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Waiting for Sunshine
'Who would name a child Sunshine, then give her away?'
Chrissie has always wanted to be a mother. After months of trying to adopt, she and her husband Stuart finally get the news that a little girl named Sunshine is waiting for them.
Abandoned at a young age, the child comes to them without a family history, and it feels like a fresh start for all of them. But when fragments from Sunshine's previous life start to intrude on her new one, the little girl's mysterious past quickly becomes Chrissie's greatest fear ...
Beautiful and compelling, this is a story of hope and love, about finding the perfect family and fighting to keep it, perfect for fans of Jodi Picoult and Ruth Jones.
Chrissie has always wanted to be a mother. After months of trying to adopt, she and her husband Stuart finally get the news that a little girl named Sunshine is waiting for them.
Abandoned at a young age, the child comes to them without a family history, and it feels like a fresh start for all of them. But when fragments from Sunshine's previous life start to intrude on her new one, the little girl's mysterious past quickly becomes Chrissie's greatest fear ...
Beautiful and compelling, this is a story of hope and love, about finding the perfect family and fighting to keep it, perfect for fans of Jodi Picoult and Ruth Jones.
- GenresContemporaryFiction
Paperback
Published March 16, 2023
83 people are currently reading
278 people want to read
About the author
Jane Sanderson
7 books118 followersJane Sanderson was born in South Yorkshire in 1962. She studied English at Leicester University, then after graduating she became a journalist. After a series of jobs with local newspapers she joined the BBC where she worked as a producer for Radio 4, first on the World at One, and then on Woman's Hour. She lives with her husband, the Independent journalist and author Brian Viner, and their three children in rural Herefordshire.
Jane's first novel, Netherwood, is published by Sphere. She is now working on the sequel, Ravenscliffe, to be published in 2012.
Jane's first novel, Netherwood, is published by Sphere. She is now working on the sequel, Ravenscliffe, to be published in 2012.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews
August 11, 2022
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🎶🎵 Here comes the Sun, Here comes the Sun and I say, It's all right 🎵🎶
This book was both terribly sad and laugh-out-loud funny. I don't know how she did it but Jane Sanderson managed to write the voice and thoughts of a three-year-old girl so real and true to life I could picture Sunny so clearly and wanted to pick her up and take her home with me. In fact, all the characters were believable and Chrissie was my favourite of the bunch. She was a woman after my own heart.
To me, this book was about more than just adoption. Yes, it was a book about parenthood but also different relationships. It is a book about motherhood in all its forms, it is about relationships of all kinds whether that be friendships or romantic ones and otherwise.
I loved the part of the plot that dealt with the mystery of Sunshine's background. It kept me interested, it was different, I felt invested and cared about what happened in that aspect, and it was altogether surprising. I really loved all the musical references, I couldn't get enough of them.
The ending was heartfelt and very satisfying to this reader and Sunshine is definitely worth waiting for. A wonderful read that is beautifully written and pulls at the heartstrings.
🎶🎵 Here comes the Sun, Here comes the Sun and I say, It's all right 🎵🎶
This book was both terribly sad and laugh-out-loud funny. I don't know how she did it but Jane Sanderson managed to write the voice and thoughts of a three-year-old girl so real and true to life I could picture Sunny so clearly and wanted to pick her up and take her home with me. In fact, all the characters were believable and Chrissie was my favourite of the bunch. She was a woman after my own heart.
To me, this book was about more than just adoption. Yes, it was a book about parenthood but also different relationships. It is a book about motherhood in all its forms, it is about relationships of all kinds whether that be friendships or romantic ones and otherwise.
I loved the part of the plot that dealt with the mystery of Sunshine's background. It kept me interested, it was different, I felt invested and cared about what happened in that aspect, and it was altogether surprising. I really loved all the musical references, I couldn't get enough of them.
The ending was heartfelt and very satisfying to this reader and Sunshine is definitely worth waiting for. A wonderful read that is beautifully written and pulls at the heartstrings.
January 30, 2022
Title is Waiting for Sunshine!!
Chrissie and Stuart are musicians in a successful band but all Chrissie wants is to be a mother. In March 1997 they get a call from social worker Angela Holt to say they have been matched with a little girl going by the name of Sunshine. This novel takes Chrissy and Stuart on an emotional and at times stressful journey when Sunshine’s past intrudes.
I really enjoyed Jane Sanderson‘s last novel Mix Tape but this isn’t quite in the same league in my opinion. There are parts of the novel that are good but there is way too much going on so you begin to feel it doesn’t know exactly what it’s about.
