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Sunlight Finds You: A Read With Jenna Book Club Pick, as featured on Today
A forbidden love blows open the world of a young woman, altering the trajectory of her life.
Postwar America is a time of rigid social rules. But when effervescent, seventeen-year-old Nora moves to Florida, she finds paradise—especially after she meets and wins over shy, brilliant Leonard. His mother is welcoming, but his father is suspicious of Nora and her lower-class family.
When coerced into breaking off all contact with Leonard, Nora makes a decision that exiles her from the family she loves, and sets off a chain of secrets and betrayals that will follow her for years.
Laura Moriarty’s Sunlight Finds You explores ideas about family, female desire, sexism, motherhood and prejudice. It’s about our capacity to forgive—ourselves and others—and about finding happiness by refusing to settle for a life that is less than full.
A compelling and warm-hearted love story for readers of Anne Patchett’s Tom Lake and Patrick Ryan’s Buckeye.
'Perfectly captures the joy and exquisite pain of first love, and the sacrifices that change our lives forever. I adored it.' Toni Jordan
‘The perfect summer read... Propulsive and drenched in light, just like the title.’ Jenna Bush Hager
‘The kind of book that makes you lean closer, then hold your breath as the beauty and betrayal unfold. I couldn’t stop reading. I couldn’t stop hoping. What an extraordinary novel!’ Ariel Lawhon
‘Gorgeous character-driven novel…While Leonard goes off to the Korean War, Nora’s faced with an impossible choice that will change their lives forever.’ People
‘Radiant...What begins as a teenage romance in 1950s Florida becomes an intimate, deeply moving story of separation, sacrifice, and self-determination—and of how early love shapes the lives we carry forward.’ Christina Baker Kline
Postwar America is a time of rigid social rules. But when effervescent, seventeen-year-old Nora moves to Florida, she finds paradise—especially after she meets and wins over shy, brilliant Leonard. His mother is welcoming, but his father is suspicious of Nora and her lower-class family.
When coerced into breaking off all contact with Leonard, Nora makes a decision that exiles her from the family she loves, and sets off a chain of secrets and betrayals that will follow her for years.
Laura Moriarty’s Sunlight Finds You explores ideas about family, female desire, sexism, motherhood and prejudice. It’s about our capacity to forgive—ourselves and others—and about finding happiness by refusing to settle for a life that is less than full.
A compelling and warm-hearted love story for readers of Anne Patchett’s Tom Lake and Patrick Ryan’s Buckeye.
'Perfectly captures the joy and exquisite pain of first love, and the sacrifices that change our lives forever. I adored it.' Toni Jordan
‘The perfect summer read... Propulsive and drenched in light, just like the title.’ Jenna Bush Hager
‘The kind of book that makes you lean closer, then hold your breath as the beauty and betrayal unfold. I couldn’t stop reading. I couldn’t stop hoping. What an extraordinary novel!’ Ariel Lawhon
‘Gorgeous character-driven novel…While Leonard goes off to the Korean War, Nora’s faced with an impossible choice that will change their lives forever.’ People
‘Radiant...What begins as a teenage romance in 1950s Florida becomes an intimate, deeply moving story of separation, sacrifice, and self-determination—and of how early love shapes the lives we carry forward.’ Christina Baker Kline
453 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 4, 2026
About the author
Laura Moriarty
13 books1,204 followersLaura Moriarty earned a degree is social work before returning for her M.A. in Creative Writing at the University of Kansas. She was the recipient of the George Bennett Fellowship for Creative Writing at Phillips Exeter Academy in New Hampshire. She lives in Lawrence, Kansas. http://www.lauramoriarty.net/bio.htm)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,475 reviews
September 11, 2026
A poignant and luminously hopeful tale about the joys, mistakes, and repercussions of growing up and falling in love, Sunlight Finds You took my breath away from the first page to the last.
I'm always drawn to a good coming-of-age story, especially one with a fierce female protagonist. Here we have Nora, seventeen years old, when she meets shy and clever Leonard at school. Soon the two of them are inseparable, but this was the 1950s. Social norms clash with the exhilaration of young love, and they are forced to break off their relationship. What follows is a series of decisions and actions that Nora must take, the consequences of which she will feel for the rest of her life.
I opened this book to the first page and was immediately captivated. Nora made for a compelling main character, with her strong personality, her love for her family, and the impetuousness with which she fell for Leonard and he for her. It was a tale brimming with the optimism of youth and the headiness of young love, and I couldn't help but be swept away.
There was something about the quiet and reflective prose and the fascinating characters that made me forget what I was reading was completely made up. I was so immersed in this tale, I often didn't want to stop. I wanted to inhale it in one go, to sink in and not surface for air until I had reached the very end.
