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The Sun's Shadow
From the bestselling author of The Storyteller’s Secret comes an unflinching exploration of betrayal, forgiveness, and the healing power of a second chance.
Celine’s life is spiraling out of control. She’s in danger of losing the beloved equestrian farm that was her childhood home. Her distant husband, Eric, is devoting a suspicious amount of time to a stunning new colleague. Then her young son, Brian, receives a devastating cancer diagnosis. How much worse can things get?
Felicity has uprooted her career and her teenage son, Justin, to get closer to Eric. She’s tired of keeping his secrets—that Justin is his son, and Eric’s frequent “business trips” have been spent playing the good dad with him. Felicity is determined to get her happily ever after, even if it means confronting Celine at a delicate time.
But when Brian’s prognosis worsens, and a transplant from Justin becomes his best chance at survival, Felicity must make a wrenching decision about her son’s well-being—and Celine must accept that the “other woman” is her only hope.
In another life Celine and Felicity might have been friends. Can they put aside the pain between them to do what’s best for their families—and their own futures?
Celine’s life is spiraling out of control. She’s in danger of losing the beloved equestrian farm that was her childhood home. Her distant husband, Eric, is devoting a suspicious amount of time to a stunning new colleague. Then her young son, Brian, receives a devastating cancer diagnosis. How much worse can things get?
Felicity has uprooted her career and her teenage son, Justin, to get closer to Eric. She’s tired of keeping his secrets—that Justin is his son, and Eric’s frequent “business trips” have been spent playing the good dad with him. Felicity is determined to get her happily ever after, even if it means confronting Celine at a delicate time.
But when Brian’s prognosis worsens, and a transplant from Justin becomes his best chance at survival, Felicity must make a wrenching decision about her son’s well-being—and Celine must accept that the “other woman” is her only hope.
In another life Celine and Felicity might have been friends. Can they put aside the pain between them to do what’s best for their families—and their own futures?
333 pages, Hardcover
Published January 28, 2025
231 people are currently reading
20727 people want to read
About the author
Sejal Badani
7 books1,176 followersA former attorney, Sejal Badani is a Wall Street Journal, Washington Post, USA Today and Amazon bestselling author and Goodreads Fiction Award Finalist and ABC/DISNEY Writing Fellowship Finalist. Her novels have been translated into over 15 languages. When not writing, she loves reading and traveling. Bruce Springsteen, Beyonce, and Ed Sheeran are always playing in the background.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 92 reviews
February 6, 2025
EXCERPT: Felicity
'Celine's father left when she was six,' Elena interrupts. Her voice, quiet and unassuming, conceals a steely demeanor. 'Packed his bags and we never saw him again.'
Shocked by the information, I wonder why Eric never mentioned it to me.
'As a mother, all I could think of was how to protect my child. To make sure, with everything happening, that she was safe and taken care of.'
I don't want to hear about Celine's childhood or her struggles. I don't want to think about the woman I betrayed as anything but a body, a person who's gotten to love and me married to Justin's father.
'I imagine you felt the same with Justin.'
'Yes.' My spine straightens, bringing me to my full height. 'He's always been my main priority.'
'A child knows when they've been loved,' Elena says. 'It explains why he is who he is.' She leans against the pillar, seeking support. 'As a mother, when our back is against the wall, we will do anything to protect our child.' Elena looks me right in the eyes. 'You did what you had to do. But now, allowing Justing to be tested, you're stepping forward to protect my grandson. I won't forget this.'
I stare at her, taken aback. It was the last thing I expected when the conversation began. But it also drives home that these are real people, with real emotions and events in their lives. Elena's pass on the past offers the necessary relief from guilt or responsibility. I nod, accepting her gratitude. But a small voice inside my head balks at the idea. I say my goodbyes, the ghosts of my choices fast on my heels.
ABOUT 'THE SUN'S SHADOW': Celine’s life is spiraling out of control. She’s in danger of losing the beloved equestrian farm that was her childhood home. Her distant husband, Eric, is devoting a suspicious amount of time to a stunning new colleague. Then her young son, Brian, receives a devastating cancer diagnosis. How much worse can things get?
Felicity has uprooted her career and her teenage son, Justin, to get closer to Eric. She’s tired of keeping his secrets—that Justin is his son, and Eric’s frequent “business trips” have been spent playing the good dad with him. Felicity is determined to get her happily ever after, even if it means confronting Celine at a delicate time.
But when Brian’s prognosis worsens, and a transplant from Justin becomes his best chance at survival, Felicity must make a wrenching decision about her son’s well-being—and Celine must accept that the “other woman” is her only hope.
In another life Celine and Felicity might have been friends. Can they put aside the pain between them to do what’s best for their families—and their own futures?
MY THOUGHTS: I am obviously alone on outlier island with my thoughts on and feelings about The Sun's Shadow by Sejal Badani.
The premise is wonderful, and I went into this read expecting my emotions to overflow but I found the writing stilted and unwieldy. I was unable to get my teeth into the narrative. I could not relate to any of the characters except Justin and Brian. And even then, I wondered how realistically they were portrayed. It would be nice if all teenagers and pre-teens were like this, but I personally don't know any who are.
I threw up my hands in despair at some of Celine's decisions and actions.
There is a lot of angst and introspection and, indeed, repetition that eventually caused me to skim read large tracts.
Everyone else appears to have loved this The Sun's Shadow, so maybe it is just me who is left feeling dissatisfied after reading it. Please check out some of the other more positive reviews.
⭐⭐
#TheSunsShadow #NetGalley
THE AUTHOR: A former attorney, Sejal Badani is a Wall Street Journal, Washington Post, USA Today and Amazon bestselling author and Goodreads Fiction Award Finalist and ABC/DISNEY Writing Fellowship Finalist. Her novels have been translated into over 15 languages. When not writing, she loves reading and traveling. Bruce Springsteen, Beyonce, and Ed Sheeran are always playing in the background.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Lake Union and NetGalley for providing a digital e-ARC for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
'Celine's father left when she was six,' Elena interrupts. Her voice, quiet and unassuming, conceals a steely demeanor. 'Packed his bags and we never saw him again.'
Shocked by the information, I wonder why Eric never mentioned it to me.
'As a mother, all I could think of was how to protect my child. To make sure, with everything happening, that she was safe and taken care of.'
I don't want to hear about Celine's childhood or her struggles. I don't want to think about the woman I betrayed as anything but a body, a person who's gotten to love and me married to Justin's father.
'I imagine you felt the same with Justin.'
'Yes.' My spine straightens, bringing me to my full height. 'He's always been my main priority.'
'A child knows when they've been loved,' Elena says. 'It explains why he is who he is.' She leans against the pillar, seeking support. 'As a mother, when our back is against the wall, we will do anything to protect our child.' Elena looks me right in the eyes. 'You did what you had to do. But now, allowing Justing to be tested, you're stepping forward to protect my grandson. I won't forget this.'
I stare at her, taken aback. It was the last thing I expected when the conversation began. But it also drives home that these are real people, with real emotions and events in their lives. Elena's pass on the past offers the necessary relief from guilt or responsibility. I nod, accepting her gratitude. But a small voice inside my head balks at the idea. I say my goodbyes, the ghosts of my choices fast on my heels.
ABOUT 'THE SUN'S SHADOW': Celine’s life is spiraling out of control. She’s in danger of losing the beloved equestrian farm that was her childhood home. Her distant husband, Eric, is devoting a suspicious amount of time to a stunning new colleague. Then her young son, Brian, receives a devastating cancer diagnosis. How much worse can things get?
Felicity has uprooted her career and her teenage son, Justin, to get closer to Eric. She’s tired of keeping his secrets—that Justin is his son, and Eric’s frequent “business trips” have been spent playing the good dad with him. Felicity is determined to get her happily ever after, even if it means confronting Celine at a delicate time.
But when Brian’s prognosis worsens, and a transplant from Justin becomes his best chance at survival, Felicity must make a wrenching decision about her son’s well-being—and Celine must accept that the “other woman” is her only hope.
In another life Celine and Felicity might have been friends. Can they put aside the pain between them to do what’s best for their families—and their own futures?
MY THOUGHTS: I am obviously alone on outlier island with my thoughts on and feelings about The Sun's Shadow by Sejal Badani.
The premise is wonderful, and I went into this read expecting my emotions to overflow but I found the writing stilted and unwieldy. I was unable to get my teeth into the narrative. I could not relate to any of the characters except Justin and Brian. And even then, I wondered how realistically they were portrayed. It would be nice if all teenagers and pre-teens were like this, but I personally don't know any who are.
I threw up my hands in despair at some of Celine's decisions and actions.
There is a lot of angst and introspection and, indeed, repetition that eventually caused me to skim read large tracts.
Everyone else appears to have loved this The Sun's Shadow, so maybe it is just me who is left feeling dissatisfied after reading it. Please check out some of the other more positive reviews.
⭐⭐
#TheSunsShadow #NetGalley
THE AUTHOR: A former attorney, Sejal Badani is a Wall Street Journal, Washington Post, USA Today and Amazon bestselling author and Goodreads Fiction Award Finalist and ABC/DISNEY Writing Fellowship Finalist. Her novels have been translated into over 15 languages. When not writing, she loves reading and traveling. Bruce Springsteen, Beyonce, and Ed Sheeran are always playing in the background.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Lake Union and NetGalley for providing a digital e-ARC for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
March 27, 2025
Sejal Badani wrote one deeply moving book with The Sun's Shadow!
Synopsis:
Celine's life is suddenly upended when the equestrian farm from her childhood is up for purchase, her husband Eric becomes progressively distant, and their son Brian is diagnosed with a life-threatening cancer diagnosis. Felicity moves her and her son Justin in an attempt to get closer to Eric in order to create the family she's always wanted with Eric at her side. When Brian's cancer quickly progresses, it soon becomes clear that Justin's donation is the only attempt at Brian's survival.