First of all, the positives. The characterisation is good although there are a lot of characters and some don’t seem necessary. Chrissie and Stuart are likeable and Sunshine is delightful. The difficulties associated with adoption are particularly well done although I do feel that Sunshine slots into her new family way too easily after a few tantrums. The emotions Chrissie feels are well described. The mystery of Sunshine’s background is quite good and there are a number of odd happenings that are perplexing and which deepen the mystery. There are some interesting moments of tension between grown-ups later in the book which you can do feel. Parts of the book are reflective especially on motherhood and these are thoughtfully done. The music elements are enjoyable too.
However, unfortunately you get lost in the convoluted threads. Is it a novel about adoption? Yes, partly. Is it a mystery? Yes, also partly and this covers both Chrissie and Sunshine. Is it about motherhood? Also, yes partly. Is it about love, yes again.
So much that happens I do not find to be realistic or believable as adoptions are of necessity highly controlled and ring fenced for the child’s protection. Actions by one social work in particular make me raise my eyebrows in disbelief. Yes I know it’s fiction but even so.
The book in my opinion loses its way, it’s not on a clearly defined path so it’s hard to understand what the premise is . I think the author is trying to hard to keep the readers attention by throwing in a mystery but actually it achieves the opposite. It would have been much more pertinent and emotional if the theme had just been the adoption. It’s over detailed especially at the start and thus overburdened as a consequence.
Having said the above, I don’t by any means dislike the book but it does frustrate me. There are sections that are really good but I’m sorry to say I think it’s a book that I’ll forget very quickly.
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Random House U.K. Transworld, Bantam Press for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review.
Chrissie and Stuart are musicians in a successful band but all Chrissie wants is to be a mother. In March 1997 they get a call from social worker Angela Holt to say they have been matched with a little girl going by the name of Sunshine. This novel takes Chrissy and Stuart on an emotional and at times stressful journey when Sunshine’s past intrudes.
I really enjoyed Jane Sanderson‘s last novel Mix Tape but this isn’t quite in the same league in my opinion. There are parts of the novel that are good but there is way too much going on so you begin to feel it doesn’t know exactly what it’s about.
First of all, the positives. The characterisation is good although there are a lot of characters and some don’t seem necessary. Chrissie and Stuart are likeable and Sunshine is delightful. The difficulties associated with adoption are particularly well done although I do feel that Sunshine slots into her new family way too easily after a few tantrums. The emotions Chrissie feels are well described. The mystery of Sunshine’s background is quite good and there are a number of odd happenings that are perplexing and which deepen the mystery. There are some interesting moments of tension between grown-ups later in the book which you can do feel. Parts of the book are reflective especially on motherhood and these are thoughtfully done. The music elements are enjoyable too.
However, unfortunately you get lost in the convoluted threads. Is it a novel about adoption? Yes, partly. Is it a mystery? Yes, also partly and this covers both Chrissie and Sunshine. Is it about motherhood? Also, yes partly. Is it about love, yes again.
So much that happens I do not find to be realistic or believable as adoptions are of necessity highly controlled and ring fenced for the child’s protection. Actions by one social work in particular make me raise my eyebrows in disbelief. Yes I know it’s fiction but even so.
The book in my opinion loses its way, it’s not on a clearly defined path so it’s hard to understand what the premise is . I think the author is trying to hard to keep the readers attention by throwing in a mystery but actually it achieves the opposite. It would have been much more pertinent and emotional if the theme had just been the adoption. It’s over detailed especially at the start and thus overburdened as a consequence.
Having said the above, I don’t by any means dislike the book but it does frustrate me. There are sections that are really good but I’m sorry to say I think it’s a book that I’ll forget very quickly.
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Random House U.K. Transworld, Bantam Press for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review.
January 2, 2022
‘Waiting for Sunshine’ by Jane Sanderson focuses on what it means to adopt a child. The author has clearly done her research and parts of this novel feel truly authentic. The reader warms to Chrissie and Stuart, the couple hoping to adopt, and to their daughter Sunshine when she appears. Without resorting to sentimentality, the author is able to create a convincing picture of a small child, perhaps because Sunny’s past is a good deal less traumatic than that of many children put up for adoption nowadays. For the most part she comes across as a pretty normal three-year-old.
