This is a beautifully written story about WWII through the eyes of people who will capture the emotional struggle they go through. I loved how the author creates an image of what it was was like as our two main characters take a journey that fills the pages with faith, danger, war, evil and survival. I found it interesting that we get a closer look at the Dutch in this story. I don’t remember many stories that feature the Dutch and the author shows how in-depth her research was as she brought these people to life.

Else impressed me with her intelligence and determination as an American living in a foreign land during this time period. She is a physicist who has to prove to others that women can thrive in this field. When Else is asked to print flyers that could cause her to be put in danger, she decides to do it to contribute to the cause of getting Germany to leave. The tension is high as she has to be very careful not to get caught. With bravery I applauded her for standing up to the enemy.

Henrik is a character that you want to have on your side. He is strong, smart and does secret missions to deliver much needed information to Allies. I loved how he delivered the messages via a row boat in the dark of night. He gets to know Else better as they are staying at the same boardinghouse. Henrik hides his real identity from everyone, but is someone suspicious of him?

The story is filled with twists in the story as Else and Henrik must keep one step ahead of the Gestpo. Their lives are in danger and the author keeps us on the edge of our seat as we watch two people face danger, develop feelings for each other and try to overcome the evil that tries to destroy them.

I received a copy of this book from Revell Blogger Program. The review is my own opinion.

This is a page-turning story that takes readers to Denmark during the Nazi occupation of WW2. A refreshing setting for yet another WW2 historical romance.

Else is an American physicist working at the famous institute in Copenhagen. Henrik is a noble who trades his fame for anonymity by couriering messages between Denmark and Sweden. Theirs is a slow-burn romance, providing plenty of swoon-worthy and nail-biting moments.

The story highlights a local legend of the little mermaid. This legend is woven through Henrik’s story as he assumes a secret identity. And it is definitely not the Disney-version! As always, descriptions of locations create a realistic world for the reader and one can almost feel the same sensations the characters are experiencing.

This story has all the feels – from suspense to warm fuzzies. And readers can expect to revisit old friends from previous novels in the final pages.

It’s a great read for WW2 history lovers.

I received an ecopy from the publisher through NetGalley. All opinions are my own.

I’m blown away by this story and its amazing cast of brave characters. I didn’t think the author could top the characters and the situations from her last book titled, Until the Leaves Fall in Paris, but oh my she went above and beyond what I ever suspected could happen, in this novel.

Furthermore, I loved how this author shows ordinary, flawed people rising to the challenge to go and do extraordinary things. This is the first novel (by this author) that made my heart race at the nail-biting suspense in this story. I wasn’t sure how this was going to work out, and yes, I stayed up way too late seeing how things would go. I wasn’t sure this book would end on a happy or/or satisfying note.

Readers meet Else a well-educated woman, who dreams of being a physicist, she took great joy in solving puzzles. Then we are introduced to Henrik Olympic rower, well-educated Harvard man, running from his overbearing father. He gets into a situation with a close friend that has him changing his name and social status. It’s hard but he would do anything to get back at his father.

When things begin to get crazy for the Jewish people, Else’s friend asks her to step in and help in resistance work. What could she say her best friend was Jewish, she had to help, but to what extent?

Both Else and Hendrik are asked to do things that if captured would have them arrested and shot. (Or just shot, given the situation) They both live in the same boarding house and neither knows what the other is up to. Just doing their jobs, him at the factory and Else at the laboratory. They couldn’t deny their attraction for one another. I enjoyed watching Else and Hemings friendship bloom. It would be dangerous for them to take it any further than friends. They each had a secret they could not tell the other. It was too dangerous to share, which made things awkward.

