The Sound of Light ~ Review

The Sound of Light

By Sarah Sundin

What is courage, and what is cowardice? The line that divides them is what is at the heart of this book by Sarah Sundin. Baron Henrik Ahlefeldt and Dr. Else Jensen are both faced with this question as the Nazi's occupation of Denmark continues. What is more effective silent resistance or open opposition? Denmark has adopted a policy of offering "the cold shoulder" to the Nazis, but it has not made them leave. Rather, it appears as if they are allies instead. 

As both Henrik and Else work through what they feel they should do, they are faced with what the consequences will be if they do decide to take a more active, less silent role. Because every action has a reaction, and some are more difficult to live with.

The majority of this book takes place in 1943 Copenhagen, which is a new setting for me in regard to this historical period. So it was interesting to see how the Danish people viewed the situation they found themselves in. Do you take a public stand that could cost you everything? Or do you offer silent disapproval, so that little disruption to your life takes place? It is an interesting concept to contemplate. How do you measure success or failure?

Sarah Sundin's books have never disappointed, and this book is no exception. I like how she offers lesser-known glimpses into this historical period. The characters are well-written and ones with whom I could connect and sympathize with as they made the choices they did. I don't know that I would have been able to be as "quiet" as Else was as she was continually put down by her "boss," but I did appreciate how she took it as an opportunity to both grow and make a difference. I would recommend this book as there is so much depth to it. It would make an excellent book club selection, in my opinion.

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations, but that I provide my honest opinion. All thoughts expressed are my own.

About the Book:

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. While printing resistance newspapers, she hears stories of the movement's legendary Havmand--the merman--and wonders if the mysterious and silent shipyard worker living in the same boardinghouse has something to hide.

When the Occupation cracks down on the Danes, these two passionate people will discover if there is more power in speech . . . or in silence. Bestselling author of more than a dozen WWII novels, Sarah Sundin offers pens another story of ordinary people responding to extraordinary circumstances with faith, fortitude, and hope for a brighter future.