I really like this author's mystery series and his writing style so I was intrigued to read this type of story from him. This was a heartwarming, sometimes brutal and hard to read, engaging story. It was maybe a little long. The narration was done really well telling this diffifult story.

First book by Robert Dugoni and when I saw Will Damron as narrator then it was an easy choice. This book is historical with mainly fictional characters that portray the groups of actual heroes and foes. Knowing how it was adapted into a story to really show what happened during WWII was impressive as it gave me additional perspective. I usually don’t read these types of books and it took some time to get interested but it really clicked for me at about the halfway point. I really liked the main female character in this story a lot.

I am interested to see how I feel about this author’s other books as I get an opportunity in the future!

Thank you to both Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity in exchange for an honest review.

There was something about this book that felt completely immersive, pulling me into its world of war, survival, and quiet hope. The writing had a gripping intensity, making even the most difficult moments impossible to turn away from. The Pacific war setting was vivid and brutal, capturing the chaos, sacrifice, and sheer endurance of those who lived through it. I might not remember every name, but the horrors committed by the Japanese forces were unforgettable, leaving images in my mind that were difficult to shake.

What truly held me was the fate of the two main characters, so different yet bound together by something stronger than war. One was a soldier, hardened by battle, navigating violence and uncertainty. The other was a brilliant mathematician, using her mind to break codes and uncover secrets that could change the course of the war. Their paths unfolded in gripping ways, each carrying the weight of survival in their own way. And then there was the romance—subtle, waiting, lingering in the background like something fragile that could only exist if they both made it through.

The way the story weaved their personal struggles with the larger historical events made it even more powerful. Their connection was not just a love story; it was about two people finding meaning and strength in each other during a time when everything seemed to be falling apart. Even amidst the devastation of war, their bond represented something to hold on to, a reason to keep fighting, even when the odds seemed impossible.

By the time I reached the end, I couldn’t stop thinking about the future these characters might have after the war. Their journey didn’t just end with the conflict—it was clear that there was so much more to explore, a life they could only hope to build after the horrors they’d faced. The emotional depth, the hope, and the resilience of these characters will stay with me for a long time.

There's no doubt that Robert Dugoni writes a good story, regardless of the subject matter he chooses to write about. In this story, Sam and Sarah are high school sweethearts in a small midwestern town. The story, however, evolves into what happens to Sam and Sarah at the beginning of World War 2 as that alters their plans to be together. What this story turns into is a little known factual journey of Japanese POWs in the Philippines, before and after the bombing of Pearl Harbor, and one of the Japanese prisoner ships in the south China seas. It's a brutal and factual account of the horrific treatment of what the captured soldiers had to endure to survive with detailed descriptions of mistreatment, ships, artillery, POW camps, as well as what was happening in the US to break the Japanese codes. While the descriptions felt very real and accurate, the technical details were a bit much for me.

An inspiring and deeply moving historical novel set against the backdrop of World War II. The story follows Sam Carlson, a projectionist from small-town Minnesota, and his college-bound sweetheart, Sarah Haber. When Japan attacks Pearl Harbor, Sam is sent to the Philippines, where he is captured and forced to endure the horrors of the Bataan Death March and brutal POW camps. His journey takes him onto a hell ship, the Arisan Maru, with his survival hanging by a thread. Back home, Sarah channels her remarkable math skills into the war effort, eventually being recruited into the covert world of code-breaking in Washington, D.C. When Sarah intercepts a critical message about a Japanese convoy—unbeknownst to her, the one transporting Sam—her work will unknowingly play a pivotal role in his fate.

What I appreciated most about this story was its historical depth. Dugoni captures the raw realities of war, but also highlights the unwavering resilience of the characters. While Sam's story is compelling, it was Sarah’s journey that meant the most to me. Her involvement in the early days of women in Navy cryptology was particularly moving, as I’ve spent 20 years serving in the same field, decades after this story takes place. Seeing women like Sarah pave the way for those of us who followed was deeply meaningful.

The novel is well-researched, thoughtfully written, and manages to balance heavy material with hope and resilience. It’s a powerful tribute to the love and bravery that fueled countless acts of heroism during the war. Dugoni wraps it all up with a satisfying, uplifting conclusion that celebrates the strength of the human spirit even in the face of insurmountable odds.

A must-read for anyone interested in WWII history, especially the untold stories of women who made their mark in fields like cryptology. It’s an unforgettable story of survival, faith, and love that transcends.

Will Damron did an excellent narration with great storytelling qualities. I do think this story could have benefited from having an additional female narrator for Sarah’s chapters.