I hadn’t heard of this part of history before. The author says, “The Danes outspokenly refused to allow the oppression of other human beings – and acted on that principle.” Hooray! It was amazing to see the Danes unite to help the Jewish people. There were some parts that choked me up and had me teary-eyed. This is a powerful, moving story you don’t want to miss. It would be a wonderful book club pick.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I requested and received a copy of this book by the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”

Nora St. Laurent
TBCN Where Book Fun Begins!
The Book Club Network blog https://psalm516.blogspot.com/

#BookRevew: THE SOUND OF LIGHT by Sarah Sundin

Wow! That was an amazing read. A WWII book like no other. I think this will be great to watch in movie theatres. It had enough tension, suspense, action, melodrama, romance and faith to capture the audience’s interest. The writing was good. Slow at first as we were introduced to the characters and circumstances. But it kept me intrigued the whole time. I was also immersed in the historical details since this is my first WWII book set in Denmark.

It was so satisfying to read how Hemming and Else joined forces as they continued to be a part of Denmark’s resistance against the Nazi’s. The danger seemed to draw them closer. Their faith in God and in each other didn’t waver, despite all the risks around them. I enjoy physics so it was great that Else loves it, especially prisms.

The Havmand was a nod to The Little Mermaid. The war changed him. He lives with a purpose now. A man willing to sacrifice his life for the good of those he loved. Chapter 46 made me so emotional. Courageous men suffered greatly in the hands of the Nazi’s. But love and forgiveness shined through the dark times. I highly recommend it.


Rating: 5 stars
Pub Date: 07 Feb 2023


Thank you Revell Books for the complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own.

Sundin does it yet again with a fantastic story that brings little known parts of World War II history to light!

As the Germans march into Denmark, not a single shot is fired in opposition. But those that have opposing views of the Germans know they must get out before it’s too late. Baron Henrik Ahlefeldt uses his rowing skills to row his friend Svend to neutral Sweden before the Germans can arrest him. Henrik is propositioned with an opportunity to work against the Germans, but to do so will require him to give up his life of nobility and his identity.

Dr. Else Jensen was ecstatic when she received the opportunity to work alongside Niels Bohr at is institute. But when the German occupation begins, she hears rumors of the atrocities committed against Jewish people and those who oppose their views. She hears stories of a legend known as the Havmand, or merman, who swims the sound between Denmark and Sweden to cause disruption and chaos to the Germans. Can Else be as brave as the Havmand and do her part to thwart those causing suffering?

As I’ve come to expect, Sarah Sundin delivers yet another fantastic story set within World War II. This time she has chosen the setting of Copenhagen, Denmark and shines light on its occupation by the Germans. I love how she manages to find the local stories and legends during wartime and bring those to life for her readers. I love the story between Henrik and Else and how they had to overcome personal obstacles to become the people they needed to be. There is an underlying tone of forgiveness throughout this book, especially for Henrik and when he had to overcome to forgive those of his past.

For the first time (at least that I’ve noticed), there are some common characters from other books that make an appearance. You’ll have to hunt to find them, but I hope that there might be more there in the future! Great story!

I received a complimentary copy of this title from the publisher. The views and opinions expressed within are my own.

The character development in this book is wonderful. The author truly explores what it means to become a new creation. The parallels between light and sound and the analogy of life as a prism make Sundin's point so beautifully. The deep themes of The Sound of Light don't bog the reader down or dim the enjoyment of this exciting World War II story set in Denmark. I knew less of the events in this country than in nearby England, France, and Poland. I enjoyed learning more about the Danes' evolving response to their occupation. The Sound of Light demonstrates the heart behind those who responded unselfishly and those seeking only their own personal safety and well-being. It makes readers wonder the state of their own hearts, and to consider who in their personal sphere of influence might benefit from receiving the sacrificial giving of time, money, or talent.

I am grateful to have received a complementary copy of this well-researched, well-written novel from Revell via NetGalley without obligation. All opinions expressed here are my own.

