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Angels of the Pacific
Their survival would depend on sisterhood and service.
Inspired by the extraordinary true stories of World War II's American Army nurses famously known as the Angels of Bataan and the unsung contributions of Filipinas of the resistance, this novel transports us to a remarkable era of hope, bravery, perseverance, and ultimately--victory.
The Philippines, 1941. Tess Abbott, an American Army nurse, has fled the hardships of the Great Depression at home for the glamour and adventure of Manila, one of the most desirable postings in the world, but everything changes when the Japanese Imperial Army invades with lightning speed and devastating results. Tess and her band of nurses serve on the front lines until captured as prisoners of war and held behind the high stone walls of Manila's Santo Tomas Internment Camp for four long years.
As the Japanese occupation of her beloved homeland commences, Flor Dalisay, a Filipina university student, will be drawn into the underground network of resistance and discover reserves of courage, resilience, and leadership she never knew she possessed.
The war and its aftermath will lead Tess and Flor to find each other to uncover secrets and reveal relationships they would never have predicted, as they work together to defeat the Japanese.
Inspired by the extraordinary true stories of World War II's American Army nurses famously known as the Angels of Bataan and the unsung contributions of Filipinas of the resistance, this novel transports us to a remarkable era of hope, bravery, perseverance, and ultimately--victory.
The Philippines, 1941. Tess Abbott, an American Army nurse, has fled the hardships of the Great Depression at home for the glamour and adventure of Manila, one of the most desirable postings in the world, but everything changes when the Japanese Imperial Army invades with lightning speed and devastating results. Tess and her band of nurses serve on the front lines until captured as prisoners of war and held behind the high stone walls of Manila's Santo Tomas Internment Camp for four long years.
As the Japanese occupation of her beloved homeland commences, Flor Dalisay, a Filipina university student, will be drawn into the underground network of resistance and discover reserves of courage, resilience, and leadership she never knew she possessed.
The war and its aftermath will lead Tess and Flor to find each other to uncover secrets and reveal relationships they would never have predicted, as they work together to defeat the Japanese.
384 pages, Paperback
First published March 8, 2022
454 people are currently reading
14721 people want to read
About the author
Elise Hooper
5 books893 followersA native New Englander, Elise spent several years writing for television and online news outlets before getting a MA and teaching high-school literature and history. She now lives in Seattle with her husband and two daughters.
Follow Elise on Instagram to see more of what she's reading: @elisehooper
Follow Elise on Instagram to see more of what she's reading: @elisehooper
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 585 reviews
October 21, 2022
It was possible to both mourn the sorrow and pain of the past, but also view it as a time of growth and discovery. I realized that grief and gratitude can exist side by side.
Meet Tess and Flor. They are both in the South Pacific during WW II. Tess as a nurse in several locations including Manila, Bataan, and Corregidor. Flor is a native Filipino and the daughter of a doctor. Her plans to leave for the US on December 8, 1941, are scuttled by Pearl Harbor. This book is the first historical fiction I have read about nurses in the South Pacific. It is also my first read with a Filipino perspective on the Japanese occupation and US liberation. Both Tess and Flor assist with the resistance in Milan and their lives intersect in predictable and unexpected ways throughout the book. This is one of my new favorite books set during WW II. I think so many readers will fall in love with Tess and Flor and root for them against unimaginable difficulties. In an interview with the author we are reminded that 77 nurses were captured by the Japanese in that arena and every single one survived. Such a testament to the sisterhood that developed between them and their drive to survive for those who needed medical assistance and to return home. Includes photos of real life heroes from WW II as well as an author interview, questions for reading groups, and a list of related books. To that list I would add Evidence Not Seen: A Woman's Miraculous Faith in the Jungles of World War II about a missionary who was also imprisoned in the same locations during the war. Both books mention the practice of sharing recipes during their imprisonment and a time of near starvation. Two great choices for Women's History Month. This new book by Elise Hooper will be released on March 8.
If you like this one, also check out When We Had Wings, just released on October 18.
Meet Tess and Flor. They are both in the South Pacific during WW II. Tess as a nurse in several locations including Manila, Bataan, and Corregidor. Flor is a native Filipino and the daughter of a doctor. Her plans to leave for the US on December 8, 1941, are scuttled by Pearl Harbor. This book is the first historical fiction I have read about nurses in the South Pacific. It is also my first read with a Filipino perspective on the Japanese occupation and US liberation. Both Tess and Flor assist with the resistance in Milan and their lives intersect in predictable and unexpected ways throughout the book. This is one of my new favorite books set during WW II. I think so many readers will fall in love with Tess and Flor and root for them against unimaginable difficulties. In an interview with the author we are reminded that 77 nurses were captured by the Japanese in that arena and every single one survived. Such a testament to the sisterhood that developed between them and their drive to survive for those who needed medical assistance and to return home. Includes photos of real life heroes from WW II as well as an author interview, questions for reading groups, and a list of related books. To that list I would add Evidence Not Seen: A Woman's Miraculous Faith in the Jungles of World War II about a missionary who was also imprisoned in the same locations during the war. Both books mention the practice of sharing recipes during their imprisonment and a time of near starvation. Two great choices for Women's History Month. This new book by Elise Hooper will be released on March 8.
