The islands of Hawaii are a magical place, and you’ll find some of the most enchanting Best Fiction Books set in that part of the world. From thrillers to horror novels to mysteries, these are some of the best books set in Hawaii that you should read!
Island of Sweet Pies and Soldiers
What could be more perfect than a book set in Hawaii? “ Island of Sweet Pies and Soldiers” by Sara Ackerman is a charming novel about love and friendship during World War II. The story follows Louise, a young woman who falls in love with a soldier stationed in Hawaii. As their relationship grows, so does the threat of the war. With the help of her friends, Louise must find a way to keep her loved ones safe while also trying to maintain a sense of normalcy. The novel is set against the backdrop of the beautiful Hawaiian islands and provides readers with a glimpse into the culture and history of the area.
Why You Should Read It:
Ackerman’s writing is warm and engaging, making ” Island of Sweet Pies and Soldiers” a perfect read for anyone looking for a heartwarming story. The Island of Sweet Pies and Soldiers offers a beautiful, new perspective on World War II because it captures the unbreakable friendship between female companions. The bond between a mother and her child, and the power of love in even the darkest time.
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Murder on Molokai: A Surfing Detective Mystery
Murders on Molokai is a mystery novel that takes place on the island of Molokai. It’s written by Chip Hughes and follows detective, Hunter Kincaid as he tries to solve the murder of a famous surfer and find out who is after him next. The story is set in the 1950s Hawaii, where there are still no phones or any other form of communication with the outside world. You will get an interesting glimpse into this time period through this book.
Why You Should Read It:
What makes this book so unique is that it focuses heavily on surfing, which will be fascinating for anyone interested in surfing or beach-related mysteries. This is a good read if you love mysteries and would like to learn more about surfing. The book is also educational as it contains information on surfing at that time, as well as life on Molokai. So, if you’re looking for an entertaining and informative read, I recommend checking out Murder on Molokai: A Surfing Detective Mystery.
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Still Life with Woodpecker
A novel by Tom Robbins, Still Life with Woodpecker, is set in a village on the island of Kaua’i. The novel depicts a series of unusual events that culminate in the protagonist’s discovery of an ancient Hawaiian artifact: a petrified woodpecker, carved from stone. From this point onward, his life begins to change for the better as he finally finds meaning and satisfaction in his work and relationships. His obsessions over the petrified woodpecker are not completely quelled, but they are put into perspective. He discovers that there are other mysteries out there waiting to be solved, if only he has the courage to go looking for them. And that’s what makes a novel like Still Life with Woodpecker such a joy to read.
Why You Should Read It:
This is no case of an author simply trying to craft a book that’s set on an island, but never visiting or even researching his subject. Robbins had lived on Kauai for almost 15 years before he wrote his novel about it, and you can tell from every page.
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Murder, She Wrote: Aloha Betrayed Book
Murder, She Wrote: Aloha Betrayed is the first book of a two-part series that continues with Murder, She Wrote: Aloha Revisited. The story takes place primarily on the island of Oahu and centers around Jessica Fletcher’s pursuit of a murderer who has been killing tourists. As she investigates, she meets various characters and learns more about the culture on Oahu.
Why You Should Read It:
As someone interested in reading books set in Hawaii, this one will be especially intriguing to you. Murder, She Wrote: Aloha Betrayed was awarded an Agatha Award for Best Single Crime Novel. It is a fun read for those that love murder mysteries!
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Trouble Magnet
Trouble Magnet is a young adult novel that follows the story of David, who has moved to Hawaii with his family. It’s his first time being away from home and he struggles with fitting in and getting used to life on the island. He befriends two girls, just as they are starting to get into trouble. The book explores what it means to belong and how easy it is for people to get caught up in things. The action takes place over one summer, but Salisbury leaves room for readers to imagine more adventures after the end.
Why You Should Read It:
If you’re looking for a book set in Hawaii that has some serious drama, then Trouble Magnet is just right for you. And even if you don’t read fiction, this one will make an interesting read because of its unique setting.
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House of Many Gods
From Kiana Davenport, the bestselling author of Song of the Exiles and Shark Dialogues, comes a sweeping historical novel set in Hawaii that follows the lives of three generations of women as they grapple with love, loss, and betrayal.The House of Many Gods is the story of Lani, a young Hawaiian woman who is torn between her love for her family and her yearning for something more. Lani’s grandmother, Kapi’olani, is a strong-willed woman who has always fought for her independence. But when she falls in love with an older man, she must confront her own fears and prejudices.Lani’s mother, Leilani, is a beautiful singer with a voice that captures the hearts of everyone who hears it. But when she becomes pregnant with Lani, she must make a choice that will change her life forever.
Why You Should Read It:
The House of Many Gods is a sweeping saga about three generations of Hawaiian women who are connected by their ancestral home, but must each find their own way in the world.
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One Boy, No Water
Why You Should Read It:
With its fast-paced action and thrilling plot, Niuhi Shark Saga is sure to keep readers hooked from start to finish.The book is full of suspense and adventure, and it’s a great read for anyone who loves Hawaii or wants to learn more about Hawaiian culture.
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Moloka’i
Moloka’i is a beautiful and heart-wrenching novel set in Hawaii more than a century ago. The story follows seven-year-old Rachel Kalama, a spirited Hawaiian girl who dreams of visiting far-off lands. When she contracts leprosy, she is sent to the isolated island of Moloka’i, where she must learn to adapt to her new life.Although leprosy is no longer a major health concern in Hawaii, Brennert’s novel brings to light the challenges and struggles that those affected by the disease faced in the past.
Why You Should Read It:
The book Moloka’i is a great read for anyone who loves Hawaii or wants to learn more about Hawaiian culture. The story is full of adventure, family, and friendship. I would highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a good read.
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Death of a Messenger
Death of a Messenger is a thriller set in Hawaii. The story follows Jack Logan, a private investigator, as he tries to solve the murder of a messenger. The case leads him to uncover a conspiracy that goes all the way to the top of the Hawaiian government.
Why You Should Read It:
Death of a Messenger is a fast-paced and exciting read. Robert B. McCaw does an excellent job of creating suspense and keeping the reader guessing until the very end. If you’re looking for a good thriller set in Hawaii, this is the book for you.
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This is Paradise
This is Paradise is a collection of short stories about modern life in Hawaii. The stories explore the tensions between local and tourist, tradition and expectation, facade and authentic self. The book shows life as it’s truly being lived on Maui, Oahu, Kauai, and the Big Island.
Why You Should Read It:
The book is a great read for anyone interested in Hawaii or looking for a glimpse into the lives of its people. The stories are well-written and provide an insight into the culture and way of life on the islands.
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Honolulu
Honolulu by Alan Brennert is a novel set in Hawaii during the early 1900s. The story follows the life of Regret, a young girl who is sold into prostitution by her poverty-stricken family.
The novel tells the story of Regret’s struggle to survive on the streets of Honolulu. It also explores the themes of racism and sexism that were prevalent in Hawaii at that time.
Why You Should Read It:
Honolulu is a well-written and moving novel that gives readers a glimpse into the lives of prostitutes in Hawaii during the early 1900s.
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