My MacArthur

by Cindy Fazzi

The year is 1930. The place: Manila. Douglas MacArthur is the most powerful man in the Philippines, a United States colony. He’s fifty years old, divorced, and he falls in love at first sight with a ravishing young Filipino woman. He writes her a love note on the spot. Her name is Isabel Rosario Cooper, an aspiring movie actress. One glance at his note and she thinks of him as my MacArthur.
MacArthur pursues his romantic obsession even though he’s breaking numerous taboos. She reciprocates his affection because he could open doors for her financially struggling family. That MacArthur happens to be handsome compensates for the fact that he’s as old as her father.
When MacArthur is appointed the U.S. Army chief of staff, he becomes the youngest four-star general and one of America’s most powerful men. Out of hubris, he takes Isabel with him to America without marrying her.
Amid the backdrop of the Great Depression, MacArthur and Isabel’s relationship persists like “a perilous voyage on turbulent waters,” as she describes it. In 1934, after four years of relationship, MacArthur leaves Isabel for fear of a political scandal.
The general goes on to become the iconic hero of World War II, liberating the Philippines and rebuilding Japan. Isabel drifts in Los Angeles unable to muster the courage to return to Manila. As he ascends to his special place in American history, she plunges into a dark place, ultimately meeting a tragic death.

Genres: Historical Fiction, Historical, Fiction

285 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 1, 2018

About the author

Cindy Fazzi is a Filipino American writer and former Associated Press reporter. You can find her on Instagram: >https://www.instagram.com/cindyfazzi/.

She's the author of the Domingo the Bounty Hunter thriller series, published by Thomas & Mercer in 2025. Her historical novel, My MacArthur, was published by Sand Hill Review Press in 2018. She has worked as a journalist in the Philippines, Taiwan, and the U.S.

Reviews

[Susan D. Lewin · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book ticked none of the typical genres that I usually pick up--but I read it in record time. An easy characterization would be "historical romance," but it defies that with its in-depth character development and deep dives into history and place. My MacArthur is the story of General Douglas MacArthur and his relationship with Belle, a young Filipino girl who first sees him as a way to further her theatrical career and benefit her family and then falls in love with him. Though fictionalized, the book is meticulously researched, and the story of the Philippines when it was a U.S. colony is vividly told through the characters of Belle, her family and friends, and the military stationed there. The book continues through WWII and moves to Washington D.C. and other parts of the United States--but I don't want to create any spoilers; one of the ways I judge a book is if I look forward to getting back to it as fast as possible. This one hits that mark.

[Christine The Uncorked Librarian · Rating 5 out of 5]

Are you looking for a historical fiction novel that is full of sexual tension, secrets, and all that is forbidden? Drinking during Prohibition, powerful older men sneaking around with feisty younger biracial women, and steamy love making scenes? My MacArthur by Cindy Fazzi is a brand new historical fiction romance that introduces readers to Douglas MacArthur’s coveted lover, Isabel Rosario Cooper. Although not much is known about the real Isabel, Fazzi breathes vitality and fire into her persona. Fazzi places Isabel at the heart of the stage that she so dearly craves instead of her usual stand in position. Power, distrust, passionate love, and utter devastation will keep readers sailing through pages until Isabel can no longer share her tragic story.

Get the full review on my website, The Uncorked Librarian here: https://theuncorkedlibrarian.com/my-m...

[David Jensen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed reading My MacAruthur. As historical fiction, Cindy Fazzi does an amazing job of recapturing the time period, culture, and political climate in both the U.S. and Philippines during MacArthur's reign from the 1930s up through the late 1950s.

This book has the perfect blend of actual historical events and story. History is a hobby for me. I went into it feeling like I had a pretty good understanding of General Douglas MacArthur. Let's just say there is a lot I didn't know. The book clearly shows that Cindy put a significant amount of time and effort in her research. That said, anytime I can learn new things about historical events and people when I'm reading for enjoyment, I'm all for it.

I highly recommend reading this book!

[Brittany Lee · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 Stars
So much burning tension, someone call the fire department! I felt every let down, missed chance and unspoken word, deeply in my soul as if I were this girl or knew this girl. The emotions are spot on. I love when fiction feels so real.

I liked the different POVs told between the main characters- Isabel and MacArthur. The push and pull of the relationship between them felt so raw and real, as well as the relationships with all the other characters of the story. It flowed very well, and was highly believable. This created much heat throughout.

