MY FATHER'S HOUSE Rome Escape Line, Book 1

Joseph O'Connor's wonderful thriller is inspired by the true story of the Irish envoy to the Vatican in 1943, Monsignor Hugh O'Flaherty. Narrated in a series of individual monologues by a cast of extraordinary voice actors, this first in a proposed trilogy is emotionally moving and thrilling. With sadistic Obersturmbannführer Hauptmann and the Nazis occupying Rome but forbidden to enter Vatican City, the Vatican offers sanctuary and possible escape to POWs, Jews, and others facing death. O'Flaherty and a small group of brave citizens called "the Choir" use codes and clever ruses to smuggle those endangered to safety. The narrators create believable men and women whose selfless actions elevate their ordinary lives. O'Connor's character sketches are stunning, allowing narrators to create full-bodied, completely believable characters. This is superb listening. S.J.H. Winner of AudioFile Earphones Award © AudioFile 2025, Portland, Maine [Published: MARCH 2025]