The Shock of the Light
This meticulously researched novel introduces dynamic British twins yearning to do their bit in World War II. Theo is rapidly inducted into the RAF, where he becomes a star pilot, while Tessa secretly joins the Special Operations Executive. Unable to disclose what she is doing, Tessa lies to her brother for the first time in their lives, pulling herself apart from what had been an extraordinary bonding. Theo returns from the war, somewhat battered, and Tessa does not. Innuendo suggests she did something unforgiveable. Forty years later, Theo is still not convinced. When a young PhD candidate discovers information about Tessa and approaches Theo, they push to uncover tightly hidden secrets about this beloved sister.
The careful crafting of the story in The Shock of the Light, its insistently rising tension, and its portrayal of the deep effects of war on families, place it on par with top novels of World War II such as Kristin Hannah’s The Nightingale and Kate Quinn’s The Huntress. It is profoundly moving to feel Theo’s grief, his nagging doubts about his sister’s loyalty, and his anger with himself for having those doubts. The author adroitly leaves the full unveiling of Tessa’s war activities until the fourth and last part of the novel, so readers must share Theo’s hope (but not certainty) that Tessa has continued to be the strong and courageous young woman introduced in the early sections.
