What do you think?
Under an African Sky: A Novel
SOUTH AFRICA, 1989. In a deeply divided country on the brink of change, two women from vastly different backgrounds share an unlikely friendship.
Sofia Levantis, a Greek-Cypriot immigrant, longs to keep her family close, but when her children want to leave South Africa, the future she’s imagined begins to slip away. Meanwhile, Grace Molepe, Sofia’s housekeeper and trusted friend, pins her hopes on her son’s education and a future where he’ll no longer be treated like a foreigner in his own country.
When their children’s lives become entangled in ways neither woman could foresee, the fallout threatens not only their dreams, but also the friendship on which they’ve come to rely. Into this turmoil, a priest from Sofia’s past arrives from a remote Greek monastery. His quiet presence steadies Grace, yet unsettles Sofia as long-buried secrets rise to the surface. But in this fractured world, where a nation and hearts are coming undone, can his prayers hold the pieces together, or will the past refuse to let go of the present?
Spanning a time of upheaval and transformation, Under an African Sky is a story about friendship, family, forgiveness, and the fragile, resilient threads that connect us, even as the world around us unravels.
Sofia Levantis, a Greek-Cypriot immigrant, longs to keep her family close, but when her children want to leave South Africa, the future she’s imagined begins to slip away. Meanwhile, Grace Molepe, Sofia’s housekeeper and trusted friend, pins her hopes on her son’s education and a future where he’ll no longer be treated like a foreigner in his own country.
When their children’s lives become entangled in ways neither woman could foresee, the fallout threatens not only their dreams, but also the friendship on which they’ve come to rely. Into this turmoil, a priest from Sofia’s past arrives from a remote Greek monastery. His quiet presence steadies Grace, yet unsettles Sofia as long-buried secrets rise to the surface. But in this fractured world, where a nation and hearts are coming undone, can his prayers hold the pieces together, or will the past refuse to let go of the present?
Spanning a time of upheaval and transformation, Under an African Sky is a story about friendship, family, forgiveness, and the fragile, resilient threads that connect us, even as the world around us unravels.
302 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 10, 2026
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews
August 10, 2026
Set in Apartheid South African just before Mandela's release we enter the Levantis home. Being wealthy and white they do not not feel the same pressures as immigrants might in other areas, and certainly not the ones of the oppressed majority native citizens. But it is only within the tight knit Greek ex-patriot community that they feel rooted. Their matriarch, Sofia, craves the link she has to her homeland with those who share her culture. But as social and political tensions raise, she can't ignore other things she will never agree with those on her circle in.
From her very first days, their live-in maid Grace has become her best friend. Regardless of the fact that Grace is a black woman in this world that didn't count her as a valuable citizen until she registered the both of her son, Sofia trusts no one else as much. They have long dreamed of a different South Africa in which both their sons might thrive. Together, even, as they are set on similar career paths. All of those dreams are brought to a drastic test at the dawn of this new version of the country when violence comes knocking too close to home.
A tale of two women, two families, a forgotten love, a country in middle of a transformation, of class, prejudice, and faith, "Under an African Sky" is a striking debut. It threads a very thin line between being too much. Or too little, depending on how you view it, for a variety of readers. For many readers I'm willing to bet it will come very close to being either be too domestic, too lovelorn, too religious, too bigoted, too focused on those with privilege, too obliviously optimistic. Yet for me, it always pulled back from that point.
Sofia isn't a racist, but she doesn't or can't comprehend the whole extent of racism. Yes, she has always provided funds and in her eyes included Grace and her son as part of the family. But as Grace's son points out to her- who else in that era would call their employer 'master'? She still clearly orders her and other maids, or expects their services, with a sense of authority. While it's implied both women share the wish their sons would enter the law together, they fail to see the difficulties each would have even with new leaders and laws. Sofia's not quite fool enough to thing change will magically erase years of hate, but she has bigger hopes than may be reasonable at least as far as a timeline goes.
She is also incredibly dogmatic about her culture and faith. She is absolutely wrecked at the idea of her children not marrying other Greeks. She bemoans someone not knowing Greek in their circle without ever having learned Afrikaans let alone local languages. Yet with more than her fair share of flaws she also has a lot of love. She has her own lost history that we quickly are shown to have really shaped her current parameters of success and proper way of life.
This book also has some of the most grounded views on relationships, current and those of the past, I've seen. An old flame may cause friction but it is not the soul of the plot. Instead there are gateways to friendship, to forgiveness, and for hope. Instead of an irritating foil, Theo became one of my favorite characters.
If there is a single flaw, it might be how unbalanced parts of the book were. If the author really wanted to dig into life for those who had been segregated, Grace's story took a backseat a little too much. I am a white American. I have no personal experience with the things people of color have and do face. Yet while the inequities and even contradictions were at least given a mention, I can also see where some readers might still feel this is a sort of 'white savoir' story.
