The Secret Messenger

The highly awaited new novel from the internationally bestseller, and author of The German Midwife (also published as A Woman of War).

“Rich and captivating…a vivid story of love, sacrifice and betrayal.” –Woman’s World

Venice, 1943
The 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, 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:

‘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

©2019 Mandy Robotham (P)2019 HarperCollins Publishers

Great book

It’s very long so you may need to walk away sometimes but it’s a great book. The Italian narration was great!

Excellent!

l loved the story and performance! Author artfully intertwined past with present. Loved the ending.

Beautiful From Start to Finish

Loved it! Mandy Robotham captures my attention from start to finish with her beautiful attention to the smallest of details. Her words transport you back in time and invest you in all the characters' (even secondary) lives. Definitely recommend to the lover of historical fictions with a soft spot for romance.

The Special "e"

I listened via audible to this story. some of the speakers were difficult to understand, especially with some of the Italian names/locations. Excellent story and easy to follow. An enjoyable read.

Slow going, but relatable characters

This was a feel good story. I did think it was a little slower, but I had just finished the Alice Network before and it was filled with more suspense and I think that is why I felt this one was slower.
If you are looking for a “feel good” historical fiction book about WWII this is the book for you!
I fell in love with Stella. When her heart was racing mine was too! This is an easy book to listen to and it will make you want to travel to Italy!