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In the Light of the Sun is a hauntingly beautiful WWII novel that shines a light on wartime in the Philippines and Italy, places rarely depicted in historical fiction. Based on meticulous research and inspired by the author’s own family, two sisters are torn apart by war in a story about the unbreakable bonds between family members. This novel balances tension and tenderness, while paying tribute to one family’s bravery, hope, resilience, and the stirring power of music to help and heal the soul. In the Light of the Sun is a riveting, unforgettable must-read novel that will live in my heart and mind for years to come.
Sharon Kurtzmanauthor of The Lost Baker of Vienna
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This book is a powerful exploration of the courage of ordinary people, the unbreakable ties of sisterhood, and the abiding bond between music and hope. Inspired by her own family’s history, Angela Shupe transports readers across the harrowing years of WWII in a journey both sweeping and intimate. Fans of Kristy Cambron and Mario Escobar will want to put this novel at the top of their reading list. A magnificent debut!
Amanda BarrattChristy Award–winning author of The Warsaw Sisters
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At once timeless and of the moment, In the Light of the Sun is a luminous and lyrical debut. In this gripping story of two sisters doing their best to follow their hearts during periods of immense turmoil, Angela Shupe has shown that she’s a truly gifted writer with a bright future in fiction.
Camille Pagánbestselling author of Good for You
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At the heart of this riveting and compellingly researched novel, two sisters bound by blood and music experience acts of individual resistance and courage in the far-reaching theatres of the Second World War. Resilience and unexpected grace underpin Shupe’s careful excavation of a unique history tethered in real-life events. Readers of Kristina McMorris, Susan Meissner and Yvette Manessis Corporon will be clamoring for more.
Rachel McMillanbestselling author of The London Restoration and The Mozart Code
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Heartrending and gripping, a novel of bravery, sisterhood, and the Resistance in a fresh and vividly painted setting. Shupe’s debut is sure to capture the hearts and imaginations of readers everywhere.
Heather WebbUSA Today bestselling author of Queens of London
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In the Light of the Sun is a moving and beautifully written debut that shines with heart, history, and hope. Through the eyes of two courageous sisters on opposite sides of a world at war, the story weaves music, love, and resilience into a deeply emotional tapestry. I was swept away by the evocative settings—lush, dangerous jungles and war-torn Italian streets—and the unbreakable bond of family. A stunning tribute to the power of art and the enduring strength of the human spirit.
Jennifer MoormanUSA Today bestselling author of The Vanishing of Josephine Reynolds
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Readers who love historical fiction with emotional depth will find this story unforgettable.
Tom MayerRome (GA) News-Tribune
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As with the best of historical fiction, “In the Light of the Sun” entertains the reader and provides insights into near forgotten elements of history. A testament to the power of art and music.
Mike MastromatteoOSV News
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A stirring, true-to-life tale of two sisters bound by music, resilience, and love through the darkest shadows of World War II.
History Through Fiction
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Sensual descriptions of the jungle world, the scents, and intimate connection with the land and seasons are intoxicating.
Historical Novels Review
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Shines a light on a rarely discussed war crime. And a reminder that when all seems dark and gloomy, a little sunlight always brings a ray of hope.
Lynn TopelThe Epoch Times
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Multi-faceted characters. The settings themselves become characters.
Woman Around Town
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Beautifully written story! Heartbreaking, but hopeful and redemptive. A true testament to the bonds of sisterhood and the power of music to restore our souls.
Stephanie HockersmithPie Lady Books
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Readers may take note of Angela Shupe’s highly recommended debut novel In the Light of the Sun, which was inspired by true family events. This is another fascinating recently published work of historical fiction featuring la Resistenza, the underground resistance in Florence, Italy.
Linda HitchcockBookTrib