If you like this one, also check out When We Had Wings, just released on October 18.
January 10, 2022
Told in vivid detail and with tremendous heart, Angels of the Pacific is a deeply moving WWII novel that will have you up all night turning the pages. Hooper masterfully brings this little known story of the heroic nurses in the Philippines to life, weaving together fascinating history, an intricate plot, and characters that you will be rooting for the whole way. A must read!
February 3, 2023
In early 1941, nineteen year old Army nurse, Tess Abbott, arrived in the Philippines. She was looking forward to starting a new life away from the small town where she had grown up. She anticipated finding adventure, independence, and the ability to use her nursing skills to help as many people as possible. By the end of that year, Tess and her nursing colleagues were faced with the onset of World War II, during which their lives would be changed forever.
Tess’s story is told interchangeably with that of young Filipina, Flor Dalisay, who had been anticipating her future as a college student in the United States. Her plans changed drastically when the war began. Flor joined the resistance movement where her life was in constant danger. She too would find her life forever changed by the war.
This work of historical fiction, with its likable characters, brings to life the challenges, hardships, fear, and brutal conditions faced by the U.S. Army nurses as well as the Filipino people as the Japanese Imperial Army invaded and occupied the Philippines.
Tess’s story is told interchangeably with that of young Filipina, Flor Dalisay, who had been anticipating her future as a college student in the United States. Her plans changed drastically when the war began. Flor joined the resistance movement where her life was in constant danger. She too would find her life forever changed by the war.
This work of historical fiction, with its likable characters, brings to life the challenges, hardships, fear, and brutal conditions faced by the U.S. Army nurses as well as the Filipino people as the Japanese Imperial Army invaded and occupied the Philippines.
September 20, 2021
I loved Angels of the Pacific! I have a unique relation to the book as my grandmother Tess was the inspiration of the book. She was a Navy nurse in the Pacific and Elise and I had a special day with her hearing her stories and helping put a face to the story of these amazingly courageous women. My grandma met my grandpa on a Navy ship and got to imagine their love story through Elise's book.
It is incredible how a lifelong love story can be sparked in such stressful time of war. I loved every page of the book and was sad to have it end. It is such an amazing story of the sacrifices these women made and how brave they were for many years serving our country.
It is incredible how a lifelong love story can be sparked in such stressful time of war. I loved every page of the book and was sad to have it end. It is such an amazing story of the sacrifices these women made and how brave they were for many years serving our country.
September 20, 2021
I was captivated by a place and circumstances I knew nothing about, and the characters had such heart they stole mine. Highly recommended.
March 11, 2022
Hooper always delivers insightful, intriguing novels about strong women. I highly recommend any of her books.
1941 in the Philippines-American Army nurse, Tess Abbott is sent to Manila. This is one of the most soft after posts, however the Japanese Imperial army invades. Tess, along with other nurses are captured and become prisoners of war.
👩⚕️
Flor Dalisay, a Filipina university student becomes part of the resistance when the Japanese invade.
Each of these ladies go through unimaginable circumstances and they become stronger as they work together to save lives and fight for their freedom in this page turner. You will root for these two ladies until the end. Absolutely fascinating!
1941 in the Philippines-American Army nurse, Tess Abbott is sent to Manila. This is one of the most soft after posts, however the Japanese Imperial army invades. Tess, along with other nurses are captured and become prisoners of war.
👩⚕️
Flor Dalisay, a Filipina university student becomes part of the resistance when the Japanese invade.
Each of these ladies go through unimaginable circumstances and they become stronger as they work together to save lives and fight for their freedom in this page turner. You will root for these two ladies until the end. Absolutely fascinating!
September 10, 2022
I received a copy of this book for free from the publisher (William Morrow) for promotional purposes.
What a book! I personally found it to be a brutal and heart-wrenching read because the story really hit home for me. Short personal story: I am half Filipino and my maternal grandparents lived through World War II in the Philippines. My grandpa lived in Bataan, which was one of the centers of the war. My mom told me that my grandpa would describe that time in life as always running and never having any shoes. In fact, his birth records were destroyed during the war. When he came to America, he had to have a paper from the Philippine government certifying that his birth certificate was destroyed during the war. It’s crazy to think that my grandparents lived through some of what happened in the book.
