Extraordinary Bravery

My Father’s House by Joseph O’Connor is a comprehensive historical novel that will educate you as you read.

The novel is set in occupied Rome in 1943. It has its’ roots in fact but is a work of fiction set around real life personalities.

There are two alternating time periods – Rome 1943 leading up to Christmas Eve and 1963 with a series of interviews and musings from various characters. The tale has been well planned and executed.

There is a complex cast of characters from various countries who are working together to help the Jewish people escape from Rome. We hear of the Nazi leader of occupied Rome who rules with a reign of terror. In contrast, he is also a family man. It is very strange to witness these distinct personalities existing in one man. The family man does not sit easy, in my mind, with the brutal sadistic personality.

This is a story that needs to be told as we see the extraordinary bravery of ordinary men and women who put their lives on the line to rescue other. I did not know anything about what had happened in Rome during World War II until I read this book. Thank you Joseph O’Connor for opening my eyes.

I received a free copy via Net Galley. A favourable review was not required. All opinions are my own.

JULIA WILSON