A review by lilyreads01
My Father's House by Joseph O'Connor

3.0

My Father’s House by Joseph O’Connor is an engaging and entertaining historical thriller. In September 1943, Rome is occupied by German forces led with terror and force by SS officer Paul Hauptmann. Hugh O’Flaherty, an Irish priest risks his life to help those escaping from the Nazis and with a secret group establishes an escape line. He resides in the Vatican City, a neutral and independent country in which the German occupiers have no power. The book is leading to a mission on Christmas Eve but Hauptmann’s net is also closing in on the group and Hugh must risk all to survive. It is a thrilling and entertaining read that sustained a quick pace and rhythm. The book alternates between narratives between the occupiers and the occupied which creates an expansive viewpoint and reader experience. The writing is precise and no frills but sometimes I found this detracted from the emotional core of the story. It is an interesting and intense read perfect for fans of historical thrillers inspired by real events and people. 3.5 Stars ✨.