We’re delighted to be sharing Laura’s thoughts about Daughter of Genoa by Kat Devereaux.
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- Category : Historical Fiction
- Publisher : Aria
- Publication date : 11 Sept. 2025
- Language : English
- Print length : 304 pages
- ISBN-10 : 1804549924
- ISBN-13 : 978-1804549926
In Nazi-occupied Italy, keeping secrets could be deadly.
Genoa, 1944:
Widowed and alone, Anna Pastorino has been surviving on her wits since the Germans invaded. The daughter of a prominent Jewish antifascist, Anna lives a hidden life in her small flat near the harbour … until an RAF bomb destroys her only shelter. When a Jesuit priest approaches her offering help, she has no choice but to accept. She follows her new friend, Father Vittorio, to a safe house above a printers’ shop in a quiet street near via Assarotti.
But the Tipografia Guichard is more than just a refuge. It’s a forgery workshop: a key part of the secret rescue operation headed by Massimo Teglio, the “Scarlet Pimpernel” of Genoa’s persecuted Jewish population. Drawn into a world of clandestine resistance, Anna discovers a new sense of purpose, a circle of friends, and a passion that brings her alive.
Soon, the little flat above the shop holds more secrets than anyone could imagine. As Anna grows closer to both Teglio and Vittorio, she must confront a past trauma of her own: a secret that might endanger her and everyone she loves.
Daughter of Genoa Review
Based on true events, Daughter of Genoa is a beautifully written story that shines a light on the courage and bravery of people during the Second World War.
Set in Genoa, Italy, it follows Anna, a young widow left homeless after a bombing raid. Father Vittorio takes pity on her and finds shelter for her with his friends Bernardo and Silvia.
Before long, Silvia realises Anna’s talent with ledgers could be invaluable. Under the code name Marta, Anna risks her life helping others, forging false papers and identity cards to save Jewish people in 1944. Her work with “The Scarlet Pimpernel” brings both danger and unexpected passion, while uncovering secrets that change everything.
This is a moving tale of friendship, bravery, and love. I especially enjoyed seeing the story from both Vittorio’s and Anna’s perspectives, and I appreciated the author’s notes at the end, which added depth to the history behind the novel.
A wonderful read.
About Kat Devereaux
Kat Devereaux was born near Edinburgh, and lived in the United States, Russia, France, Chile, Germany, and the Czech Republic before finally settling in Italy. She is a writer and translator with a special focus on Italian literature.
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