Of Darkness and Light

Soli Hansen Mysteries #1

by Heidi Eljarbo

In this first book of a new historical mystery series, a young art historian faces a tough choice in German-occupied Norway.

Oslo, 1944. Soli Hansen’s passion for art history is and always has been a way of life for her. While she spends her days working in an art shop, WWII is taking its toll on everyone. Apprehensive of the consequences, Soli avoids becoming entangled in the war resistance efforts. She closes her eyes in hopes the enemy will retreat and leave her beautiful country for good.

But when a woman is found dead in the alley alongside the art shop and a painting from the last auction goes missing, Soli is thrown into the thickest of the fray involving both Nazi art theft and the Norwegian resistance.

Once Soli finds her courage, there’s no turning back. Her personal life is turned upside-down with danger, lies, spying, and an incredible discovery.

Genres: Historical Fiction, Mystery, Fiction, Historical, Historical Mystery, World War II, Mystery Thriller

263 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 12, 2020

About the author

HEIDI ELJARBO grew up in a home full of books, artwork, and happy creativity. She is the author of historical novels filled with courage, hope, mystery, adventure, and sweet romance during challenging times. She’s been named a master of dual timelines and often writes about strong-willed women of past centuries.

After living in Canada, six US states, Japan, Switzerland, and Austria, Heidi now calls Norway home. She lives with her husband on a charming island and enjoys walking in any kind of weather, hugging her grandchildren, and has a passion for art and history.

Her family’s chosen retreat is a mountain cabin, where they hike in the summer and ski the vast white terrain during winter.

Heidi’s favorites are her family, God's beautiful nature, and the word whimsical.


If you would like to know more, please visit:

Official Author Website:
https://www.heidieljarbo.com/
https://www.facebook.com/authorheidie...
https://no.pinterest.com/heidieljarbo/

Reviews

[Brenda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Soli Hansen had always been passionate about art history and when she acquired a job in an art shop, she was delighted. But it was 1944 in Oslo and the Germans now occupied her country. Living with her aunt, uncle and two cousins since her beloved mother died, Soli could cycle to work easily. She kept her head down, determined not to aggravate the Nazis as they prowled the streets - that was, until a woman who was the shop's cleaner, was found dead in the alley behind the art shop. Finding out from her boss that a painting from his last auction was missing, Soli knew she would do all in her power to find it before the Germans did.

Joining the local resistance group was the last thing Soli expected she'd do, but she was determined and although knowing she was now in danger, she continued, desperate to help her country regain its freedom once again...

Of Darkness & Light is the 1st in the Soli Hansen Mysteries by Heidi Eljarbo and I thoroughly enjoyed it. German collaborators, the resistance, danger, secrets and lies - and the discovery of something going back to the early 1600s made this an exciting and breathtaking read which I recommend.

[Tamara · Rating 4 out of 5]

Tickle me pink! I just loved the cloak-and-dagger aspect that Of Darkness and Light it evoked, the slow-moving mystery of who, why, and how. After Mrs. Gunderson is found murdered near Soli Hansen's workplace, she unwittingly becomes drawn into the underground activities in Oslo during the German-led invasion of Norway during WWII, and Soli's eyes are opened to [a] Norway that she is uncomfortable with, however, she also meets very brave Norwegians such as herself who are willing to fight for their country. Soli is very loyal to her family, her friends, and her young cousins who though don't fully comprehend what exactly is going on, know that something isn't right, but they know they can trust Soli. I often shy away from WWII stories because there are so many novels based in this time period, but it was the black and white cover that spoke to me, and I was willing to give this new series and new to me author a chance. I am looking forward to the second book in this series.

[Randi Annie Framnes · Rating 5 out of 5]

When art shop cleaner Mrs Gundersen is found dead in center of Oslo 1944, art historian Soli Hansen finds herself in the middle of a murder investigation of a person who was not who she seemed. Soli goes on a mission to prevent priceless Norwegian art from ending up in the hands of Hitler. With the Germans on her tail, she goes on a secret trip out of Oslo.