It was clever to structure the narrative as a much older Nora looking back on her younger life. Not only did it add insight, but it also showed how resilient Nora was in spite of all that befell her. That resilience was a large part of the charm of this tale, with its tone of grace and buoyancy turning this story from one of sadness into one of hope and redemption.
The story seamlessly weaved in and tackled so many worthwhile topics—societal norms, family dynamics, parental expectations, class and gender differences, grief, regret, and forgiveness—all of it done with a subtle and deft hand.
Recently, I've been picking up books about women in suburbia set during this time period, only to be disappointed with the results. So many books seem unable to make up their minds about what they want to say, often walking back at the last moment what they've been trying to accomplish up to that point. I'm glad that wasn't the case here. There was no wishy washy, no attempt to walk Nora back from all that happened to her. In fact, her strength in the face of pain and adversity is the whole point of this book.
What an absolutely irresistible story this turned out to be. Everything about it was so masterfully done, I'm still dazzled and reeling in the aftermath. I can't believe this was the first I've heard of Laura Moriarty. It's clear there'll be no stopping me now from digging through the rest of her backlist.
~~~~~~~~~~~~
✧ Connect with me ✧ Instagram ✧
I'm always drawn to a good coming-of-age story, especially one with a fierce female protagonist. Here we have Nora, seventeen years old, when she meets shy and clever Leonard at school. Soon the two of them are inseparable, but this was the 1950s. Social norms clash with the exhilaration of young love, and they are forced to break off their relationship. What follows is a series of decisions and actions that Nora must take, the consequences of which she will feel for the rest of her life.
I opened this book to the first page and was immediately captivated. Nora made for a compelling main character, with her strong personality, her love for her family, and the impetuousness with which she fell for Leonard and he for her. It was a tale brimming with the optimism of youth and the headiness of young love, and I couldn't help but be swept away.
There was something about the quiet and reflective prose and the fascinating characters that made me forget what I was reading was completely made up. I was so immersed in this tale, I often didn't want to stop. I wanted to inhale it in one go, to sink in and not surface for air until I had reached the very end.
It was clever to structure the narrative as a much older Nora looking back on her younger life. Not only did it add insight, but it also showed how resilient Nora was in spite of all that befell her. That resilience was a large part of the charm of this tale, with its tone of grace and buoyancy turning this story from one of sadness into one of hope and redemption.
The story seamlessly weaved in and tackled so many worthwhile topics—societal norms, family dynamics, parental expectations, class and gender differences, grief, regret, and forgiveness—all of it done with a subtle and deft hand.
Recently, I've been picking up books about women in suburbia set during this time period, only to be disappointed with the results. So many books seem unable to make up their minds about what they want to say, often walking back at the last moment what they've been trying to accomplish up to that point. I'm glad that wasn't the case here. There was no wishy washy, no attempt to walk Nora back from all that happened to her. In fact, her strength in the face of pain and adversity is the whole point of this book.
What an absolutely irresistible story this turned out to be. Everything about it was so masterfully done, I'm still dazzled and reeling in the aftermath. I can't believe this was the first I've heard of Laura Moriarty. It's clear there'll be no stopping me now from digging through the rest of her backlist.
~~~~~~~~~~~~
✧ Connect with me ✧ Instagram ✧
August 6, 2026
4.5
So the cover of this book had me a little worried that the story wouldn’t have much depth.
I really needn’t have worried.
This is historical fiction, but also an epic love story… a first love… set in the 50’s.
It’s a beautiful story and I couldn’t put it down.
Leonard and Nora meet in high school in St Petersburg, Florida and after some time, circumstances tear them apart.
They both go through so much emotion and pain.
This novel will follow them until their thirties.
The story is very character driven.
It’s a story of forgiveness, finding yourself, and love.
After finishing I discovered it’s a Read With Jenna pick.
So the cover of this book had me a little worried that the story wouldn’t have much depth.
I really needn’t have worried.
This is historical fiction, but also an epic love story… a first love… set in the 50’s.
It’s a beautiful story and I couldn’t put it down.
Leonard and Nora meet in high school in St Petersburg, Florida and after some time, circumstances tear them apart.
They both go through so much emotion and pain.
This novel will follow them until their thirties.
The story is very character driven.
It’s a story of forgiveness, finding yourself, and love.
After finishing I discovered it’s a Read With Jenna pick.
August 23, 2026
4.5- I went into this one with zero expectations or knowledge about the premise and was completely swept away. This story oozes depth—I was pulled in fully and wanted to keep living in this world. Laura Moriarty’s writing and storytelling are fantastic.