Like ‘Mix Tape’, this is a very readable novel. However, I couldn’t help but feel that much of the plot line was unconvincing. The foster parents’ reluctance to let go is understandable but this theme goes a little too far, and the collection of social workers are ‘characters’ rather than living, breathing, horribly busy, stressed people. I just did not believe in Nancy’s role, not least because it would be nigh impossible to achieve what she does. Towards the end of the story when Chrissie’s origins are revealed it feels as if Sanderson had decided that writing about adoption is not enough and that something else dramatic is needed to keep the reader interested. This did the reverse for me.
Jane Sanderson is usually very good at writing about real life; unfortunately, in parts ‘Waiting for Sunshine’ reads like a fantasy rather than a serious exploration of the complexities of adoption.
My thanks to NetGalley and Random HouseUK for a copy of this novel in exchange for a fair review.
Like ‘Mix Tape’, this is a very readable novel. However, I couldn’t help but feel that much of the plot line was unconvincing. The foster parents’ reluctance to let go is understandable but this theme goes a little too far, and the collection of social workers are ‘characters’ rather than living, breathing, horribly busy, stressed people. I just did not believe in Nancy’s role, not least because it would be nigh impossible to achieve what she does. Towards the end of the story when Chrissie’s origins are revealed it feels as if Sanderson had decided that writing about adoption is not enough and that something else dramatic is needed to keep the reader interested. This did the reverse for me.
Jane Sanderson is usually very good at writing about real life; unfortunately, in parts ‘Waiting for Sunshine’ reads like a fantasy rather than a serious exploration of the complexities of adoption.
My thanks to NetGalley and Random HouseUK for a copy of this novel in exchange for a fair review.
January 2, 2022
A family drama filled with heart, mystery, and all sorts of shenanigans.
Waiting for Sunshine tells the story of Chrissie and Stuart. They are that type of solid couple who are an inspiration to all their friends. They met in college, are in a band together (The Lineman) and have been madly in love ever since. The only thing missing in their life is a baby. After a long battle to adopt, filled with frustration and missed opportunities, they are finally united with their daughter, a beautiful three-year-old named Sunshine, or Sunny for short.
Jane Sanderson weaves together a story that is a lot more than the sum of its parts. What starts as a very straightforward plot, becomes more and more complex when bits of Sunshine's past start to be revealed. Consequently, the toddler's previous life brings forth complications and even explanations from Chrissie's past.
As with Sanderson's previous novel (Mix Tape) Waiting for Sunshine exudes a nostalgic feeling fueled by its music references and even its use of music throughout each chapter. The book is at its best when it describes the evolving relationship between mother, father, and daughter, making you fall for Sunshine's exuberance and happy disposition straight away.
However, it gets convoluted at the halfway mark, when trying to achieve too many things at once, it loses focus of the main story by adding too many elements and side characters. The pacing loses momentum and there are too many descriptions that could have been edited out to make the journey a bit smoother.
Having said that, Sanderson does accomplish (although taking the long road back) bringing all elements together in the end, concluding the book on a heartwarming high note.
Waiting for Sunshine tells the story of Chrissie and Stuart. They are that type of solid couple who are an inspiration to all their friends. They met in college, are in a band together (The Lineman) and have been madly in love ever since. The only thing missing in their life is a baby. After a long battle to adopt, filled with frustration and missed opportunities, they are finally united with their daughter, a beautiful three-year-old named Sunshine, or Sunny for short.
Jane Sanderson weaves together a story that is a lot more than the sum of its parts. What starts as a very straightforward plot, becomes more and more complex when bits of Sunshine's past start to be revealed. Consequently, the toddler's previous life brings forth complications and even explanations from Chrissie's past.
As with Sanderson's previous novel (Mix Tape) Waiting for Sunshine exudes a nostalgic feeling fueled by its music references and even its use of music throughout each chapter. The book is at its best when it describes the evolving relationship between mother, father, and daughter, making you fall for Sunshine's exuberance and happy disposition straight away.
However, it gets convoluted at the halfway mark, when trying to achieve too many things at once, it loses focus of the main story by adding too many elements and side characters. The pacing loses momentum and there are too many descriptions that could have been edited out to make the journey a bit smoother.
Having said that, Sanderson does accomplish (although taking the long road back) bringing all elements together in the end, concluding the book on a heartwarming high note.
June 22, 2022
The story focuses around a couple trying to adopt. The very real and extreme range of emotions from the adoption process were handled so well and felt incredibly authentic. I very quickly felt attached to both the couple and especially their daughter Sunshine.
Unfortunately my connection to those characters were lost when the story veered off into what I felt was unrealistic territory. So many twists and turns; foster parents understandable but extreme reaction, Sunshine's birth family mystery plotline, the collection of adoption workers and their actions, and the unnecessary secondary storyline.