When asked by author Heidi Eljarbo to review Of Darkness and Light, the first installment in A Soli Hansen Mystery series, I was absolutely thrilled for the opportunity. She is a new to me author and Of Darkness and Light seemed seriously interesting to me as well as right up my alley. Of Darkness and Light is about art historian Solveig, Soli, Hansen who experiences a murder in the art shop where she works. Investigations show the murder is connected to the arrests and deportations of Jews out of Oslo. The Germans are in the process of stealing valuable pieces of art from their homes and taking them back to Germany. To prevent this Soli puts herself in danger to keep a priceless painting hidden from Hitler’s representatives in Oslo.

Main character Solveig, Soli, Hansen, has managed to earn an art history degree, which I find impressive for a woman in Norway in the 1940s. It was nice to see she became more mature as the story progressed. She was easily my favorite as she could be both assertive and bold when called for.

Secondary character Lieutenant Colonel Heinz Walter is searching for valuable Norwegian art on behalf of Hitler. He is a cold and hard character who doesn't shy away from the occasional murder when trying to steal the best pieces of art for Hitler. He is my least favorite character as he is both ruthless and very dangerous.

Without revealing anything about the plot, I really appreciated how the dual timeline element added a deeper dimension to the story. The part from the 1600s Valetta was a favorite of mine, as I felt it was particularly well written. The research was excellent, which made me feel I learned more Norwegian wartime history. It was easy to feel pulled into the story as the writing was so vivid including descriptions of food rationing, German uniforms and weather conditions of autumn in Oslo among lots of other things.

Of Darkness and Light (A Soli Hansen Mystery #1) by Heidi Eljarbo is the excellently researched, exiting and interesting dual timeline story from WWII Oslo and 1600s Valetta. I enjoyed Of Darkness and Light so much and will be on the lookout for the next installment.

Readers of historical fiction would love this work. Those of you who like WWII fiction will particularly enjoy Of Darkness and Light. Fans of Heidi Eljarbo’s previous books are sure to love this one. Similar books to explore might be Kate Morton’s and Lucinda Riley’s works.

Thank you to author Heidi Eljarbo for this eARC, which gave me the opportunity to share my honest review of Of Darkness and Light. All opinions are completely my own.
My rating: 5 stars / 5
Main reasons: excellent plot and great research

[Amy Bruno · Rating 5 out of 5]

Soli Hansen is cycling home when she's stopped and warned that the Germans have invaded her small town in Norway. They are now at war and her life as she knows it is forever changed. Four years later she is working at an art shop when the lady who cleaned there is killed mysteriously. Is it linked to a seemingly amateur work of art that her boss recently purchased and was the lady who she said she was?

Soli's quiet and passive life is flipped upside down when she delves deeper into the murder and the identity of the art work. Nazis are stealing valuable pieces of art from Norway and the Jewish people and Soli can't bear to see that happen. Teaming up with a local Policeman and then working with a resistance art club she works with them to figure out the mystery behind the painting, and how to keep it safe.

In addition to Soli's timeline we also go back further in time to early 1600's Malta and the life of the artist Caravaggio and his love affair with Fabiola Ruber.

Of Darkness and Light is the first in this new series by Heidi Eljarbo and I absolutely will be counting the days until the next one is released. I inhaled this in one sitting, it's just that good!

[Paige Edwards · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very well done. I would categorize this as YA or New Adult Historical Fiction due to the main character's age (17-21) and developmental growth. There was a bit of mystery, but the novel largely focused on the main character's life in Norway during WW2-Nazi occupation, her passion for art, its preservation, and her dawning realization that she needed to do something about it. Definitely a coming-of-age novel. I plan to read more from Heidi Eljarbo.

[Katie (hiding in the pages) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved a unique setting for WWII

World War II is a favorite time period for me to read because I love to picture my grandparents living during this time. It's always a treat to read about a place during this era that isn't as commonly talked about. At least, not that I've read.

Soli lives in Norway and works in an art shop. A mystery almost falls right into her lap and I enjoyed how it gently unfolds during the thick of the war. There are some solid characters that lend a lot of personality to this story and come to life in a vividly intriguing way. I was attached to Soli and was rooting for her to solve things before it was too late, as I wasn't sure who to trust and what was going on.

Although there is a war going on, this tale is written in a pleasant way, without gory details and horrors, yet the message is still delivered to the reader and it's a story that stayed with me for some time.

Content: very mild romance; mild+ war-type violence/murder

*I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.*

[Ceylan (CeyGo) · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 ⭐️

[Sandy McKenna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Exceptional.