Her devotion resembled an unexpected sunburst amid the gloom that was West Point.

Very vivid.
Loved how certain chapters ended, setting up the next one so it could just start right off with little to no explanation. Other times the chapter would start, not giving any hint to where the scene would end or what would happen next. This writing style is one I highly appreciate!

The voice of the story is strong. The characters know what they want, but not always sure on the how to get it. "My MacArthur" is richly engrained with culture, not so much that you get lost in the details though. It is a perfect balance, which I found very surprising-- because you will never see me picking up stories with war or politics in them. That being said you can see why I am so shocked at how much I adored this story.

I think it is safe to say with this author's Filipina decent, her travels and her own experiences aided to her writing exquisitely. It is not an easy time to be a woman of culture in today's society, and Cindy effortlessly lays out the pain and romance for us as if it is second nature, and sadly probably is. I think this book coming out during these times of presidency, is of utmost importance. America needs stories like this now more than ever. Will you choose happiness or pride?

I do think the book summary on the back reveals a little much. "My MacArthur" is a tragic love story I will forever cherish, despite knowing how it ends. I am so happy Isabel's side of the story has had some light shone on it, and enjoyed the emotional pull it had on my heart. I liked the way it was written so much it just may go on my favorites list and definitely one I would recommend. You will crave the food, drink, and hot weather throughout this read, maybe even after. The mango/brandy/ice drink Isabel makes for Douglas MacArthur is one that will not leave my mind. The scents, perfumes, fruits, tropicallness of it all had such an alluring and enticing appeal, it makes one swoon.

I want to say thank you to the author Cindy Fazzi, for putting in as many facts and research into this story as she did, and citing her sources, it was worth it! I also want to thank Sand Hill Review Press and the Goodreads Giveaway Program for the paperback ARC I won. All reviews are my own and voluntary.

[Anthony · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.

Author Cindy Fazzi tackles one of the United States most prominent military figures and the mysterious love affair he had with a young Filipino woman in the highly acclaimed novel, “My MacArthur”. Here is the synopsis.

The Synopsis

The year is 1930. The place: Manila. Douglas MacArthur is the most powerful man in the Philippines, a United States colony. He’s fifty years old, divorced, and he falls in love at first sight with a ravishing young Filipino woman. He writes her a love note on the spot. Her name is Isabel Rosario Cooper, an aspiring movie actress. One glance at his note and she thinks of him as "my MacArthur." 

MacArthur pursues his romantic obsession even though he’s breaking numerous taboos. She reciprocates his affection because he could open doors for her financially struggling family. When MacArthur is appointed the U.S. Army chief of staff, he becomes the youngest four-star general and one of America’s most powerful men. Out of hubris, he takes Isabel with him to America without marrying her. Amid the backdrop of the Great Depression, their relationship lasts until 1934. After four years of relationship, MacArthur leaves Isabel for fear of a political scandal. 

The general goes on to become the iconic hero of World War II, liberating the Philippines and rebuilding Japan, while Isabel drifts in Los Angeles unable to muster the courage to return to Manila. 

The Review

As a fan of history and looking past the curtain of fame to see the true people these historical figures were, I found this story truly fascinating. A fictional story about a true love affair, the often explosive, raw and destructive affair between the famed General MacArthur and the young aspiring actress Isabel makes for a powerful and engaging read.

It truly was interesting to see the famed military leaders fascination and love for the Philippines, and the author did a wonderful job of bringing the setting to life on every page. The blend of Philippine and American cultures shone through in every chapter, and set the affair in a whole new light as the two broke taboo after taboo in both countries in order to be together.

The Verdict

This is a must read novel, and a fantastic example of historical fiction that is so well written that it could easily be reality. Giving a voice to an era and to people who have remained mysterious in their relationship with one another for decades, it was truly interesting to see the chemistry between the two, both the good and the bad. If you have a fascination with history, Filipino culture or fantastic writing overall, then you need to grab your copy of My MacArthur by Cindy Fazzi today.

[Joy Corkery · Rating 4 out of 5]

Review originally published here: https://joyfulantidotes.com/2018/11/3...

Perhaps you have a vague idea of how this relationship ends though considering that the main characters were indeed real people. History buffs might know a lot about Douglas MacArthur but little is mentioned about Isabel Rosario Cooper. Cindy Fazzi took it upon herself to create a fictional story filling in the gaps of this love story – and done it very well, may I add.