The novel tackles so many heavy, complex themes—young love, family entanglements, and parents' preconceived notions of what is best for their child, alongside class differences, war, segregation, the power of grit and courage, coming into your full self, and navigating rigid societal norms.
A rich, moving, and beautifully immersive read.
The novel tackles so many heavy, complex themes—young love, family entanglements, and parents' preconceived notions of what is best for their child, alongside class differences, war, segregation, the power of grit and courage, coming into your full self, and navigating rigid societal norms.
A rich, moving, and beautifully immersive read.
September 22, 2026
Sunlight Finds You written by Laura Moriarty is a book so full of love and heart, I devoured it! 🥰
Recovering from finger surgery, I need a book to settle my soul and calm the day. This was the perfect choice (Thank you SS- GoodReads friend Tracy). It’s a story that is worth the read, with a strong character driven plot, unhinged moments, and so many emotional twists … this fit me so well.
This novel has many important and noteworthy characters. Moriarty writes in such a crafty way that each character was made to feel important and needed. Each giving so much weight to the story being told, revealing grit, dedication, loyalty to their convictions, and a fierce sense of independence.
I was simply in awe. ❤️
To so cleverly create a cast of characters, so true in form … likable or despicable, flawed or honorable, was exactly what worked for this story. So clear in voice and trait. I was wooed by each.
This historical fiction novel is set in 1949 (primarily post war) in Florida and expands over about two decades. Told in four sections by our main character, Nora. The story unfolds with Nora’s past and in present time… as this book reveals a true love story between two unlikely teenagers who share a dedication to one another, a dedication to their dreams, their word, and books. Instantly, two become one. ❤️
Our two main characters, Eleanor (Nora) and Leonard, fall in love in high school.
☀️Nora is bright and kind and beautiful. She sees Leonard sitting alone, at school, unassuming and engrossed in a novel. She has only known Him in her heart, but tells her friends she is going to “just go say hello”… they don’t believe she could be so bold….. but this changes the course of her life…
☀️Leonard (older than Nora) is intelligent, introverted, and handsome. Reading in the hallway, he is approached by Nora and an awkward friendship begins. Leonard is absolutely taken by Nora….her spirit, her energy and her kindness.
Quickly, these two fall in time easily and are inseparable. Approaching each day together, dancing and laughing and learning….
until a deal is made…
Leonard’s parents make a decision that will keep these two apart and propel these young adults into a space and time that changes everything…..deep heartbreak, painful regret and new paths.
This story, filled with all the things… young love, a forever filled with rawness and truth, wild choices, temptation, jubilation, heartbreak, pure love, dedication, thrilling interactions, promises broken, and truths so real they’re palpable …
But mostly, this story is filled with family, love and resilience.
I loved this book. I devoured it.
It’s the second book Ive read with this type of plot twist, but both books, written by different authors, were written so well!. ❤️
5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ for this novel. I hope you get a chance to read it and love it too.
Recovering from finger surgery, I need a book to settle my soul and calm the day. This was the perfect choice (Thank you SS- GoodReads friend Tracy). It’s a story that is worth the read, with a strong character driven plot, unhinged moments, and so many emotional twists … this fit me so well.
This novel has many important and noteworthy characters. Moriarty writes in such a crafty way that each character was made to feel important and needed. Each giving so much weight to the story being told, revealing grit, dedication, loyalty to their convictions, and a fierce sense of independence.
I was simply in awe. ❤️
To so cleverly create a cast of characters, so true in form … likable or despicable, flawed or honorable, was exactly what worked for this story. So clear in voice and trait. I was wooed by each.
This historical fiction novel is set in 1949 (primarily post war) in Florida and expands over about two decades. Told in four sections by our main character, Nora. The story unfolds with Nora’s past and in present time… as this book reveals a true love story between two unlikely teenagers who share a dedication to one another, a dedication to their dreams, their word, and books. Instantly, two become one. ❤️
Our two main characters, Eleanor (Nora) and Leonard, fall in love in high school.
☀️Nora is bright and kind and beautiful. She sees Leonard sitting alone, at school, unassuming and engrossed in a novel. She has only known Him in her heart, but tells her friends she is going to “just go say hello”… they don’t believe she could be so bold….. but this changes the course of her life…
☀️Leonard (older than Nora) is intelligent, introverted, and handsome. Reading in the hallway, he is approached by Nora and an awkward friendship begins. Leonard is absolutely taken by Nora….her spirit, her energy and her kindness.
Quickly, these two fall in time easily and are inseparable. Approaching each day together, dancing and laughing and learning….
until a deal is made…
Leonard’s parents make a decision that will keep these two apart and propel these young adults into a space and time that changes everything…..deep heartbreak, painful regret and new paths.
