"The Sound of Light" by Sarah Sundin

 

If you're a fan of WWII stories, you are not going to want to miss this new release from Sarah Sundin. I learned so much about Denmark and the Danish resistance—or non-resistance—to Germany's occupation. 

Baron Henrick Ahlefeldt wants to stand up against the Nazis. In a twist somewhat reminiscent of The Scarlet Pimpernel, Henrick decides to take on a secret identity. Instead of a rich playboy, he takes on the persona of a common, illiterate laborer in order to avoid detection and help with sabotage.

Dr. Else Jensen loves her work in theoretical physics. Even though her dual American citizenship would allow her to leave the country, she's determined to stick it out and make a name for herself at the institute. But her new assignment is thwarting her talent, and her Jewish roommate is pressuring her to join the resistance. And she can't help noticing the kind, if rough around the edges, shipyard worker who shares their boardinghouse. 

Else and Henrick are both wonderful characters. Henrick shows determination and sacrifice at every turn, embracing the good of his country above his own desires time and again. Else grows so much throughout the novel, and I cheered for her every step of the way. I had no idea that there were certain countries who lived under Nazi occupation with very little interruption to their daily lives. It was interesting to see how the people of Denmark rose up as the war stretched on, and in the end the Danish people saved more than 90% of their Jewish population. If you want to find out how they did that, you should read this book.

Another thing I loved about this story was how Sundin wove in so much imagery from Denmark's own Hans Christian Andersen. That added an authentic touch to the portrayal of Danish culture and mindset.

I highly recommend this book to fans of WWII stories and historical romance in general.

I received my copy of the book from the publisher. All thoughts in this review are my own.