In the Light of the Sun by Angela Shupe

 

The year is 1941, and in the Philippines, Caramina Grassi dreams of training in Italy to become an opera singer like her older sister, Rosa. But as war erupts, her world is shattered, forcing her to cling to the music that has always been her refuge. When her family’s lives are threatened and they are forced to flee to the jungle, she comes to understand that music is more than comfort. It becomes a muse that fuels her courage, sacrifice, and unwavering focus on the light.

Meanwhile, in Florence, just as Rosa Grassi’s long-awaited opera debut arrives, Mussolini tightens his grip on Italy. Drawn into la Resistenza, the underground resistance, Rosa feels lost in a fog of deception that clouds everything she thought to be true. In a time when family or friend could be foe, Rosa will learn that performing isn’t just for the stage. Facing a devastating betrayal, she must decide how far she’s willing to go to protect the one she loves.

Inspired by true events, In the Light of the Sun is an unforgettable story of sisterhood, hope, and the enduring power of music to uplift the human spirit—even in the darkest of times.

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About The Author

 

Born and raised in Michigan, Angela Shupe is an award-winning author whose essays and short stories have been published in various journals and magazines. In the Light of the Sun is her debut novel.

Follow Angela on Instagram at @angelamshupe.

 

My Review

We put faces to some of those that are caught up in the evil of WWII, from Italy to the Philippines, we are with one family, but on two different continents.
A story of family with a music background, a father that grew up in Italy and a mother in the Philippines, a bond that is strong, and family centered, but are there for those in need.
This is such a great read, facing evil coming from different directions, but with the same intent, and the resistance, some giving the ultimate.
We need to never forget these people, and this book gives us a family to follow, not always pretty, and often dangerous, but these are the ones we need to thank for our freedoms today.
I loved the epilogue at the end, just wished we could have stayed longer!
I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher WaterBrook & Multnomah, and was not required to give a positive review.