Thoughts:
Both Celine and Felicity are such strong female characters! As their struggles came to the forefront of the story, Eric and his indiscretions quickly faded into the background (which was a fantastic choice on Badani's part). As I read, I continuously asked how I'd feel and react in these characters' circumstances. Though this book is heavy, with themes of forgiveness, acceptance, redemption, and the depths of a mother's love, Badani's writing is extremely smooth, making this story easy to read. Creating simple imagery, Badani elegantly weaves atmosphere into her words.
Having two audiobook narrators was the perfect choice! Kate Rudd and Vanessa Johansson had distinct voices, helping to create the framework for these two different women. Although emotionally performed, both narrators chose to keep their voice acting to a minimum, allowing the story to truly shine.
This was such a heart-wrenching story, but also one of the easiest five-star rating's I have ever given!
Thank you NetGalley, Wunderkind PR, Brilliance Publishing, and Brilliance Audio for the complimentary copies to read and review.
Synopsis:
Celine's life is suddenly upended when the equestrian farm from her childhood is up for purchase, her husband Eric becomes progressively distant, and their son Brian is diagnosed with a life-threatening cancer diagnosis. Felicity moves her and her son Justin in an attempt to get closer to Eric in order to create the family she's always wanted with Eric at her side. When Brian's cancer quickly progresses, it soon becomes clear that Justin's donation is the only attempt at Brian's survival.
Thoughts:
Both Celine and Felicity are such strong female characters! As their struggles came to the forefront of the story, Eric and his indiscretions quickly faded into the background (which was a fantastic choice on Badani's part). As I read, I continuously asked how I'd feel and react in these characters' circumstances. Though this book is heavy, with themes of forgiveness, acceptance, redemption, and the depths of a mother's love, Badani's writing is extremely smooth, making this story easy to read. Creating simple imagery, Badani elegantly weaves atmosphere into her words.
Having two audiobook narrators was the perfect choice! Kate Rudd and Vanessa Johansson had distinct voices, helping to create the framework for these two different women. Although emotionally performed, both narrators chose to keep their voice acting to a minimum, allowing the story to truly shine.
This was such a heart-wrenching story, but also one of the easiest five-star rating's I have ever given!
Thank you NetGalley, Wunderkind PR, Brilliance Publishing, and Brilliance Audio for the complimentary copies to read and review.
April 23, 2025
This was a very intensely moving, thought provoking, deep story that the author richly describes so well. If anything, the writing was beautiful and smooth throughout the entire book. I really enjoyed the main characters and how they overcome such circumstances and find their happiness. The themes of redemption were also prevalent!
Thank you to ireadbooktours!
Thank you to ireadbooktours!
February 1, 2025
Sejal Badani is one of my favorite authors! She writes with a simplicity that allows raw, genuine emotions to shine through, making her characters deeply relatable and their journeys moving.
This novel explores the complexities of relationships and the delicate balance between personal desires and the well-being of our loved ones. It highlights the sacrifices we make—not just for ourselves, but for those we cherish—revealing how even the most selfless choices can bring both pain and fulfillment.
With its heartfelt narrative and thought-provoking themes, The Sun’s Shadow was a thoroughly enjoyable read, leaving me both reflective and deeply moved.
This novel explores the complexities of relationships and the delicate balance between personal desires and the well-being of our loved ones. It highlights the sacrifices we make—not just for ourselves, but for those we cherish—revealing how even the most selfless choices can bring both pain and fulfillment.
With its heartfelt narrative and thought-provoking themes, The Sun’s Shadow was a thoroughly enjoyable read, leaving me both reflective and deeply moved.
April 17, 2025
This was my first book by Badani but I promise it will not be my last!! Her writing style is refreshingly straightforward, allowing authentic, heartfelt emotions to be felt. I love that her characters were incredibly relatable and their stories emotionally impactful. If you need a story that will give you a good emotional release, this is it. This story shines a light on the compromises we make—not just for ourselves, but for those who matter most—showing how even the most giving decisions can carry both heartache and a sense of purpose. It was a truly heartfelt read that left me deeply touched.
Sejal is a new to me author that I definitely plan to read more from!
If you’re in a book club, this would be a great pick for discussion!
📱🎧— avail KU!!
⭐️ 4.25/5
Sejal is a new to me author that I definitely plan to read more from!
If you’re in a book club, this would be a great pick for discussion!
📱🎧— avail KU!!
⭐️ 4.25/5
March 8, 2025
Such a beautiful story!!! Easy to read, engaging and well-written!!!
February 14, 2025
Ok, I thought that the plot was there. It had a good foundation for a really great story, but it just wasn't executed very well, unfortunately. The writing style was not my favorite, and I won't hold that against the author because it's personal preference. BUT there would be times where there were gaps in the writing. Gaps where details were missing or even potential forgotten about? Not sure, but there were several times in the book where I thought, "Wait, where did that piece come from??" Or "What happened to this detail she mentioned here and now it's suddenly gone??" A good bit of the medical stuff was wrong or inaccurate, but I'm used to that which medical shows/movies so no surprise there, but she even got the rules for Uno wrong....
Like, c'mon.
The thing I hated the most about this story was at the end when Celine and Eric are finally having their big, closure convo and Eric begins to apologize and she says, "It doesn't matter. Brian is better and that's all that matters." Ummm, no. Nope. Not True.
And THEN Celine says that SHE had played a part in Eric having a double life and lying to her face every day for 17 years?!? When no, she didn't?? Absolutely not. No ma'am. I simply can't with this type of message. This is a borderline harmful message here, so I did not enjoy the book.
Like, c'mon.
The thing I hated the most about this story was at the end when Celine and Eric are finally having their big, closure convo and Eric begins to apologize and she says, "It doesn't matter. Brian is better and that's all that matters." Ummm, no. Nope. Not True.
And THEN Celine says that SHE had played a part in Eric having a double life and lying to her face every day for 17 years?!? When no, she didn't?? Absolutely not. No ma'am. I simply can't with this type of message. This is a borderline harmful message here, so I did not enjoy the book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 19, 2025
3.75 rounded up.
May 5, 2025
The Sun’s Shadow started with great promise, drawing me in with a compelling setup and strong atmosphere. Unfortunately, it peaked midway and never quite regained its momentum. The latter half felt flat, as though the story was coasting to the finish line without the same depth or energy. A decent read, but ultimately underwhelming.
February 9, 2025
Two families kept apart by secrets until the only thing worse than revealing the long-hidden secret is keeping it. The story unfolds as we learn about the lives of Celine and Felicity, the two women at the heart of the story. Unfortunately, the audiobook narrators have very similar voices so I had to pay more attention than usual since their inner voices were also similar. Otherwise the story, about secrets long held, kept my interest.
My thanks to the author, publisher, @BrillianceAudio, and #NetGalley for access to the audiobook of #TheSunsShadow for review purposes.
My thanks to the author, publisher, @BrillianceAudio, and #NetGalley for access to the audiobook of #TheSunsShadow for review purposes.
April 23, 2025
For sure would not have finished this if it wasn’t for book club 🙃 oof, I’m struggling to find something good to say about it.
November 29, 2024
I’m kind of a blubbering mess over here and I need to get a grip so I can write this review. If you need a story that will give you a good emotional release, this could be it. So many themes to this story……the love of family, the despair of betrayals, redemption and personal growth, the toll of childhood cancer and so much more.
Celine, Eric and their 12-year old son Brian are living a busy life of work, school and sports typical to many families. But what is not typical are the secrets and lies that have built their marriage. When Brian receives a cancer diagnosis, the truths are revealed and the worlds of two families collide. With great emotional depth, the story is told through the voices of two mothers, Celine and Felicity, both of whom have a profound and deep love for their sons.
Thank you NetGalley, Lake Union Publishing and Sejal Bandani for the emotional and wonderful digital reading experience in exchange for my honest review. Publication date: January 28, 2025
Celine, Eric and their 12-year old son Brian are living a busy life of work, school and sports typical to many families. But what is not typical are the secrets and lies that have built their marriage. When Brian receives a cancer diagnosis, the truths are revealed and the worlds of two families collide. With great emotional depth, the story is told through the voices of two mothers, Celine and Felicity, both of whom have a profound and deep love for their sons.
Thank you NetGalley, Lake Union Publishing and Sejal Bandani for the emotional and wonderful digital reading experience in exchange for my honest review. Publication date: January 28, 2025
January 29, 2025
Sejal Badani's latest novel, The Sun's Shadow, is an emotionally charged narrative that delves deep into the complexities of relationships, forgiveness, and the unbreakable bonds of family. Following the success of her previous works like The Storyteller's Secret and Trail of Broken Wings, Badani once again demonstrates her masterful ability to weave together multiple storylines while exploring profound themes of healing and self-discovery.
Plot & Story Analysis
The narrative unfolds through alternating perspectives of two women whose lives are intricately connected through one man - Eric. Celine, struggling to keep her beloved equestrian farm afloat, faces a series of devastating blows: her marriage seems to be crumbling, and her young son Brian is diagnosed with cancer. Meanwhile, Felicity, who has shared a seventeen-year secret relationship with Eric, moves to Boston with their teenage son Justin, hoping to finally claim the family she's always desired.
What sets this story apart is how Badani subverts the typical "other woman" trope. Instead of painting either character as purely victim or villain, she presents both women as complex individuals with their own struggles, dreams, and justifications. The story takes an unexpected turn when Brian's cancer treatment requires a stem cell transplant, and Justin becomes his only hope for survival.
Character Development
Strengths:
- The evolution of Celine from a woman defined by her relationships to someone who discovers her own strength
- Felicity's journey from antagonist to a sympathetic character
- Justin and Brian's authentic brotherly bond
- Austin's role as a catalyst for Celine's growth
Areas for Improvement:
- Eric's character could have been more deeply explored
- Some secondary characters feel underdeveloped
- The resolution of certain conflicts feels slightly rushed
Writing Style & Technique
Badani's prose is elegant yet accessible, with a particular talent for emotional resonance. Her descriptions of the equestrian farm and horse racing scenes are especially vivid, demonstrating careful research and attention to detail. However, there are moments when the pacing feels uneven, particularly in the middle section where some scenes could have been more concise.
