2026’s most heartbreaking literary debut

'A powerful story, beautifully told' M.L. STEDMAN 'Truly compelling' WILLIAM BOYD ‘Exquisitely written and deeply human’ CHRIS CLEAVE 'Far-reaching, but also intimate and intensely personal' FLORENCE KNAPP ‘Alluring in its twists and turns’ SONIA PURNELL

A dazzling literary achievement that brings to life the shattering emotional impact of World War Two on ordinary people

Cambridge, 1942

Twins Tessa and Theo had always shared everything – until the summer Tessa spent studying in France. She hasn’t been the same since. But before Theo can find out why, he is recruited by the RAF and disappears into the skies.

Determined to carve her own path, Tessa joins the clandestine Special Operations Executive, slipping into the shadows of occupied France. It will be dangerous work, but France is the home of her greatest love – and her darkest secret. Tessa has many reasons for wanting to return.

Two years later, only one of them comes home.

A dazzling literary achievement that brings to life the shattering emotional impact of World War Two on ordinary people, THE SHOCK OF THE LIGHT is as exhilarating as it is heartbreaking.

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'This novel floored me. It is a rare thing and close to perfect… I urge you to pick up this book and read it!' ELIZABETH MACNEAL

'An astonishing page-turner that left me breathless… An essential addition to the wartime literature canon' HOLLY DAWSON

'A beautiful, clever debut, heart-wrenching and totally immersive… the very best example of historical fiction' CESCA MAJOR

'Spine-chilling and beautifully rendered… drew me in from the start' GEORGIA HUNTER