Even though we hear characters responses to racism and there are a fair share of racist statements and actions called out, actions also matter. Black citizens are constantly the agitators, the crime committers, the ones 'to blame' for the social woes. Even if the author tries to show the reasons that people might be drawn or forced into the deeds they do it doesn't feel quite balanced. Yes, Grace is possibly the most steadfast, loyal, and insightful person of the book aside from Theo. But she ends up a victim part of the time as well. It undeniably favors one family over the other.
For all of this, as we were primarily in Sofia's perspective, I expected and have seen much worse. It was clear that the author was trying to say as much as she felt comfortable about a perspective and life she did not have. She made a clear attempt at bringing up much of the hypocrisy and the challenges the country had ahead. I really felt it was an honest and considered attempt to create a respectful representation. I encourage readers to seek opinions of other South Africans-- particularly those who are black. It is their opinion that matters in this regard as I am very likely blinded by ways of seeing and thinking I have not yet been able deconstruct.
From her very first days, their live-in maid Grace has become her best friend. Regardless of the fact that Grace is a black woman in this world that didn't count her as a valuable citizen until she registered the both of her son, Sofia trusts no one else as much. They have long dreamed of a different South Africa in which both their sons might thrive. Together, even, as they are set on similar career paths. All of those dreams are brought to a drastic test at the dawn of this new version of the country when violence comes knocking too close to home.
A tale of two women, two families, a forgotten love, a country in middle of a transformation, of class, prejudice, and faith, "Under an African Sky" is a striking debut. It threads a very thin line between being too much. Or too little, depending on how you view it, for a variety of readers. For many readers I'm willing to bet it will come very close to being either be too domestic, too lovelorn, too religious, too bigoted, too focused on those with privilege, too obliviously optimistic. Yet for me, it always pulled back from that point.
Sofia isn't a racist, but she doesn't or can't comprehend the whole extent of racism. Yes, she has always provided funds and in her eyes included Grace and her son as part of the family. But as Grace's son points out to her- who else in that era would call their employer 'master'? She still clearly orders her and other maids, or expects their services, with a sense of authority. While it's implied both women share the wish their sons would enter the law together, they fail to see the difficulties each would have even with new leaders and laws. Sofia's not quite fool enough to thing change will magically erase years of hate, but she has bigger hopes than may be reasonable at least as far as a timeline goes.
She is also incredibly dogmatic about her culture and faith. She is absolutely wrecked at the idea of her children not marrying other Greeks. She bemoans someone not knowing Greek in their circle without ever having learned Afrikaans let alone local languages. Yet with more than her fair share of flaws she also has a lot of love. She has her own lost history that we quickly are shown to have really shaped her current parameters of success and proper way of life.
This book also has some of the most grounded views on relationships, current and those of the past, I've seen. An old flame may cause friction but it is not the soul of the plot. Instead there are gateways to friendship, to forgiveness, and for hope. Instead of an irritating foil, Theo became one of my favorite characters.
If there is a single flaw, it might be how unbalanced parts of the book were. If the author really wanted to dig into life for those who had been segregated, Grace's story took a backseat a little too much. I am a white American. I have no personal experience with the things people of color have and do face. Yet while the inequities and even contradictions were at least given a mention, I can also see where some readers might still feel this is a sort of 'white savoir' story.
Even though we hear characters responses to racism and there are a fair share of racist statements and actions called out, actions also matter. Black citizens are constantly the agitators, the crime committers, the ones 'to blame' for the social woes. Even if the author tries to show the reasons that people might be drawn or forced into the deeds they do it doesn't feel quite balanced. Yes, Grace is possibly the most steadfast, loyal, and insightful person of the book aside from Theo. But she ends up a victim part of the time as well. It undeniably favors one family over the other.
For all of this, as we were primarily in Sofia's perspective, I expected and have seen much worse. It was clear that the author was trying to say as much as she felt comfortable about a perspective and life she did not have. She made a clear attempt at bringing up much of the hypocrisy and the challenges the country had ahead. I really felt it was an honest and considered attempt to create a respectful representation. I encourage readers to seek opinions of other South Africans-- particularly those who are black. It is their opinion that matters in this regard as I am very likely blinded by ways of seeing and thinking I have not yet been able deconstruct.
May 20, 2026
Elene Catrikilis’s Under an African Sky is a beautifully written and deeply moving novel that captures the enduring power of family, faith, and love. From the very first page, Catrikilis draws readers into a vivid and emotional journey, painting every scene with rich detail and heartfelt authenticity. Her prose is elegant yet approachable, making the story both compelling and unforgettable.
At its core, this is a story about the bonds that hold families together through hardship, betrayal, sacrifice, and change. The characters feel wonderfully real — flawed, resilient, and profoundly human. Catrikilis has a remarkable gift for exploring relationships with honesty and tenderness, allowing readers to connect deeply with each character’s struggles and triumphs.