A wonderful story that I very much enjoyed and couldn't put down until the end!
I enjoy reading Sundin's novels because I feel like I learn about things I've never heard of.
I love how Sundin writes a scene so well that she makes you feel like you are right there!
My favorite thing about this book is how each character goes by faith unseen no matter where they are at. Faith and Hope is the most important thing.
I wish that I could give this book more than 5 stars! The writing is awesome!
I didn't want to say goodbye to Else. I really enjoyed in getting to know her.
I thought Sundin did very well with this novel.
There were a few places that I just simply had to snicker at and some I wanted to cry.
5 stars for a job well done! I highly recommend!
My thanks for a copy of this book. I was NOT required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.

Is it ever right to do wrong?

Oh, what a story! This is a book based in World War 2 Nazi occupied Denmark. They are the model country with the model situation with citizens living alongside the occupiers. There's plenty of food, life goes on as usual and everyone is about their own business, relatively happy. None of the dark shadowy happenings here as reported in other occupied nations.
Contradiction everywhere.
Dr. Elsa Jensen, a physicist, is an American who is living her dream. She has been hired to work at the Niels Bohrs Institute. Her grandparents live close by, so she refuses to go home when Denmark is overtaken. She can go along with her life and plans, no problem.
Baron Henrik Ahlefeldt, an Olympic rower, assumes the quiet identity of an uneducated laborer so he can hide in the shadows while rowing messages for the Danish resistance to Sweden.
When the intelligent and kind Dr. Jensen meets the nearly illiterate Hemming at their mutual boarding home and decides to prove she isn't an educated snob things get interesting and potentially dangerous.
I want to thank Revell Publishing and NetGalley along with the author for my advanced reader's copy of this book. This is my own personal opinion. It's such an excellent story. I love these characters, their histories that mark their present and the changes they both make as life around them intensifies and realities of the occupation and war hit home. This is a book I can recommend for its quality, spiritual message and endearing love story. This is the kind of fiction that helps me see history and search more information out too.

When the Germans invade Denmark, the wealthy playboy Baron Hendrik Ahlefeldt faces a choice: to escape to Sweden, or to remain and make something of himself. He's already turned his back on his harsh father, but hates the result. Now, inspired by the little mermaid, he decides to give up his own voice: to disappear, and reinvent himself as the rather slow and stupid Hemming - who secretly rows to Sweden weekly as the Havmand, delivering secret papers for the Resistance. But as the war continues, the pressure on him to take a more active part in the Resistance increases. Can he reclaim at least part of his voice without turning into what he fears? Is silence courage - or cowardice? And when a beautiful and brilliant physicist at his boarding house slips into his heart, will he have the courage to open himself to her, or must his secrets forever come between them?

I realise this is silly, but I'd forgotten how much I enjoy this author, and didn't read the story as early as I could have. But once I finally picked it up, I found it almost impossible to put down. Hendrik's struggles are so real and his successes so meaningful that this would be a good story even without Else - but watching the two of them interact is amazing. Else's care for Hemming even when he's seemingly so far below her, Hemming's mostly silent efforts to help her with her struggles, and the sweet moments once they finally come to really know each other - it makes for an amazing story (particularly (unexpectedly) some of the parts with his dad). Put that against the background of wartime and Resistance work, with all its pressures, fears, dangers and satisfactions, and it's a great story. While it should be noted that there are scenes that include torture, there is nothing that I felt was overly graphic or violent, certainly nothing gratuitous. And the inspirational content rounds everything out perfectly. All in all, this may be my favourite book by the author to date.

Note that I received a complimentary copy of the book from NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review and this is my considered opinion of the book.

Nobody writes World War II historical romance like Sarah Sundin. She's the master, and The Sound of Light proves it. An unlikely love story between two Danish resistance workers- one, a Baron posing as a simple laborer, the other, a brilliant physicist trying to crack the glass ceiling for women in science- sets up the perfect backdrop for a thrilling good vs evil battle that drew me in from the first page.

I loved everything about this book, especially the Little Mermaid allusions! I will continue thinking about the strength these characters exhibited in the face of unspeakable danger, as well as the real people who inspired the story.

I received a complimentary advance copy of this book from NetGalley and Revell. All opinions are my own honest views.

