I thought this book would be predictable, but I was presently surprised to have questions and br wrong at certain parts of the book. I really enjoyed reading this book and thought that the historical elements and language were well researched and added a wonderful element to the story. I appreciated the fact that this fictional story felt like a historical account with a few embellishments. Really well done.

The Sound of Light by Sarah Sundin is a World War II resistance book and inspirational Christian romance story. This story is set in Denmark during the war and gives a look into what it may have been like for the people at that time. The story has depth and a lot to think about. I enjoy this well written story with the friendships of those in the boarding house. It was interesting to read of Henrik and how he had changed after his mother’s death. I especially enjoyed the turn his relationship with his father took.

The story has nice characters. I enjoyed Else’s character, especially the strength she had with confronting the person she was working under. I respect her character for going to a foreign country to work, especially so close to war countries. She is so strong and willing to help others. This story contains suspense and some mystery with unexpected twists concerning the boarding house owner and Henrik’s father’s actions.

I voluntarily received this book from NetGalley and Revell Publishing.

This is a different take on a WWII story than most.

Our main characters meet in Denmark while trying to help with the resistance. I enjoyed the push-pull of our characters and their vastly different personalities and backgrounds. I loved the conflicts that were holding them back and that they had to overcome.

This was a good story of the importance of courage and bravery when things around you seem pretty doubtful.

A dramatic opening engages the reader immediately, & the attention is kept throughout.
Characters one can care about, important history, & a story which moves along all add up to a book which is worth your time reading.
Although the facts of the story were familiar to me, it meant so much more to be reading about individual people & what it would have been like to be living, a part of it all.
(& a lovely surprise or two at the (very) end...)
4 1/2 stars Recommended!

Another great book by Sarah Sundin!

This one is set in Denmark during World War II which is interesting since the Nazi occupation was much less destructive there than in other European countries. The story follows a woman physicist and a man who “wears a lot of hats” and their work for the resistance. The main characters were easy to root for and had excellent character growth.

I also loved the connections to Hans Christian Andersen and his story of the Little Mermaid!

Huge thank you to NetGalley for the chance to read and review this book!

The Sound of Light is the best fiction book I’ve read this year! The characters had incredible depth, and the storyline had me hooked from the beginning. Although I love reading books set in the WWII era, I haven’t read much about Denmark. I enjoyed learning more about the resistance and courage of ordinary Danes. This was my first Sarah Sundin book, but I’ll be adding her others to the top of my TBR pile!

World War II Denmark didn’t fare as badly as other European nations under the Germans, but they did have an active resistance movement. This compelling historical novel captures the time and feel of this horrible period. It includes secrets and subterfuge along with an unlikely couple—a supposed boat builder and an American scientist. They both work to help the Danes maintain freedom. Their faith plays a powerful role in sustaining the realistic characters through the dangers and the drama. The captivating story builds slowly at first but whips into a frantic pace toward the end. A worthy read. I received a copy from the publisher through NetGalley. All opinions are my own. #TheSoundofLight #NetGalley

Else Jensen is content making her silent way through the male dominated world of physics in Denmark during the German occupation of World War 2. Baron Henrik Ahlefeldt put away his former life in favor of doing something selfless with his life. This is a story about learning that there is a time to speak and a time to remain silent, and it takes courage to acknowledge both.

I swear, Sarah Sundin books just keep getting better and better. This series has been an absolute joy to read! I especially loved this book because of its setting. I think I can say with honest certainty that this is the only book I've read that takes place in Denmark during World War 2. It was really enjoyable getting to read a book about an area of World War 2 history that I haven't heard much of before.

The Sound of Light by Sarah Sundin is set in 1943 in Denmark during WWII.

Else Jensen is an American physicist working in a Copenhagen research institute. Highly intelligent, she battles with her superior for a place as his assistant. She soon finds herself serving to help the Danish country.

Henrik Ahlefeldt is an aristocratic athletic playboy who dislikes who he has become. He disguises himself as a simple laborer to help the resistance movement. Living in the same boarding house as Else, he battles with himself as he cannot reveal his identity.

When they meet at a small town church, their secrets come to light and their affection grows.

I had a difficult time at first, with all the Danish words. But learning more about the courage the people gave of themselves during this period made for interesting reading. It is evidenced by all the research that went into this novel.

You would enjoy this book, especially if you are a history buff, and want to learn more by about WWII and what took place during that time. The story covers courage, forgiveness and an element of faith.

I received a complimentary copy from the publisher via NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

I'm calling it. This is my favourite read of 2023.

Okay, it's a bit early to say that, I'm aware. But wow y'all. This book was incredible.

Sarah Sundin just gets better and better. There are so many moving parts to this book that combine the best of all my favourite things in a book - the themes and depth I love from Amanda Dykes, the World War 2 setting, the faith + dynamic characters I've come to love and expect from Sarah herself... so much goodness packed into one book!! Honestly, if there was one book I'd suggest you read from this year's releases, it would be this one.

Not to mention - I might be a tiiiiiny bit of a WWII nerd and while I already knew quite a bit of the history The Sound of Light focuses on, that only made this book that much more special to me.