Ok, although I’ve called this a love story, I don’t think it is a romance. While there is no denying that Isabel and Douglas were besotted with one another, it was not how a relationship should be. Their scenes together were uncomfortable to read. One reason being the age gap, something I’m not normally against but Douglas was much too domineering toward younger Isabel for my liking. Not to say she was an entirely innocent party. Quite the opposite, in fact, making it hard to feel sorry for either character. On the flip side, I did find myself rooting for Isabel when it became apparent that her parents were “selling her” in return for favours from Douglas. I might not have been a fan of the relationship overall but I did want at least one bit of happiness for her.

My MacArthur is not a generic love story for other reasons too. There are various underlying themes which are of interest to the reader. Besides the historic nods to the impending Japanese war, the author touches on interracial relationships and how difficult they were at the time, the struggle to make it in show business, and the difference in morals between the Philippines and the United States. The fact that the book is told from both the perspective of Isabel and Douglas helped me better understand the collision between their two worlds.

Normally, I prefer a book with more twists and turns than My MacArthur. Yet it had me intrigued. I felt that the author did a wonderful job of interweaving in the problems of the era to a piece of historical fiction. Whatever did happen between Isabel and Douglas we will probably never know, but I had some great hours reading Cindy Fazzi take on things.

I was sent a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

[Liz Fyne · Rating 5 out of 5]

The women of history are frequently lost among the throng of men hording the public limelight. But in this new historical novel by Cindy Fazzi, we meet one of those women, whose story has languished untold in the darkness of General Douglas MacArthur’s extensive shadow. Largely of his own making, this secrecy shielded him from the backlash of popular opinion, and of his own emotional weakness, regarding forbidden love: an older, powerful white man—a national hero—and a young, part-Filipino mix-breed who claimed, at their first meeting, that she was only 16.

This is the story of two people, both possessed of powerful love and ambition. Both of them violently alive and desperate for each other, for personal glory, and for groundbreaking success—MacArthur in his military career and Isabel as an actress. One of them finds immortality and the other is discarded, both figuratively and literally. Read this book to peek inside the intimate, personal, and mostly untold journey they took into each other’s lives.

Extensively researched and years in the making, this is a book about lost stories. Take a look and see the other side of “his”tory.

[C.C. Campaign · Rating 4 out of 5]

Q&A With Author Cindy Fazzi: https://charmedbookhavenreviews.wordp...

It’s been too long since I’ve reviewed an Historical Fiction novel! General Douglas MacArthur is well-known as the Chief of Staff and commanded Allied forces in the South Pacific during WWII. Before he became a beloved hero, he got involved with a young Filipino Isabel Rosario Cooper which at the time was a big no-no due to his political standing and her ethnicity.

Author Cindy Fazzi takes us back to the 20s during the Great Depression. We first meet Isobel as she is going to a boxing match and in the midst of enjoying herself, she catches the eye of the future General Douglas MacArthur. We follow them through their courtship and bounce between Isobel and Douglas’s perspectives. You can feel their love through the pages and my heart broke knowing it never worked out.

Society, politics, and threat of a scandal tore these lovers apart, but the memory of them will always remain and echo through the ages.

[Crystal Otto · Rating 5 out of 5]

My MacArthur is a beautiful love story. What really made this book for me was how the author, Cindy Fazzi, did such a great job with historical facts, but also the way her characters came alive. She is a storyteller and a talented one at that! This was a quick read and I was drawn in quickly to the easy to relate to young character of Isabel. The character development throughout the book is without a doubt one of the things I loved about this book. If someone on the street asked me to quickly summarize all that I enjoyed about My MacArthur I would simply say the characters were well developed, the facts were checked and double checked, and once I started reading I couldn't put the book down.

[Lynne · Rating 5 out of 5]

The author created a very believable emotional page-turner with well-developed real and made-up characters, oriented around the true romance between General MacArthur and Isabel. With only very minimal information about Isabel, the author imagined a story that will make you wonder how it wasn't all actual - and will stick with you.

[Helen Bonanomi · Rating 4 out of 5]

A fascinating, well-written book about an American military hero and his illicit relationship with a young woman of mixed Filipino/Chineese/American heritage. Tragic in the sense that they were doomed to fail, one wonders what would have happened if this relationship would occur today--probably a much different outcome. I wish more were known about really happened to this incredibly naive yet ambitious woman who I suspect died tragically alone. I hope to read more from Fazzi!

