The highly awaited new novel from the internationally bestselling author of The German Midwife (also published as A Woman of War).
Venice, 1943The world is at war, and Stella Jilani is leading a double life. By day she works in the lion’s den as a typist for the Reich; by night, she risks her life as a messenger for the Italian resistance. Against all odds, Stella must impart Nazi secrets, … resistance. Against all odds, Stella must impart Nazi secrets, smuggle essential supplies and produce an underground newspaper on her beloved typewriter.
But when German commander General Breugal becomes suspicious, it seems he will stop at nothing to find the mole, and Stella knows her future could be in jeopardy.
London, 2017
Years later, Luisa Belmont finds a mysterious old typewriter in her attic. Determined to find out who it belonged to, Luisa delves into the past and uncovers a story of fierce love, unimaginable sacrifice and, ultimately, the worst kind of betrayal…
Set between German-occupied 1940s Venice and modern-day London, this is a fascinating tale of the bravery of everyday women in the darkest corners of WWII, for readers of The Tattooist of Auschwitz by Heather Morris.
Praise for The Secret Messenger:
‘Rich and captivating…a vivid story of love, sacrifice and betrayal.’ Woman’s World
‘Intriguing, pacy and fascinating.’ Suzanne Goldring, author of My Name is Eva
‘Unique, emotional and life-affirming.’ Melanie Hudson, author of The Last Letter from Juliet
‘A beautifully written novel, perfect for historical fiction lovers.’ Soraya M. Lane, bestselling author of The Girls of Pearl Harbor
‘Another fantastic page-turner.’ LP Fergusson, author of A Dangerous Act of Kindness
‘I felt I was walking alongside Stella over bridges and along canals at every heartstopping moment… Wonderful.’ Molly Green, author of An Orphan’s Wish
‘One of the stronger novels that pays homage to the women involved in the movements of resistance.’ Reader review
‘Refreshingly different. Even if you think you have read enough war books this year I strongly recommend you read this one.’ Reader review
‘If you like WWII stories, this is a must read.’ Reader review
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I am a fanatic about WWII and enjoyed this book immensely.
I really llke it and would recommend the book. It was informative and showed that those who were in the resistance were brave.
WONDERFUL
Loved it!
Great story. Well written.
Interesting view of occupied Italy, Venice specifically. A bit of a twist at the end.
Really liked this one
A very good read. Enjoyed reading it. I actually couldn’t put it down. I would highly recommend it
a good read!
a side of World War II we do not read a lot about. I liked the parallel stories
For history buffs this is a great journey through WWII in Italy and one woman’s remarkable journey
I had a hard time putting this book down. Really enjoyed the story.
You feel like Stella’s shadow as she lives through the Mussolini regime and Hitler’s invasion. As you read you can picture Venice and the buildings, homes and cafes Stella frequents. I truly enjoyed reading this book.
It’s is a good read. Interesting and informative as well
Based on true history.
Loved this story ! The author is wonderful how she brings the characters to life and make it all so real, like your there . One of my favs!
A great read about the human side of the Italian Resistance and how it functioned against the German Occupation during WW II
Great historical fiction and great storytelling.
I love the suspense and vivid imagery of the city of Vienna. Character development was excellent- I knew everyone intimately but was kept on the edge of my seat with the twists and turns.
Great read.