This was a great story. It is a story that will stay with me for a very long time.
It starts out slow and sweet with 2 teenagers (Sam and Sarah) in love and thinking about their future together. And then the war starts and both of their lives are changed forever.
Sam's experience is horrific in the POW camp.
Sarah experiences personal growth, self worth and maturity.
All wonderfully written.
Once the war started I couldn't put it down.
It is a thriller, a history lesson and a love story.
It is a great story.
I listened to the audiobook. The narration is very good. You feel all the emotion in his voice. And his voice changes with different characters. Excellent narration.
The sad part is these things actually happened during the war.
I was given this ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Hold Strong
by: Robert Dugoni; Jeff Langholz; Chris Crabtree
Brilliance Publishing; Brilliance Audio
Narrator: Will Damron
Pub Date: 1/28/25

Dugoni, Langholz, and Crabtree have crafted a powerful novel in the historical fiction genre. Set during World War II, the well-researched narrative is haunting and thought provoking. Fans of this genre should definitely consider adding this book to their shelf.

Damron's narration deepens the impact of the story by bringing it alive to listeners in a profound manner.

I received an advance listener's copy from NetGalley and Brilliance Publishing; Brilliance Audio. My review is my own.

This book was excellent. I am still thinking about it. I also was so impressed that the authors wrote so seamlessly. Will be recommending this to everyone.

Thought-provoking, historical, tense, and heartbreaking. This was an emotional rollercoaster. The story begins with Sam and Sarah, as they are high school sweethearts. However, life and unfortunate circumstances send them in opposite directions in life and then the great depression adds to everything. Sarah is off to college and Sam joins the reserves to have an income to help his family and to save for college. However, things change drastically when Pearl Harbor occurs and Sam must go overseas to serve his country.
This sets both of their life journeys into different paths they never thought would occur. They capture Sam as a POW; meanwhile, Sarah completes a Master's degree and begins a career in the military decoding messages.
The horrors that Sam faces as a POW are the stuff of nightmares, and they're terrible! Sarah's experiences are not all bad, but she regrets a decision she made. She did her job as she was told to! This story is full of unspeakable things but also shows courage, love, and determination to do the right thing. This one was spectacular!
I received the audiobook to listen to and review. The narrators brought the story to life, prompting me to reflect on the events and encourage me to consider the world and the realities of war.
Thank you Brilliance Publishing and Netgalley for the opportunity to listen and review this one!

HOLD STRONG by Robert Dugoni, Jeff Langholz, and Chris Crabtree

Thank you @mbc_books, #lakeunionpublishing, and @brilliancepublishing for my gifted physical and audio copies.

📖 Inspired by true events, Hold Strong is a WWII historical fiction novel that follows Sam Carlson, a small-town theater projectionist turned soldier, and his girlfriend Sarah Haber, a college-bound math prodigy turned codebreaker. As Sam endures the brutality of the Bataan Death March and life as a POW, Sarah fights her own battles in Washington, D.C., until their journeys eventually intersect in unimaginable ways.

💭 Absolutely phenomenal!!! Despite being 555 pages and nearly 14 hours on audio, I binged this fast-paced, action-packed story in just two days. Equal parts heartbreaking and inspiring, the authors deliver a stunner of a novel, highlighting themes of resilience, sacrifice, and the enduring power of love. With its rich character development and emotionally charged storytelling, Hold Strong is a MUST READ for historical fiction lovers.

🎧 Will Damron solo narrates this behemoth and he's absolutely brilliant! I can't imagine a better narrator match. He nails it! Perfect performance! 🙌🏼

📌 Out today!

📌 Available on Kindle Unlimited as an ebook and audiobook.

A heartbreaking and courageous WWII historical fiction that follows Sam who has signed up to join the military and leaves his sweetheart, Sarah. I don't think I can eloquently write the review that this book deserves but this is a must read and a story that I feel like everyone needs to know. I had no knowledge prior to any of this and the horrors that POWs endured when they were captured. The barbaric treatment and torture they went through was senseless and heartbreaking.
While this story does shed light on what the POW went through, the author's note gave me chills. This is a story that captures thousands of soldiers as Sam and Sarah symbolizes all of the women that were left behind when their men signed up for the military. It highlights their bravery and commitment to this country.
The narrator, Will Damron did a wonderful job portraying Sam, Sarah and many of the other character's. The tones and inflections used were great. My favorite voice was Chavez. Will did a wonderful job breathing life into all of the characters.

I received an arc from Brilliance Audio along with an ebook from Lake Union. The narrator was spectacular. He brought the emotions out in this story. Made you feel all of the characters laughs and tears. The pain. The sadness. And the love between the main two characters. It was narratorated to perfection.

This is my second book by Robert Dugoni. The first being Sam Hell. This book is another great one. But a very emotional story. It's fiction based on actual events. Events that I have never read before. I've read only a couple of books based on the Japanese during WWll but none like this one. None where you see what happened to POWs held by these very cruel and heartless people. The Japanese soldiers were some of the most cruel and horrible I've read and this one no different. Such horrors. I'll never understand how anyone can have so much hate in them. Or inflict such pain on helpless human beings.

This is a story of two young people who fell in love while still in high school. Both looking forward to spending the rest of their lives together. Both wanting to go to college and make a life. But the war had other plans. Sam joined the National Guard hoping to do something useful and be able to afford college. Sarah received a scholarship to college. During Sam's time in the National Guard he and fellow guardsmen had to serve their country full time. The world was at war. Pearl Harbor had been bombed. These young men were terrified but also ready to do their part.