[Bev · Rating 4 out of 5]

(Please note: I received an advance copy to read and review.)

1930 Philippines was a US colony and major General Douglas MacArthur was one of the most powerful men there. He was a divorced 50 year old man and the youngest four star general. He became obsessed with a 16 year old Filipino woman, Isabel Cooper, an actress. He brought her to US when he became the Chief of Staff in Washington months after the met.

Cindy Fazzi took these basic historical facts and crafted an historical novel about their love affair and their years together and apart.

The novel is well researched. We gain an insight into life in 1930 Manilla as well as Washington DC of the 30s and 40s.

The characters of Isabel and the General are well developed, and intriguing. I found the novel a fascinating read, on that had me wishing that we really knew more about the strong, independent Isabel.

History rewards the powerful, but this young Filipino woman has been relegated to just a footnote in the history books. Cindy Fazzi has definitely brought her to life and shed light on what she endured.

I highly recommend this book. Thanks Cindy!

[Amanda Sanders · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was such a great book! Read my full review at

https://amandadiaries.com/2018/11/16/...

[Jacqueline Alcalde · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a wonderful tale of love, lust, political jockeying and tragedy. Cindy Fazzi takes us behind the veil to see the hidden world of a revered American military figure. While we get to learn the history of his soaring career, we are privy to the secret woman, half his age, that buoyed him during the critical years of his rise. We step into the petite high heels of Isabel Rosario Cooper to see how she captured a side of him that was less the general and more the man. Fazzi brilliantly let us feel the grip their love had on each other and the price they paid for that love.

We travel with Isabel from Manila to the US as she left her dreams behind to follow the man who held the promise of a new and wonderful life. We see how MacArthur delicately navigated two worlds to be sure he got what he wanted for as long as he wanted it. And we feel for this young woman who is vulnerable but strong and slightly manipulative in her desperate plea for his commitment.

Fazzi had to carefully excavate this story to bring it to us. Her research was detailed, and her insights about the Filipino culture added a real depth to the story, allowing us to see the pedestal on which MacArthur was placed. I appreciated the inside view of this little-known account of a well-known American hero.

[Nicole · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm not normally a fan of historical fiction but reading about Isabel really made me glad to discover this book. She was determined and I could completely relate to how much she wanted to get out of the spot she was in. Unfortunately, things didn't quite work out how she wanted. The characterization of Isabel felt very real to me and while this wasn't your standard happily ever after, I was still glad I read this book.

If you love historical fiction novels, I highly recommend My MacArthur by Cindy Fazzi. You will definitely love how the author depicts this complicated, rocky roller coaster of a relationship!

[Christine Cernera · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m embarrassed to admit that I do not know a lot about American history so reading My MacArthur filled me in on a lot of details. Isabel Rosario, as depicted by Cindy Fazzi Drew me in to her emotions - the love, the desire, the frustration of her relationship with Douglas MacArthur. I became lost in her world and enjoyed every minute of this book

[Helen Hollick · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book has received a Discovering Diamonds Review:
Helen Hollick
founder #DDRevs
"...one of those love affairs between two ambitious people that you know is going to end not just in tears, but in tragedy."

[MaryJane Rings · Rating 5 out of 5]

Extremely well written and documented book about the mistress of Douglas Macarthur. A rare look at the story of his life and accomplishments from her perspective. Also a glimpse of history through the early 1930s.

[Eccarter · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a great read on General MacArthur's life in the Philippines before WWII and his love for a very young girl.

[Patrick McCoy · Rating 4 out of 5]

I stumbled upon Cindy Fazzi's novel My MacArthur while researching books to read for my planned vacation to the Philippines (my second visit). Also, since I have been living in Asia for a long time I have developed an interest in the Pacific War so Mac Arthur is a big part of that and a fictionalized version of the love affair between the famous general and his Filipino mistress Isabelle Rosario Cooper was compelling. I also saw that Fazzi was a former journalist, so I knew she would do her homework as far as the historical details were concerned, and felt satisfied that she did. The Author Notes are as compelling as the novel itself to me.

[Tory · Rating 5 out of 5]

Captivating glimpse into pre-World War II Douglas MacArthur's relationship with a young Filipino actress. I was glued to it.