My rating: 5/5
A masterful portrayal of heroism, unconditional love, and survival, Hold Strong by Robert Dugoni, Jeff Langholz, and Chris Crabtree is an inspiring five-star read sure to impress upon the heart of the reader.
Hold Strong is an exceptional story that will appeal to those who enjoy historical military fiction with the inclusion of a delightful love story. The plot provides uncanny portrayals of the suffering that soldiers endured during the Bataan Death March during World War II, the horrendous torture of American soldiers in a Korean POW camp, as well as the inhumane treatment of soldiers forced into the cargo hold of Japan’s Arisan Maru hell ship. The graphic depictions are unfolded from the experiences of the primary character, Sam Carlson. The barbaric treatment he endured was horrible, but his survival was a testament to the strength of his will to live, the courageous loyalty of his fellow brothers, and the hope of being reunited with his loved ones. Despite the descriptive grueling experiences of the American POWs, there was a beautiful love story that blossomed within the narrative.
Sarah Haber stole Sam’s heart with her candidness, intelligence, and kindness. As high school sweethearts, they envisioned a future in loving bliss with one another. However, things turn uncertain when Sarah departs for college and eventually works a top-secret government job, and Sam is abruptly shipped overseas for war. Years away from one another does not end her unwavering love for Sam, despite his status as a POW. Their experiences separate from one another unknowingly parallel, leaving them forever changed.
Written with well researched descriptive scenes, Hold Strong provides realistic accounts of the atrocities of World War II, and includes a diverse cast of memorable characters that bring the pages to life. I enjoyed all the characters; however, my favorite was military chaplain, Thomas Scecina, whose strong faith in Christ anchored the soldiers during the dark and oppressive experiences they endured.
This amazing novel has tearjerker moments, engrossing scenes, and a well-developed love story. These components of the story make for a captivating novel that I highly recommend.
#Historicalfiction #militaryfiction
