an important work with ramifications for today’s political situation, while telling an engrossing story of a strong woman and her actions in the face of danger. Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC.

Red Sky over Hawaii is a book about the courage and bravery of a young woman after the attack at Pearl Harbor. Lana rushed home to see her estranged ill father but got there after he died. She went to his home where she met his next door neighbors. When the parents of the German family are picked up by the government and sent to an internment camp, she decides to keep the children safe until their parents return. (During the time right after the war started, German and Japanese families were put into internment camps because the government was worried that they might be spies or sympathetic to the enemies of the US.) To keep them safe, Lana decides to travel to secret property that her father owned that was tucked away in the remote rain forest of Kilauea volcano She also takes a Japanese fisherman and his son who were friends of her father. She knows that she is going against the government but is willing to take a risk to keep them safe. They have visitors from the nearby Army base show up and she struggles to keep their secrets. When she finds out that there is an internment camp at the Army base, she knows that has to work even harder to keep her secrets.

Lana was a extremely well written character. Even though she had no family of her own she was willing to make a family out of the people that she helped escape from being taken away by the government. Family is more than blood ties - it is also the people that we love and protect.

This book is an interesting look about how the bombing of Pearl Harbor and the war against Japan affected the people of Hawaii. If you enjoy light historical fiction with a little romance, give this one a try!

I am ashamed to say that I was never taught about the concentration camps.

I was never told about what the American government and it’s people did to people of German and Japanese descent. Red Sky Over Hawaii speaks of that time, when the US was attacked at Pearl Harbor and all the racists came out.

Taking place in Hawaii, part of Polynesia where most of it’s residents are of Asian descent, the book follows Native Hawaiian Lana Hitchcock from her separation from her husband to finding a whole new family. Red Sky Over Hawaii really explored what actually brings people together as well as giving readers a glimpse into a Hawaii, I’m sure, most tourists don’t see.

Lana had to lie and go against her very strong ethical code to survive in the middle of a world war. The extreme circumstances that she, Maria, Benji, Coco, and Grant are thrust in have a way of making the important things seem even more important.. The characters were amazing. The writing was magical and all I want to do is go to Hawaii and see a volcano erupt and fall in love.

This is the first book I have read by Sara Ackerman, but it won't be my last. She has a beautiful and descriptive writing style that I loved. This story might take place after the bombing of Pearl Harbor, but this is the story of the people who lived on the Big Island in Hawaii and what they dealt with and how their lives changed after that event.

Lana Hitchcock has flown over to see her father in the hospital. She arrives to find out that she is too late and he has already died. Heartbroken, she heads to his house to figure out what to do. Her marriage is over, and she is now alone. Arriving at Jack's house, she meets his neighbors, the Wagners. She has a couple of meals with them and quickly gets to know their two girls. When they are arrested, being turned in by an acquaintance for being nazi sympathizers, Lana takes the two girls and head to her father's hideaway in the forest near the volcano. She also takes two other neighbors and friends of her fathers who happen to be Japanese. The story is about their life there, the things they deal with, their relationships and how they develop, the role pets and the wild horses play in their lives and a bit of a romance. There are serious issues of racism, turning on friends, mistrust during wartime, chosen family rather than blood, and living under the shadow of war and attack. The descriptions of the rain forest of Kilauea volcano was beautiful. I enjoyed Lana's character. She was strong, smart, determined, protective and lovely. She was a heroine to those she stood up. I will say I liked the ending and was happy that it was happy. This book gives the reader a lot to think about regarding the country's actions during this war. I recommend this one to those who enjoy historic fiction that is not too dark.