The Secret Messenger is a historical fiction novel written by Mandy Robotham. Set during World War II, the book takes readers on a captivating journey through the lives of two women who become unlikely allies in the fight against Nazi Germany.

The story begins in 1943 in war-torn Italy. Stella Jilani, an Italian Jew, is forced to flee her home after her family is captured by the Nazis. With her knowledge of multiple languages and her determination to resist the occupation, Stella joins the Italian resistance movement.

Meanwhile, in London, Estelle Wilkinson works as a secretary for the British government’s code-breaking department. Despite being deaf, Estelle possesses exceptional skills in cryptography and is assigned to decipher intercepted messages from the enemy. When she comes across a mysterious message that hints at a secret operation in Italy, Estelle becomes determined to uncover its meaning.

As fate would have it, Stella and Estelle’s paths cross when Stella is sent on a dangerous mission to deliver a vital message to the Allies. The two women form an unlikely partnership as they navigate the treacherous landscape of war-torn Europe, facing constant danger and betrayal.

Throughout their journey, Stella and Estelle encounter various characters who aid or hinder their mission. They must rely on their wits, courage, and resourcefulness to outsmart their enemies and ensure the message reaches its intended recipients.

Robotham skillfully weaves together historical events with fictional elements, creating a gripping narrative that sheds light on lesser-known aspects of World War II. The Secret Messenger explores themes of bravery, sacrifice, resilience, and the power of communication in times of war.

• The Secret Messenger

• By: Mandy Robotham
• Narrated by: Alma Costa, Karen Cass

Venice, 1943

The world is at war and Stella Jilani is living a double life. By day, she works in the lion’s den as a typist for Reich; At night, she risks her life as a messenger for the Italian resistance. Despite all the difficulties, Stella must reveal Nazi secrets, smuggle essential supplies, and produce an underground newspaper on her beloved typewriter.

But when the German commander General Breugal becomes suspicious, it seems he will stop at nothing to find the mole, and Stella knows that her future may be in jeopardy….

London, 2017

Years later, Luisa Belmont finds a mysterious old typewriter in her attic. Determined to find out who it belongs to, Luisa delves into the past and uncovers a story of intense love, unimaginable sacrifice and ultimately the worst kind of betrayal….

Set between German-occupied 1940s Venice and modern-day London, this is a gripping tale of the bravery of everyday women in the darkest corners of World War II, for those listen to The Tattooist of Auschwitz by Heather Morris.

The plot of ‘Secret Messenger’ is very good. I don’t want to stop listening until the end. The narrator did a great job. I love how the author combines World War II-era characters with modern-day characters. I highly recommend The Secret Messenger, especially if you like WWII historical fiction.

I love Historical Novels revolving around World War II. There is so much that can be learned and absorbed as an American who did not live during this time period. This is a wonderful and engaging book. I enjoyed reading it and was able to relate to Venice, having visited many of the places mentioned in the book.

I have now read two books by Mandy Robot ham (also German Midwife) and I am officially a fan! She is a great storyteller and makes you fall in love! Well done!! A beautiful story that is not soon forgotten! I’m so happy to experience it being read by these two storytellers… perfection!

This story captivated me and made curiosity spin in my brain as I couldn’t hit pause until the end. It’s a great way to do my boring work and enjoy the story of an undercover messenger and a well-regarded typist at the same time. Amazing and gripping story with amazing lives from the 1940s to 2017+ of the women involved and the adventures that war brought to them all. A good love story in its own right. Well worth reading.

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