I also wanted to mention I loved the respectful romance taking place in the background of this book. It wasn't a rushed war-time romance, nor did it take over from the ultimate goal (a fact Else learns in this story). I loved seeing how these two highly dynamic and intriguing characters fit together and brought out the best in each other. No competition or drama for the sake of plot or hook. Well-done, Sarah!

Bonus recommendation: if you've read this book (or need a reason too!), I highly suggest watching the 1998 movie Miracle at Midnight, which also focuses on the resistance in Denmark and features aspects to the resistance also found in this novel, but from a slightly different perspective.

When I told a friend that I was about to start reading The Sound of Light, she warned me to hold on to something. I did not listen...
Consider this your warning. Do not start this book until you have a reasonable expectation of being able to finish it quickly. Don't start right before bed, unless you have no responsibilities the next morning. You won't be able to put it down easily!

I got quite attached to the main characters and by the time I finished, I was already missing good friends. Their courage despite realistic fear was inspiring. We can't get away with some of the things they did now, due to changes in technology, but I can only pray for the courage to stand by my convictions half as well.

And Else learning how to stand up for herself and others was so relatable. If I see someone else being mistreated, I'm more likely to speak up quickly than if it's just me. So it was great to see her grow into that. And - no, that's a spoiler, sorry.

Oh, and the caretakers are some of the coolest people. Integrity. Compassion. Fun.

I received a copy of the book from @netgalley and chose to review it here. All thoughts are my own.

The Sound of Light is another amazing World War II story about ordinary people. I admired so many of the characters in this book but especially the main protagonists, Baron Henrik Ahlefeldt and physicist, Else Jensen. Some of the physics terms were beyond me! I learned so much about the horrors that the residents of Denmark lived with during the German occupation. Both Henrik and Else perform brave acts to inform and to protect the Danes. Author Sarah Sundin has taught me more about World War II than I ever learned in school. I sincerely recommend her books to others. I received an e-book of The Sound of Light through NetGalley. This is my honest opinion.

The Sound of Light concludes Sarah Sundin’s recent group of standalone historical romance novels with WWII European settings, all linked in a small way by a group of three Harvard classmates (the heroes of each story). This story delves into the true-life Nazi occupation of Denmark (I learned so much!) and the brave men and women who resisted oppression and chose perseverance in the face of evil.

As in several other Sundin novels I’ve enjoyed, the professions of the protagonists are important and fascinating. In this case, Else’s physicist role makes me want to know more about the real history and science of her time.

Central to this novel of Light are the hero and heroine and their romance, both keeping secrets of roles in resistance and both with an undeniable attraction rooted in friendship. I like the pace of their friendship as it develops, quietly and with honor. Henrik’s secrets limit his communication and openness with Else much of the time, but her ability to see his integrity and fall for the *heart* underneath it is a beautiful, endearing element of the story. And oh, when truths come out, they have some great romantic moments (ahem kisses) in the middle of the danger. Their journey to each other and a happily ever after is fraught with realistic threats and a sense of the triumph and importance of hope.

Beyond the romance aspect, a tale of resilience and restoration emerges through threads of challenge (spies and Gestapo and sabotage!) and through secondary characters (Else’s Jewish friends and Henrik’s estrangement from his father). These themes tie together neatly — and readers of Sundin’s other 2 preceding stories will be happy to see the brief glimpse of those beloved characters.

Thank you to the publisher for the review copy. This is my honest review.

I loved The Sound of Light by Sarah Sundin. I’d never read her novels before and am now looking forward to more, probably starting with Until Leaves Fall in Paris. I predict The Sound of Light may end up being my favorite though because 1) it is set in Denmark, in the midst of the resistance by the Danish people during their German occupation in WWII, and 2) the female protagonist is a scientist, actually a physicist. These two factors made the book a winner for me and were well done with authentic detail for both aspects. One tip for future readers is to check out the glossary in the back of the book before you begin; it will help with pronunciation of the Danish names for people and places and other vocabulary. The only downside for me was that the story ended a bit abruptly, partly because I was reading an e-copy that told me I was only at 93% but didn’t realize there was a preview of another book in back. I wasn’t ready for it to be over. I received this copy recently from Revell via NetGalley but this was a February 2023 release so is available now. Thanks to the publisher for the copy to read and review; all opinions are my own.

4.5 Stars- A captivating look at courage through the lense of the resistance in WWII Denmark. This is Christian historical fiction, but it was more reminiscent of mainstream WWII historical fiction books that are a little grittier and less fluffy. If you like a great blend of intrigue, suspense, hidden identities, moral dilemmas, and characters who fall in love you will enjoy this book. I just wish the tone felt a tad bit more personal and that we got into the characters' heads a little bit more. Overall, I was really engaged with the plot and I loved learning about how the people of Denmark risked their lives for their fellow citizens. I look forward to reading more from Sundin. #netgalley #thesoundoflight