This book gave me goosebumps multiple times while reading it. I knew the Japanese occupation was harsh, but reading about the reality of it was something else. I’m so glad that the book shed light on life under their occupation and didn’t hold back on its depictions. It is so overlooked and needs to be acknowledged. I also liked how the book subtly touched upon the Philippines and their previous colonizers (Spain and the US).
It is evident the author put in a tremendous amount of research in writing this story. Both Tess and Flor’s storylines were compelling, engaging, and well thought out. I liked how their stories showed two different points of view (one from an American nurse and one from a native Filipino working as part of the resistance) and how their stories intersected.
Overall, if you are looking for a different take on World War II or just want to learn more about the Philippines during the war, I highly recommend this book!
What a book! I personally found it to be a brutal and heart-wrenching read because the story really hit home for me. Short personal story: I am half Filipino and my maternal grandparents lived through World War II in the Philippines. My grandpa lived in Bataan, which was one of the centers of the war. My mom told me that my grandpa would describe that time in life as always running and never having any shoes. In fact, his birth records were destroyed during the war. When he came to America, he had to have a paper from the Philippine government certifying that his birth certificate was destroyed during the war. It’s crazy to think that my grandparents lived through some of what happened in the book.
This book gave me goosebumps multiple times while reading it. I knew the Japanese occupation was harsh, but reading about the reality of it was something else. I’m so glad that the book shed light on life under their occupation and didn’t hold back on its depictions. It is so overlooked and needs to be acknowledged. I also liked how the book subtly touched upon the Philippines and their previous colonizers (Spain and the US).
It is evident the author put in a tremendous amount of research in writing this story. Both Tess and Flor’s storylines were compelling, engaging, and well thought out. I liked how their stories showed two different points of view (one from an American nurse and one from a native Filipino working as part of the resistance) and how their stories intersected.
Overall, if you are looking for a different take on World War II or just want to learn more about the Philippines during the war, I highly recommend this book!
June 20, 2022
3.5 rounded down. I enjoyed reading about WW2 in the Philippines, as there aren’t that many books that take place in the pacific and out of all the WW2 books I’ve read (and there are many!) this is the first in that country I’m even aware of. The story itself was very interesting and informative.
That being said, I didn’t really care for the writing style - it had very little character development and was more event-oriented, which I’m not a huge fan of in a novel. It was put together well as far as describing what was taking place but I didn’t feel invested in the characters or like I even was being brought along with them in their experience, emotions, etc, the majority of the time. A lot of it felt like documentary-ish or an observing narration more than anything.
There were also a couple weird gaps at the end in the last chapter or so that I was trying to follow and were confusing. A couple things repeated and then a few more pieces, I couldn’t quite figure out what was happening, as if the ending was sort of put on paper and then not edited, alluding to events but never clarifying, or making conclusions that were grand leaps based on what was written.
I felt like it was better than a 3 star, but shy of 4 because of the style and vagueness at the end.
Thanks to Netgalley for the advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
That being said, I didn’t really care for the writing style - it had very little character development and was more event-oriented, which I’m not a huge fan of in a novel. It was put together well as far as describing what was taking place but I didn’t feel invested in the characters or like I even was being brought along with them in their experience, emotions, etc, the majority of the time. A lot of it felt like documentary-ish or an observing narration more than anything.
There were also a couple weird gaps at the end in the last chapter or so that I was trying to follow and were confusing. A couple things repeated and then a few more pieces, I couldn’t quite figure out what was happening, as if the ending was sort of put on paper and then not edited, alluding to events but never clarifying, or making conclusions that were grand leaps based on what was written.
I felt like it was better than a 3 star, but shy of 4 because of the style and vagueness at the end.
Thanks to Netgalley for the advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
October 3, 2021
One of the most heartbreaking, soul rending, uplifting pieces of historical fiction I have read in a long time. An immediate foray to the non fiction books on this subject are needed. A very well written novel and dedication to these women.
June 21, 2022
Elise Hooper is quickly becoming one of my favorite historical fiction authors!! I loved her Fast girls last year and this latest book about the women who served during WWII in the Philippines is just as compelling, well-researched and inspirational.
Perfect for fans of Hazel Gaynor's When we were young and brave, this book focuses on the war efforts in the Pacific, specifically the American and Filipina women who served as nurses and had to endure Japanese occupation, many of whom were held as prisoners of war and treated abominably.
Few books talk about this part of WWII and it was truly eye-opening learning about America's relationship with the Philippines and how little support they were given when the Japanese army attacked. Both the Americans and locals were left undefended and became subject to torture and worse as the Japanese army ravaged their land.
I really enjoyed that the author featured a variety of strong women, both American and Filipina, showing how the war was different for each but that they developed strong friendships and bonds of sisterhood serving together and how these friendships often lasted beyond the war.
Highly recommended, especially on audio narrated by Karissa Vacker. This book had strong women, romance, heroics and amazing female friendships. I absolutely loved it!!