Sarah Sundin’s latest novel, The Sound of Silence, completely ensnared me. When it comes to WWII fiction, I know I can always trust Sundin to deliver a novel full of history, romance, and a plot that keeps me turning page after page. In this particular story, I could not help but become immersed in the lives of our hero and heroine as they sought to join Denmark’s resistance against the Nazis. The continued intrigue and danger only served to unite our characters in ever deepening development, richness, and purpose. This was a satisfying read that kept my riveted the entire time.

I received this book from Netgalley. All opinions are my own.

Sarah Sundin brings the nation of Denmark during World War II into the forefront, in this powerfully evocative and superbly written novel. 30-year-old Baron Henrik Ahlefeldt, a rogue and ladies’ man, wants nothing more than to have Olympic Gold, a seat in parliament, a wife, and revenge on his father. When the Nazis come to the shores of Denmark and take over the city of Copenhagen, Henrik will be faced with a choice. Will he continue to live for himself or put his life on the line so that others will live? 28-year-old Dr. Elsebeth Jensen, a physicist who works at the Institute for Theoretical Physics, refuses to leave Copenhagen and all her research behind. Determined to stay, Else is caught up in a web of intrigue. As the Nazis increase their restrictions on the people of Denmark, Else will have to decide how much is she willing to risk. “Could doing wrong ever be right? Was it right to do wrong to do right?” As these questions swirl around in Else’s brilliant mind, the chokehold of the Nazi’s tightens, and a choice must be made. When a mysterious shipyard worker moves into the same boarding house as Else, she feels a growing attraction between them. However, she is sure that he is hiding something. When secrets come to light, and betrayal knocks on their door, they will have to learn to lean on each other in order to survive. Can this mysterious man and Else work together to help their country fight the Nazi war machine? Will their resistance put their lives and the lives of those they love in serious jeopardy? How will they respond when they realize all is not as it seems? Their faith in God and in each other will be put to the ultimate test. This is another fantastic novel written by the talented Sarah Sundin. The historical research and depth of detail are profound. I know that when I read one of Sarah’s books, I will be transported to another time and place where the characters seem to come to life and leap off the pages. The complexity of the characters in their inner struggles and turmoil and how it shapes them, is beautiful to watch unfold throughout the novel. There were intense moments and moments filled with joy and laughter. The ending had a surprise twist that was unexpected. I always look forward to reading Sarah’s novels and wait expectantly for the next one! I thank NetGalley and Revell for an ARC of this book. I am not required to give a positive review. All opinions within this review are my own.

There was so much in this book that I did not know about Denmark's role in WWII. So much was lost at the conclusion of that terrible war for individuals and for nations, and there are as many stories as there are souls impacted to so much tragedy. I was drawn into the stories of these characters from the first page - the intellect of our heroine, the lost aristocratic position and bravery of our hero, and the many people that swirled around them in support and opposition. It was refreshing to read a historic novel that was so well researched and telling a precious story of found love. I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Historic Fiction, and particularly anyone who enjoys the WWII genre. This is a story that holds you and stays with you long after you have passed the final page.

Sarah Sundin's compelling storytelling and attention to historical detail creates a spy novel rich in atmosphere as well as character. The Sound of Light is set in Denmark during WWII. It's the journey of two people responding to patriotism and the Lord's leading as they determine whether to join the growing resistance--and how to respond to their growing feelings towards each other. With themes of the prodigal son and literary references to Hans Christian Andersen's "The Little Mermaid," Sarah Sundin has created another beautiful work of historical fiction.

I was delighted to realize in the last chapter that the characters have ties to those in When Leaves Fall in Paris--as well as a TBR, When Twilight Breaks--though the novels each stand alone.

Content Warning: fairly mild Nazi torture scenes.

I will always be a fan of any book that celebrates the brave people of WWII that saved lives. This story of moving Jews from Denmark to Sweden was beautiful.

Unfortunately the first half moved way too slow for me, but the second half really picked up and I enjoyed lt a lot more.