Themes & Symbolism
The novel expertly explores several profound themes:
- The nature of forgiveness and redemption
- The impact of childhood trauma on adult relationships
- The power of maternal love
- The complexity of family bonds beyond blood relations
- The journey of self-discovery through adversity
The equestrian farm serves as a powerful metaphor throughout the story, representing both freedom and constraint, much like the characters' relationships.
Strengths
- Nuanced exploration of complex relationships
- Strong emotional depth
- Well-crafted parallel narratives
- Authentic dialogue
- Powerful themes of healing and growth
Areas for Improvement
- Some plot points feel too convenient
- The resolution of the farm storyline seems rushed
- Certain supporting characters could be more fully developed
- Occasional pacing issues in the middle section
Impact & Relevance
The novel tackles timely issues such as blended families, medical ethics, and the long-term effects of childhood trauma. Its exploration of how past wounds influence present relationships will resonate with many readers, while its message of hope and healing offers comfort and inspiration.
Final Verdict
The Sun's Shadow is a good read for its compelling storytelling, complex characters, and powerful themes. While there are some areas that could have been stronger, the novel successfully delivers an emotional and thought-provoking reading experience that will stay with readers long after the final page.
Personal Reflection
Badani has created a deeply moving story that challenges readers to examine their own beliefs about love, forgiveness, and family. While not perfect, The Sun's Shadow succeeds in its ambitious goal of exploring how people can heal from betrayal and find strength in unexpected places.
The author's ability to handle sensitive topics with grace and understanding, while maintaining narrative tension, demonstrates her growth as a writer. The novel represents a mature evolution of her storytelling abilities, building on the foundations laid in her previous works while exploring new emotional territory.
Plot & Story Analysis
The narrative unfolds through alternating perspectives of two women whose lives are intricately connected through one man - Eric. Celine, struggling to keep her beloved equestrian farm afloat, faces a series of devastating blows: her marriage seems to be crumbling, and her young son Brian is diagnosed with cancer. Meanwhile, Felicity, who has shared a seventeen-year secret relationship with Eric, moves to Boston with their teenage son Justin, hoping to finally claim the family she's always desired.
What sets this story apart is how Badani subverts the typical "other woman" trope. Instead of painting either character as purely victim or villain, she presents both women as complex individuals with their own struggles, dreams, and justifications. The story takes an unexpected turn when Brian's cancer treatment requires a stem cell transplant, and Justin becomes his only hope for survival.
Character Development
Strengths:
- The evolution of Celine from a woman defined by her relationships to someone who discovers her own strength
- Felicity's journey from antagonist to a sympathetic character
- Justin and Brian's authentic brotherly bond
- Austin's role as a catalyst for Celine's growth
Areas for Improvement:
- Eric's character could have been more deeply explored
- Some secondary characters feel underdeveloped
- The resolution of certain conflicts feels slightly rushed
Writing Style & Technique
Badani's prose is elegant yet accessible, with a particular talent for emotional resonance. Her descriptions of the equestrian farm and horse racing scenes are especially vivid, demonstrating careful research and attention to detail. However, there are moments when the pacing feels uneven, particularly in the middle section where some scenes could have been more concise.
Themes & Symbolism
The novel expertly explores several profound themes:
- The nature of forgiveness and redemption
- The impact of childhood trauma on adult relationships
- The power of maternal love
- The complexity of family bonds beyond blood relations
- The journey of self-discovery through adversity
The equestrian farm serves as a powerful metaphor throughout the story, representing both freedom and constraint, much like the characters' relationships.
Strengths
- Nuanced exploration of complex relationships
- Strong emotional depth
- Well-crafted parallel narratives
- Authentic dialogue
- Powerful themes of healing and growth
Areas for Improvement
- Some plot points feel too convenient
- The resolution of the farm storyline seems rushed
- Certain supporting characters could be more fully developed
- Occasional pacing issues in the middle section
Impact & Relevance
The novel tackles timely issues such as blended families, medical ethics, and the long-term effects of childhood trauma. Its exploration of how past wounds influence present relationships will resonate with many readers, while its message of hope and healing offers comfort and inspiration.
Final Verdict
The Sun's Shadow is a good read for its compelling storytelling, complex characters, and powerful themes. While there are some areas that could have been stronger, the novel successfully delivers an emotional and thought-provoking reading experience that will stay with readers long after the final page.
Personal Reflection
Badani has created a deeply moving story that challenges readers to examine their own beliefs about love, forgiveness, and family. While not perfect, The Sun's Shadow succeeds in its ambitious goal of exploring how people can heal from betrayal and find strength in unexpected places.
The author's ability to handle sensitive topics with grace and understanding, while maintaining narrative tension, demonstrates her growth as a writer. The novel represents a mature evolution of her storytelling abilities, building on the foundations laid in her previous works while exploring new emotional territory.
February 16, 2025
Book review: 4/5 ⭐️
Genre: contemporary fiction
Themes: family drama, illness, secrets and deceit, mothers making difficult choices
📖 Read if you like: My Sister’s Keeper, Love, Mom
An emotional read of an unconventional family torn asunder when fate’s cruel eyes land on the youngest member of the troupe and unravel a web of lies. Two women, both adoring mothers are forced to collide when the man they both claim to love needs his sons to meet. A family drama that will break your heart and force you to look at the situation from all angles, it was certainly a gripping tale.
Celine, his wife is on the precipice of change on all fronts. Her life is quickly spiraling into chaos as she is first notified that her childhood home and the source of her livelihood is to be sold, quickly followed by a diagnosis that will overshadow all else. When her twelve year old son Brian complains of pains and lands himself in the hospital the unimaginable happens. A leukaemia diagnosis that is rapidly progressing and resistant to treatment forces his father Eric to seek out his most likely match - his other son Justin.
Justin is seventeen and thriving after having just moved with his mother Felicity to be closer to Eric. She is a fierce woman of business acumen and beauty that rivals all others, but what she craves most is what another woman claims. Co-parenting their son since birth, Eric and Felicity have a strong friendship created over secret business trips that allowed Eric and Justin to form a wonderful relationship, even with the odd restrictions. But Felicity is no longer happy to stay in the shadows. Her feelings for Eric have grown over the years and what she craves is the family Celine has, no matter the cost.
What happens next is a page turner that was required to be read as quickly as possible. Brian and Justin who are both sweet boys that form an instant connection, but both mothers must look out for their own sons when one may be able to save the other. It explores the relationship between parents and their children and the unique bond between siblings when lies and secrets are unearthed. That first glimpse at seeing your parents as fallible, at withholding an essential truth from you is hard to swallow. As is the dual POV on this complicated family dynamic.
I liked that both women were given a voice and that their ultimate choices were from being a mother over being a lover. They also each sought out what would truly make themselves happy when given the chance, not merely the illusion of happiness and the solace found in others making choices. I still don’t think the other woman perspective makes Felicity likeable, but it did highlight the nuanced characteristics of the woman in the shadows. It proved a very interesting read and ended with a hopeful note.
What stopped it from being a five start read was that forgiveness and resolution felt very easy in such a complicated dynamic. I thought there should have been more tension and perhaps judgement over the revelation. I know there were larger matters and the burying of hurt was a survival method, but I felt like I needed one scene where Eric was really held accountable for his choices. That being said, I highly recommend this book for those searching for a poignant family drama of what it means to be a mother and a woman.
Genre: contemporary fiction
Themes: family drama, illness, secrets and deceit, mothers making difficult choices
📖 Read if you like: My Sister’s Keeper, Love, Mom
An emotional read of an unconventional family torn asunder when fate’s cruel eyes land on the youngest member of the troupe and unravel a web of lies. Two women, both adoring mothers are forced to collide when the man they both claim to love needs his sons to meet. A family drama that will break your heart and force you to look at the situation from all angles, it was certainly a gripping tale.
Celine, his wife is on the precipice of change on all fronts. Her life is quickly spiraling into chaos as she is first notified that her childhood home and the source of her livelihood is to be sold, quickly followed by a diagnosis that will overshadow all else. When her twelve year old son Brian complains of pains and lands himself in the hospital the unimaginable happens. A leukaemia diagnosis that is rapidly progressing and resistant to treatment forces his father Eric to seek out his most likely match - his other son Justin.
Justin is seventeen and thriving after having just moved with his mother Felicity to be closer to Eric. She is a fierce woman of business acumen and beauty that rivals all others, but what she craves most is what another woman claims. Co-parenting their son since birth, Eric and Felicity have a strong friendship created over secret business trips that allowed Eric and Justin to form a wonderful relationship, even with the odd restrictions. But Felicity is no longer happy to stay in the shadows. Her feelings for Eric have grown over the years and what she craves is the family Celine has, no matter the cost.
What happens next is a page turner that was required to be read as quickly as possible. Brian and Justin who are both sweet boys that form an instant connection, but both mothers must look out for their own sons when one may be able to save the other. It explores the relationship between parents and their children and the unique bond between siblings when lies and secrets are unearthed. That first glimpse at seeing your parents as fallible, at withholding an essential truth from you is hard to swallow. As is the dual POV on this complicated family dynamic.
I liked that both women were given a voice and that their ultimate choices were from being a mother over being a lover. They also each sought out what would truly make themselves happy when given the chance, not merely the illusion of happiness and the solace found in others making choices. I still don’t think the other woman perspective makes Felicity likeable, but it did highlight the nuanced characteristics of the woman in the shadows. It proved a very interesting read and ended with a hopeful note.
What stopped it from being a five start read was that forgiveness and resolution felt very easy in such a complicated dynamic. I thought there should have been more tension and perhaps judgement over the revelation. I know there were larger matters and the burying of hurt was a survival method, but I felt like I needed one scene where Eric was really held accountable for his choices. That being said, I highly recommend this book for those searching for a poignant family drama of what it means to be a mother and a woman.
July 5, 2025
Celine thought her life was going well. She’s running her childhood horse farm, has a successful husband, a smart and athletic son, everything she thought she ever wanted. And then, the worst thing imaginable happens and Ben, her twelve-year-old son, is diagnosed with cancer.
