Two sisters, separated by oceans and global conflict, are bonded through music and love in this gripping novel based on true events from World War II. “Hauntingly beautiful . . . shines a light on wartime in the Philippines and Italy, places rarely depicted in historical fiction . . . a riveting, unforgettable must-read novel that will live in my heart and mind for years to come.”—Sharon Kurtzman, author of The Lost Baker of Vienna 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. “A stunning tribute to the power of art and the enduring strength of the human spirit.” —Jennifer Moorman, USA Today bestselling author of The Vanishing of Josephine Reynolds “ 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. 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.” —Sharon Kurtzman, author of The Lost Baker of Vienna “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 Webb, USA Today bestselling author of Queens of London “Readers who love historical fiction with emotional depth will find this story unforgettable.” —Tom Mayer, Rome (GA) News-Tribune “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. Fans of Kristy Cambron and Mario Escobar will want to put this novel at the top of their reading list. A magnificent debut!” —Amanda Barratt, Christy Award–winning author of The Warsaw Sisters “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 Pagán, bestselling author of Good for You “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 McMillan, bestselling author of The London Restoration and The Mozart Code “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 Mastromatteo, OSV News “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 “Descriptions of the jungle world, the scents, and intimate connection with the land and seasons are intoxicating.” —Historical Novels Review “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 Topel, The Epoch Times “Multifaceted characters. The settings themselves become characters.” —Woman Around Town “Beautifully written. I will never cease to be moved by the incredible endurance of the human spirit. The fact that people located all over the globe can be joined together in the fight for what is right, and how the importance of music and love can help us rise above the darkness, gave me renewed hope for the future.” —Stephanie Hockersmith, Pie Lady Books Angela Shupe is an award-winning author whose essays and articles have appeared in several publications, along with featured short stories in various literary publications. Angela is an active member of the Women’s Fiction Writers Association and the Historical Nov