Book Review: Hold Strong by Robert Dugoni, Jeff Langholz, and Chris Crabtree
Picking up Hold Strong was like falling into a captivating time capsule, one that opened a window into the harrowing yet inspiring experiences of World War II. I’ve long admired Robert Dugoni for his gripping narratives in the crime genre, but here, he ventures into historical fiction with the help of co-authors Jeff Langholz and Chris Crabtree. It struck me how expertly they’ve woven human resilience into a tapestry of historical events—something that immediately drew me in.
At its core, Hold Strong revolves around the turbulent love story of Sam Carlson and Sarah Haber, set against the backdrop of a world engulfed in chaos. Sam, a projectionist in small-town Minnesota, is swept away when the Japanese bomb Pearl Harbor, leading him to the Philippines and ultimately to a harrowing imprisonment. Meanwhile, Sarah, gifted with math, transforms her intellect into a weapon for the war effort, deciphering codes and uncovering life-and-death intelligence about her beloved.
The characters are not just vessels for their roles; they embody the tenacity of the human spirit. Sam’s journey through the brutality of the Bataan Death March and the hellish conditions of POW camps brings forth a visceral sense of survival that pulsates through each page. The emotional weight of his and Sarah’s plight is palpable—a love threatened by circumstances beyond their control yet rooted firmly in hope.
The authors’ writing style is seamless, despite the collaboration. The pacing moves fluidly from the sweetness of young love to the unforgiving realities faced by soldiers and civilians alike. I found myself lingering on certain passages, reflecting on poignant quotes that highlighted the stark contrast between their dreams and the harsh circumstances they faced. For instance, when Sam contemplates the innocence of the life he left behind, it serves as a heartbreaking reminder of what war takes from us.
What makes Hold Strong particularly impressive is the detailed Afterword and exhaustive bibliography. It’s a testament to the meticulous research that grounds this narrative in truth. The historical events—the Japanese invasion of the Philippines, the Bataan Death March, and the fate of POWs—are not just background noise; they are woven intricately into the characters’ lives, providing context and urgency that make every moment significant.
Reflecting on this experience, I feel a deep appreciation for those who serve and the unyielding spirit of those who survive. Hold Strong is a must-read for anyone who enjoys inspiring historical narratives, love stories tinged with sacrifice, or simply great storytelling. It’s a book that not only educates but also resonates on a profoundly personal level, leaving you pondering what it means to hold strong in the face of adversity.
For those who appreciate a beautifully crafted story that honors history while pulling at the heartstrings, I wholeheartedly recommend Hold Strong. This book will not only take you on a riveting journey through the past but will also ignite conversations about resilience, love, and the human spirit that lingers long after the last page is turned.