Throughout the whole book, Celine shows a lot of strength and courage. She has moments of pettiness and anger, both of which are understandable. I liked the way that she didn’t focus completely on Ben though, which might sound weird at first, but she spread her focus between her sick son and her horse farm – both of which are her lifelines in this crazy situation. She gave Ben a ton of attention, but she didn’t make herself, or him, crazy by hovering either.
On the flip side, you have Felicity, the proverbial other woman. She’s made the bold choice to move closer to her one-time lover and father of her son, even if it means putting pressure and hurt feelings onto his wife and younger, sick son. In a lot of ways, I understand Felicity’s motives, however, she comes across as being very selfish in the beginning. Something that is also understandable to a point. Some of her choices did not paint her in a very good light, although, underneath it all, you can see that she’s only trying to protect her son, Justin, too.
While I can understand each of the women’s insecurities and fears, often their anger was misplaced. I found they directed it at each other more often than at the actual culprit – Eric. He’s the one who kept secrets and lied to not just his wife and former mistress, but from his children as well. However, I do have a lot of empathy for both women because they’re only trying to do what’s best for their own children. It’s a complicated situation that I wouldn’t ever want to be involved in.
Truthfully, the best part of the entire story were the times when Justin and Ben were together. The boys instantly found a connection, even without knowing they were related. It warmed my heart to see their friendship grow so quickly.
The Sun’s Shadow is a complicated, intense, and modern look at how a family operates, and what happens when everything you thought you knew is suddenly blown up. It’s a story of how two women who swear to hate each other manage to find common ground and a way to work together for the benefit of their children. This is a great novel for anyone who enjoys complex family drama, horses, and kids who love soccer. I’d love to have a follow up novel or novella telling us how they’re all doing five years down the road, too.
Throughout the whole book, Celine shows a lot of strength and courage. She has moments of pettiness and anger, both of which are understandable. I liked the way that she didn’t focus completely on Ben though, which might sound weird at first, but she spread her focus between her sick son and her horse farm – both of which are her lifelines in this crazy situation. She gave Ben a ton of attention, but she didn’t make herself, or him, crazy by hovering either.
On the flip side, you have Felicity, the proverbial other woman. She’s made the bold choice to move closer to her one-time lover and father of her son, even if it means putting pressure and hurt feelings onto his wife and younger, sick son. In a lot of ways, I understand Felicity’s motives, however, she comes across as being very selfish in the beginning. Something that is also understandable to a point. Some of her choices did not paint her in a very good light, although, underneath it all, you can see that she’s only trying to protect her son, Justin, too.
While I can understand each of the women’s insecurities and fears, often their anger was misplaced. I found they directed it at each other more often than at the actual culprit – Eric. He’s the one who kept secrets and lied to not just his wife and former mistress, but from his children as well. However, I do have a lot of empathy for both women because they’re only trying to do what’s best for their own children. It’s a complicated situation that I wouldn’t ever want to be involved in.
Truthfully, the best part of the entire story were the times when Justin and Ben were together. The boys instantly found a connection, even without knowing they were related. It warmed my heart to see their friendship grow so quickly.
The Sun’s Shadow is a complicated, intense, and modern look at how a family operates, and what happens when everything you thought you knew is suddenly blown up. It’s a story of how two women who swear to hate each other manage to find common ground and a way to work together for the benefit of their children. This is a great novel for anyone who enjoys complex family drama, horses, and kids who love soccer. I’d love to have a follow up novel or novella telling us how they’re all doing five years down the road, too.
January 28, 2025
This emotional and beautifully written novel had me turning pages way past bedtime to find out how it ended. My emotions were so invested in the characters and the plot that there is no way I could have gone to sleep without knowing the outcome for all of the main characters.
This story is told by two women - the wife and the 'other woman' who are both part of Eric's life. Celine has been married to Eric for over 17 years and they have one son Brian who is 12. She runs a horse farm and is buying it from her uncle with monthly payments. Even though her life with her husband is strained right now, she is happy with her family and her farm. From a young age, she dealt with issues of abandonment after her father left when she was 5 and never came back. These issues still affect her life and marriage.
Felicity is the 'other woman'. She and Eric had a one night stand seventeen years earlier and the result was their son Justin. Over the years, Eric has worked to be a father to Justin and to make him feel loved. Many times over the years when he told Celine that he was traveling for his job, he was spending time with his other family in Chicago. Felicity feels that it's time to make them a real family and re-locates to Boston where Eric lives with his family in hopes that he'll leave Celine.
Life would have continued on the same until Brian gets a diagnosis of leukemia. It's at a dangerous stage and family and friends get tested to see if they can give bone marrow to help Brian's possible recovery. When no one matches, Eric feels like he has to tell Celine about Justin because there is a good chance that he's a match for Brian and may provide a way to save Brian. Felicity doesn't want to take the chance of something happening to Justin during the procedure so she forbids it to happen. The fallout from Eric's confession effects everyone especially Justin who feels that he's been lied too for years. Celine can't believe that her entire marriage has been a lie but will do anything to save Brian.
This is the story of mothers and the unconditional love that they have for their sons. It's an emotional story about family, forgiveness and how a diagnosis of cancer changes lives in a deep and meaningful way. It also looks at the need for truth and honesty in a marriage or relationship. The characters in this story will stay with me long after the end of the book.
This story is told by two women - the wife and the 'other woman' who are both part of Eric's life. Celine has been married to Eric for over 17 years and they have one son Brian who is 12. She runs a horse farm and is buying it from her uncle with monthly payments. Even though her life with her husband is strained right now, she is happy with her family and her farm. From a young age, she dealt with issues of abandonment after her father left when she was 5 and never came back. These issues still affect her life and marriage.
Felicity is the 'other woman'. She and Eric had a one night stand seventeen years earlier and the result was their son Justin. Over the years, Eric has worked to be a father to Justin and to make him feel loved. Many times over the years when he told Celine that he was traveling for his job, he was spending time with his other family in Chicago. Felicity feels that it's time to make them a real family and re-locates to Boston where Eric lives with his family in hopes that he'll leave Celine.
Life would have continued on the same until Brian gets a diagnosis of leukemia. It's at a dangerous stage and family and friends get tested to see if they can give bone marrow to help Brian's possible recovery. When no one matches, Eric feels like he has to tell Celine about Justin because there is a good chance that he's a match for Brian and may provide a way to save Brian. Felicity doesn't want to take the chance of something happening to Justin during the procedure so she forbids it to happen. The fallout from Eric's confession effects everyone especially Justin who feels that he's been lied too for years. Celine can't believe that her entire marriage has been a lie but will do anything to save Brian.
This is the story of mothers and the unconditional love that they have for their sons. It's an emotional story about family, forgiveness and how a diagnosis of cancer changes lives in a deep and meaningful way. It also looks at the need for truth and honesty in a marriage or relationship. The characters in this story will stay with me long after the end of the book.
May 6, 2025
“The Sun’s Shadow” by Sejal Badani is a heartrending and powerful exploration of betrayal, maternal sacrifice, and the hope that flickers even in the darkest corners of grief. From the first page, I was drawn into the lives of two women—Celine and Felicity—whose paths collide under the most heartbreaking of circumstances.
Celine’s world begins to unravel when her 12-year-old son, Brian, is diagnosed with cancer. At the same time, she discovers her husband Eric’s long-held secret: a teenage son, Justin, from a past affair. Felicity, Justin’s mother, has moved to Boston hoping for acknowledgment and a future with the man she’s shared in secret for nearly two decades. But what begins as a confrontation becomes a reluctant alliance when Justin turns out to be Brian’s only hope for survival.
What makes this novel shine is its refusal to reduce any character to a trope. Celine is more than a wronged wife—she’s a woman of strength, tethered to the land and family she’s fought to preserve. Felicity is not merely “the other woman”—she’s a mother shaped by sacrifice and longing. Their shared love for their sons becomes the bridge between them, leading to one of the most emotional and redemptive arcs I’ve read in a long time.
Badani writes with a gentle, thoughtful style that lets the emotions feel real and natural. Her writing is clear but powerful; switching between the two women’s perspectives helps us understand each of them fully. The story explores forgiveness, identity, and the challenges of motherhood with care and insight.
I loved the beautifully developed relationship between Justin and Brian—a bond of brothers that forms despite betrayal and pain.
This is not a light read—grief, illness, and betrayal weigh heavily. It provides hopeful meditation on what it means to love selflessly, to face truth, and to find healing not in perfection, but in the messiness of real life.
I closed the final page with tears in my eyes and a deep sense of gratitude for stories like this—stories that challenge, comfort, and stay with you.
Highly recommended for fans of emotionally rich fiction, stories about motherhood, and anyone who believes in the redemptive power of second chances.
Celine’s world begins to unravel when her 12-year-old son, Brian, is diagnosed with cancer. At the same time, she discovers her husband Eric’s long-held secret: a teenage son, Justin, from a past affair. Felicity, Justin’s mother, has moved to Boston hoping for acknowledgment and a future with the man she’s shared in secret for nearly two decades. But what begins as a confrontation becomes a reluctant alliance when Justin turns out to be Brian’s only hope for survival.
What makes this novel shine is its refusal to reduce any character to a trope. Celine is more than a wronged wife—she’s a woman of strength, tethered to the land and family she’s fought to preserve. Felicity is not merely “the other woman”—she’s a mother shaped by sacrifice and longing. Their shared love for their sons becomes the bridge between them, leading to one of the most emotional and redemptive arcs I’ve read in a long time.
Badani writes with a gentle, thoughtful style that lets the emotions feel real and natural. Her writing is clear but powerful; switching between the two women’s perspectives helps us understand each of them fully. The story explores forgiveness, identity, and the challenges of motherhood with care and insight.
I loved the beautifully developed relationship between Justin and Brian—a bond of brothers that forms despite betrayal and pain.
This is not a light read—grief, illness, and betrayal weigh heavily. It provides hopeful meditation on what it means to love selflessly, to face truth, and to find healing not in perfection, but in the messiness of real life.