Perfect for fans of Hazel Gaynor's When we were young and brave, this book focuses on the war efforts in the Pacific, specifically the American and Filipina women who served as nurses and had to endure Japanese occupation, many of whom were held as prisoners of war and treated abominably.
Few books talk about this part of WWII and it was truly eye-opening learning about America's relationship with the Philippines and how little support they were given when the Japanese army attacked. Both the Americans and locals were left undefended and became subject to torture and worse as the Japanese army ravaged their land.
I really enjoyed that the author featured a variety of strong women, both American and Filipina, showing how the war was different for each but that they developed strong friendships and bonds of sisterhood serving together and how these friendships often lasted beyond the war.
Highly recommended, especially on audio narrated by Karissa Vacker. This book had strong women, romance, heroics and amazing female friendships. I absolutely loved it!!
March 11, 2022
A worthwhile, nail-biting adventure! This well-researched & detailed story drew me into the lives of the women of the Philippines during WWII. Tess & Flor are heroines to root for as they navigate a dangerous world to help the vulnerable & suffering around them. Flor, especially, shows what the Filipino people suffered & risked in their fight for freedom.
One of my top book picks is the memoir, We Band of Angels: The Untold Story of American Nurses Trapped on Bataan by the Japanese by Elizabeth M. Norman. In the forward, Ms. Norman writes that the nurses were difficult to interview because they did not like to focus on themselves--but always talked of the boys they served & their group experiences. I appreciate that the fictional characters in Angels of the Pacific helped bring these women to life even more for me.
One of my top book picks is the memoir, We Band of Angels: The Untold Story of American Nurses Trapped on Bataan by the Japanese by Elizabeth M. Norman. In the forward, Ms. Norman writes that the nurses were difficult to interview because they did not like to focus on themselves--but always talked of the boys they served & their group experiences. I appreciate that the fictional characters in Angels of the Pacific helped bring these women to life even more for me.
February 23, 2022
This book was inspired by Navy veterans of WW2 and embellished with the kinds of behaviors and facts known to be true. Although this is fiction, it is not all pleasant roses and chocolates. It symbolizes the real people of the Death March, The Caves, the Prison Camps, and even the tortures.
The setting begins at the very edge of war in Manilla (which I had never thought about before). Then it follows several nurses and even members of their families throughout the war and beyond. The final chapters recount the lives and problems encountered by many other veterans of this side of this war couched in the stories of the people in this book. It was a very good read.
I requested and received a free e-book copy from William Morrow and Custom House/William Morrow Paperbacks via NetGalley.
Readers might also add Marcia Gates: Angel of Bataan to their TBR pile.
The setting begins at the very edge of war in Manilla (which I had never thought about before). Then it follows several nurses and even members of their families throughout the war and beyond. The final chapters recount the lives and problems encountered by many other veterans of this side of this war couched in the stories of the people in this book. It was a very good read.
I requested and received a free e-book copy from William Morrow and Custom House/William Morrow Paperbacks via NetGalley.
Readers might also add Marcia Gates: Angel of Bataan to their TBR pile.
February 21, 2024
Well, I didn’t think the writing was all that fantastic, and it took me half the book to start finding it interesting, but I’m glad I read it. I really didn’t know much about that part of the war, and some of what this book had to offer was interesting.
March 17, 2022
I couldn't finish this book!
The main character is stationed near Manilla in 1941 when the Japanese bomb the island. She is a 'nurse'. But she entered nursing on her 18th birthday and now she hasn't even turned 19, so what kind of a 'nurse' is she? She is a lieutenant which means she should be an RN and RN training at that time was a 3 year program. She is asked to lead a hospital transport team which is another far reach. Why her? She is completely inexperienced.
When danger approaches she suddenly becomes a leader and starts giving directions to her friends and co-workers. This is so far fetched, I couldn't even get past page 60. If the author has made this many mistakes within the first 60 pages, I can not trust that she has done her research and the rest of the book has any factual knowledge.
What a disappointment!
The main character is stationed near Manilla in 1941 when the Japanese bomb the island. She is a 'nurse'. But she entered nursing on her 18th birthday and now she hasn't even turned 19, so what kind of a 'nurse' is she? She is a lieutenant which means she should be an RN and RN training at that time was a 3 year program. She is asked to lead a hospital transport team which is another far reach. Why her? She is completely inexperienced.
When danger approaches she suddenly becomes a leader and starts giving directions to her friends and co-workers. This is so far fetched, I couldn't even get past page 60. If the author has made this many mistakes within the first 60 pages, I can not trust that she has done her research and the rest of the book has any factual knowledge.
What a disappointment!
