From the acclaimed, bestselling author of Star of the Sea and winner
of the 2021 Irish Book Awards Book of the Year for Shadowplay, comes a
gripping and atmospheric new novel set in occupied Rome.
September 1943: German forces have Rome under their control. Gestapo
boss Paul Hauptmann rules over the Eternal City with vicious efficiency.
Hunger is widespread. Rumors fester. The war's outcome is far from
certain. Diplomats, refugees, Jews, and escaped Allied prisoners flee
for protection into Vatican City, the world's smallest state, a neutral,
independent country nestled within the city of Rome. A small band of
unlikely friends led by a courageous Irish priest is drawn into deadly
battle of wits as they attempt to aid those seeking refuge.
My Father's House is inspired by the extraordinary true story of
Monsignor Hugh O'Flaherty, who, together with his accomplices, risked
his life to smuggle Jews and escaped Allied prisoners out of Italy right
under the nose of his Nazi nemesis. Suspenseful and beautifully written,
My Father's House tells an unforgettable story of love, faith,
sacrifice, and courage.
"Few living writers can take us back in time so assuredly, with such
sensual density, through such gorgeous sentences."--Peter Carey