I closed the final page with tears in my eyes and a deep sense of gratitude for stories like this—stories that challenge, comfort, and stay with you.
Highly recommended for fans of emotionally rich fiction, stories about motherhood, and anyone who believes in the redemptive power of second chances.
April 22, 2025
Imagine waking up to find that your emotionally distant husband is not only emotionally distant, but maybe, possibly, definitely living a double life. Then your son is diagnosed with cancer. Then a beautiful woman shows up, claims her son is also your husband’s child, and might be the only chance at saving your son’s life.
Is this a soap opera? No. It’s The Sun’s Shadow and yes, it’s as intense and riveting as it sounds.
Celine was living the dream, if your dream includes an equestrian farm, a strained marriage, and emotional repression that could win awards. Enter: crisis mode. The bills are piling up, her marriage is basically a cold war in cashmere, and then comes the gut-punch: her sweet son Brian is gravely ill.
Meanwhile, Felicity (picture ambition in lipstick and a tasteful blazer) has finally had enough of hiding. She’s bringing the receipts—literal and emotional. She and Eric (yes, that Eric) share a teenage son, Justin, and she’s no longer content being the “side woman.” She wants her happy ending. And maybe also a kidney match.
Badani is a master of emotional layering. This isn't just "scorned wife vs secret second family"—it's about grief, womanhood, motherhood, betrayal, and ultimately, forgiveness.
There are moments you’ll want to scream into a pillow (Eric, mostly), and others where you'll be ugly crying at 2AM while whispering, "I didn’t sign up for this but here I am."
Celine and Felicity’s dynamic is like watching two storms swirl around each other, each protecting their child at all costs, circling a centre that might just be…understanding? It’s a slow, painful shift from rivals to reluctant allies. Think: Big Little Lies meets This Is Us, but on horseback and with more emotional precision.
The Sun’s Shadow is bittersweet, gripping, and healing, like the warm sunlight that finally filters through after a devastating storm. It’s not light reading—but it’s worth every heart-clenching moment.
Read it if you like:
* High-stakes emotional family drama
* Strong women forced into even stronger choices
* Moral grey zones where everyone’s just trying to do right by their kid
* Complex female dynamics that are raw and so real
Is this a soap opera? No. It’s The Sun’s Shadow and yes, it’s as intense and riveting as it sounds.
Celine was living the dream, if your dream includes an equestrian farm, a strained marriage, and emotional repression that could win awards. Enter: crisis mode. The bills are piling up, her marriage is basically a cold war in cashmere, and then comes the gut-punch: her sweet son Brian is gravely ill.
Meanwhile, Felicity (picture ambition in lipstick and a tasteful blazer) has finally had enough of hiding. She’s bringing the receipts—literal and emotional. She and Eric (yes, that Eric) share a teenage son, Justin, and she’s no longer content being the “side woman.” She wants her happy ending. And maybe also a kidney match.
Badani is a master of emotional layering. This isn't just "scorned wife vs secret second family"—it's about grief, womanhood, motherhood, betrayal, and ultimately, forgiveness.
There are moments you’ll want to scream into a pillow (Eric, mostly), and others where you'll be ugly crying at 2AM while whispering, "I didn’t sign up for this but here I am."
Celine and Felicity’s dynamic is like watching two storms swirl around each other, each protecting their child at all costs, circling a centre that might just be…understanding? It’s a slow, painful shift from rivals to reluctant allies. Think: Big Little Lies meets This Is Us, but on horseback and with more emotional precision.
The Sun’s Shadow is bittersweet, gripping, and healing, like the warm sunlight that finally filters through after a devastating storm. It’s not light reading—but it’s worth every heart-clenching moment.
Read it if you like:
* High-stakes emotional family drama
* Strong women forced into even stronger choices
* Moral grey zones where everyone’s just trying to do right by their kid
* Complex female dynamics that are raw and so real
November 18, 2024
4.25⭐️. “I glance toward the sky, at the sun that peeks out from behind the clouds, and wonder if I’ll ever again see its light or be forever cast in shadows.”
This book gripped me from the beginning and I found it very bingeable. It follows the POVs of two women - Celine and Felicity. 17 years ago, when Celine was engaged to Eric, he and Felicity had a one-night stand that led to their son, Justin, being born. In the present day, Celine and Eric now have their own 12 year old son, Brian, and neither Justin, Celine or Brian are aware of the double life that Eric is leading. When Brian receives a life threatening diagnosis, secrets are shattered.
This book covers some heavy topics, with childhood illness and betrayal, and Celine is a character who is easy to relate to and feel empathy for.
“It isn’t supposed to be like this, I think. The pain should have ended years ago. At some point, I am sure, happiness was meant for me.”
Both she and Felicity have been shaped by their childhoods and their relationships with their fathers, leaving Felicity a woman striving for success and Celine a woman trying not to rock the boat but to “Keep things steady and safe.”
As a horse person, the ranch setting and Celine’s career as a horse trainer made this book even better (although I would’ve liked even more of this!)
Despite the horrendous circumstances that Celine finds herself in, there are still moments of lightness and levity. However, I really struggled with Felicity’s inner monologue at the times (as I think you’re meant to), where she’s painting herself as the victim, yet she’s the only one of the two women whose had all of the facts known to her throughout the past 17 years.
My only critique is that, for me, the ending wrapped up a little too nicely, too quickly. While I love that she put Brian first and kept her issues with Eric and Felicity separate, I think Celine is a much more forgiving woman than I would have been in those circumstances!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this e-ARC.
This book gripped me from the beginning and I found it very bingeable. It follows the POVs of two women - Celine and Felicity. 17 years ago, when Celine was engaged to Eric, he and Felicity had a one-night stand that led to their son, Justin, being born. In the present day, Celine and Eric now have their own 12 year old son, Brian, and neither Justin, Celine or Brian are aware of the double life that Eric is leading. When Brian receives a life threatening diagnosis, secrets are shattered.
This book covers some heavy topics, with childhood illness and betrayal, and Celine is a character who is easy to relate to and feel empathy for.
“It isn’t supposed to be like this, I think. The pain should have ended years ago. At some point, I am sure, happiness was meant for me.”
Both she and Felicity have been shaped by their childhoods and their relationships with their fathers, leaving Felicity a woman striving for success and Celine a woman trying not to rock the boat but to “Keep things steady and safe.”
As a horse person, the ranch setting and Celine’s career as a horse trainer made this book even better (although I would’ve liked even more of this!)
Despite the horrendous circumstances that Celine finds herself in, there are still moments of lightness and levity. However, I really struggled with Felicity’s inner monologue at the times (as I think you’re meant to), where she’s painting herself as the victim, yet she’s the only one of the two women whose had all of the facts known to her throughout the past 17 years.
My only critique is that, for me, the ending wrapped up a little too nicely, too quickly. While I love that she put Brian first and kept her issues with Eric and Felicity separate, I think Celine is a much more forgiving woman than I would have been in those circumstances!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this e-ARC.
May 6, 2025
Celine just gets news that she is going to lose her equestrian farm, her uncle is planning on selling it and she doesn't have enough saved up to keep it for herself.
But that farm is her life's work. Just when things start going downhill, Celine's son Brian is diagnosed with leukemia.
But that's not where it ends. In order to save their son, Eric her husband reveals a secret that he has been keeping for the last 17 years. Since before they got married.
We have Felicity, whose son Justin is the only one who can save Brian now. But Eric and Felicity's secret has not just ruined Celine's marriage but also brought her to the realization that all this while she was living a life that was never real. Since Justin was born, Eric and Felicity were coparents and friends. Eric had been living a dual life, which she knew and was okay with as long as they were a family.
But now that the secret, even Justin doesn't seem to understand Felicity's side of it all. However he is over the moon to know that he has a younger brother, and is ready to do anything that it takes to save him and be his elder brother.
This was a complex family drama, but so entertaining to read. I found Eric to be the villain here, though Felicity knew what she was doing, it was Eric who was married for seventeen long years and being unfaithful. It was really complex, and I was sobbing every now and then, with the way each of the characters acted in a time when anyone could just lose their way.
The ending was really good. The story was complex, the characters very well written, and the world building amazing. I loved the way the author captured the complexities and of families and emotions of each and every character so well. Writing it in a dual pov of both Celine and Felicity worked really well as we get to see both sides. This was a really good read.
But that farm is her life's work. Just when things start going downhill, Celine's son Brian is diagnosed with leukemia.
But that's not where it ends. In order to save their son, Eric her husband reveals a secret that he has been keeping for the last 17 years. Since before they got married.
We have Felicity, whose son Justin is the only one who can save Brian now. But Eric and Felicity's secret has not just ruined Celine's marriage but also brought her to the realization that all this while she was living a life that was never real. Since Justin was born, Eric and Felicity were coparents and friends. Eric had been living a dual life, which she knew and was okay with as long as they were a family.
But now that the secret, even Justin doesn't seem to understand Felicity's side of it all. However he is over the moon to know that he has a younger brother, and is ready to do anything that it takes to save him and be his elder brother.
This was a complex family drama, but so entertaining to read. I found Eric to be the villain here, though Felicity knew what she was doing, it was Eric who was married for seventeen long years and being unfaithful. It was really complex, and I was sobbing every now and then, with the way each of the characters acted in a time when anyone could just lose their way.
The ending was really good. The story was complex, the characters very well written, and the world building amazing. I loved the way the author captured the complexities and of families and emotions of each and every character so well. Writing it in a dual pov of both Celine and Felicity worked really well as we get to see both sides. This was a really good read.
April 26, 2025
Book Review: The Sun’s Shadow by Sejal Badani
The Sun's Shadow-excellent creation of the pen of Sejal Badani-is a gut-wrenchingly emotional work that contains every element of love, betrayal, resilience, and the quiet strength needed to survive life's trials at their worst. Celine is the main character: a woman whose world comes apart at the seams when her beloved farm is threatened by cancer in her own son, Brian, and then by a long-hidden betrayal from her husband Eric-really it's all one neat package of an affair followed by a secret son.