September 18, 2022
In early October, members of my face-to-face book club will be reporting on books about WWII set in other than Europe. This is one of the books I chose for that project. I had read the nonfiction Ghost Soldiers: The Epic Account of World War II's Greatest Rescue Mission. This is a novel, but I thought it would expand my knowledge of the war in the Philippines. I'm glad I had the background from the nonfiction, but I don't think this novel would be any less for not having had it. There is a nonfiction on the nurses in the Philippines: Pure Grit: How WWII Nurses in the Pacific Survived Combat and Prison Camp, which Elise Hooper lists in her section "Other Reading".
This novel opens in December 1941 and is told from two points of view. The first is Tess, a young army nurse. Her parents died when she was young and she was raised by an older sister, now married. Tess was ready to spread her wings. Her story is told in the first person. The other young woman is Flor, a Filipina of a relatively wealthy social class. Flor has an older sister who is a nurse. Flor's story is told in the third person. Eventually, during the Japanese occupation, the lives of Tess and Flor intersect.
War is not easy anywhere it touches, and it certainly wasn't easy for these women. Tess had a job to do. Flor had a country and freedom to fight for. These were fictional characters, but I have no doubt that the things on the page happened - in one way or another.
These two characters are fully-fleshed, in so far as I was able to feel what they were feeling. There were a few poignant moments that brought tears. Both were strongly motivated women. I admit that few if any of us have zero weaknesses, and Tess and Flor certainly had fewer than most. Still, I was ready to accept them as written and only thought about this after I'd read the last page. The writing style is not as mature as I might have wished, but Hooper gets the job done.
I'm glad I read this, and it probably comes in in the lower third of my 4-star group. I'm not sure I'll be reading another by this author, but that is only because I don't see myself interested in her other subjects.
This novel opens in December 1941 and is told from two points of view. The first is Tess, a young army nurse. Her parents died when she was young and she was raised by an older sister, now married. Tess was ready to spread her wings. Her story is told in the first person. The other young woman is Flor, a Filipina of a relatively wealthy social class. Flor has an older sister who is a nurse. Flor's story is told in the third person. Eventually, during the Japanese occupation, the lives of Tess and Flor intersect.
War is not easy anywhere it touches, and it certainly wasn't easy for these women. Tess had a job to do. Flor had a country and freedom to fight for. These were fictional characters, but I have no doubt that the things on the page happened - in one way or another.
These two characters are fully-fleshed, in so far as I was able to feel what they were feeling. There were a few poignant moments that brought tears. Both were strongly motivated women. I admit that few if any of us have zero weaknesses, and Tess and Flor certainly had fewer than most. Still, I was ready to accept them as written and only thought about this after I'd read the last page. The writing style is not as mature as I might have wished, but Hooper gets the job done.
I'm glad I read this, and it probably comes in in the lower third of my 4-star group. I'm not sure I'll be reading another by this author, but that is only because I don't see myself interested in her other subjects.
April 14, 2022
“I’m not trying to be a hero,” I said. “I’m simply sticking with the job I came here to do. Please don’t make this harder than it already is. My orders are as important as yours.”
“I didn’t realize how committed you’d be to staying.” His voice sounded sad and I hated that I was making him feel that way.
-Nakakaiyak naman ang isang ito. Hindi ko alam bakit emosyonal ako habang binabasa ko ito.
“I didn’t realize how committed you’d be to staying.” His voice sounded sad and I hated that I was making him feel that way.
-Nakakaiyak naman ang isang ito. Hindi ko alam bakit emosyonal ako habang binabasa ko ito.
June 2, 2022
Tess couldn’t have been a nurse at her age in 1941. The women had to be between 21-40 to be nurses in WWII. There was a three year training period, they had to be a high school graduate. Author could have done just a little bit of research to get it right.
August 15, 2024
I was raised in a military family and patriotism was fostered by example. We watched WW2 documentaries everyday when my dad came home from work. It was his idea of unwinding. He’d make up a batch of popcorn and we would learn.
It’s not surprising then that I spend a fair amount of time studying wars, and not just WW2. Aside from the politics and atrocities of war, which I will study too, my own personal interest is in the people. How did they survive and most importantly—live—before, during, and after the wars? How many people are forgotten? What were their stories?
“And some there be, which have no memorial; who are perished, as though they had never been; and are become as though they had never been born; and their children after them.”
Ecclesiasticus, Apocrypha
King James Version (KJV)
In the past 24 hours I finished two WW2 historical fiction books. One based in Warsaw, Poland and one in the Pacific. I rated them both 5 stars. The authors brought so many nuances and stories/experiences to life that I had no idea about. I especially loved the epilogue follow ups in these books as well. Here are a few quotes from both books.
The Keeper of Hidden Books by Madeline Martin
“There was power in literature. Brilliant and undeniable.
Books inspired free thought and empathy, an overall understanding and acceptance of everyone. In the pages of books that were burned and banned and ripped apart for pulping, Zofia had found herself. These were the parts of her that were human and strong and loving, parts that understood lives she had never led.”