This story, filled with all the things… young love, a forever filled with rawness and truth, wild choices, temptation, jubilation, heartbreak, pure love, dedication, thrilling interactions, promises broken, and truths so real they’re palpable …
But mostly, this story is filled with family, love and resilience.
I loved this book. I devoured it.
It’s the second book Ive read with this type of plot twist, but both books, written by different authors, were written so well!. ❤️
5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ for this novel. I hope you get a chance to read it and love it too.
May 23, 2026
I do not think I can put into words how special this story is. Watching Nora and Leonard’s love grow, change, evolve, disappear, and return over the course of about 15 years was a true pleasure. Moriarty weaves themes of loss, self-acceptance, and forgiveness in ways that shed true light on how interconnected we are with our pasts and with one another. I truthfully could not put this book down, and I credit Moriarty’s ability to make you feel so immersed in the story for that. I feel this will be a great hit when it hits the shelves in August, and I cannot wait to see what others interpret this novel as. Thank you NetGalley for an e-arc, and Riverhead for a physical copy!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
[4.5] From the opening pages to the end, I resented every moment my life took me away from this superb novel. Set mostly in Florida in the 1950s, Sunlight Finds You follows Nora from her late teens through her twenties. Character-driven, it draws its suspense from the question of what Nora will make of her life. This is my third excellent Laura Moriarty novel (The Chaperone, The Center of Everything)- she deserves to be more widely read!
Thank you to NetGalley and Riverhead Books for the advance galley.
Thank you to NetGalley and Riverhead Books for the advance galley.
June 6, 2026
4-4.5⭐️
August 16, 2026
5 “highly recommend” stars ⭐️
We will all relate to this book. The first love. Do you remember how it felt and the sacrifices we were willing to make to keep it?
This book takes place in the 1950s. Leonard and Nora, are two teenagers that meet in high school and develop a friendship. The friendship soon turns into a
propulsive love; but when one of the families find out, they are not encouraged to stay together. Leonard leaves for war and leaves Nora to navigate a crisis without him.
This book will sweep you away. You will root for Nora and will be anxious to see how her life unfolds.
This book runs in the same vein as “The Bright Years” and “Broken Country”. It will be hard to put down and there is a dog. 🐶 The sweetest dog to add icing to the cake.
We will all relate to this book. The first love. Do you remember how it felt and the sacrifices we were willing to make to keep it?
This book takes place in the 1950s. Leonard and Nora, are two teenagers that meet in high school and develop a friendship. The friendship soon turns into a
propulsive love; but when one of the families find out, they are not encouraged to stay together. Leonard leaves for war and leaves Nora to navigate a crisis without him.
This book will sweep you away. You will root for Nora and will be anxious to see how her life unfolds.
This book runs in the same vein as “The Bright Years” and “Broken Country”. It will be hard to put down and there is a dog. 🐶 The sweetest dog to add icing to the cake.
September 14, 2026
This is like the movie version of the Notebook, but add a lot more trauma.
I couldn’t stop reading, this book was over 400 pages and I flew through it. It wasn’t just the love story, it was all the traumatic, horrible things that happened too. I wanted to scream at the main character at times and tell her “can’t you see these people are lying to you?” But I remembered she was just a young girl when everything began and why would she believe all these adults would manipulate her so much and cause her so much harm?
This book is told over many years spanning horrible events such as war. I found the way the author told the story to be so engrossing. I almost stayed up all night reading and had to force myself to stop. It was just so realistic.
In the end, there was one loose end that we will never know the answer to, but I think that was the point as people who went through similar things in real life may also never know the answers they desperately wanted to know. What a beautiful ending.
Absolutely enjoyed this and would read this author again, for sure.
I couldn’t stop reading, this book was over 400 pages and I flew through it. It wasn’t just the love story, it was all the traumatic, horrible things that happened too. I wanted to scream at the main character at times and tell her “can’t you see these people are lying to you?” But I remembered she was just a young girl when everything began and why would she believe all these adults would manipulate her so much and cause her so much harm?
This book is told over many years spanning horrible events such as war. I found the way the author told the story to be so engrossing. I almost stayed up all night reading and had to force myself to stop. It was just so realistic.
In the end, there was one loose end that we will never know the answer to, but I think that was the point as people who went through similar things in real life may also never know the answers they desperately wanted to know. What a beautiful ending.