Wow, what a page turner!
Set in Oslo during World War II, this intriguing dual timeline focuses on the art world, and the people determined to protect the precious works from falling into the wrong hands.
A brilliantly written and researched story which I cannot recommend highly enough.

[Andrea Guy]

I'm always in search of a good mystery. Cozy, historical, thriller, I love them all. Of Darkness and Light is the first book in a new series, so I was super excited to read this one. I always seem to start series in the middle. So yay for getting in on something from the start.



The setting is WII Oslo and it involves the murder of a cleaning lady who turns out is not quite what she seems. Soli is a young art historian, and because of her knowledge and the investigator asking a lot of questions, she becomes part of the case. She also becomes a member of an art club that was a whole lot more than it seems.



Its really wonderful to watch Soli blossom from a shy, quiet girl, to a woman that is really determined to save a fabulous piece of artwork from the Nazis as her relationship grow with the members of the resistance.



There was one point where you really see Soli change. When she realizes she doesn't like what her country is becoming under Nazi occupation and she knows that she wants to do something.



There is more to this story than the mystery of the dead cleaning woman. As we learn more about the missing painting we also start to get a secondary story of Michelangelo Caravaggio, the artist that painted the work of art that is now part of the intrigue.



The two stories weaved together perfectly.



The ending was quite a surprise for me. It was definitely not what I was expecting when it came to the murder of the cleaning woman. It also set things up for the next book, which I really can't wait for now.



This was a fabulous page turner and I highly recommend it to anyone that loves reading about this time period.

[Sheila G · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm excited to be a part of the OF DARKNESS AND LIGHT blog tour with Historical Fiction Virtual Book Tours from May 12th - June 3rd, 2020!

I received a copy of this book via the author and HFVBT in exchange for an honest review. Thank you! In no way does this affect my rating or review.



All included quotes have been taken from an ARC and may not match the finished publication.

Content Warning: Murder, War (Nazi regime)

"We may appear daring because we have no other choice. This is our land and giving up is not an option; its failure. We cannot and must not fail. Persistence is what hope is made of. Hope, faith, and endurance will earn us our freedom."

Soli Hansen, a young woman living in Olso, Norway 1944, has always loved art. Studying the masters, their characteristics, talent, and precise brushstrokes give her the greatest joy. When WWII arrives on her country's doorstep, change in every way imaginable comes with the German occupation.

After a coworker's body is found outside the art shop where she works, Soli uncovers that the Nazis reach even encapsulates her beloved art. As more is discovered surrounding the mysterious death of her coworker, and a missing piece of artwork from the last auction, Soli makes connections that the Germans are after the same particular art piece.

In a race to find the art before the Germans do, Soli realizes that she is much bolder than she ever believed. Pride for her beautiful nation of Norway, all of its inhabitants, and the history defining each of their stories push Soli in a daring direction as she personally becomes the protector of the sought-after masterpiece.

"The art club seemed to be represented by all types of personalities. Imagine many of her fellow Norwegians were as a clandestine mission to help their country. These were only a handful. How many played important roles in the resistance work?"

Of Darkness and Light, in its focus on art and WWII, is ultimately about a woman finding the courage to protect her country's history. Well written characters, beautiful prose about art appreciation will definitely appeal to any art-lover and reader.

Vulgarity: Minimal.
Sexual content: Minimal.
Violence: Moderate.

My Rating: ★★★★1/2

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[Sheila (sheilasbookreviewer) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Of Darkness and Light is a historical thriller set during WWII in occupied Norway. Lately, I have enjoyed reading novels set in WWII but in countries that the history of the German Occupation isn't as widely known.

The other fascinating part of this novel was the art history. The main character Soli is an Art Historian working for a small art dealer in her town of Oslo. A murder takes place at her work and Soli finds herself wrapped up in the resistance movement. Soli is not sure who to trust, as she is trying to stay ahead of the Nazis as they're hunting down valuable works of art to give to Hitler.

This novel has a fascinating aspect as there is another story being told in a dual timeline. We learn about the origins of a missing piece of art and the artist who painted this piece in the 16th century, the famous Italian painter Caravaggio, and his love affair with Fabiola Ruber who posed for the painting. He led a rough life and it shows in his work.