I loved Hemming and Else. Their bravery was unsurpassed.

I received an advanced copy of this book through NetGalley. This is my honest review.

I love Sarah's books and how they make history come alive! It was delightful to read this book and get to know the characters. I look forward to reading the books before it!

Sarah Sundin has created another astounding WWII story highlighting the cost of freedom and those willing to pay it. It took time to become enrapt in the characters, but when I did, I didn't want to stop reading. Sundin adds the country of Denmark in this book which gave me insight into how the Danes reacted to the war. Sweden also enters as they aid those resisting the Occupation. Love, sacrifice, and perseverance are sewn throughout. The American, Else, and Danish Baron Henrik fight inward battles as they face the obstacles to end the atrocities around them. You will be surprised at who opposes them and those who support them as they unite against the enemy. I recommend The Sound of Light. I received a copy from Net Galley and Revell. I was not compensated for this review. All thoughts are my own. #The Sound of Light #NetGalley

Sundin is a master at WW II fiction and this is another good novel. I really like the setting. We may tend to ignore some of the countries deeply affected by the war. Denmark might be such a country. Though invaded in 1940, conditions in the country were not bad until 1943. We are given a good idea of the type of resistance formed and what they were able to do, such as rescuing Jews and transporting them by boat to Sweden. An interesting addition to the plot is Else working at the Institute for Theoretical Physics. Sundin relates more information about Niels Bohr and his actions in an author's note.

Sundin explores several issues in this novel such as the question of aiding the resistance and breaking the law to help others. The disregard for women in the field of science is another. There is also a strained father son relationship included.

This is a good novel for readers who enjoy WW II historical fiction based on actual events. It is a good story of people willing to endanger their lives to help others. There is a little romance too but it does not detract from the essence of the novel.

I received a complimentary egalley of this book from the publisher. My comments are an independent and honest review.

How is it possible that Sarah Sundin just gets better and better with every book she writes!? I absolutely loved this book! It immediately hits the ground running as we're introduced to Henrik, a Baron in Denmark, on the night of the German invasion. He chooses to go underground in order to help the Danish resistance. Dr. Else is an American physicist working with Neils Bohr, and we get to journey alongside these two characters as the Denmark starts shift from tolerating the German occupation (in exchange for better conditions than anywhere else), to active resistance.

I read a lot of WWII historical fiction, but I'd never read one set in Denmark before. I loved learning about what the occupation was like. I cheered when I read about Sweden's involvement in helping the Jewish refugees!

This book was filled with so much hope, courage, and love. The romance between Henrik and Else was incredibly sweet. I loved watching their relationship develop, blossom, and then endure as they were both faced with challenges beyond their control. I was really invested in both of these characters from start to finish, and I was delighted at the cameos in this book!

I really appreciate that Sarah Sundin is able to find this amazing balance between a gripping story that you can't set down, a sweet romance that you can't help routing for, and themes that explore who God is and how He works in difficult situations.

This book me utterly satisfied and this will be one I'll be rereading! I already can't wait for the next Sarah Sundin book!

Thanks to Netgalley and Revell Publishing for a copy of this book. All opinions are my own.

I absolutely loved reading The Sound of Light. The book market is saturated with books set in WWII, so I am constantly in search of one that has an original twist, where I learn something new. Sundin absolutely delivered a winner with her newest book which is set in Denmark under the German occupation in 1943. The fictional characters in this story represent the many real-life Danish heroes of this time. It is a tribute to the overwhelming response of the Danish people and their efforts to evacuate the Danish Jews.
I loved the hero and heroine of this story. Else is a physicist, attempting to make her mark in a male-dominated field. Henrik is originally depicted as a rebellious playboy in 1940, however when the story picks up 3 years later we see that he has made some changes. I was touched by his journey, one of finding purpose and the ability to forgive. Both respond to the German occupation with faith and courage. It was a delight to read how these two reached their happily ever after.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author/publisher through Netgalley and was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.