Absolutely enjoyed this and would read this author again, for sure.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Rarely does a book come around that leaves you so highly wondering and anticipating what will happen next; so much so that you must devour this book in a day. This novel has it all, angst, wonder, sadness, bewilderment and love. Set in the 50's when children were supposed to "be seen but not heard," and "parents are always right," two unlikely teenagers fall in love, deeply and madly. Both are great kids with loving families but a series of events occur that divide these two kids and time moves on.
I love how Laura Moriarty lets the reader see one thing at a time - one story line that you think you know what is happening or going to happen and she lets it happen and then chapters later you find out another side of what happened. I love how she lets the reader sit in uncomfortable silence as the story plays out around you, wondering who you can trust and who cannot be believed.
This is a well written novel filled with emotional pulls from start to finish. Publishes August 4, 2026 but pre-order now because you'll want to read it the day it comes out. Thank you to NetGalley, Laura Moriarty and Riverhead Books for the e-ARC and for a day well spent reading this beautiful book.
I love how Laura Moriarty lets the reader see one thing at a time - one story line that you think you know what is happening or going to happen and she lets it happen and then chapters later you find out another side of what happened. I love how she lets the reader sit in uncomfortable silence as the story plays out around you, wondering who you can trust and who cannot be believed.
This is a well written novel filled with emotional pulls from start to finish. Publishes August 4, 2026 but pre-order now because you'll want to read it the day it comes out. Thank you to NetGalley, Laura Moriarty and Riverhead Books for the e-ARC and for a day well spent reading this beautiful book.
June 28, 2026
This was not the summery beach read romance I was expecting. To be fair, the back does mention “secrets and betrayals” so maybe I shouldn’t have been surprised. It was a bit of an emotional roller coaster and the author skillfully lead me to fall in love with her characters (or despise them, depending on her intent). There was a lot of depth, sadness and beauty and I’ve continued thinking about it since finishing it yesterday.
August 14, 2026
4.5 stars [This book is a] "cancel-your-plans, hold-your-breath, call-your-best-friend, unmissable triumph." - Amy Jo Burns
It may be the Cold War, but in 1949 in St. Petersburg, Florida, it is warm, lush, and filled with sunshine and opportunity. For 17-year-old Nora, she is thrilled to capture the heart of Leonard, the son of wealthy New Yorkers. His mother adores her but his father is suspicious of her and doesn't trust her.
When the unthinkable happens, Nora is forced to cut ties. It has a ripple effect on her life for many years while she is an outcast, separated and cut off from everyone who loved her.
This novel is full of everything I love about reading. It explores the impact of judgment, secrets, betrayal, forgiveness and love. It is a propulsive page-turner so you will stay up past your bedtime to find out what happens next. Nora is fully fleshed out and human nature is fully explored. I highly recommend reading this historical romance full of sunlight.
The audiobook performance by Amanda Stribling (11 hours 26 minutes) is absolutely fantastic! It made Nora's character jump off the page and made me feel as if she truly existed.
Many thanks Riverhead Books, PRH Audio and Laura Moriarty for the gifted advance listening copy and finished copy. All opinions are my own. 📚🎧
It may be the Cold War, but in 1949 in St. Petersburg, Florida, it is warm, lush, and filled with sunshine and opportunity. For 17-year-old Nora, she is thrilled to capture the heart of Leonard, the son of wealthy New Yorkers. His mother adores her but his father is suspicious of her and doesn't trust her.
When the unthinkable happens, Nora is forced to cut ties. It has a ripple effect on her life for many years while she is an outcast, separated and cut off from everyone who loved her.
This novel is full of everything I love about reading. It explores the impact of judgment, secrets, betrayal, forgiveness and love. It is a propulsive page-turner so you will stay up past your bedtime to find out what happens next. Nora is fully fleshed out and human nature is fully explored. I highly recommend reading this historical romance full of sunlight.
The audiobook performance by Amanda Stribling (11 hours 26 minutes) is absolutely fantastic! It made Nora's character jump off the page and made me feel as if she truly existed.
Many thanks Riverhead Books, PRH Audio and Laura Moriarty for the gifted advance listening copy and finished copy. All opinions are my own. 📚🎧
Read
September 20, 2026I read this book, for the book club Im in. Nora is a very naive characters, I dont like her much though. This book had so much trauma dumping in it. I liked Bobby and Janet the best. I do not know how I feel about this book.
August 9, 2026
This raw and deeply moving story of a love that survives the test of time captured my heart so entirely that I finished it wishing for just a few more chapters.
Told from the perspective of an older, wiser Nora Chesnow looking back on her youth, the story explores themes of separation, maternal sacrifice, self-determination, and forgiveness.
Told from the perspective of an older, wiser Nora Chesnow looking back on her youth, the story explores themes of separation, maternal sacrifice, self-determination, and forgiveness.