This novel ends in a way that leaves everything open for the second Soli Hansen Mystery, The Other Cipher, that came out this past December. I can't wait to read what happens next as it left everything up in the air. This historical mystery will keep you enthralled until the last page.

[Mary Yarde · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Chiaroscuro?” Arvid scratched his chin. “I am not familiar with that term.”
Soli smiled. “That means he painted strong contrast of light and dark.”
Rolf mumbled, “Kind of like this war. Light and dark—good and bad— interconnecting but widely divergent.”

If you turned your face away from suffering, then you could pretend it was not happening. To live in denial was easy, simple. Soli Hansen did not question where the paintings that her employer bought at auction came from, or what had become of their original owners. Sometimes, it was better not to know. Soli was sure that one day, someone, or something, would defeat the Nazis and free her people of their rule. It was not as if an art scholar could do anything about her country's occupation.

But when Mrs Gundersen dies under suspicious circumstances, and a painting goes missing from Mr Holm’s Fine Arts Shop, Soli is forced to open her eyes and confront the truth. The only way her beloved country would see the red flag with the black swastika lowered from the parliament building would be if people like her stopped being passive. After all, there was no guarantee that anyone would be coming to their aid. Soli must do her part and resist the invaders, and maybe by doing so, she could save one painting from falling into the hands of the enemy.

From the sinister sight of military planes heading towards Oslo to the discovery of a shocking truth, Of Darkness and Light: A Soli Hansen Mystery Book 1 by Heidi Eljarbo is the enthralling story of one young woman’s journey from art scholar to a Norwegian resistance spy.

There are some books that grab a reader from the opening sentence and take them upon a journey of historical discovery, Of Darkness and Light: A Soli Hansen Mystery Book 1 is such a book. Written with a sympathetic appreciation of the era that this novel is set in, and an empathic understanding of the human condition, Eljarbo has presented her readers with a book that is as riveting as it is page-turning. This is a novel that demands to be read in one sitting, for it is so tantalisingly brilliant that each page becomes a voyage of discovery. This is the kind of novel that one would happily forgo sleep to finish.

The story is told for the most part from Soli Hansen's, a young woman who has dedicated her life to art, perspective. Growing up, her brother was interested in politics, Soli, on the other hand, was looking for symbols and saints in the paintings from the Renaissance and Baroque era. They could not be more different. Soli is initially a very reluctant heroine and is, unlike her brother, incredibly naïve about what is happening around her — she is too absorbed in her work. Art is seemingly the only reason why she would break the occupier’s rules. One could perhaps surmise it is the one thing that she would willingly die trying to protect. Eva and Mary Andersen, the authors of the very secret and illegal house bulletin’s, seemingly have more knowledge about what is happening around them than their older cousin does, which is very telling. However, Soli reacts to the situation of living in an occupied country as I am sure many people would — she escapes into her own world, which so happens to be the art world. It is only when Mrs Gundersen dies so unexpectedly, and a painting goes missing from the shop that Soli allows herself to be drawn into the dangerous world of the resistance. But even then, there is a sense that she would not have joined this brave band of warriors if it were not for the plundering of the paintings of the Old Masters by the Nazis.

Soli is a very compassionate woman, but she is also very trusting, and at times I felt she was someone who could be very easily led. However, when she sets her mind to something, she is very loyal and determined to see it through to the bitter end. Eljarbo has presented her readers with a protagonist whose realism is tangible. Soli is a character whom a reader can get behind and root for. I thought her depiction was absolutely fabulous, and her story drove the narrative of this book forward. Eljarbo also reminders the reader, through her portrayal of Soli, how war can consume and change the lives of ordinary citizens sometimes for the better, more often for the worse.

Eljarbo has taken the risk of using duel timelines to tell this story. Although the majority of this book is set in 1940s Norway, Eljarbo also transports her readers back to 17th Century Malta. Eljarbo's portrayal of Caravaggio is utterly sublime. Caravaggio was an artist who captured the very essence of both the physical and the emotional in his paintings. Eljarbo has done precisely the same but with pen and ink.

There are several antagonists in this novel, but they are not always obvious, so therefore I am not going to say too much about them. What I will say is that they were masterfully drawn and wonderfully portrayed.

