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Lucifer's Game
Rome, 1942. Cordelia Olivieri is a young, determined hotel owner desperate to escape Mussolini’s racial persecution. But as Fascist leaders gather in Rome, Cordelia is suddenly surrounded by the world’s most ruthless and powerful commanders.
In an effort to keep her Jewish heritage a secret and secure safe passage out of Italy, Cordelia forms a dangerous alliance with the British army who want to push the Axis out of North Africa once and for all.
Going undercover, Cordelia begins obtaining and leaking military intelligence to a British agent, hoping the intel will secure her freedom. But the more Cordelia uncovers, the greater the risks – especially for one handsome German Afrika Korps officer.
How far must Cordelia go to protect her identity and secure passage out of Rome?
Spies, military secrets, and a personal crusade for freedom… don’t miss this utterly gripping World War II thriller.
In an effort to keep her Jewish heritage a secret and secure safe passage out of Italy, Cordelia forms a dangerous alliance with the British army who want to push the Axis out of North Africa once and for all.
Going undercover, Cordelia begins obtaining and leaking military intelligence to a British agent, hoping the intel will secure her freedom. But the more Cordelia uncovers, the greater the risks – especially for one handsome German Afrika Korps officer.
How far must Cordelia go to protect her identity and secure passage out of Rome?
Spies, military secrets, and a personal crusade for freedom… don’t miss this utterly gripping World War II thriller.
340 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 14, 2021
59 people are currently reading
932 people want to read
About the author
Cristina Loggia
1 book20 followersCristina Loggia started her career as a newspaper reporter for L’Eco di Biella and La Provincia di Biella, in Piedmont, Italy.
After a spell running the press office of an MP, she moved to London, where she worked for several years as a public affairs and media relations professional, advising major multinational corporations on communications campaigns.
Cristina read English Literature and Foreign Languages at the Catholic University of Milan, Italy. Writing and reading have always been her greatest passion.
Lucifer’s Game is her first fiction novel.
She currently lives with her husband in Berkshire, United Kingdom.
After a spell running the press office of an MP, she moved to London, where she worked for several years as a public affairs and media relations professional, advising major multinational corporations on communications campaigns.
Cristina read English Literature and Foreign Languages at the Catholic University of Milan, Italy. Writing and reading have always been her greatest passion.
Lucifer’s Game is her first fiction novel.
She currently lives with her husband in Berkshire, United Kingdom.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews
October 18, 2021
I loved this fascinating book. Another one set in WW2 but this time it dealt with spies which made it very exciting and an “edge of your seat “ thriller. I found it so compelling I couldn’t put it down. Highly recommended. My thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for giving me the opportunity to read this book in return for an honest review.
March 28, 2022
Italy 1942. The world is at war and not even the ancient city of Rome and its citizens are spared from the fear and devastation.
Cordelia Olivieri, a beautiful young widow and hotelier, is desperate to escape Rome and Mussolini's Brown Shirts. So desperate that she's willing to go undercover as a Catholic nun. Her fate lies in the hands of a priest, Father Colombo and a British Spy, known as Lucifer. As a well disguised spy, Lucifer was undercover as a member of the Blackshirts, the violent militia of Benito Mussolini - a paramilitary wing of the Fascist Party. Exactly how he was recruited, isn't quite clear, but shortly after his release from Scotland Yard, Peter Lord became Lucifer (not the handsome devil on Netflix though I don't think he was too far off).
Father Colombo and Lucifer are trying to find safe passage for the Jewish related Cordelia and their plans appear to be easily obtainable. That's if all the dominos fall as they should and fate doesn't interfere. As with most games of chance, risks are a constant companion. Enter Friedrich Schaeffer. "If Hitler ever had a specimen in mind for the Aryan race, Friedrich Schaeffer's athletic figure fitted it perfectly."
When Friedrich, a confidant of the formidable Afrika Korps General Rommel, is recruited to Rome, they find accommodation in a small, conveniently situated and suited, hotel. The hotelier is a gorgeous, voluptuous young lady, named Cordelia Olivieri. Is the choice of accommodation fate, pure coincidence or premediated? And will the German presence put a spanner in the workings of Cordelia, Father Colombo and Lucifer's perfect plan?
Although the title of this book hints to be more about Lucifer, he just about becomes a sub-character and most of the story revolves around Cordelia. I think that the Lucifer's story might have been just as strong and more apt to the title. Lucifer's Game was still an enjoyable historical read and the research and background information on pre-occupied Rome was thoroughly done and well presented.
Thank you to Netgalley for a copy of this book, all thoughts and quibbles are my own.
Cordelia Olivieri, a beautiful young widow and hotelier, is desperate to escape Rome and Mussolini's Brown Shirts. So desperate that she's willing to go undercover as a Catholic nun. Her fate lies in the hands of a priest, Father Colombo and a British Spy, known as Lucifer. As a well disguised spy, Lucifer was undercover as a member of the Blackshirts, the violent militia of Benito Mussolini - a paramilitary wing of the Fascist Party. Exactly how he was recruited, isn't quite clear, but shortly after his release from Scotland Yard, Peter Lord became Lucifer (not the handsome devil on Netflix though I don't think he was too far off).
Father Colombo and Lucifer are trying to find safe passage for the Jewish related Cordelia and their plans appear to be easily obtainable. That's if all the dominos fall as they should and fate doesn't interfere. As with most games of chance, risks are a constant companion. Enter Friedrich Schaeffer. "If Hitler ever had a specimen in mind for the Aryan race, Friedrich Schaeffer's athletic figure fitted it perfectly."