1940 Denmark. Exquisite. So hard to put down. Never doubt, Sarah Sundin can write. You know you're engrossed when you start praying for the characters. Who lived 83 years ago.
Amazing story of Else, a physicist, and Hemming, who is disguised as a shipworker. They both end up doing resistance work and it's all so beautifully entwined and interesting. And dangerous. And meltingly romantic. Gosh I hate to leave them, wish to hear more as their lives go on. The rescue of the Danish Jews is one of the most astonishing and inspiring stories to come out of World War II. The Danes outspokenly refused to allow the oppression of other human beings— and acted on that principle. Neither Else nor Hemming are Jews, but they both sacrifice to save all whom they can. Their resistance must be kept secret for their safety and that of friends and family. Definitely a must read. And leave extra time. Always beautiful covers too.
I received this book free from the author, publisher and NetGalley book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

#NetGalley #TheSoundOfLight #SarahSundin #BooksYouCanFeelGoodAbout #ChristianHistoricalFiction #FiveStarNovel

Great book set in Denmark in 1943 which revolves around the activities of the Danish resistance. Due to the co-ordinated efforts of the Danish people and their determination to do what was right only a few hundred Jewish people were ever rounded up from Denmark and only a few dozen were murdered in the camps.

As such: this book is an important (albeit fictionalized) account of a nation's determination to stand up and be counted. This is not to say that no Danish people worked with the Nazis or were collaborated. Some did: but enough did not to make a difference.

What I also loved about this novel: Henrik. A lovely Danish hunk a book lover and former Olympic rower who the heroine Else calls her "Viking warrior". Very apt. I was wounded by the fact that one of the antagonists of this story was surnamed Mortensen so I just tell myself Henrik is the Viggo Mortensen lookalike/Aragorn stand-in.
Else is a female physicist working on the development of atomic technology: but facing obstacles because of her gender, nationality and the personal animosity of a senior colleague. A situation which sadly resonates today.

A Sound of Light turned out to be a great WW2 novel with a smattering of romance which touched upon some important historical events. Sarah Sundin is rapidly climbing to the top of my list of authors for WW2 fiction.
Recommended.

Thanks to Revell for approving for this title on Netgalley. This did not impact my review and all opinions expressed are my own.

I always enjoy reading Sarah Sundin's novels. They are such well-written, and authentic historical fiction. Once again, I came away amazed with the knowledge I gained and the information I learned.

WW2 never ceases to fascinate me, and this novel again (like Sundin does so often) showcases an aspect of the war that I knew next to nothing about.

The characters were intriguing. I especially enjoyed Henrik, and the lengths he went to for a cause he believed in.

if you love historical fiction, I recommend this novel. If you enjoy reading WW2 era stories, then you need to consider this a must read!

Disclaimer: I receive complimentary books from various sources, including, publishers, publicists, authors, and/or NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review, and have not received any compensation. The opinions shared here are my own entirely.  I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part

On a list of every dark event recorded in world history, World War II marks its place as one of the most tragic. I marvel at the countless horrors that came from that war, at the evil that took over so many minds. Yet despite that darkness, I’m forever drawn by the light of the men and women who stood up to that evil, people who were (and still are) true profiles of courage. Sarah Sundin beautifully brought that courage to life with her latest novel, The Sound of Light.

Just one chapter. That’s it. Just one more…

I knew that promise would be impossible to keep as soon as I started reading The Sound of Light. It felt as if I’d stepped through a magical portal to 1940’s Denmark, where fact and fiction merged together into a story that was nothing less than nail-biting. Driven by tangible suspense, The Sound of Light wowed me away with its historic depth and unforgettable characters. Honestly, I knew very little about the Danish Resistance prior to reading this novel.The little I knew about it came from watching a film called Miracle at Midnight as a kid, so I was ready for the chance to learn more. This novel provided that by allowing me to experience the inner workings and impact of that resistance through the lives of Baron Henrik Ahlefeldt and Dr. Else Jensen. Needless to say, I was hooked by that inside look!

Sarah Sundin once again delivered an amazing, insightful novel. I especially loved the ending, how it was sweetened by the special guest appearance from characters of previous novels. Just wow!

A special thanks to Revell for providing a free copy for my honest review. All thoughts expressed are my own.

The story opens in April of 1940 in Copenhagen, Denmark. Baron Henrik Ahlefeldt is not happy with who he has become. He is a playboy, and he has no purpose. The Germans have occupied Denmark. When his friend offers him a chance to help his country he takes it and as a result he changes. He takes on a new identity as a laborer and it is this version of himself that Dr. Elsebeth, ""Else", Jensen meets in 1943. He is attracted to her but cannot reveal who he really is and that he is part of the Resistance. Else finds him to be a simple, shy, uneducated and kind man. Despite what she thinks are their status differences are, she is attracted to him, too, but sees no future for them. When she unexpectedly becomes part of the Resistance, too, their lives and relationship changes.
The author brings alive a little-known part of history. Impeccably researched and vividly rendered, this is an immersive novel. This is a serious story that focuses on the fragility and wonder of unlikely relationships especially during the most difficult of times. The protagonists undergo major changes as they realize the unique resources they have within themselves. In spite of ever-present danger, they strive to do what is necessary for the greater good no matter the personal risks.
I found this to be an impactful work of historical fiction. Highly recommended.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell through NetGalley. The opinions expressed in this review are my own.