Customer Reviews

Kuhina Nui

5 star:		(0)
4 star:		(0)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(1)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

Ms. Patterson's very strong bias toward native peoples comes through loud and clear in this work. The Hawaiian homeland movement certainly has much to recommend itself, but those who would advocate for a return to the days of the monarchy certainly, and conveniently, leave aside the many bad aspects of those days. However, this work is unique in allowing the gods and godesses of old Hawai'i to act as characters. Whether or not they are portrayed accurately is another question.

If you're planning a vacation in Hawaii, this historic novel is the perfect read while you're there. If you can get around the mediocre literary writing and editing, you can easily be transported back in time - literally time travel - with the help of several Hawaiin gods, Queen Ka'ahumanu, and a homeless lady from Waikiki Beach. The author very creatively weaves history, current socio-economic issues, and a sweet romance story together, keeping the reader engaged and wondering what happens next. It's a quick lesson on the "who's who" of Hawaiin Royalty during the reigns of Kamehameha I-IV (1800's). I especially enjoyed the use of Hawaiin words in context to give a more authentic flavor and appreciation for the local culture. This book taught me a lot more in 10 days about Hawaii than I would have otherwise learned from the mostly touristic resort destinations of the islands. And it left me hungry for more!