August 10, 2026
🎧 3.5
I really wanted to love this more, but it just never quite got there for me. It is a heartbreaking journey, but I never really connected with the characters, so I'd place it solidly in the 3.5-star category.
I really wanted to love this more, but it just never quite got there for me. It is a heartbreaking journey, but I never really connected with the characters, so I'd place it solidly in the 3.5-star category.
September 12, 2026
What an absolute gem of a book! This one might be my top book this year. It’s definitely in my top 3 so far.
I loved every page of this book. I read 100 pages right away, and then purposefully slowed down so that I could savor it. I loved the characters, the backdrop of the 1950’s in Florida, the emotional depth, and the beautiful writing.
I was completely blown away by the emotions portrayed throughout this book. Some were heavy while being quiet, some were bold and in your face. They were raw, felt real, and at times I forgot that this was a story involving fictional characters. I will actually miss them now that the book is finished.
I don’t know what else to say, other than I highly recommend this book. Especially if you want your heart to shatter, but be built back up with themes of hope and resilience.
I loved every page of this book. I read 100 pages right away, and then purposefully slowed down so that I could savor it. I loved the characters, the backdrop of the 1950’s in Florida, the emotional depth, and the beautiful writing.
I was completely blown away by the emotions portrayed throughout this book. Some were heavy while being quiet, some were bold and in your face. They were raw, felt real, and at times I forgot that this was a story involving fictional characters. I will actually miss them now that the book is finished.
I don’t know what else to say, other than I highly recommend this book. Especially if you want your heart to shatter, but be built back up with themes of hope and resilience.
August 12, 2026
I was expecting a fairly classic romance when I picked this up, but it ended up giving me goosebumps. It would be unfair to call this book simply a romance because it blends so many different elements, including coming-of-age, drama, and historical fiction. I became completely invested in the story and found myself rooting for the characters from beginning to end. The writing was so easy to read and immersive that I felt like I was living alongside them and experiencing everything firsthand. I especially loved how all the different pieces of the story gradually came together throughout the journey. And I really loved the ending. I honestly didn’t expect the love story to become this grand or emotionally significant, so that was probably the biggest surprise for me. I went in expecting a romance and ended up getting a much bigger, more emotional story than I anticipated.
September 24, 2026
This was such a touching, lovely book! But don't let the sweet cover fool you. There is so much to this book! It takes place largely in the 1940's and 50's where the main character, Nora, lost her mom when she was a 6th grader. Her father later remarries and Nora gains a lovely stepmother as well as a younger stepsister who adores her. Then in high school Nora falls in love with the very shy (yet studious like Nora) Leonard, who unlike Nora, happens to be from a very wealthy family. Leonard's mother seems to enjoy Nora but his father is very hostile, thinking that Nora isn't good enough for his son. An unplanned pregnancy happens and from there you feel so much heartache. Heartache over unreasonable parental control; heartache over how unwed pregnancies are handled during that time period; heartache over the Korean Conflict and the prisoner of war camps; and heartache over adoption policies and tactics during that time period. I appreciated how the author didn't necessarily neatly tie up all the loose ends, either, adding even more to the realism of the book. Well done, Laura Moriarty!
September 8, 2026
*** 9/8/26 *** Just finished, in record time, this August 2026 release, centered on life in the 1950's pre-birth control pills and Roe v. Wade, and before Gloria Steinem's impact of the 1970's and beyond. The book is told chronologically from the perspective of Main Character Nora, a young woman who lost her mother as a child, and was raised in a loving home by her father and stepmother, Mae. But the real story is about what happened to women who became pregnant, the systems and stories put in place to deal with the practicalities and the shame, including medically flawed attempts at abortion, distant homes for unwed mothers, and most typically, adoption.
I absolutely loved Nora as a narrator and a human, thanks to Laura Moriarty's beautiful storytelling, in plain language, relying on the feelings, observations, and emotional trajectories of growth that each character provides. Never sappy, pedestrian, or melodramatic, Sunlight tells a story of defining your life and shaping your thoughts to find peace and happiness. 5-stars
I absolutely loved Nora as a narrator and a human, thanks to Laura Moriarty's beautiful storytelling, in plain language, relying on the feelings, observations, and emotional trajectories of growth that each character provides. Never sappy, pedestrian, or melodramatic, Sunlight tells a story of defining your life and shaping your thoughts to find peace and happiness. 5-stars
October 7, 2026
Hi I’m ugly cryjng. A brutal and beautiful symphony. This is immediately going on my favorite books of all time list.
September 1, 2026
🎧5⭐️
There are two things you need to know before reading this book:
1. The cover is not representative of the story. In fact, I don’t think the scene from the cover ever actually happened in the story, and I don’t remember the main character even having red hair.
