Hi'i is the youngest of the legendary Naupaka dynasty, the only daughter of Laka, and the granddaughter of Hulali. She dreams of becoming the next Miss Aloha Hula to prove her worth in the family and heal the rifts between her mom and grandma. But the harder she dances, the more she feels the distance between her and the matriarch. When an unexpected revelation threatens to fracture the bonds between the Naupaka women, Hi'i must find her way back to her family, heritage, and community.

HULA is a gem of a novel that beautifully intertwines Hawaiian history, cultural richness, and the powerful bonds between family members. Hakes seamlessly weaves historical events and cultural commentary into the story, allowing readers to gain a deeper understanding of the Hawaiian people's struggles, triumphs, and enduring spirit.

The unique choice of a "we" narrator was a stroke of brilliance. This narrative voice provided a refreshing experience, allowing me to connect with the larger Hawaiian community and witness their perseverance & triumphs as a collective unit. It offered a fresh and distinct perspective I hadn't encountered before and worked flawlessly.

Moreover, the generous use of Hawaiian language throughout the book added an extra touch of cultural immersion. It felt like a genuine celebration of Hawaiian heritage & history and further enriched the reading journey. The audiobook provided such a fantastic experience by capturing the essence of the characters and the beauty of the Hawaiian language.

At the heart of HULA is a profound exploration of the want and desire to find family bonds amidst the ever-changing currents of westernization. The journey to preserve the Naupaka family's legacy against the tides of modern influences resonated deeply with me. It reminded me of the importance of honoring our roots and forging connections with our ancestors, especially in a world that often prioritizes progress over heritage. This universal theme of family and cultural preservation was beautifully portrayed, tugging at my heartstrings and leaving a lasting impact.

Another highlight of the novel was the complex relationships between mothers and daughters. Hakes skillfully delved into the intricacies and nuances of these relationships, capturing the inherent tensions, love, and growth that can arise between generations. Through vivid and relatable characters, Hakes expertly showcased the struggles, misunderstandings, and eventual reconciliations that often occur within familial bonds. It added depth and realism to the story, making the characters come alive on the pages.

In conclusion, HULA is an exceptional novel that celebrates Hawaiian heritage & history and explores the unbreakable ties of family bonds.

Thank you to Libro.fm for the gifted ALC. HULA is available now and I hope everyone gives it a try!