Badani understands something special about writing a story: she's raw but classy in mixing grief, forgiveness, and hope. Most striking is the authenticity with which pain and redemption are dealt with in these characters. The last piece of the story is that between Celine and Felicity-these two women are tied together by one man but choose to come together instead of opting for bitterness for their children's sake.
Yet another place where the emotional stakes are high, but the book never goes into melodrama. In place of that, it engages you in a more layered exploration of man, sacrifice, and second chances. Very affecting is the elder brother's decision to help save Brian, portraying so much honor and so much empathy in a scenario that demands most unimaginable choices.
Badani's writing lingers long after the last page thought-prickling and very pregnant with the experience of living here-within the story of how love can still bloom, even amid betrayals and losses, and how light can find its way through the darkest shadows. A heartrending and beautiful novel that should grace the shelf of every emotional fiction lover:
very fitting for a tragic, beautiful novel in the collection of any lover of emotional fiction.
The Sun's Shadow-excellent creation of the pen of Sejal Badani-is a gut-wrenchingly emotional work that contains every element of love, betrayal, resilience, and the quiet strength needed to survive life's trials at their worst. Celine is the main character: a woman whose world comes apart at the seams when her beloved farm is threatened by cancer in her own son, Brian, and then by a long-hidden betrayal from her husband Eric-really it's all one neat package of an affair followed by a secret son.
Badani understands something special about writing a story: she's raw but classy in mixing grief, forgiveness, and hope. Most striking is the authenticity with which pain and redemption are dealt with in these characters. The last piece of the story is that between Celine and Felicity-these two women are tied together by one man but choose to come together instead of opting for bitterness for their children's sake.
Yet another place where the emotional stakes are high, but the book never goes into melodrama. In place of that, it engages you in a more layered exploration of man, sacrifice, and second chances. Very affecting is the elder brother's decision to help save Brian, portraying so much honor and so much empathy in a scenario that demands most unimaginable choices.
Badani's writing lingers long after the last page thought-prickling and very pregnant with the experience of living here-within the story of how love can still bloom, even amid betrayals and losses, and how light can find its way through the darkest shadows. A heartrending and beautiful novel that should grace the shelf of every emotional fiction lover:
very fitting for a tragic, beautiful novel in the collection of any lover of emotional fiction.
May 4, 2025
𝐑𝐄𝐀𝐃 𝐓𝐇𝐈𝐒 𝐈𝐅 𝐘𝐎𝐔
👯♀️ have read My Sister’s Keeper
🤫 are hiding a huge secret from your spouse
🎭 enjoy books with a lot of drama
📖 love character driven novels
• 𝐖𝐇𝐀𝐓 𝐈𝐓’𝐒 𝐀𝐁𝐎𝐔𝐓
Celine’s life is unraveling. She’s in danger of losing her beloved equestrian farm and childhood home. Her husband, Eric, grows more distant with each passing day, and now her young son, Brian, has been diagnosed with a life-altering illness. It feels like everything is slipping through her fingers. Felicity has uprooted her career and teenage son, Justin, to be closer to Eric. She’s tired of keeping his secrets and is determined to get her happily ever after, even if it means confronting Celine. As their paths are about to collide, both women are forced to face difficult choices. Felicity must decide if the life she's chasing is truly worth the cost, while Celine clings to the hope that someone, somewhere, can save her son.
In a different world, Celine and Felicity might have been friends. But now, they must find a way to put the hurt between them aside—for the sake of their children and their own futures.
• 𝐌𝐘 𝐓𝐇𝐎𝐔𝐆𝐇𝐓𝐒
This was a wild one to say the least. Eric is hiding this huge and very unforgivable secret from his wife, Celine, and Felicity is having to deal with the aftermath of a child with no father in the picture. All the while, Brian is dying from a disease that seems incurable. There were a lot of moving parts in this story, and I loved getting everything from the two women’s perspectives and seeing both of their sides. The drama is ripe in this one, and you’ll probably have a hard time feeling sorry for the adults in the story, but I definitely felt for the kids. Pick this one up if you enjoyed My Sister’s Keeper!
👯♀️ have read My Sister’s Keeper
🤫 are hiding a huge secret from your spouse
🎭 enjoy books with a lot of drama
📖 love character driven novels
• 𝐖𝐇𝐀𝐓 𝐈𝐓’𝐒 𝐀𝐁𝐎𝐔𝐓
Celine’s life is unraveling. She’s in danger of losing her beloved equestrian farm and childhood home. Her husband, Eric, grows more distant with each passing day, and now her young son, Brian, has been diagnosed with a life-altering illness. It feels like everything is slipping through her fingers. Felicity has uprooted her career and teenage son, Justin, to be closer to Eric. She’s tired of keeping his secrets and is determined to get her happily ever after, even if it means confronting Celine. As their paths are about to collide, both women are forced to face difficult choices. Felicity must decide if the life she's chasing is truly worth the cost, while Celine clings to the hope that someone, somewhere, can save her son.
In a different world, Celine and Felicity might have been friends. But now, they must find a way to put the hurt between them aside—for the sake of their children and their own futures.
• 𝐌𝐘 𝐓𝐇𝐎𝐔𝐆𝐇𝐓𝐒
This was a wild one to say the least. Eric is hiding this huge and very unforgivable secret from his wife, Celine, and Felicity is having to deal with the aftermath of a child with no father in the picture. All the while, Brian is dying from a disease that seems incurable. There were a lot of moving parts in this story, and I loved getting everything from the two women’s perspectives and seeing both of their sides. The drama is ripe in this one, and you’ll probably have a hard time feeling sorry for the adults in the story, but I definitely felt for the kids. Pick this one up if you enjoyed My Sister’s Keeper!
March 24, 2025
How devastating must it be to find out that their child has cancer? The author knows how to explore secondary themes, inserting the possibility of abuse into the plot first. When the cancer diagnosis is confirmed, we have a race against time to save a 12-year-old. The narrative is rich because that is not the only thing to be saved; we have a mother with a failed marriage who also wants to save her farm. The characters go through much, but there is a path to still believe in love, and radical changes are due to both families.
To save the child, the husband must unveil the secrets of another boy, a secret son who is older because he can be a match.
The author managed all the plot lines and twists very well. We have a married couple but an unhappy family struck by a terrible event; then there is the POV of another woman and her son, somehow captive by this man's double life for years.
My favorite character was the older brother, who had to make the decision to save his younger brother. He is polite, empathic, and honorable. The story wraps up with the drama, and we start rooting for these two families to find a middle ground where they can see each other without jealousy, expectations, or resentment. It's a sad novel but also hopeful and uplifting. I liked it a lot. Thank you, author, for the decisions towards the end to reward the characters who deserved a second chance and to punish appropriately the others who are due some consequences.
This was my first contact with this author's writing style, and I liked it a lot. Will look forward to reading more from this author.
To save the child, the husband must unveil the secrets of another boy, a secret son who is older because he can be a match.
The author managed all the plot lines and twists very well. We have a married couple but an unhappy family struck by a terrible event; then there is the POV of another woman and her son, somehow captive by this man's double life for years.
My favorite character was the older brother, who had to make the decision to save his younger brother. He is polite, empathic, and honorable. The story wraps up with the drama, and we start rooting for these two families to find a middle ground where they can see each other without jealousy, expectations, or resentment. It's a sad novel but also hopeful and uplifting. I liked it a lot. Thank you, author, for the decisions towards the end to reward the characters who deserved a second chance and to punish appropriately the others who are due some consequences.
This was my first contact with this author's writing style, and I liked it a lot. Will look forward to reading more from this author.
April 23, 2025
🌅 Book Review: The Sun’s Shadow by Sejal Badani 🌿
📖 @geturbook
I just finished The Sun’s Shadow by Sejal Badani, and I’m still sitting with all the emotions it stirred in me. This isn't just a story—it's a journey through heartbreak, resilience, and the quiet, extraordinary courage it takes to keep going when life falls apart.
Celine’s world begins to crumble when her beloved equestrian farm—the sanctuary she’s built—is under threat. But that’s only the beginning. Her son Brian is diagnosed with cancer, and her husband, Eric, reveals a devastating truth: he has a son from a past affair. The emotional wreckage that follows is raw, real, and painfully human.
What struck me most was how Badani captures the complexity of relationships—how betrayal and grief can co-exist with love and forgiveness. Watching Celine and Felicity—two mothers connected by the same man—navigate this storm for the sake of their children was incredibly moving. It’s not easy to read at times, but it’s so worth it.
The writing is gentle yet powerful, with moments of quiet reflection that made me pause and breathe. I felt the ache of every mother’s sacrifice, the confusion of a child trying to understand illness, and the glimmer of hope that flickers even in the darkest corners.
If you love emotionally layered stories that make you feel every heartbeat, The Sun’s Shadow deserves a spot on your TBR. It reminded me that even in the deepest shadows, love has a way of finding the light.
#TheSunsShadow #SejalBadani #BookReview #GetUrBook #Bookstagram #EmotionalReads #FamilyDrama #MothersAndSons #ForgivenessJourney #ReadersOfInstagram #BookLovers #BookCommunity #ReadingRecommendation
📖 @geturbook
I just finished The Sun’s Shadow by Sejal Badani, and I’m still sitting with all the emotions it stirred in me. This isn't just a story—it's a journey through heartbreak, resilience, and the quiet, extraordinary courage it takes to keep going when life falls apart.
Celine’s world begins to crumble when her beloved equestrian farm—the sanctuary she’s built—is under threat. But that’s only the beginning. Her son Brian is diagnosed with cancer, and her husband, Eric, reveals a devastating truth: he has a son from a past affair. The emotional wreckage that follows is raw, real, and painfully human.
What struck me most was how Badani captures the complexity of relationships—how betrayal and grief can co-exist with love and forgiveness. Watching Celine and Felicity—two mothers connected by the same man—navigate this storm for the sake of their children was incredibly moving. It’s not easy to read at times, but it’s so worth it.