It was still a readable and interesting story but somewhat jarring. What I thought was going to be a serious exploration of the complexities of adoption turned into a fantastical, somewhat farcical, mystery. It was a weird choice by the author to mix the two different styles.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher / author for providing me with a free electronic copy of this book for review.
Unfortunately my connection to those characters were lost when the story veered off into what I felt was unrealistic territory. So many twists and turns; foster parents understandable but extreme reaction, Sunshine's birth family mystery plotline, the collection of adoption workers and their actions, and the unnecessary secondary storyline.
It was still a readable and interesting story but somewhat jarring. What I thought was going to be a serious exploration of the complexities of adoption turned into a fantastical, somewhat farcical, mystery. It was a weird choice by the author to mix the two different styles.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher / author for providing me with a free electronic copy of this book for review.
October 11, 2024
Unnecessarily long. Unrealistic twists and turns, too many storyline’s.
October 10, 2022
Who would name a child Sunshine, then give her away?'
Chrissie and Stuart are happily married and members of a successful rock band, but one thing they are desperate for, to make their lives complete, is to have a family and, after years of trying to adopt, they are finally matched with a three year old girl called Sunshine. She appears to have no family history but as the adoption process is completed, snippets of her past emerge and Chrissie fears the worst...
Waiting for Sunshine is a story which will have you laughing one minute and reaching for the tissues the next. It's a tale of love, relationships, friendships and many secrets and in amongst all of this is Sunshine, an adorable little three year old that melted my heart, I just wanted to take her home with me! I loved this authors previous book, Mix Tape, and was looking forward to reading this one. Once again, Sanderson has created a story that is full of believable characters, a great plot and some huge revelations that are drip fed throughout the book to keep the reader intrigued, and it worked! If you're looking for a heartwarming story with a twist, this is one for you.
I'd like to thank Random House UK Transworld Publishers for inviting me to read this title, I will post my review on Goodreads now and Amazon on publication day.
Chrissie and Stuart are happily married and members of a successful rock band, but one thing they are desperate for, to make their lives complete, is to have a family and, after years of trying to adopt, they are finally matched with a three year old girl called Sunshine. She appears to have no family history but as the adoption process is completed, snippets of her past emerge and Chrissie fears the worst...
Waiting for Sunshine is a story which will have you laughing one minute and reaching for the tissues the next. It's a tale of love, relationships, friendships and many secrets and in amongst all of this is Sunshine, an adorable little three year old that melted my heart, I just wanted to take her home with me! I loved this authors previous book, Mix Tape, and was looking forward to reading this one. Once again, Sanderson has created a story that is full of believable characters, a great plot and some huge revelations that are drip fed throughout the book to keep the reader intrigued, and it worked! If you're looking for a heartwarming story with a twist, this is one for you.
I'd like to thank Random House UK Transworld Publishers for inviting me to read this title, I will post my review on Goodreads now and Amazon on publication day.
April 16, 2023
What a gorgeous, emotional adventure of a book. Rock n roll couple Chrissie and Stu are adopting a child & the tale of the little girl Sunshine entering their life is magical & memorable. You will be thinking about these characters and the family dynamics for days after. A special story. I would like to know what happens next!
April 25, 2022
I really enjoyed Jane Sanderson’s previous novel, Mix Tape, so was keen to read Waiting for Sunshine. Chrissie and Stuart are members of a successful rock band and have a good life, but long for a child of their own. They are in the process of adopting and finding it very stressful. They have been disappointed when previous attempts fell through, but now their adoption of three-year-old Sunshine looks like it might finally go ahead. Sunshine is a delightful child, but there is a mystery surrounding her past and how she came to be put up for adoption that is slowly revealed as the story progresses.
The characters are well written and believable, but I thought Chrissie’s behaviour was a bit unreasonable and rather irritating at certain points in the story. In the second half of the book, family secrets are revealed that change everything she previously believed to be true, and she has a lot to come to terms with. The ending is satisfying as it ties up all the loose ends. I liked the musical references, especially Sunshine’s favourite Beatles’ song. I enjoyed Waiting for Sunshine, and will definitely look out for other books by this author. Thanks to Penguin and NetGalley for a digital copy to review.
The characters are well written and believable, but I thought Chrissie’s behaviour was a bit unreasonable and rather irritating at certain points in the story. In the second half of the book, family secrets are revealed that change everything she previously believed to be true, and she has a lot to come to terms with. The ending is satisfying as it ties up all the loose ends. I liked the musical references, especially Sunshine’s favourite Beatles’ song. I enjoyed Waiting for Sunshine, and will definitely look out for other books by this author. Thanks to Penguin and NetGalley for a digital copy to review.
March 2, 2022
This was another book I had mixed feelings about, it seems to be a trend recently!
I really enjoyed the beginning and loved the characters of both Chrissie and Stu, musicians and members of a successful band, they had a good life and there was a laid back, happy vibe with the story and their relationship, even though they were looking to adopt and it was a bit stressful.
But then they finally were in line to adopt a 3-year old called Sunshine, who was a real little character, but she did come with baggage that slowly revealed itself as the story went on. Chrissie changed because of certain circumstances, became very paranoid, and her character started to really irritate me with reactions to situations.
The story sort of took a turn in the second half and lots of things were happening, along with plenty of secrets being revealed. There were some really great characters in the story, Sunshine and Nina being my favourite, but also some really irritating ones like Chrissie and her mother, Diana. An enjoyable read overall.
I really enjoyed the beginning and loved the characters of both Chrissie and Stu, musicians and members of a successful band, they had a good life and there was a laid back, happy vibe with the story and their relationship, even though they were looking to adopt and it was a bit stressful.
But then they finally were in line to adopt a 3-year old called Sunshine, who was a real little character, but she did come with baggage that slowly revealed itself as the story went on. Chrissie changed because of certain circumstances, became very paranoid, and her character started to really irritate me with reactions to situations.
The story sort of took a turn in the second half and lots of things were happening, along with plenty of secrets being revealed. There were some really great characters in the story, Sunshine and Nina being my favourite, but also some really irritating ones like Chrissie and her mother, Diana. An enjoyable read overall.
May 13, 2024
Lots to like about this book but at times I really didn’t like Christine much. Also felt it was dragged out too much.
August 31, 2023
I didn’t like this book. Took me an age to read and just really struggled to get into it. I found the story strange and boring but had invested too much time in it to give up.
October 24, 2023
This book really dragged. I gave up the will to live a third of the way through and skipped to the end. Life's too short
February 11, 2022
A couple who met at university and both feeling they had met their soulmate almost immediately married and decided the next stage of their lives was a family. They are in a very successfully band with a group of friends who have been together since University. After trying unsuccessfully for a family they decide to go down the adoption route. This was such a difficult process for Chrissie and Stuart having nearly received a little boy which was “taken away” from them at the last minute. Eventually after a long wait they had the pleasure of have a child called Sunshine. They visit Sunshine with her foster parents several times and Chrissie feels that the foster family are very reluctant to let her go. Eventually Sunshine comes to live with them and all works well. Chrissie is over cautious about everything whereas Stuart feels that Sunshine needs to grow without feeling in a claustrophobic world. Things become strange and Chrissie feels that someone is watching them. Also the foster parents seem to be trying to cause one or two problems to stop Sunshine adapting to her new home. Stuart takes Sunshine and a friend to the park and Sunshine disappears. It all transpires that Sunshine’s grandfather and aunt find out about the child and are determined to have her with them in their strange world of a cult like existence. Sunshine’s mother escaped the life in the commune and the regimented way of life while pregnant and had befriended another person at the commune. She helped make sure that Chrissie and Stuart were the family to have Sunshine as she felt they would be a wonderful fit. When Sunshine is taken Chrissie and Stuart find their relationship reaching the limit – Chrissie blaming Stuart for taking his eyes off Sunshine and Stuart feeling in the depths of despair for it happening. Eventually Sunshine is returned and life returns to normal and all is well. In the midst of this story things are intertwined with secrets between Chrissie’s family which comes to a head and changes the dynamics of her family history. I really enjoyed this book although obviously sad in places. It was fast pacing and I liked the way the story changed through the book between the generations. Definitely with a read
July 3, 2023
Jane Sanderson’s “Waiting for Sunshine” presents a captivating premise that initially piques the reader’s interest. However, despite the intriguing idea behind the book, the unlikability of the main character creates a significant obstacle to fully enjoying the story.
The novel centers around the character of Sunshine, who embarks on a journey of self-discovery and redemption after a personal tragedy. The concept of exploring themes of resilience, hope, and transformation has the potential to resonate with readers. However, the lack of connection to the main character hampers the overall reading experience.
Sunshine’s unlikable nature and the reader’s inability to connect with her prevent the story from fully resonating. The character’s actions and behavior may not align with the reader’s expectations or evoke sympathy, leading to a disconnect that affects the emotional investment in the narrative. As a result, it becomes challenging to root for Sunshine or become invested in her personal growth.
Despite the shortcomings of the main character, Sanderson’s writing style remains a highlight of the book. The author’s prose is engaging, capturing the beauty of the setting and creating vivid imagery. The descriptive passages effectively transport the reader to the story’s locations and add depth to the narrative.
The pacing of the book is generally well-maintained, allowing the story to unfold at a steady pace. However, the lack of a compelling main character makes certain sections feel sluggish and less engaging. Moments that should have been emotionally impactful may fall flat due to the reader’s disconnect from Sunshine.
In summary, “Waiting for Sunshine” presents an intriguing concept that promises an exploration of resilience and personal growth. However, the unlikability of the main character creates a significant barrier to fully enjoying the story. While Jane Sanderson’s writing style and descriptive prose are commendable, the inability to connect with the protagonist hampers the emotional resonance of the narrative. If you are someone who values relatable and likable main characters, “Waiting for Sunshine” may not be the best fit for you.
The novel centers around the character of Sunshine, who embarks on a journey of self-discovery and redemption after a personal tragedy. The concept of exploring themes of resilience, hope, and transformation has the potential to resonate with readers. However, the lack of connection to the main character hampers the overall reading experience.
Sunshine’s unlikable nature and the reader’s inability to connect with her prevent the story from fully resonating. The character’s actions and behavior may not align with the reader’s expectations or evoke sympathy, leading to a disconnect that affects the emotional investment in the narrative. As a result, it becomes challenging to root for Sunshine or become invested in her personal growth.
Despite the shortcomings of the main character, Sanderson’s writing style remains a highlight of the book. The author’s prose is engaging, capturing the beauty of the setting and creating vivid imagery. The descriptive passages effectively transport the reader to the story’s locations and add depth to the narrative.
The pacing of the book is generally well-maintained, allowing the story to unfold at a steady pace. However, the lack of a compelling main character makes certain sections feel sluggish and less engaging. Moments that should have been emotionally impactful may fall flat due to the reader’s disconnect from Sunshine.
In summary, “Waiting for Sunshine” presents an intriguing concept that promises an exploration of resilience and personal growth. However, the unlikability of the main character creates a significant barrier to fully enjoying the story. While Jane Sanderson’s writing style and descriptive prose are commendable, the inability to connect with the protagonist hampers the emotional resonance of the narrative. If you are someone who values relatable and likable main characters, “Waiting for Sunshine” may not be the best fit for you.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 28, 2024
I dipped in and out of this book at first- I wasn't sure if I was in the 'right' frame of mind to delve into the story, which from the synopsis sounded quite an emotional roller coaster. Maybe it's January, but I was feeling a bit fragile and in need of comfort reads at the moment.
However, I took the plunge and, yes, it was full or turmoil and the character christy, with whom I connected a great deal, did experience distress and angst. BUT, I am glad I opened myself up to this book, because despite the heartache and fears that are woven throughout the novel, there is also enormous warmth, uplift and gratification. It really did deliver, for me anyway!
I listened to this as an audiobook and the narrator did an excellent job. I often cringe if adults attempt to adopt the voices of children, but in this case, the narrator did it wonderfully! I felt utterly endearment towards little Sunshine and understood through Sanderson's fine writing, plus the brilliant narration, why the 'Sunshine' of the title is so beloved. So i guess it worked so well because I found it believable, highly engaging and very emotive. The characters were fully present and vivid. The setting, atmosphere and people existed clearly in my mind, but they were formed fluently through the storytelling rather than noticeable/clumsy efforts to describe. I will be seeking more books by this novelist.
However, I took the plunge and, yes, it was full or turmoil and the character christy, with whom I connected a great deal, did experience distress and angst. BUT, I am glad I opened myself up to this book, because despite the heartache and fears that are woven throughout the novel, there is also enormous warmth, uplift and gratification. It really did deliver, for me anyway!
I listened to this as an audiobook and the narrator did an excellent job. I often cringe if adults attempt to adopt the voices of children, but in this case, the narrator did it wonderfully! I felt utterly endearment towards little Sunshine and understood through Sanderson's fine writing, plus the brilliant narration, why the 'Sunshine' of the title is so beloved. So i guess it worked so well because I found it believable, highly engaging and very emotive. The characters were fully present and vivid. The setting, atmosphere and people existed clearly in my mind, but they were formed fluently through the storytelling rather than noticeable/clumsy efforts to describe. I will be seeking more books by this novelist.
April 19, 2022
Chrissie and Stu are married rockstars who have enjoyed an artisitic and bohemian lifestyle until now. Although they are ready to have a family it doesn't look like it will happen naturally for them, so they start the long, process of applying for adoption.
When they are finally approved to adopt three year old foundling Sunshine it looks as though their dreams have come true.
However it seems that there is more to little Sunny's past than they realise and, when a stranger drops off mysterious gifts addressed to her and starts to follow them, things start to get a little sinister... How has Sunny been found? where has the breach of information come from? Is the child in danger? A compelling story, which becomes not only about Sunshine's background but also forces Chrissie to examine her own past.
When they are finally approved to adopt three year old foundling Sunshine it looks as though their dreams have come true.
However it seems that there is more to little Sunny's past than they realise and, when a stranger drops off mysterious gifts addressed to her and starts to follow them, things start to get a little sinister... How has Sunny been found? where has the breach of information come from? Is the child in danger? A compelling story, which becomes not only about Sunshine's background but also forces Chrissie to examine her own past.
August 12, 2024
Meh. It wasn‘t horrible by any means, but I just couldn‘t connect with the story or the characters very well. I like found families, usually, but this has a weird thriller/drama element that is sort of unnecessary and draws out too long and then ends too abruptly. I also struggled a little with the writing. At times it was almost poetic (or certainly tried to be), then it lost itself in too much telling instead of showing. The characters were sometimes very human and likable, at other times I suddenly found them weird and inconsistent, almost as if the author had come back to them another day and forgot what they wanted them to be the last time she had been writing about them. There was a big part in the middle I struggled through and it wasn‘t quite as heartwarming as I was expecting. It tried to be too many things at once and ended up not being as enjoyable as I had hoped.
June 11, 2022
Chrissie and Stu have been together for years and the only thing missing is a child. They enter the adoption process but have a few disappointments along the way before they are matched with Sunshine. Sunshine is an adorable 3 year old whos character shines throughout this book, but nothing is known of her past. Until a bag is left at a local housing office that has a glimpse to her previous life. But the past comes back to the present as Chrissie starts getting paranoid about where Sunshine came from.
Sunshine made the novel for me, but unfortunately I found it slightly long winded, I felt that it could have been condensed more. I'm also not convinced that the 2nd storyline within the book was needed. Overall an enjoyable read
Sunshine made the novel for me, but unfortunately I found it slightly long winded, I felt that it could have been condensed more. I'm also not convinced that the 2nd storyline within the book was needed. Overall an enjoyable read
August 22, 2022
Thank you to @doubledayukbooks for gifting this proof to me. This book was only released in July and is such a lovely story.
‘Who would name a child Sunshine and then give her away?’ This story focuses on a couple, Christie and Stuart, who are going through the adoption process and waiting for their match.
I absolutely adored this story, I felt really connected to all of the characters and felt like there was a lot of detail without making it complicating. A lot of secrets were revealed and a lot happened in the second half of the book that kept it exciting 🥰
I really enjoyed @janesandersonwriter previous book, Mix Tape, but I enjoyed this even more and I would definitely recommend it to anyone! 💗
‘Who would name a child Sunshine and then give her away?’ This story focuses on a couple, Christie and Stuart, who are going through the adoption process and waiting for their match.
I absolutely adored this story, I felt really connected to all of the characters and felt like there was a lot of detail without making it complicating. A lot of secrets were revealed and a lot happened in the second half of the book that kept it exciting 🥰
I really enjoyed @janesandersonwriter previous book, Mix Tape, but I enjoyed this even more and I would definitely recommend it to anyone! 💗
February 20, 2023
Christie and Stuart have been trying to adopt a child for some time without any success. Then suddenly, a little girl called Sunshine is brought into their lives, and everything seems complete. Nothing is known about her early life, until a mysterious package arrives. Has Sunshine’s family come to claim her back?
Waiting for Sunshine is an enjoyable read, about a couple readjusting their lives to include a child and the differences it can make. I did feel that it was overlong in places, especially after the first sightings of the mystery woman, but then it picked up again towards the end. The revelations between Chrissie and her mother played out well.
Overall a great book and well worth reading
Waiting for Sunshine is an enjoyable read, about a couple readjusting their lives to include a child and the differences it can make. I did feel that it was overlong in places, especially after the first sightings of the mystery woman, but then it picked up again towards the end. The revelations between Chrissie and her mother played out well.