When the unit that Sam served in was captured and they became POWs in the Philippines. Sarah decided she could not sit still and do nothing. Her and other women had been offered a place in Washington to break the codes the Japanese were sending. Sarah was very good at code breaking. She had no idea how much this would affect Sam and the other men held captive aboard a Japanese ship.

You get a very in depth feel for what the men in this POW camp endured. What happened while aboard the Arisan Maru will make you cry. Weep. Cringe. It was horrible and so hard to read about. What happened next was even harder. What the US did was awful in my opinion. Yes I understand that it was part of war and may have saved lives. May have brought about the end to this horrible war, but it was still awful and so sad.

Will Sam and Sarah be able to come together. Marry and be happy. Or will the things that happened be more than either can live with. As with most historical books this one made it so real. Made me shed so many tears. Made me angry. I rooted for the love story to find a happy ending. Whether it does or not you will have to find out for yourself.

There is a lot at the end of this book about the events that happened. The actual events. While it's fiction, it is strongly based on events that really happened. About a time in history that was beyond horrible.

Thank you #NetGalley, #LakeUnion, #BrillianceAudio, for this ARC.

Five big stars.

Hold Strong
Robert Dugoni; Jeff Langholz; Chris Crabtree
Lake Union Publishing
01/28/2025

What starts as a small-town love story between Sam Carlson and Sarah Haber during the depression turns into an epic and deeply inspiring novel, based on true events. One that tells a powerful story of love, heroism, and resilience amidst the darkest days of World War II. Sam wanted to help his family out during these dark financial times and joined the National Guard. Sarah had a full ride to college and wanted to be a math teacher. They had plans to marry. As the war progressed, their plans changed.

Hold Strong is told between two points of view’. We follow Sam, who after the bombing of Pearl Harbor, is sent to the Philippines where he and others were captured and made POW by the Japanese. Then there is Sarah, who was recruited to Washington and then further on into the Navy where she was breaking not only barriers that were set for women, but she was breaking codes and trying to get Sam and the boys home.

There is absolutely nothing that I can say that will do this book justice. This is a tale that is not well known. Having survived the savage treatment of Japanese prison guards across multiple POW camps and the grueling Bataan Death March, Sam is eventually forced aboard one of the infamous Japanese Hell Ships, the Arisan Maru. Trapped in the ship’s suffocating hold, the conditions were nightmarish. Thousands of POWs faced relentless brutality, torture, starvation, dehydration, bombing from Allied forces, unbearable heat, and even unspeakable cruelty from their fellow prisoners.

There are so many characters in this book that I was cheering for, Chavez and his sense of humor or Padre Tom and his faith. Maybe it was Major Jones and his leadership? I was cheering for female code breakers and others in leadership knowing that their decisions effected so many people. This is a heavy and emotional read. It really puts a lot in perspective. This is a harrowing and tragic tale that I will never forget.

I just could not stop listening. Very surprised a WWII historical held my attn but prob because it was audio. Blew through this story in a day. I feel like this is a story similar to one John Grisham tried to tell except it was not at all interesting and he tried really hard to make that illegal thriller. This story was interesting.

Audio narration was superb.

I know I will be an outlier, but I struggled at first to engage with this read. In the end, it did turn out to be fabulous storytelling, and I enjoyed listening to it on audio.

My thanks to the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.

Hold Strong by Robert Dugoni is a gripping, emotional, heartbreaking, inspiring book based on real events of WWII. The two main characters -- Sam and Sarah are small-town lovebirds ready to start their lives. Their little farm community was hit hard by the Depression, and so Sam joins the National Guard, but very soon the US enters the war and he is sent to the Phillippines. Sarah goes to college, and then works on her Master's Degree in Mathematics.

When Japan invades he is taken as a POW, and the horrors of camp-life nearly take his life many times. He is beaten, tortured, (mentally and physically), and watches as his comrades die from disease, torture and murder. He is targeted by one Japanese soldier who is cruel in the extreme. Eventually he must survive the Battan Death March.

During this time his love, Sarah, joins the military and trains to be a code-breaker. Her work is important and secret, so that she is unable to tell anyone about her work. Her intelligence, education and hard-work are impressive, and this storyline was inspiring.

Eventually Sam is placed on a Japanese Hell-Ship, where more of the men die. When Sam eventually escapes, he nearly dies at sea, but is rescued by the Chinese, who aid him in getting to safety.

I was completely engrossed in the story. I learned a lot from both characters' stories, and would very much like to read more about both the POWs held in the PI and the female code-breakers. Although there are barbaric moments, and tragic, emotionally wrenching moments, ultimately the book is inspiring and left me wondering how soon I can read it again.

Do NOT SKIP the author's note at the end! It gives you so much information about the background. It is a MUST READ.

Thank you @netgalley and Lake Union Publishing for the #gifted audibook! This is one that I will be thinking about and recommending for a long time to come.