What makes the novel especially powerful is the way faith is woven naturally throughout the story. Rather than feeling forced, it serves as a quiet but steady source of hope and strength, illuminating the characters’ choices and guiding them through difficult moments. The themes of forgiveness, perseverance, and unconditional love resonate long after the final chapter.
Under an African Sky is more than just a novel; it is an emotional experience that reminds readers of the importance of heritage, devotion, and the people who shape our lives. Elene Catrikilis has crafted a touching and inspiring story that will stay with readers long after they finish the book. Highly recommended for anyone who appreciates richly layered storytelling filled with heart and humanity.
At its core, this is a story about the bonds that hold families together through hardship, betrayal, sacrifice, and change. The characters feel wonderfully real — flawed, resilient, and profoundly human. Catrikilis has a remarkable gift for exploring relationships with honesty and tenderness, allowing readers to connect deeply with each character’s struggles and triumphs.
What makes the novel especially powerful is the way faith is woven naturally throughout the story. Rather than feeling forced, it serves as a quiet but steady source of hope and strength, illuminating the characters’ choices and guiding them through difficult moments. The themes of forgiveness, perseverance, and unconditional love resonate long after the final chapter.
Under an African Sky is more than just a novel; it is an emotional experience that reminds readers of the importance of heritage, devotion, and the people who shape our lives. Elene Catrikilis has crafted a touching and inspiring story that will stay with readers long after they finish the book. Highly recommended for anyone who appreciates richly layered storytelling filled with heart and humanity.
April 15, 2026
First, let me say that I am not much of a novel reader as most of my reding is dedicated to spiritual or theological writings, but this book captured my imagination and quickly had me invested in the lives of Sophia and Grace.
You know a book is really good when the characters become so real and you can feel and share in all their emotions. "Under and African Sky" does exactly this. I felt myself transported back in time as I remembered the uncertainty, fear and anxiety of the early 90's in South Africa, but I fondly remembered the hope we all share in a better tomorrow.
Here is my favorite quote from the book... The words of Father Theo... "There's no perfect paradise anywhere here on earth. We're all foreigners here. Wherever we go, it makes no difference. We're always going to be restless. Even in our own countries sometimes, we feel as if we don't belong. Our purpose here on earth is to walk each other home, and by that I mean our true home."
What beautiful words to reflect on... We may often question why God has led as to a new city or a new country or why He has planned that you stay exactly where you are. What is your purpose? Why? The answer may just be as simple as you are destined to walk someone home.
Thank you, Elene Catrakilis, for this reminder!
You know a book is really good when the characters become so real and you can feel and share in all their emotions. "Under and African Sky" does exactly this. I felt myself transported back in time as I remembered the uncertainty, fear and anxiety of the early 90's in South Africa, but I fondly remembered the hope we all share in a better tomorrow.
Here is my favorite quote from the book... The words of Father Theo... "There's no perfect paradise anywhere here on earth. We're all foreigners here. Wherever we go, it makes no difference. We're always going to be restless. Even in our own countries sometimes, we feel as if we don't belong. Our purpose here on earth is to walk each other home, and by that I mean our true home."
What beautiful words to reflect on... We may often question why God has led as to a new city or a new country or why He has planned that you stay exactly where you are. What is your purpose? Why? The answer may just be as simple as you are destined to walk someone home.
Thank you, Elene Catrakilis, for this reminder!
September 13, 2026
Amazing story
I knew little about South Africa’s history, and very little about Nelson Mandela’s influence in that area of their continent before I started this book. Often when I read something that I'm unfamiliar with I have to research it afterward.
That’ll be fun.
This was quite a story. Very different from my usual genre of enjoyment. But it was so well done and so fascinating That I couldn't stop reading. I would I would have given this 5 stars until about halfway through the book when the foul language started. And sadly, it came out of the mouth of one of my favorite characters. I never understood why people have to add language like that to a perfectly lovely book.
It was not really a Christian fiction book, which is what I usually read, but one of the main characters was a Greek Orthodox priest and focused on the faith.
Five stars for the story, but down 1 star for the unfortunate language introduced. That’s just the way I feel.
I knew little about South Africa’s history, and very little about Nelson Mandela’s influence in that area of their continent before I started this book. Often when I read something that I'm unfamiliar with I have to research it afterward.
That’ll be fun.
This was quite a story. Very different from my usual genre of enjoyment. But it was so well done and so fascinating That I couldn't stop reading. I would I would have given this 5 stars until about halfway through the book when the foul language started. And sadly, it came out of the mouth of one of my favorite characters. I never understood why people have to add language like that to a perfectly lovely book.
It was not really a Christian fiction book, which is what I usually read, but one of the main characters was a Greek Orthodox priest and focused on the faith.