Many World War II novels are very graphic, very emotionally exhausting to read, but Of Darkness and Light is slightly different. There are moments of trepidation, fear, and violence, but they are not grotesquely graphic. Likewise, Eljarbo demonstrates how the Nazis deceived not only their own people but the world as to the fate of the Jews. Soli knows that some of the paintings come from Jewish households, but as to what has happened to the painting’s original owners, she remains blissfully oblivious. The Nazis in this book are feared, but Eljarbo also touches upon the subject of the women who fell in love with the young German soldiers. Through the desperate plight of Ingrid Moe, Eljarbo explores the stigmatization and the appalling treatment that these poor women faced because they dared to fall in love with the enemy. Ingrid is only in this story very briefly, but her plight was heartbreakingly tragic.

Of Darkness and Light: A Soli Hansen Mystery Book 1 by Heidi Eljarbo is a reward for any reader who adores quality World War II Historical Fiction. This is a book that is definitely deserving of your time. I cannot wait to get my hands on Book 2.

I Highly Recommend.

Review by Mary Anne Yarde.
The Coffee Pot Book Club.

[David Fitz-Gerald · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story opens in 1940. We meet a seventeen-year-old girl named Soli and her parents, whom she calls Mor and Far, Norwegian for Mother and Father. It is Soli’s birthday, and she receives a brightly colored, blue bicycle. We also meet Soli’s older brother Sverre. In the close of the opening pages, comes a “day of panic.” Norway is under attack.

Then the story quickly moves to 1944. Soli’s passion for art history advanced by formal training. She possesses the natural gift of an “eidetic memory.” It’s fun to imagine being able to see an image and recall every detailed aspect of it subsequently. Intriguing. Soli finds herself working in a Fine Art Shop during the German occupation of Norway.

When poor Mrs. Gundersen is found dead in the alley outside the shop, Soli finds herself pulled into a frightening mystery. In addition to the dead body, there is a missing painting, a painting with a past. This book dips back to 1607, connecting the object of the mystery to its creation. Perhaps ten percent of this dual timeline book is spent in the early 1600s and ninety percent in the 1940s. I like the balance of scenes set in these two periods and how the action in the stories works together.

The bad guys are willing to stop at nothing to round up all the valuable, famous works of art. Our hero and her friends put themselves in danger, trying to prevent these confiscations. Soli, our mild-mannered shop keeper/art history expert, finds herself embroiled in situations that take her way outside of her comfort zone. The author does a great job with character development and plot. I was also drawn to the objects in this book, and as a reader of historical fiction, I’m on the lookout for objects which become sort of like characters in a book. Of course, in this book, the object is a painting. I would recommend readers google “Caravaggio images” AFTER reading the book. That way, you can picture the art in your imagination, and then compare it to the painters’ actual works, assuming the reader isn’t already familiar with the artist’s work.

This sentence caught my attention. “Was it possible she’d met [him] that day, or had their souls known one another in a time before this?” I replaced the name in the sentence so as not to spoil any surprises. My antennae always turn toward otherworldly notions like this. Together with a couple of other brief thoughts in this book, there are some little tastes of things to come in future installments in this series.

Before I wind up my review of this book, I want to mention its beautiful cover. It looks like a brand-new book and historical fiction at the same time, which can be a delicate balance to achieve. It is so appropriate that the cover of a book in which art history is a significant theme is itself a work of art.

Despite making a note 85% into the book, “this book is giving me an ulcer,” I loved the experience of reading Of Darkness and Light, and I heartily recommend it.

[Frankie · Rating 5 out of 5]

In this first book of a new historical mystery series, a young art historian faces a tough choice in German-occupied Norway.
“Artful prose and at a pace that makes for a can’t-put-down, first-class literary voyage.”–Melissa Dalton-Bradford, bestselling author of Global Mom
Oslo, 1944. Soli Hansen’s passion for art history is and always has been a way of life for her. While she spends her days working in an art shop, WWII is taking its toll on everyone. Apprehensive of the consequences, Soli avoids becoming entangled in the war resistance efforts. She closes her eyes in hopes the enemy will retreat and leave her beautiful country for good.
But when a woman is found dead in the alley alongside the art shop and a painting from the last auction goes missing, Soli is thrown into the thickest of the fray involving both Nazi art theft and the Norwegian resistance.
Once Soli finds her courage, there’s no turning back. Her personal life is turned upside-down with danger, lies, spying, and an incredible discovery.
In this dual timeline novel, Heidi Eljarbo paints a vivid picture of what people are willing to do in desperate times. With unforgettable characters and rich historical details, Of Darkness and Light will keep the reader mesmerized until the last satisfying page.
Perfect for fans of Kate Morton, Lucinda Riley, Katherine Neville, and Kate Mosse.