From the author’s notes, “During the attack on Poland and through the Nazi occupation, it is estimated that fifteen million books were destroyed or stolen from all of Poland. Once the occupation ended, large chunks of buildings were gathered from the debris and Warsaw was pieced together to resemble the city it had once been—a giant citywide jigsaw puzzle where stained and pockmarked old was combined with pristine new to restore Warsaw's beauty.”
Angels of the Pacific by Elise Hooper
“No one survives a war's front lines without ghosts clinging to them.”
“We were going to fight tooth and nail to save what we had. Or maybe it was simply good ol’-fashioned American righteousness—we were simply appalled by a nation defeating us by playing by a set of rules we considered unfair. Everyone had seen the news.”
Elise Hooper, Angels of the Pacific: A Novel of World War II
It’s not surprising then that I spend a fair amount of time studying wars, and not just WW2. Aside from the politics and atrocities of war, which I will study too, my own personal interest is in the people. How did they survive and most importantly—live—before, during, and after the wars? How many people are forgotten? What were their stories?
“And some there be, which have no memorial; who are perished, as though they had never been; and are become as though they had never been born; and their children after them.”
Ecclesiasticus, Apocrypha
King James Version (KJV)
In the past 24 hours I finished two WW2 historical fiction books. One based in Warsaw, Poland and one in the Pacific. I rated them both 5 stars. The authors brought so many nuances and stories/experiences to life that I had no idea about. I especially loved the epilogue follow ups in these books as well. Here are a few quotes from both books.
The Keeper of Hidden Books by Madeline Martin
“There was power in literature. Brilliant and undeniable.
Books inspired free thought and empathy, an overall understanding and acceptance of everyone. In the pages of books that were burned and banned and ripped apart for pulping, Zofia had found herself. These were the parts of her that were human and strong and loving, parts that understood lives she had never led.”
From the author’s notes, “During the attack on Poland and through the Nazi occupation, it is estimated that fifteen million books were destroyed or stolen from all of Poland. Once the occupation ended, large chunks of buildings were gathered from the debris and Warsaw was pieced together to resemble the city it had once been—a giant citywide jigsaw puzzle where stained and pockmarked old was combined with pristine new to restore Warsaw's beauty.”
Angels of the Pacific by Elise Hooper
“No one survives a war's front lines without ghosts clinging to them.”
“We were going to fight tooth and nail to save what we had. Or maybe it was simply good ol’-fashioned American righteousness—we were simply appalled by a nation defeating us by playing by a set of rules we considered unfair. Everyone had seen the news.”
Elise Hooper, Angels of the Pacific: A Novel of World War II
July 18, 2022
Angels of the Pacific is a gripping novel about the nurses who were serving in the Philippines when WWII broke out. It is an emotional, heart wrenching story of extreme courage and resilience.
July 14, 2022
Actual Rating: 4.5
The first novel I’ve read from @elisehooper and definitely not my last. As a historical fiction fan, I instantly got thrilled to discover this book— WW2, set in my home country. Every page reflected a detailed scenario of the situation of Filipinos, Americans, and other foreigners who were in the Philippines during the time of the Japanese invasion. I really find it horrible and inhumane. The author obviously poured out her heart and soul to deliver such vivid scenes and notable characters. It refreshed my knowledge, and at the same time allowed me to discover more about the past. As a nurse, I also find the story inspiring. I love the strong female characters portrayed here. From Tess’ POV, she told how the American nurses endured the chaos of war without faltering to provide their service. And with Flor’s POV, she described how Filipinas showed brave resistance. Another thing that's remarkable for me is how the characters believed that there is HOPE. I felt the triumph when help came and the country was liberated. I recommend this book to anyone who loves or wants to explore historical fiction, as well as to every Filipino reader.
The first novel I’ve read from @elisehooper and definitely not my last. As a historical fiction fan, I instantly got thrilled to discover this book— WW2, set in my home country. Every page reflected a detailed scenario of the situation of Filipinos, Americans, and other foreigners who were in the Philippines during the time of the Japanese invasion. I really find it horrible and inhumane. The author obviously poured out her heart and soul to deliver such vivid scenes and notable characters. It refreshed my knowledge, and at the same time allowed me to discover more about the past. As a nurse, I also find the story inspiring. I love the strong female characters portrayed here. From Tess’ POV, she told how the American nurses endured the chaos of war without faltering to provide their service. And with Flor’s POV, she described how Filipinas showed brave resistance. Another thing that's remarkable for me is how the characters believed that there is HOPE. I felt the triumph when help came and the country was liberated. I recommend this book to anyone who loves or wants to explore historical fiction, as well as to every Filipino reader.
