Ghosts of Honolulu – The Silent War Behind Pearl Harbor | Book & Audiobook Review

1. About the Author: Mark Harmon

Mark Harmon is a household name in American television, best known for his iconic role as Agent Leroy Jethro Gibbs in the long-running crime series NCIS. However, few know that Harmon is also passionate about history, especially military and espionage topics. Ghosts of Honolulu marks his transition from actor to author, co-written with Leon Carroll Jr., a former NCIS agent and technical advisor for the show.

Harmon’s writing style is cinematic, detailed, and suspenseful—an expected flair from someone seasoned in storytelling on screen. With Carroll’s real-life experience in intelligence, the duo crafts a compelling and historically rich narrative that brings hidden stories of World War II to light.

2. About the Narrators: Mark Harmon & Leon Carroll Jr.

The audiobook version of Ghosts of Honolulu is narrated by the authors themselves—Mark Harmon and Leon Carroll Jr. Their authentic voices bring credibility and emotion to the narrative, particularly when recounting tense and complex historical events.

Mark Harmon’s deep, measured voice adds a dramatic touch reminiscent of his NCIS persona, while Leon Carroll Jr.’s delivery draws from his intelligence background, providing authenticity and gravitas that listeners appreciate. Their combined performance makes this audiobook a standout experience for history buffs and fans of espionage thrillers.

3. About the Book: Ghosts of Honolulu

Ghosts of Honolulu: A Japanese Spy, A Japanese American Spy Hunter, and the Untold Story of Pearl Harbor is a non-fiction work that explores the secretive world of espionage surrounding the Pearl Harbor attack. It centers on two main figures: Takeo Yoshikawa, a Japanese spy stationed in Hawaii, and Douglas Wada, a Japanese American Naval Intelligence officer tasked with counter-espionage.

Set in pre-World War II Hawaii, the book delves into racial tension, loyalty, and the moral complexity of intelligence work during wartime.

The book has received a Goodreads average rating of 3.72/5 stars from over 6,000 readers, indicating widespread interest and discussion. While it may not have yet received major awards, it stands out for its unique perspective and careful historical research.

4. Review of the Book: Ghosts of Honolulu

Review: Ghosts of Honolulu is more than just a historical account—it’s a gripping narrative about intelligence warfare and national identity during one of the most volatile periods in American history.

The book excels in its meticulous research and storytelling. Readers are introduced to Douglas Wada, a second-generation Japanese American, who navigates both the battlefield of intelligence and the prejudice of his time. His journey is contrasted with Takeo Yoshikawa, whose quiet but deadly spy operations contributed to the Pearl Harbor attack.

The book’s strength lies in the authenticity and the lesser-known angles it covers. However, some reviewers noted a slow mid-section and occasional lack of narrative flow. Still, for readers interested in espionage, wartime strategy, and U.S.-Japan relations, this book is a must-read

5. Review of the Audiobook: Ghosts of Honolulu

The audiobook of Ghosts of Honolulu is a powerful experience, largely because it is narrated by the authors themselves—bringing unparalleled insight and personal connection to the material.

Mark Harmon’s commanding yet calm delivery enhances the cinematic nature of the story, while Leon Carroll Jr.’s voice carries the authority of lived experience in naval intelligence.

According to Audible listeners, the performance is excellent and engaging. One listener noted, “This is a brilliant historical perspective on Japan’s attack on Pearl Harbor.” The audiobook currently holds an impressive 4.5/5 stars rating on Audible, highlighting its high production value and effective narration.

6. Who Should Read This Book?

Ghosts of Honolulu appeals to a broad range of readers, especially:

• History enthusiasts, particularly those interested in World War II, Pearl Harbor, and U.S.-Japan relations.

• Fans of spy and intelligence stories, who appreciate real-life intrigue and counter-espionage missions.

• Audiobook listeners seeking an immersive, well-narrated experience.

• Students, researchers, and journalists, looking for unique, lesser-known perspectives on wartime history.

7. Conclusion

Ghosts of Honolulu is not just a book—it’s a journey through hidden chapters of history, told with honesty and emotion. It sheds light on the unspoken heroes and silent adversaries of the Pacific War, revealing a world of complexity beyond battlefield heroics.

If you’re seeking a well-researched, thought-provoking read or an audiobook that captures the tension of real-life espionage, this is a worthy addition to your reading list.

Don’t miss out—experience Ghosts of Honolulu through the power of storytelling.

8. Where to Listen to the Audiobook?

You can listen to Ghosts of Honolulu (Audiobook) on these major platforms:

• Audiobooks.com: Search directly by the book’s title or author’s name.

• Audible

Tip: Sign up for a membership to unlock unlimited audiobook listening and enjoy offline access anytime, anywhere.