The writing is gentle yet powerful, with moments of quiet reflection that made me pause and breathe. I felt the ache of every mother’s sacrifice, the confusion of a child trying to understand illness, and the glimmer of hope that flickers even in the darkest corners.
If you love emotionally layered stories that make you feel every heartbeat, The Sun’s Shadow deserves a spot on your TBR. It reminded me that even in the deepest shadows, love has a way of finding the light.
#TheSunsShadow #SejalBadani #BookReview #GetUrBook #Bookstagram #EmotionalReads #FamilyDrama #MothersAndSons #ForgivenessJourney #ReadersOfInstagram #BookLovers #BookCommunity #ReadingRecommendation
May 8, 2025
Secrets can destroy the world you know.
Celine thinks she has a wonderful relationship with her husband, Eric. They have good jobs, a son they love, and so much more. However, Eric's actions make it obvious that he is hiding something. The truth will devastate Celine, but perhaps it is what she needs to set herself free.
All of the characters are flawed. Eric for his indiscretion, Felicity for her obsession with Eric, and Celine for settling instead of pursuing her dreams.
The book flows nicely, and there are a fair number of events that keep the story moving along. The book centers around Celine and Felicity and is told from their point of view. These women are strong and weak at the same time, but one thing is true: they both love their sons and would do anything for them.
I wasn't fond of Felicity, but by the end, I appreciated her growth, considering everything that happened and in a short time span. I admired her realization that she was the "other woman" and her dream of a family with Eric wasn't in the cards.
A minor storyline is Celine's determination to buy the farm where she trains racehorses. A kink is thrown in the works when the owner has a cash buyer, and her time is limited to gather the cash to buy the property. I enjoyed the visits to the farm and could picture the rides, the races, and so much more.
Overall, I enjoyed reading this novel, and gave it 4 paws up.
Celine thinks she has a wonderful relationship with her husband, Eric. They have good jobs, a son they love, and so much more. However, Eric's actions make it obvious that he is hiding something. The truth will devastate Celine, but perhaps it is what she needs to set herself free.
All of the characters are flawed. Eric for his indiscretion, Felicity for her obsession with Eric, and Celine for settling instead of pursuing her dreams.
The book flows nicely, and there are a fair number of events that keep the story moving along. The book centers around Celine and Felicity and is told from their point of view. These women are strong and weak at the same time, but one thing is true: they both love their sons and would do anything for them.
I wasn't fond of Felicity, but by the end, I appreciated her growth, considering everything that happened and in a short time span. I admired her realization that she was the "other woman" and her dream of a family with Eric wasn't in the cards.
A minor storyline is Celine's determination to buy the farm where she trains racehorses. A kink is thrown in the works when the owner has a cash buyer, and her time is limited to gather the cash to buy the property. I enjoyed the visits to the farm and could picture the rides, the races, and so much more.
Overall, I enjoyed reading this novel, and gave it 4 paws up.
May 9, 2025
𝖳𝗁𝖺𝗇𝗄 𝗒𝗈𝗎 𝗍𝗈 @sejal_badani. @ireadbooktours 𝖺𝗇𝖽 @lauren.ireadbooktours 𝖿𝗈𝗋 𝗆𝗒 𝖻𝖾𝖺𝗎𝗍𝗂𝖿𝗎𝗅 𝖼𝗈𝗆𝗉𝗅𝗂𝗆𝖾𝗇𝗍𝖺𝗋𝗒 𝖼𝗈𝗉𝗒.
#ireadbooktours
𝖠 𝗌𝗍𝗈𝗋𝗒 𝗈𝖿 𝗍𝗐𝗈 𝗆𝗈𝗍𝗁𝖾𝗋𝗌 𝖺𝗇𝖽 𝗍𝗁𝖾𝗂𝗋 𝗎𝗇𝖼𝗈𝗇𝖽𝗂𝗍𝗂𝗈𝗇𝖺𝗅 𝗅𝗈𝗏𝖾 𝖿𝗈𝗋 𝗍𝗁𝖾𝗂𝗋 𝗌𝗈𝗇𝗌.
Seventeen yrs ago, while engaged to Celine, Eric had a one night stand with Felicity. Which resulted in a pregnancy. Justin was born.
𝐏𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐃𝐚𝐲: Celine and Eric now have a 12 yr old son Brian, and she has no idea of his other secret son. When Brian receives a life-threatening diagnosis, lives shatter, and secrets are revealed.
𝐓𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬:
𝖳𝗁𝗂𝗌 𝗂𝗌 𝗌𝗎𝖼𝗁 𝖺 𝖻𝖾𝖺𝗎𝗍𝖿𝗎𝗅𝗅𝗒 𝗐𝗋𝗂𝗍𝖾𝗇 𝖻𝗈𝗈𝗄. 𝖡𝖺𝗇𝖽𝖺𝗇𝗂'𝗌 𝗌𝗍𝗒𝗅𝖾 𝗁𝖺𝗌 𝖺 𝗌𝗂𝗆𝗉𝗅𝗂𝖼𝗂𝗍𝗒 𝗍𝗈 𝗂𝗍 𝗍𝗁𝖺𝗍 𝗆𝖺𝗄𝖾𝗌 𝖿𝗈𝗋 𝖾𝖺𝗌𝗒 𝗋𝖾𝖺𝖽𝗂𝗇𝗀, 𝖺𝗇𝖽 𝗁𝗂𝗀𝗁𝗅𝗂𝗀𝗁𝗍𝗂𝗇𝗀 𝗍𝗁𝖾 𝗂𝗇𝗍𝖾𝗇𝗌𝖾𝗅𝗒 𝗆𝗈𝗏𝗂𝗇𝗀 emotions in the 𝗌𝗍𝗈𝗋𝗒.
𝖳𝗁𝖾 𝖺𝗎𝗍𝗁𝗈𝗋 𝖽𝗈𝖾𝗌 𝖺 𝗐𝗈𝗇𝖽𝖾𝗋𝖿𝗎𝗅 𝗃𝗈𝖻 𝗂𝗇 𝗂𝗇𝗏𝗈𝗄𝗂𝗇𝗀 𝖺 𝗏𝖺𝗋𝗂𝖾𝗍𝗒 𝗈𝖿 𝖾𝗆𝗈𝗍𝗂𝗈𝗇𝗌 𝗐𝗁𝗂𝗅𝖾 𝖾𝗑𝗉𝗅𝗈𝗋𝗂𝗇𝗀 𝖿𝖺𝗆𝗂𝗅𝗒 𝖽𝗒𝗇𝖺𝗆𝗂𝖼𝗌, 𝖻𝖾𝗍𝗋𝖺𝗒𝖺𝗅 𝖺𝗇𝖽 𝖿𝗈𝗋𝗀𝗂𝗏𝖾𝗇𝖾𝗌𝗌.
Her characters are deeply relatable, and I admire the resilience of all of them.
I loved it when they put aside their differences for the sake of the family, and I felt Celine's emotional struggles. Her son's cancer diagnosis, her distant husband, 𝗁𝗂𝗌 𝖻𝖾𝗍𝗋𝖺𝗒𝖺𝗅.
𝖸𝗈𝗎 𝗐𝗂𝗅𝗅 𝗅𝗈𝗏𝖾 𝗍𝗁𝗂𝗌 𝖿𝖺𝗆𝗂𝗅𝗒 𝖽𝗋𝖺𝗆𝖺 𝖺𝗌 𝗂𝗍 𝖻𝗋𝖾𝖺𝗄𝗌 𝗒𝗈𝗎𝗋 𝗁𝖾𝖺𝗋𝗍, 𝖺𝗇𝖽 𝖾𝗏𝖾𝗋𝗒 𝖾𝗆𝗈𝗍𝗂𝗈𝗇𝖺𝗅 𝖿𝗂𝖼𝗍𝗂𝗈𝗇 𝗅𝗈𝗏𝖾𝗋 𝗌𝗁𝗈𝗎𝗅𝖽 𝗋𝖾𝖺𝖽 𝗂𝗍.
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#ireadbooktours
𝖠 𝗌𝗍𝗈𝗋𝗒 𝗈𝖿 𝗍𝗐𝗈 𝗆𝗈𝗍𝗁𝖾𝗋𝗌 𝖺𝗇𝖽 𝗍𝗁𝖾𝗂𝗋 𝗎𝗇𝖼𝗈𝗇𝖽𝗂𝗍𝗂𝗈𝗇𝖺𝗅 𝗅𝗈𝗏𝖾 𝖿𝗈𝗋 𝗍𝗁𝖾𝗂𝗋 𝗌𝗈𝗇𝗌.
Seventeen yrs ago, while engaged to Celine, Eric had a one night stand with Felicity. Which resulted in a pregnancy. Justin was born.
𝐏𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐃𝐚𝐲: Celine and Eric now have a 12 yr old son Brian, and she has no idea of his other secret son. When Brian receives a life-threatening diagnosis, lives shatter, and secrets are revealed.
𝐓𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬:
𝖳𝗁𝗂𝗌 𝗂𝗌 𝗌𝗎𝖼𝗁 𝖺 𝖻𝖾𝖺𝗎𝗍𝖿𝗎𝗅𝗅𝗒 𝗐𝗋𝗂𝗍𝖾𝗇 𝖻𝗈𝗈𝗄. 𝖡𝖺𝗇𝖽𝖺𝗇𝗂'𝗌 𝗌𝗍𝗒𝗅𝖾 𝗁𝖺𝗌 𝖺 𝗌𝗂𝗆𝗉𝗅𝗂𝖼𝗂𝗍𝗒 𝗍𝗈 𝗂𝗍 𝗍𝗁𝖺𝗍 𝗆𝖺𝗄𝖾𝗌 𝖿𝗈𝗋 𝖾𝖺𝗌𝗒 𝗋𝖾𝖺𝖽𝗂𝗇𝗀, 𝖺𝗇𝖽 𝗁𝗂𝗀𝗁𝗅𝗂𝗀𝗁𝗍𝗂𝗇𝗀 𝗍𝗁𝖾 𝗂𝗇𝗍𝖾𝗇𝗌𝖾𝗅𝗒 𝗆𝗈𝗏𝗂𝗇𝗀 emotions in the 𝗌𝗍𝗈𝗋𝗒.