July 30, 2024
I read this for an online book club. It’s a good choice, as there is a lot to talk about. Sometimes I feel like I have read *too many* WWII books. They are all sorrowful to some degree.
This book details the brutality of the Japanese Imperial Army, but also the courage of the people of the Philippines and the American Army nurses who served there. It’s only the second book I’ve read detailing the war in the Pacific, and having known very little about the Philippines prior to reading this, I truly learned many things of value.
It is well written and researched, and describes truly tragic events without being overly graphic, which I appreciate. I would definitely recommend it for anyone interested in WWII.
This book details the brutality of the Japanese Imperial Army, but also the courage of the people of the Philippines and the American Army nurses who served there. It’s only the second book I’ve read detailing the war in the Pacific, and having known very little about the Philippines prior to reading this, I truly learned many things of value.
It is well written and researched, and describes truly tragic events without being overly graphic, which I appreciate. I would definitely recommend it for anyone interested in WWII.
September 6, 2024
This was devastating in every way but also beautiful. And yes I think you can have both devastating and beautiful together. I love the camaraderie between the female nurses. I loved reading about how friendship above anything else, even in the midst of a war, can help overcome some of the most tragic and horrific experiences and can define who you are as a person.
July 23, 2022
I really enjoyed this book. I found the writing style easy to immerse myself as there was a perfect combination of adventure, hardship, perseverance and love. I emotionally connected with the main characters at the end, but maybe it was because I stayed up way too late to finish the book… tired tears? In any event, a great read, and a great way to learn about WWII from a perspective that was new to me.
March 9, 2022
Until I read this book, I really knew very little about what happened in the South Pacific during WWII. You can find my #bookreview of this novel on my blog here. https://tcl-bookreviews.com/2022/03/0...
April 21, 2022
Inspiring and compelling, Elise Hooper’s latest is not to be missed. This novel had me reading well into the night, unable to turn away from the harrowing story of Tess, Flor, and their trials and triumphs amid the war in the Pacific. Historical fiction readers will appreciate the fresh setting for a WWII novel, and the memorable characters who were inspired by real women who served during the occupation of the Philippines. A must read!
January 1, 2022
I have read some exceptional historical fiction in the past few years that addressed the roles of women during WWII; some working for a government and others who were ordinary civilians caught up in the war.
When this Advance Reader's Edition arrived, it dawned on me that those other books were mostly about the war in Europe, so I was excited that this one would take me to the war in the Pacific.
The "Angels" in this case are US Army and Navy nurses and begins in Manila in 1941 when Japan Bombs Pearl Harbor as a prelude to its next big surprise: the invasion of the Philippines, where the story takes place.
The events track back and forth between a group of American nurses and a local family whose lives come together during the crisis.
Test Abbott, an American Army nurse was thrilled to have landed one of the most desirable postings in the world. Little did she expect to find herself on the front lines of the war, living and nursing under the harshest deprivations and even facing years in a prison camp.
Filipina sisters Flor and Iris Dalisay also find their lives in their homeland in upheaval, and are soon risking everything as they become part of the nursing and even the network of Underground resistance.
From the beginning, I remained immersed in these pages rich with history, danger, and heroism. I wanted my first book of 2022 to be something very special and this was a good choice.
A reading group guide is included, and there is a lot that provokes discussion.
The book comes out in March, and I highly recommend that readers look out for it.
When this Advance Reader's Edition arrived, it dawned on me that those other books were mostly about the war in Europe, so I was excited that this one would take me to the war in the Pacific.
The "Angels" in this case are US Army and Navy nurses and begins in Manila in 1941 when Japan Bombs Pearl Harbor as a prelude to its next big surprise: the invasion of the Philippines, where the story takes place.
The events track back and forth between a group of American nurses and a local family whose lives come together during the crisis.
Test Abbott, an American Army nurse was thrilled to have landed one of the most desirable postings in the world. Little did she expect to find herself on the front lines of the war, living and nursing under the harshest deprivations and even facing years in a prison camp.
Filipina sisters Flor and Iris Dalisay also find their lives in their homeland in upheaval, and are soon risking everything as they become part of the nursing and even the network of Underground resistance.
From the beginning, I remained immersed in these pages rich with history, danger, and heroism. I wanted my first book of 2022 to be something very special and this was a good choice.
A reading group guide is included, and there is a lot that provokes discussion.
The book comes out in March, and I highly recommend that readers look out for it.
August 16, 2022
Elise Hooper has done it again! She has written another impeccable historical novel that I couldn’t put down! In Hooper’s Angels Of The Pacific, the stories of two heroic women intertwine during WWII: Tess—an orphan turned US Army nurse; and Flor—a Filipina university student living in glamorous Manila, where Tess is stationed.
Tess – 1941: “When the offer to join the Army Corps of Nursing and transfer was dangled in front of me, I grabbed it with both hands and hung on for dear life with only thoughts of adventure and trying to make myself useful.”