Five stars for the story, but down 1 star for the unfortunate language introduced. That’s just the way I feel.
June 28, 2026
I received a copy of this book from Goodreads in exchange for a review.
Under an African Sky is a powerful story of bonds. Of two women who see past the color of their skin to find the things that make them alike. It is written during the time when Africa is on the cusp of ending apartheid. The country is in turmoil. But so are the families of Sofia Levantis, a Greek immigrant, and her maid Grace Molepe. The story Is eye opening and thought provoking. It is beautifully told and very relatable. This is the kind of book you will find yourself thinking about long after you have finished reading it.
Under an African Sky is a powerful story of bonds. Of two women who see past the color of their skin to find the things that make them alike. It is written during the time when Africa is on the cusp of ending apartheid. The country is in turmoil. But so are the families of Sofia Levantis, a Greek immigrant, and her maid Grace Molepe. The story Is eye opening and thought provoking. It is beautifully told and very relatable. This is the kind of book you will find yourself thinking about long after you have finished reading it.
May 3, 2026
Totally enjoyed this debut novel. The friendship between Sophia and Grace was very well written and you could realize what their feelings were toward each other. They had a true bond. Also enjoyed the explaining of Greek customs. It was a learning experience for me as I am of Greek decent. This novel does not disappoint and hope to read more by this author in the future.
June 23, 2026
A beautifully written novel that portrays the power of family and friendships. It exposes the reader to cultures in a period of change in South Africa and draws us into the consequences of tough decisions. It’s an emotional tale of two women’s unlikely bond who form a deep, decades long connection though hardship and sacrifice. Highly recommended read.
July 23, 2026
Hard to put down!
This is one of the best books I've ever read. There is history, love and drama. The author will have a hard time writing another book that will draw you in as this one does.
This is one of the best books I've ever read. There is history, love and drama. The author will have a hard time writing another book that will draw you in as this one does.
August 17, 2026
Add an extra half star to this well written delightful book. A glimpse into a segment of society in a critical moment in South African history. The story was simple, yet compelling and realistic. The happy ending was just what I needed.
August 20, 2026
Great book
I really didn't know a lot about the Apartheid, but as I was reading this book, I also read up on the Apartheid. I loved the characters and storyline. I truly wish there were more people like Sofia and Grace and have their unique relationship and friendship.
I really didn't know a lot about the Apartheid, but as I was reading this book, I also read up on the Apartheid. I loved the characters and storyline. I truly wish there were more people like Sofia and Grace and have their unique relationship and friendship.
September 15, 2026
4.5 stars
Unexpected find. Culture, moms, friendship, family, love, true love, sons, daughters. Set in South Africa as apartheid was ending.
Audio-Chirp
Unexpected find. Culture, moms, friendship, family, love, true love, sons, daughters. Set in South Africa as apartheid was ending.
Audio-Chirp
September 17, 2026
Awesome story about friendship, race, forgiveness, and love.
April 15, 2026
First, let me say that I am not much of a novel reader as most of my reding is dedicated to spiritual or theological writings, but this book captured my imagination and quickly had me invested in the lives of Sophia and Grace.
You know a book is really good when the characters become so real and you can feel and share in all their emotions. "Under and African Sky" does exactly this. I felt myself transported back in time as I remembered the uncertainty, fear and anxiety of the early 90's in South Africa, but I fondly remembered the hope we all share in a better tomorrow.
Here is my favorite quote from the book... The words of Father Theo... "There's no perfect paradise anywhere here on earth. We're all foreigners here. Wherever we go, it makes no difference. We're always going to be restless. Even in our own countries sometimes, we feel as if we don't belong. Our purpose here on earth is to walk each other home, and by that I mean our true home."
What beautiful words to reflect on... We may often question why God has led as to a new city or a new country or why He has planned that you stay exactly where you are. What is your purpose? Why? The answer may just be as simple as you are destined to walk someone home.
Thank you, Elene Catrakilis, for this reminder!
You know a book is really good when the characters become so real and you can feel and share in all their emotions. "Under and African Sky" does exactly this. I felt myself transported back in time as I remembered the uncertainty, fear and anxiety of the early 90's in South Africa, but I fondly remembered the hope we all share in a better tomorrow.
Here is my favorite quote from the book... The words of Father Theo... "There's no perfect paradise anywhere here on earth. We're all foreigners here. Wherever we go, it makes no difference. We're always going to be restless. Even in our own countries sometimes, we feel as if we don't belong. Our purpose here on earth is to walk each other home, and by that I mean our true home."
What beautiful words to reflect on... We may often question why God has led as to a new city or a new country or why He has planned that you stay exactly where you are. What is your purpose? Why? The answer may just be as simple as you are destined to walk someone home.
Thank you, Elene Catrakilis, for this reminder!
Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews