Overview

September 1943: German forces occupy Rome. Gestapo boss Obersturmbannführer Paul Hauptmann rules with terror. Hunger is widespread. Rumors fester. The war’s outcome is far from certain. 

Diplomats, refugees, and escaped Allied prisoners flee for protection into Vatican City; at one fifth of a square mile, it’s the world’s smallest state, a neutral, independent country within Rome. A small band of unlikely friends led by a courageous Irish priest is drawn into deadly danger as they seek to help those seeking refuge. A deadly high-stakes battle of wits ensues in this astonishing and unforgettable story of love, faith, and sacrifice that explores what it means to be truly human in the most extreme circumstances. 

The first book in the Rome Escape Line Trilogy, this powerful, heartbreaking literary thriller is based on the true story of Monsignor Hugh O’Flaherty, a man who risked his life to smuggle thousands of Jews and escaped Allied prisoners out of Italy under the nose of his Nazi nemesis.

Review

Monsignor Hugh O’ Flaherty is determined to save as many people as he can. But the Nazis are on to him. He is confined to the Vatican and cannot leave without special permission. But, this does not stop him or his “choir”. They risk everything to smuggle out thousands of people right under the Nazis’ nose!

This is a bit different take on WWII. This is set at the Vatican. I have read a great many books in this time period lately, so, I enjoyed this change of scenery.

I also loved that this was based on a true person. Monsignor Hugh O’Flaherty saved thousands of lives and he definitely had the Nazis number. He thwarted them at every turn. Look him up! He was an amazing man!

This book has some beautifully written areas but it also has some areas which are a bit slow. But, I loved the production. There are 9, yes you heard me, 9 narrators. Now, there were a couple of narrators in which I had to slow the speed down because of the accent. (Yes, I listen at 2x the speed!). This just made the whole thing more authentic.

Need a different take on WWII…THIS IS IT! Grab your copy today!

I received this novel from the publisher for a honest review.

Purchase Here

Audible

Amazon