[Stephanie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Soli Hansen's life changed when the German troops invaded Norway in 1940.  For four years Soli has seen the consequences of the occupation; however, she was still able to go to art school and find work at a small art shop in town.  One day on her way to work, Soli finds that the shop helper, Mrs. Gunderson has died right outside the shop in a terrible accident. Inspector Nikolai Lange brings Soli in for questioning and leads her to believe that Mrs. Gunderson's death was a murder related to the artwork in her shop.  Soli is intrigued and continues to help Inspector Lange.  Soli is brought into the Norwegian resistance as she discovers the Nazi's plan to confiscate all of the valuable artwork from Jewish homes.  When Soli and the underground discover a priceless Baroque piece, Soli is willing to risk everything to keep the artwork safe and out of Nazi hands.

Of Darkness and Light is an intriguing and inspiring murder mystery set in World War II Norway.  I don't think that I have ever read about the German Occupation of Norway, so I was very interested in reading about the effects on the country.  I did know of the Nazi's collection of artwork, but did not know that it extended into Norway or of the resistance dedicated to protect it. Through Soli, I was able to see the deep appreciation and beauty of the artwork that she fought for.  The point of view also briefly switched to the artist, Caravaggio in 1607.  Caravaggio's story was equally fascinating and I enjoyed learning about the chiaroscuro technique that he made prominent. I was constantly amazed by Soli's persistence, bravery and dedication to the cause.  The mystery was well created and complex with a murder, hidden artwork and unknown intentions.  Soli and the underground resistance members are definitely characters that I want to visit again.  

This book was received for free in return for an honest review. 

[gwendalyn _books_ · Rating 5 out of 5]

From The Desk Of Gwendalyn G Anderson:
❀
In this first book of a new historical mystery series,
Of Darkness and Light, is an incredible new book, by the wonderful author Heidi Eljarbo.
❀
A riveting WW2 historical fiction, set to the backdrop of Norway.
1944, Oslo a town on Norway’s southern coast. It’s been four years since German invasion of Norway. Solveig Soli Hansen, is living in Oslo which is located off the southern coast of Norway.
Having left her widowed father home in Kelemtstrud, south of Oslo. She now rents a room from her Uncle and Aunt. She is able to continue her life’s passion in Art History by working at Mr Holm’s Fine Art Shop.
When the mysterious death of the shops cleaning woman, Mrs Gundersen. Soli will be drawn into a mystery, that she will need to use her talents as an art historian to uncover an art theft and intriguing murder mystery.
This astounding book tale set creatively in two time periods, WWII Nazi occupied Norway, and that of 1600s Valletta, Malta.
I tore through this brilliantly executed novel, as it also includes Italian painter Caravaggio and his efforts to win the love of a beautiful young Jewish woman whose portrait he paints.
❀
Eljarbo’s compellingly narration, along with incredible imagery of the war torn Norway is depicted with stunning atmospheric elements. You feel completely immersed into Soli life, and the struggles of the people living in this turbulent time in Norway’s history. Character development and complex relationships, and the setting and both time periods are brought to life with unique details. I found the books pacing brisk and vividly rendered. The intense drama will pull you forward as this impressive plot line twists. The author seamless narration is engaging as it switches from Soli tale to that of the renowned sixteen century artist, Caravaggio.
❀
As the story unfolds, Soli will leave her somewhat normal life behind. She will risk all, and together with her new friends in Norwegian Resistance, they will do everything with in their power to thwart the efforts of Germans to confiscate Norways priceless art.
❀
This book was received from the Author, and Publisher, in exchange for an honest review. Opinions and thoughts expressed in this review are completely my own.

[Beth · Rating 3 out of 5]

Interesting to read a World War II story taking place in Norway. However, I think that the writer would benefit from better editing in word choice.

[Vickie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a decently written historical fiction by an author who is passionate about art history. There are dual stories in the book, the first one that of Soli who is part of the Resistance and working to hide art from the Nazis. The second story is like a biography of Caravaggio, a master artist. The description of the artist’s technique, chiaroscuro, was fascinating. The story of Soli and the other members of the Resistance was well-told but a little slow paced at times. Fans of historical fiction will enjoy this book, and I look forward to the next installment in Soli’s story.

Disclaimer
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255, “Guides Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.”

[Helen Hollick · Rating 4 out of 5]

The story opens as Norway is being invaded by the Germans when 18-year-old Soli sees a fleet of bombers thundering past, above her quiet country home. The story then moves to occupied Oslo, August 1944, where we find her employed by Mr Holm, a fine art dealer who values her skills and training in all aspects of Renaissance and Baroque art.

She arrives at work one morning to find their cleaner dead by the rubbish bins. How did she die? Was she murdered? Until that point Soli has managed to stay clear of politics, the Germans and any serious involvement with the war. But now, the war comes to her. She can’t avoid being involved.

What was the painting that everybody seemed to be looking for? Who could she trust? All is not as it seems.

The story is fast-paced and exciting. I enjoyed the fascinating blend of recent history and mediaeval art, seen through the story of Caravaggio, and am looking forward to the next in the series.


Reviewed for Discovering Diamonds

[Heidi]

Of Darkness and Light launches today, May 12, 2020
https://www.amzn.com/B086RNG5SX

In this first book of a new historical mystery series, a young art historian faces a tough choice in German-occupied Norway.

“Artful prose and at a pace that makes for a can't-put-down, first-class literary voyage."–Melissa Dalton-Bradford, bestselling author of Global Mom

Oslo, 1944. Soli Hansen’s passion for art history is and always has been a way of life for her. While she spends her days working in an art shop, WWII is taking its toll on everyone. Apprehensive of the consequences, Soli avoids becoming entangled in the war resistance efforts. She closes her eyes in hopes the enemy will retreat and leave her beautiful country for good.

But when a woman is found dead in the alley alongside the art shop and a painting from the last auction goes missing, Soli is thrown into the thickest of the fray involving both Nazi art theft and the Norwegian resistance.

Once Soli finds her courage, there’s no turning back. Her personal life is turned upside-down with danger, lies, spying, and an incredible discovery.

In this dual timeline novel, Heidi Eljarbo paints a vivid picture of what people are willing to do in desperate times. With unforgettable characters and rich historical details, Of Darkness and Light will keep the reader mesmerized until the last satisfying page.

Perfect for fans of Kate Morton, Lucinda Riley, Katherine Neville, and Kate Mosse.

Praise for Of Darkness and Light:

“Interspersing love, hope, and courage, the participants are drawn together in mysterious paths.”–Pauline Isaksen, bestselling author of Dying for Justice

“Of Darkness and Light will reel you in and keep you hooked until the end.”–Mette Barfelt, bestselling author of The Solvik Series

[Elizabeth Fellows · Rating 5 out of 5]

Of Darkness and Light.

Of Darkness and of Light / A Soli Hansen Mystery WWII
Soli is a young girl living in Norway during the occupation of the Nazi’s. She has a great love and knowledge of art, and works in a art shop where many authentic art collections were taken from families that were forced to flee Norway, or were deported by the Germans. The storyline is very interesting as it goes through an ordinary family in Oslo, and how the war affected them all. The war caused huge riffs in families, between those pro the occupation, and those who ingrained themselves with the Nazi party, and their Lifestyle. Soli was invited to join an art club in a crypt, who actually were part of a bigger resistance group. Their main purpose was to protect national art treasure from the Nazi’s. Soli got heavily involved with the underground movement, as they were trying to bring to light, who and why special artwork pieces have gone missing, and specifically for whom and what reason.
There is a lot of intrigue around a priceless painting that must be kept from the Nazi’s. The foreshadowing of what happened in the 1700’s and the repercussions that came about during WWII are frightening. Soli will do all that she can to protect a famous Chiaroscuro painting from the Nazi’s. many times Soli felt that evil was winning, and all was hopeless. The outcome of the theft of the priceless painting is shocking and intriguing. This book is full of action and suspense. It is a wonderful book and a worthwhile read. I enjoyed this book thoroughly. Interesting to read about Norway and its resistance movement during WWII.