2. This is in no way a unique story. It’s actually one of most common plots in existence.
🤷🏻♀️So what made it five stars?
The storytelling made this an incredible reading experience. I was drawn in immediately and couldn’t help but root for Nora throughout the book.
🎧The audiobook narration was phenomenal. I can’t remember ever listening to a book narrated by Amanda Stribling, but I will be on the lookout for her others.
🤔Bottom line: I could give you a perfect comp for this, but doing so would be a spoiler, and it’s best to go in blind. DM me if you’re curious.
If you enjoy books by Sarah Damoff or Sadeqa Johnson, I think you’ll like it!
⚠️Content considerations:
Profanity: none (that I remember)
Sexual content: 1/5 (vague references only, nothing described on the page)
Other: There is a trigger that’s a spoiler. I think most readers will be fine with it, but DM if you’re curious.
❓What book has a cover that doesn’t fit the story or is misleading?
For me, When in Rome made me think there would be baking, and there wasn’t. 😢
There are two things you need to know before reading this book:
1. The cover is not representative of the story. In fact, I don’t think the scene from the cover ever actually happened in the story, and I don’t remember the main character even having red hair.
2. This is in no way a unique story. It’s actually one of most common plots in existence.
🤷🏻♀️So what made it five stars?
The storytelling made this an incredible reading experience. I was drawn in immediately and couldn’t help but root for Nora throughout the book.
🎧The audiobook narration was phenomenal. I can’t remember ever listening to a book narrated by Amanda Stribling, but I will be on the lookout for her others.
🤔Bottom line: I could give you a perfect comp for this, but doing so would be a spoiler, and it’s best to go in blind. DM me if you’re curious.
If you enjoy books by Sarah Damoff or Sadeqa Johnson, I think you’ll like it!
⚠️Content considerations:
Profanity: none (that I remember)
Sexual content: 1/5 (vague references only, nothing described on the page)
Other: There is a trigger that’s a spoiler. I think most readers will be fine with it, but DM if you’re curious.
❓What book has a cover that doesn’t fit the story or is misleading?
For me, When in Rome made me think there would be baking, and there wasn’t. 😢
August 8, 2026
This book is perfection. I loved every word.
August 7, 2026
4.5 stars. Fabulous on audio!
August 30, 2026
3.5 stars, rounded up to 4.
In 1949, 17-year-old Nora and her family move to St. Petersburg, Florida, hoping to escape the harsh northern winters and start a new life. She soon meets Leonard, falls head over heels, and from there, the tragic events of the next several years unfold before the reader’s eyes.
I love narratives about young people told through the perspective of their older selves. There’s something so compelling about the whimsy of youth mixed with the wisdom and worldliness that can only come with age. The writing itself wasn’t anything particularly special, but I became easily invested in Nora’s story and eager to find out what would happen next.
At its heart, so much of what happens to Nora is shaped by the strict patriarchal views of the time and the way women were left with little to no autonomy over their own lives and futures. Classism also plays a part. There is romance and first love, yes, but this is truly a story about self-determination, forgiveness of self and others, and the fight Nora embarks on to have the life she wants within a system designed to keep her down. Against the odds, she does indeed find happiness, or “sunlight,” I guess you could say.
This is my first book by this author, and I was tickled to find out that she was a social worker before becoming an author. As a social worker myself, I can’t help but think that experience gives you a deeper perspective on the motivations of individuals and the forces shaping society, and I think that perspective shines through in her writing. I’m also glad the focus of social work has moved away from telling people what’s best for them, because the two social workers in this book…oof. Awful.
In 1949, 17-year-old Nora and her family move to St. Petersburg, Florida, hoping to escape the harsh northern winters and start a new life. She soon meets Leonard, falls head over heels, and from there, the tragic events of the next several years unfold before the reader’s eyes.
I love narratives about young people told through the perspective of their older selves. There’s something so compelling about the whimsy of youth mixed with the wisdom and worldliness that can only come with age. The writing itself wasn’t anything particularly special, but I became easily invested in Nora’s story and eager to find out what would happen next.
At its heart, so much of what happens to Nora is shaped by the strict patriarchal views of the time and the way women were left with little to no autonomy over their own lives and futures. Classism also plays a part. There is romance and first love, yes, but this is truly a story about self-determination, forgiveness of self and others, and the fight Nora embarks on to have the life she wants within a system designed to keep her down. Against the odds, she does indeed find happiness, or “sunlight,” I guess you could say.
