Happy Friday! Today is First Line Friday, and I am excited to be linking up with Reading is My Superpower to share a fantastic book with you. The Sound of Light by Sarah Sundin is already on my top 10 list for 2023!
Copenhagen, Denmark
Tuesday, April 9, 1940
“The sun rose on the first day of another year in the wasted life of Baron Henrik Ahlefeldt.”
The Sound of Light by Sarah Sundin
The Basics
Title: The Sound of Light
Author: Sarah Sundin
Publication Date: February 7, 2023
Genre: Christian Historical Romance
My Rating: 5 Stars
From the Back Cover:
When the Germans march into Denmark, Baron Henrik Ahlefeldt exchanges his nobility for anonymity, assuming a new identity so he can secretly row messages for the Danish Resistance across the waters to Sweden. American physicist Dr. Else Jensen refuses to leave Copenhagen and abandon her research–her life’s dream–and makes the dangerous decision to print resistance newspapers.
As Else hears rumors of the movement’s legendary Havmand–the merman–she also becomes intrigued by the mysterious and silent shipyard worker living in the same boardinghouse. Henrik makes every effort to conceal his noble upbringing, but he is torn between the façade he must maintain and the woman he is beginning to fall in love with.
When the Occupation cracks down on the Danes, these two passionate people will discover if there is more power in speech . . . or in silence.
My Review
Sarah Sundin brings a little-known facet of WWII history to life in The Sound of Light. I had never read much about Denmark’s role in the war, but it is fascinating as told through the story of Else, the physicist, and Hemming, the baron-turned-resistance-fighter. In addition to the rich history, one of the things that sets Sundin’s books apart is the way she naturally weaves in spiritual themes. The attention to detail, rich character development, and moments of action and intensity all work together to create an unforgettable story.
This beautifully written story will inspire you to be the sound of light in your own life, just as Else and Hemming were in theirs. Readers will also enjoy cameos by characters from When Leaves Fall in Paris and When Twilight Breaks. Sundin’s masterful storytelling ability really shines telling stories of faith, courage, and conviction highlighted by this unique period in history. I highly recommend this profoundly moving story to fans of WWII history, and fans of authors like Roseanna M. White and Elizabeth Camden.
Now it’s your turn! Please share the first line of the book you’re reading in the comments below. Don’t forget to head to Reading is My Superpower to see what first lines other bloggers are sharing, or to share your own!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. Thank you, Revell!
Glad you enjoyed this one! Have a good weekend!
Thanks, Cindy! Hope you have a great week!
My first line comes from The Maid of Ballymacool by Jennifer Deibel:
County Donegal, Ireland September 1935
The slap had hit its mark, leaving a burning outline Brianna was certain showed perfectly on her cheek.
That first line paints a vivid picture! Thanks for sharing, Paula!
I’m currently reading Brooke by Ronie Kendig. It’s intense.
“Holy fires, it hurt to breathe. She wanted to slow down but knew she couldn’t.”
I hope you’re having a great weekend!
I just read Brooke too and loved it! Intense is a great word for it! Have a great week, Nicole 😊
I’d like to read this one sometime. I’m just beginning Kidnapped in Texas by Virginia Vaughan. The first line is: “Abby Mitchell crossed the street to drop a letter into the mailbox.” Hope you have a great week!
I don’t think I’ve heard of that author, but the title sounds intriguing! Have a great week, Danielle!