𝖳𝗁𝖾 𝖺𝗎𝗍𝗁𝗈𝗋 𝖽𝗈𝖾𝗌 𝖺 𝗐𝗈𝗇𝖽𝖾𝗋𝖿𝗎𝗅 𝗃𝗈𝖻 𝗂𝗇 𝗂𝗇𝗏𝗈𝗄𝗂𝗇𝗀 𝖺 𝗏𝖺𝗋𝗂𝖾𝗍𝗒 𝗈𝖿 𝖾𝗆𝗈𝗍𝗂𝗈𝗇𝗌 𝗐𝗁𝗂𝗅𝖾 𝖾𝗑𝗉𝗅𝗈𝗋𝗂𝗇𝗀 𝖿𝖺𝗆𝗂𝗅𝗒 𝖽𝗒𝗇𝖺𝗆𝗂𝖼𝗌, 𝖻𝖾𝗍𝗋𝖺𝗒𝖺𝗅 𝖺𝗇𝖽 𝖿𝗈𝗋𝗀𝗂𝗏𝖾𝗇𝖾𝗌𝗌.
Her characters are deeply relatable, and I admire the resilience of all of them.
I loved it when they put aside their differences for the sake of the family, and I felt Celine's emotional struggles. Her son's cancer diagnosis, her distant husband, 𝗁𝗂𝗌 𝖻𝖾𝗍𝗋𝖺𝗒𝖺𝗅.
𝖸𝗈𝗎 𝗐𝗂𝗅𝗅 𝗅𝗈𝗏𝖾 𝗍𝗁𝗂𝗌 𝖿𝖺𝗆𝗂𝗅𝗒 𝖽𝗋𝖺𝗆𝖺 𝖺𝗌 𝗂𝗍 𝖻𝗋𝖾𝖺𝗄𝗌 𝗒𝗈𝗎𝗋 𝗁𝖾𝖺𝗋𝗍, 𝖺𝗇𝖽 𝖾𝗏𝖾𝗋𝗒 𝖾𝗆𝗈𝗍𝗂𝗈𝗇𝖺𝗅 𝖿𝗂𝖼𝗍𝗂𝗈𝗇 𝗅𝗈𝗏𝖾𝗋 𝗌𝗁𝗈𝗎𝗅𝖽 𝗋𝖾𝖺𝖽 𝗂𝗍.
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January 28, 2025
This story is a deeply emotional journey, exploring themes of healing, forgiveness, second chances, true love, and the harsh realities of cancer. Told from the perspectives of both the wife and the "other woman," it offers a complex narrative that challenges initial perceptions. At first, I struggled to like the "other woman," but as her story unfolded, it became clear she was just as much a "victim" of the situation as the wife. By the end, I couldn’t help but root for her to find her own happy ending too.
This book took me on an emotional rollercoaster—smiling one moment, wiping away tears the next. It’s heartfelt and raw, particularly in its portrayal of parental love. The parents’ journey through their 12-year-old son’s battle with cancer, the older brother stepping up as a donor, and the heart-wrenching decisions they had to make left me deeply moved.
And then there’s Celine’s backstory, marked by the abandonment of her father in childhood and its lingering impact on her ability to believe in herself. Her character’s growth was so beautifully written and resonated deeply.
This was a fantastic, albeit emotional, read. I loved every word, and the ending left me truly happy. Just a heads-up—keep tissues handy because this one will tug at your heartstrings.
This book took me on an emotional rollercoaster—smiling one moment, wiping away tears the next. It’s heartfelt and raw, particularly in its portrayal of parental love. The parents’ journey through their 12-year-old son’s battle with cancer, the older brother stepping up as a donor, and the heart-wrenching decisions they had to make left me deeply moved.
And then there’s Celine’s backstory, marked by the abandonment of her father in childhood and its lingering impact on her ability to believe in herself. Her character’s growth was so beautifully written and resonated deeply.
This was a fantastic, albeit emotional, read. I loved every word, and the ending left me truly happy. Just a heads-up—keep tissues handy because this one will tug at your heartstrings.
February 3, 2025
Sejal Badani has done it again! She has managed to rip my heart out, tear it into shreds, and then reconstruct it in a way that leaves me with more empathy than I had before. I am telling you now, if you've never read a book by this phenomenal writer, now is the time.
I can not tell you how much I despise reading books about a cheating spouse - it makes me so angry that I can't even appreciate the novel I'm reading. And yet, Ms. Badani has written a book that had me glued to the pages, needing to know how the story would unfold and how the characters would survive their circumstances. It's fascinating how Ms. Badani humanizes even the most despicable characters.
The addition of a child's cancer diagnosis was so gut-wrenching and unexpected, and yet it offered perspective that so many of the characters desperately needed.
Ultimately, this was a story about forgiveness and redemption. It was a story about self-discovery and owning the truths that sometimes hurt to admit. It was beautiful and tragic, desperate and heartfelt. I always appreciate this author's ability to explore the secrets that hold people back and often ruin lives. It is a beautiful story that I've come to expect from Sejal Badani, as she has quickly worked her way up on my list of well-respected authors.
I cried and rejoiced as I read this novel and came away with a sense of wholeness that truly is her signature culmination.
Many thanks to Lake Union and NetGalley for this gifted review copy.
For more of my reviews, please check out my blog at www.mamasgottaread.blogspot.com or follow me on Instagram at www.instagram.com/mamasgottaread.
I can not tell you how much I despise reading books about a cheating spouse - it makes me so angry that I can't even appreciate the novel I'm reading. And yet, Ms. Badani has written a book that had me glued to the pages, needing to know how the story would unfold and how the characters would survive their circumstances. It's fascinating how Ms. Badani humanizes even the most despicable characters.
The addition of a child's cancer diagnosis was so gut-wrenching and unexpected, and yet it offered perspective that so many of the characters desperately needed.
Ultimately, this was a story about forgiveness and redemption. It was a story about self-discovery and owning the truths that sometimes hurt to admit. It was beautiful and tragic, desperate and heartfelt. I always appreciate this author's ability to explore the secrets that hold people back and often ruin lives. It is a beautiful story that I've come to expect from Sejal Badani, as she has quickly worked her way up on my list of well-respected authors.
I cried and rejoiced as I read this novel and came away with a sense of wholeness that truly is her signature culmination.
Many thanks to Lake Union and NetGalley for this gifted review copy.
For more of my reviews, please check out my blog at www.mamasgottaread.blogspot.com or follow me on Instagram at www.instagram.com/mamasgottaread.
February 19, 2025
Thank you Netgalley for this ARC of The Sun's Shadow by Sejal Badani.
If you enjoyed My Sister's Keeper by Jodi Picoult, this book is for you.
Eric and Celine are devastated to learn that their only son Brian has a life threatening form of cancer. But Celine world is even more rattled to discover that Brian has a half brother out there, a sibling that could be the key to Brian's survival.
Felicity is tired of hiding, tired of living so far away from the father of her son. Even though Justin is a child of infidelity, he deserves better than what he's gotten. But now Justin has just learned that his half brother is sick, and wants to do what he can to save him. Felicity can't help but feel torn, and hesitant to jump into Eric's family...
I don't know how I feel about this book. I already don't like infidelity, but I appreciate the nuance of keeping things fair for the children, despite the sins of their parents. I also liked the moral dilemma of asking Justin to provide donors to a brother he barely knew. As for the parents and their woes, I was way less interested, they can sort that mess out themselves.
If you enjoyed My Sister's Keeper by Jodi Picoult, this book is for you.
Eric and Celine are devastated to learn that their only son Brian has a life threatening form of cancer. But Celine world is even more rattled to discover that Brian has a half brother out there, a sibling that could be the key to Brian's survival.
Felicity is tired of hiding, tired of living so far away from the father of her son. Even though Justin is a child of infidelity, he deserves better than what he's gotten. But now Justin has just learned that his half brother is sick, and wants to do what he can to save him. Felicity can't help but feel torn, and hesitant to jump into Eric's family...
I don't know how I feel about this book. I already don't like infidelity, but I appreciate the nuance of keeping things fair for the children, despite the sins of their parents. I also liked the moral dilemma of asking Justin to provide donors to a brother he barely knew. As for the parents and their woes, I was way less interested, they can sort that mess out themselves.
February 22, 2025
Actual Rating 2.5
I was expecting to like this one more. I had a difficult time with the characters, which is never ideal in a character-driven work. We're told a lot of things about the characters and how they feel but it doesn't always align with their actions. The adults were kind of bland overall and there just wasn't much to engage with.
Part of the issue is that we get the POV of both women, and there aren't many events or much action in this work. This means we spend a lot of time hearing why both women feel right or wronged, their hurt, their angst, etc. It gets really repetitive and honestly felt like a lot of parts could have been skimmed (I had the audiobook version so no skimming for me). The work starts strong, but it could probably be trimmed by about 30% without losing anything pertinent.
I'm an outlier on this one, so if the premise sounds interesting to you then definitely check out the more positive reviews. My thanks to NetGalley and Brilliance Publishing for allowing me to read this work. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.
I was expecting to like this one more. I had a difficult time with the characters, which is never ideal in a character-driven work. We're told a lot of things about the characters and how they feel but it doesn't always align with their actions. The adults were kind of bland overall and there just wasn't much to engage with.
Part of the issue is that we get the POV of both women, and there aren't many events or much action in this work. This means we spend a lot of time hearing why both women feel right or wronged, their hurt, their angst, etc. It gets really repetitive and honestly felt like a lot of parts could have been skimmed (I had the audiobook version so no skimming for me). The work starts strong, but it could probably be trimmed by about 30% without losing anything pertinent.
I'm an outlier on this one, so if the premise sounds interesting to you then definitely check out the more positive reviews. My thanks to NetGalley and Brilliance Publishing for allowing me to read this work. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.
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