This is my first book by this author, and I was tickled to find out that she was a social worker before becoming an author. As a social worker myself, I can’t help but think that experience gives you a deeper perspective on the motivations of individuals and the forces shaping society, and I think that perspective shines through in her writing. I’m also glad the focus of social work has moved away from telling people what’s best for them, because the two social workers in this book…oof. Awful.
September 17, 2026
Rating: 5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
In 1949, during the early years of the Cold War, 17-year-old Nora moves to St. Petersburg, Florida, and falls in love with Leonard. Leonard is a shy, brilliant son of an affluent, New York family.
Nora and Leonard’s love sets off a chain of events that has long lasting effects on their lives and the lives of many others.
This historical fiction novel was emotional and heartbreaking, but it was so well-written. It will break your heart, then tape it back together. ❤️🩹
I don’t want to say too much and give anything away, but I highly recommend picking this one up. It is a story about love, sacrifice, and forgiveness.
In 1949, during the early years of the Cold War, 17-year-old Nora moves to St. Petersburg, Florida, and falls in love with Leonard. Leonard is a shy, brilliant son of an affluent, New York family.
Nora and Leonard’s love sets off a chain of events that has long lasting effects on their lives and the lives of many others.
This historical fiction novel was emotional and heartbreaking, but it was so well-written. It will break your heart, then tape it back together. ❤️🩹
I don’t want to say too much and give anything away, but I highly recommend picking this one up. It is a story about love, sacrifice, and forgiveness.
September 5, 2026
4.5 stars
What a beautiful story this was. If I’d had the time, I would have inhaled this story in one day. Great pic, Jenna!
What a beautiful story this was. If I’d had the time, I would have inhaled this story in one day. Great pic, Jenna!
July 3, 2026
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC.
I’m not entirely sure how I feel about this one. It was not at all what I was expecting. There were some parts that were very engrossing and then I felt like some things were kind of glossed over. I think we missed out on some details but I can see where this could’ve gotten very long with those added. I would have liked to have seen their love develop more and have more content with them together but, overall this was pretty good. I did like how it was placed in the late 40’s-50’s and the way in which life was very different then.
I’m not entirely sure how I feel about this one. It was not at all what I was expecting. There were some parts that were very engrossing and then I felt like some things were kind of glossed over. I think we missed out on some details but I can see where this could’ve gotten very long with those added. I would have liked to have seen their love develop more and have more content with them together but, overall this was pretty good. I did like how it was placed in the late 40’s-50’s and the way in which life was very different then.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
In the early period of the Cold War, we meet Nora Chesnow. She lives in St. Petersburg, Florida with her family. The smart, bookish high school student's world changes when she meets and falls for Leonard Lifton, a member of the swim team. Their youthful passion raises concerns for Leonard's disapproving father, who does not want Sara, from a lower-class background, involved in his son's life. With many local boys being deployed to Japan and a conflict in Korea imminent, Sara and Leonard's love story seems destined for disappointment and heartbreak. As the years go by, the one thing that doesn't change is Sara's knowledge that she will never experience a love like the one she shared with Leonard.
Sunlight Finds You by Laura Moriarty was a deeply emotional book. The author effectively captures the period, highlighting the struggles women faced with limited personal freedoms. You'll be rooting for Sara. It's best not to learn too much more about all that the main characters go through in this fifteen-year journey. The gorgeous cover by artist T.S. Harris drew me in and led me to this beautiful, immersive tale of love, pain, forgiveness, and complex family relationships. I highly recommended it.
Many thanks to Riverhead Books for the advance.
4.5 stars.
Review posted on MicheleReader.com.
Sunlight Finds You by Laura Moriarty was a deeply emotional book. The author effectively captures the period, highlighting the struggles women faced with limited personal freedoms. You'll be rooting for Sara. It's best not to learn too much more about all that the main characters go through in this fifteen-year journey. The gorgeous cover by artist T.S. Harris drew me in and led me to this beautiful, immersive tale of love, pain, forgiveness, and complex family relationships. I highly recommended it.
Many thanks to Riverhead Books for the advance.
4.5 stars.
Review posted on MicheleReader.com.
June 27, 2026
**Won a free Kindle copy via Goodreads Giveaways**
Fantastic historical fiction novel exploring a wide range of life experiences and emotions-grief, family dynamics, motherhood, betrayal. I was locked in and engaged through the entire novel. Laura Moriarty is a spectacular story teller and this did not disappoint.
Fantastic historical fiction novel exploring a wide range of life experiences and emotions-grief, family dynamics, motherhood, betrayal. I was locked in and engaged through the entire novel. Laura Moriarty is a spectacular story teller and this did not disappoint.
August 12, 2026
Couldn’t read it fast enough! 5 stars for me!
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