Sisters of the Midnight Sun
The word “transportive” describes Scottish writer Valpy’s latest novel perfectly. She draws readers into contemporary Shetland culture as Ruby Reid arrives for a position as companion to Mrs. Hanna Williamson, an elderly widow. As Ruby gets to know the resentful Hanna, she’s introduced to local traditions on this northernmost British archipelago, learns about crofting practices, and views the spectacular aurora borealis: “Broad strands of light shimmer through the darkness as if borne on some celestial wind, obliterating the stars in rivers of lime-green, rose-pink, and gold.”
As Hanna’s attitude thaws, she shares reminiscences with Ruby, revealing her idyllic 1930s childhood on Norway’s Lofoten Islands and later, after her father’s death at sea, in the fishing town of Narvik. Exquisite descriptions of the setting contrast with the women’s painful memories. Both are mourning the loss of their twin sisters, and Hanna lived through terrible times during WWII. Through their intergenerational bond, Ruby discovers the backstory behind the tattooed numbers she glimpses on Hanna’s thin white arm. Ruby is concealing her own secret, a life-changing decision she needs to make soon; she hopes life in Shetland will clear her path forward.
Hanna’s tale is one of survival and resistance; it catches fire as the Nazis attack Narvik in 1940 and occupy Norway, driving their king into exile while leaving the population vulnerable yet defiant. While her sister, gentle Liv, teaches school, Hanna courageously decides to actively oppose the Nazis, which involves specialized training in Shetland—where she meets an intriguing man. The feats of the brave special-operations group running the “Shetland bus” during WWII come intensely alive.
The prose is stronger on narrative than dialogue, some of which is routine, and Liv’s personality feels distant until quite late. But it’s an engrossing tale of women’s friendships and strength set in two beautiful northern lands.
