"This historical fiction tale is a tapestry that weaves many threads. "
Set in German occupied Rome, ‘Shadow Song’ by Anita Morrish follows some of the city’s inhabitants as they build friendships, fall in love and do everything they can to do what’s right and stay alive. This historical fiction tale is a tapestry that weaves many threads. We learn about Francesca, the art student who becomes enamoured by a singer and finds work at the opera house, as well as a way that she can support the resistance.
We also meet Carlo, an army doctor returning to Rome after avoiding arrest and still of use to Allied Intelligence. I worked my way through the book curious to know what would connect each of the characters. The story manages to explore the mundane - the new relationships and day to day working life of the characters, while also including the threat from the German Police, the poverty of rationing and the uncertainty and threat of possible surveillance but hope for the future.
I liked that so much context was provided throughout the novel, but it didn’t detract from the characters’ stories at any time. A detailed plot filled with lots of well-drawn characters, each with their own unique motives and goals, which are revealed as you move through the story.
Charlotte Walker, A LoveReading Ambassador
| Primary Genre | Historical Fiction |
| Recommendations: |
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Closing date: 31/10/2026
1943: Rome is bombed by the Allies and occupied by the Germans. The city’s inhabitants are watched and under curfew, and some join the burgeoning resistance.
Shadow Song features in the following genres: Historical Fiction, Indie Author Books, Indie Books We Love, Fiction, Recommendations
Paperback. Not Available.
Shadow Song was written by Anita Morrish and published by Nate Dea Limited