Overall a great book and well worth reading
April 15, 2024
This is the second book I have read by this author, Jane Sanderson, and though thoroughly enjoyable in parts I felt it lost its way about 2/3 through. The authors portrayal of a three-year-old, the words and phrases she uses are absolutely brilliant, however, unfortunately you do lose sympathy a little with Chrissy when she becomes neurotically possessive over the child. I speak, only as a parent, not an adoptive parent, so this may be unfair. The characters in the band I felt to be warm friendly and the sort of people once you stop reading the book, you don’t necessarily forget quickly. I’m glad I read this book, and would recommend it to those of you who enjoy a good story, with lots of thread running through it musical references and memorable characters.
April 21, 2025
OMG….
Waiting for Sunshine
Waiting for it to finish
Waiting for it to become interesting
Last 100 pages where usually a book comes at its peak and you slide through in awe of revelations, this one I couldn’t get through….
Took me days to finish the last 100 pages!
A book where explanations took longer than the actual top event filled with meaningless conversations
As for the characters? Not a single one likable character
As for the lead heroine, what a selfish bitch with absolutely no manners!
Glad I finished it, felt like a marathon
Waiting for Sunshine
Waiting for it to finish
Waiting for it to become interesting
Last 100 pages where usually a book comes at its peak and you slide through in awe of revelations, this one I couldn’t get through….
Took me days to finish the last 100 pages!
A book where explanations took longer than the actual top event filled with meaningless conversations
As for the characters? Not a single one likable character
As for the lead heroine, what a selfish bitch with absolutely no manners!
Glad I finished it, felt like a marathon
January 1, 2025
Chrissie and Stuart, members of a successful band, have been going through the long process of adoption when they are offered a child, Sunshine.
They embrace her with open arms and love to spare, but Sunshine has a bigger impact on their lives than they can ever begin to imagine.
An enjoyable story (with a few unbelievable actions of some of the characters) that dipped in the middle due to several subplots, making it a slog at times. Thankfully it picked up momentum towards the end.
They embrace her with open arms and love to spare, but Sunshine has a bigger impact on their lives than they can ever begin to imagine.
An enjoyable story (with a few unbelievable actions of some of the characters) that dipped in the middle due to several subplots, making it a slog at times. Thankfully it picked up momentum towards the end.
September 29, 2025
Low 4 star
The writing was confident and the topic well handled, but the story wandered off course at times, which made it feel slightly unrealistic. I didn’t particularly warm to the characters—something about them felt a bit distant or hard to connect with. That said, the author clearly knew her subject, and the themes were sensitively explored. It was a decent read, just not one that fully drew me in.
The writing was confident and the topic well handled, but the story wandered off course at times, which made it feel slightly unrealistic. I didn’t particularly warm to the characters—something about them felt a bit distant or hard to connect with. That said, the author clearly knew her subject, and the themes were sensitively explored. It was a decent read, just not one that fully drew me in.
September 8, 2022
A compelling and mesmerising read. Full of twists and turns with the underlying anxiety of the adoption process. The flow of the story is perfect and draws you into the created inner sanctum. I certainly didn’t expect some of the twists. Very difficult to put down! Thoroughly enjoyable.
Thank you Netgalley
Thank you Netgalley
May 7, 2023
3.5 stars really - I enjoyed this book immensely but I also felt it went beyond the realms of possibility at times. The characters were well rounded and I was invested in their story but every thing was just a bit….and they all lived happily ever after despite the bombs that were dropped into their world! A good and enjoyable read though.
January 20, 2024
DNF @ i don't care
A great premise that actually had me hooked in the first 150 pages, but derailed and rambled so much that by the back half I lost all interest and gave up close to the end.
Drawn-out, rambly, digressy, in dire need of an editor and would have been much better 100 or 200 pages shorter.
A great premise that actually had me hooked in the first 150 pages, but derailed and rambled so much that by the back half I lost all interest and gave up close to the end.
Drawn-out, rambly, digressy, in dire need of an editor and would have been much better 100 or 200 pages shorter.
November 20, 2022
The first half of this book had me absolutely hooked - I loved earning about Sunshine and the adoption process. The second half felt almost like a different book and, although still enjoyable, the darker mood brought an angst I wasn't expecting.
April 6, 2023
An interesting story line, with lots of twists and turns, I think the real star of the book is sunshine, she is adorable. I did enjoy this story once I got into it, but after reading mixed tape, which I just loved, this was very different apart from the music connection.
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