[Camilla · Rating 5 out of 5]

A page turner.
I was excited when given the chance to read an advanced readers copy by the author, for an honest review.
Right from the start the story of Soli Hansen captured me. The book is well written, and I like how you as a reader get to know Soli and her family, right before WWII landed at the doorsteps only to walk straight in to Norway. Soli´s art interests and education is leading her to work at an art store, where a mysterious death of an employee puts her in the middle of a murder mystery and in a dangerous position, while trying to understand the connections between the murder and missing artefacts at the store. Navigating the balance between trying to save art pieces from the hands of the Germans, and who to trust, she finds her self deeper and deeper involved in actions she never thought she was brave enough to be involved in. I also really like the dual timeline, following an artist and a painter in Italy, and how his story later connects with the mystery happening in Norway.
A murder mystery, with action, romance, and many choices to be made for a young woman who was used to a quiet simple life, only to suddenly end up in the middle of WWII resistance. I can really recommend this book! I am already looking forward to the next book in the same series.

[Lorrie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Masterfully written as the author paints an interesting and accurate historical novel with a compelling mystery story. Ms Eljarbo weaves a captivating tale set in two time periods, and brings the reader along to educate and entertain about the rarely told story of WWII Nazi occupied Norway, art history and 1600s Valletta, Malta. You’ll be drawn into the story, as I was, until the very end. The author has created interesting characters, with compelling character development that one can relate to and enjoy reading about. I loved this fast-paced, dramatic novel, and I expect others will as well. I’m looking forward to the next installment. I wrote this review based on an advance reading copy that the author sent me.

[Madison McAuley · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a Kindle Unlimited gem! This book has so many great aspects. Historical fiction, mystery, dual timeline, art, a beautiful European setting, espionage…

I’m not a fan of thrillers, but love mysteries. This book had just enough suspense and danger to keep you invested but nothing crazy that will keep you up at night.

I liked how the dual timeline gave insight into the background of the missing painting and it’s artist and model. It was just a few chapters and gave interesting insight without pulling you away from the “present day” happenings and mystery.

This was a fairly quick read and the author keeps things clean, which I always appreciate.

Bottom line: I enjoyed this book. Whether you have KU or not, fans of historical fiction or historical mystery should give it a try.

Fave Quote: "Those little piglets…would not listen."
"They are adorable."
"All little things are, except newly hatched birds and little money."
(So true 😂)

Content info for clean readers:
There is talk of the effects of the war on people (hunger from food rations, raids, arrests, interrogations, etc.) and as the description mentions there is murder involved. But the author keeps things cozy and nothing is graphic.
No sex or profanity.
——

[Elisabetta Gazzoni Jacobsen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had the honor and pleasure to read a preview of this book and I just wanted to go on reading! There is mistery, suspence and love for art, people and Norway. You will maybe want to ride your bike around Oslo looking for the castle and other places.

[Mette Barfelt · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a very interesting and exciting story from Oslo, Norway, during World War II.
I love descriptive books like this, and the author is clever with details.
Of Darkness and Light will catch your attention and make you read until the very last page.

The book is well written and highly recommended for anyone interested in history.

[Kathy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I wrote this review based on an advance reading copy that the author sent me. If you enjoy reading historical fiction and mysteries, you will enjoy this book. Takes place in Norway during WWII and centers around the art world and the pieces stolen from the Jews as they were being sent to concentration camps. This story will keep you reading until the end of the book and wanting to read “the rest of the story” in later books.

[Susan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed this from beginning to end. It’s set in Oslo during the Nazi occupation in WW2. The protagonist, Soli, gets embroiled in a plot that involves a murder mystery, art theft, and more. It all fits naturally together in the plot, so as you can see it’s a page turner!

[Claudia Richards · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you like historical fiction and art history you'll enjoy "Of Darkness and Light." It was a very good read! (And welcomed escape during Covid-19 stay-cation.) Soli is likable, good and human. She's easy to relate to. The story moves quickly and is a page turner. I'm looking forward to the next book!

[Robyn Echols · Rating 5 out of 5]

Enjoyable Story

I enjoyed this story full of interesting characters, mystery, insight into Norway during World War Two, and a glimpse at the world of fine art.