Flor – 1941: “When they reached the guard, he asked for their papers, flipped through them with barely a glance, and then dug through the sacks the women carried. When he pulled out a tin of canned peaches, his face brightened, and he slid it into his pocket.”
An unlikely friendship unfolds when the Japanese Imperial army invades the Philippines. Tess works night and day, caring for the wounded after a barrage of air raids, and Flor is drawn into the resistance.
Revealing an unforgettable and little known chapter of WWII history, inspired by the true story of 77 American nurses who were captured and imprisoned by the Japanese in Bataan, Hooper masterfully brings to life this awe-inspiring tale of sisterhood, bravery, sacrifice, and love. These resilient women face unimaginable challenges with hope and humility. Hooper’s storytelling will amaze you and change your life.
I highly recommend this book!
Tess – 1941: “When the offer to join the Army Corps of Nursing and transfer was dangled in front of me, I grabbed it with both hands and hung on for dear life with only thoughts of adventure and trying to make myself useful.”
Flor – 1941: “When they reached the guard, he asked for their papers, flipped through them with barely a glance, and then dug through the sacks the women carried. When he pulled out a tin of canned peaches, his face brightened, and he slid it into his pocket.”
An unlikely friendship unfolds when the Japanese Imperial army invades the Philippines. Tess works night and day, caring for the wounded after a barrage of air raids, and Flor is drawn into the resistance.
Revealing an unforgettable and little known chapter of WWII history, inspired by the true story of 77 American nurses who were captured and imprisoned by the Japanese in Bataan, Hooper masterfully brings to life this awe-inspiring tale of sisterhood, bravery, sacrifice, and love. These resilient women face unimaginable challenges with hope and humility. Hooper’s storytelling will amaze you and change your life.
I highly recommend this book!
February 8, 2022
Thanks to William Morrow for an advaced copy of Angels of the Pacific by Elise Hooper.
Angels of the Pacific is my favorite kind of historical fiction -- based on real events but the main characters are all fictional but based on the experiences and things that happened to real people. I love this style because you get the storyline and the historic aspect.
I love WWII Historical fiction, especially those based on WACS, WAVES, WASPS and other women who served their country and I didn't know a lot about the war in the Philippines (except the Bataan Death March), and now I'm looking for non-fiction books to read more about the actual women who served on the front line until they were captured as Prisoners of War in the Philippines.
Told from the viewpoint of Tess, an American nurse; Iris, a Filippina nurse and her sister Flor, whose life is altered dramatically with the Japanese occuption. We see how these women all find strength in challenging situations and their lives all intersect during the war. I can't imagine being held as a POW for 4 years as a nurse.
I LOVED this book! It's the perfect blend of history, strong characters, descriptive writing and wanting to know more about the real women who were the Angels of the Bataan.
Even if you're not a WWII Historical Fiction fan you should read this book. Go pre-order it now. It comes out March 8th!
Angels of the Pacific is my favorite kind of historical fiction -- based on real events but the main characters are all fictional but based on the experiences and things that happened to real people. I love this style because you get the storyline and the historic aspect.
I love WWII Historical fiction, especially those based on WACS, WAVES, WASPS and other women who served their country and I didn't know a lot about the war in the Philippines (except the Bataan Death March), and now I'm looking for non-fiction books to read more about the actual women who served on the front line until they were captured as Prisoners of War in the Philippines.
Told from the viewpoint of Tess, an American nurse; Iris, a Filippina nurse and her sister Flor, whose life is altered dramatically with the Japanese occuption. We see how these women all find strength in challenging situations and their lives all intersect during the war. I can't imagine being held as a POW for 4 years as a nurse.
I LOVED this book! It's the perfect blend of history, strong characters, descriptive writing and wanting to know more about the real women who were the Angels of the Bataan.
Even if you're not a WWII Historical Fiction fan you should read this book. Go pre-order it now. It comes out March 8th!
December 30, 2021
I won a copy of this book in a Goodreads giveaway and am I ever glad I did. This book follows an American nurse stationed in The Philipines and the sister of a Filipino nurse during WWII. One aspect of the book I enjoyed was some chapters written in first person and others in third, depending on which character the paragraph referred to. I have not read many WWII genre novels that take place in the Pacific theater and this was a good one. I definitely learned what the internment of the Angels of Bataan may have been like and also some history of The Philipines. The imagery was plentiful as was the emotional aspect of the subjects. This is a must read book in the hisorical fiction genre.
August 19, 2022
I got 1/2 way through the book and have decided, as of now, that there are too many amazing books out there that I would rather invest my time in. This book was extremely basic, shallow and no depth of characters. At times, the author would bring up characters but I had already forgotten them due to the long drawn out writing. I can see how the story might have been interesting but it just didn’t draw me in like other books have.
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