When Friedrich, a confidant of the formidable Afrika Korps General Rommel, is recruited to Rome, they find accommodation in a small, conveniently situated and suited, hotel. The hotelier is a gorgeous, voluptuous young lady, named Cordelia Olivieri. Is the choice of accommodation fate, pure coincidence or premediated? And will the German presence put a spanner in the workings of Cordelia, Father Colombo and Lucifer's perfect plan?
Although the title of this book hints to be more about Lucifer, he just about becomes a sub-character and most of the story revolves around Cordelia. I think that the Lucifer's story might have been just as strong and more apt to the title. Lucifer's Game was still an enjoyable historical read and the research and background information on pre-occupied Rome was thoroughly done and well presented.
Thank you to Netgalley for a copy of this book, all thoughts and quibbles are my own.
October 7, 2021
Got an advance copy from NetGalley for an honest review.
I love World War 2 books, and I never read one about spies or people that risk their lives to help others, so that was refreshing. I loved the writing very much, from the first page I knew I would enjoy it, and I really did. I was on vacation, and all I wanted to do was continue reading.
The characters felt like real people with history and flaws, and I could understand their motives to behave as they did. I think the history of each character at the beginning of the book was unnecessary and tiring. It was almost the thing that made me stop reading, but I'm glad I didn't.
The story itself was very intriguing until the very end. I ENJOYED THE BOOK VERY MUCH.
I love World War 2 books, and I never read one about spies or people that risk their lives to help others, so that was refreshing. I loved the writing very much, from the first page I knew I would enjoy it, and I really did. I was on vacation, and all I wanted to do was continue reading.
The characters felt like real people with history and flaws, and I could understand their motives to behave as they did. I think the history of each character at the beginning of the book was unnecessary and tiring. It was almost the thing that made me stop reading, but I'm glad I didn't.
The story itself was very intriguing until the very end. I ENJOYED THE BOOK VERY MUCH.
October 16, 2022
Rome, 1942: For young hotel owner Cordelia Olivieri trying to keep body, soul, and business together during wartime is becoming increasingly difficult. It does not help that she lives in constant fear that her half-Jewish lineage may be discovered at any time with Mussolini's Black Shirts becoming ever more diligent in enforcing the race laws brought in to curry favour with Hitler.
Cordelia hopes to escape from Rome with the help of her friend Father Colombo, who has secretly been working in league with the British from behind the safety of the walls of the Vatican, but just when she thinks the time has arrived for her to flee, fate intervenes.
British spy Lucifer has successfully been working undercover at Black Shirt Command and passing information to the Allies about vital shipping convoys between Italy and North Africa, but he is no longer able to get his hands on the documents he needs. Field Marshall Rommel, frustrated by how the British seem to know so much about Nazi operations, has sent his trusted second in command Lieutenant Colonel Friedrich Shaeffer to take charge of supply matters. Shaeffer has established his base of operations in Cordelia's hotel for undisclosed reasons, well away from the headquarters of the Black Shirts and Lucifer's prying eyes.
Cordelia must now get the details of the supply routes Rommel is relying on to achieve his military goals, if she is to obtain the papers she needs to leave Italy, but the risks are high - and the longer she stays in Rome, the more she finds herself attracted to Friedrich Shaeffer. Cordelia must use every ounce of her ingenuity to complete her mission and save herself, but can she also protect her heart too?
Lucifer's Game is an immersive wartime adventure that takes you from the baking desert of North Africa, where the battle for military success hangs in the balance, right into the heart of a Rome pulled in different directions by political tension and ambition. Cristina Loggia weaves multiple strands to this story, starting with Rommel's need for supplies that sends Shaeffer to the hotel of a woman he has longed to meet. In telling her tale, based in part of the stories of her own grandfathers, Loggia encompasses so much, bringing in far reaching threads about the reality of war, and the more human factors that dictate how history unfolds.
The story is told through the eyes of multiple characters, mainly Cordelia herself, but also Lucifer, Shaeffer, Father Colombo and a few other intriguing characters we meet along the way - including the deeply unpleasant monk Father Blasius, who would like to see Shaeffer disgraced for very personal reasons of his own. The characters come at you thick and fast at the beginning of the book, and there is a lot of flipping back and forth in time as Loggia guides you through the relationships between the them, and helps you understand what motivates them to act as they do. Although this is a bit confusing at first, you soon get into the rhythm of it, and the background this gives forms a solid base for what follows.
Loggia writes well, weaving threads of intrigue and adventure that serve to up the tension, and I got really caught up in the story after a while, especially when it came Cordelia's destiny. The theme about espionage was very enjoyable, and the way she uses the darker human desires of greed, ambition and revenge to advance the plot was cleverly done. I was less convinced about the love story, but it does add passion to the mix, and it makes for a good story device in showing that decent people were caught up in the conflict on both sides.
The narration by Rachel Capel is rather slow in pace, even at my habitual playback speed of x 1.5, but I was very impressed with the way she handles all the voices of the multiple characters. It is a job well done when there are so many different sorts of characters to turn your voice talents to, and you can manage this without resorting to caricature, which Capel does with aplomb.
My absolute favourite thing about this book is the way Loggia fits her story into the grand scheme of things historically speaking. I really enjoyed how she uses what happens in this book to blend fact and fiction to explore how and why Rommel failed in his bid to win the war in North Africa, as this worked beautifully.
This is an intriguing debut, displaying a real ability in Loggia to craft a gripping story, and shed light on a less examined theatre of World War II, which I found fascinating. I look forward to Cristina Loggia's next book with interest.
Cordelia hopes to escape from Rome with the help of her friend Father Colombo, who has secretly been working in league with the British from behind the safety of the walls of the Vatican, but just when she thinks the time has arrived for her to flee, fate intervenes.
British spy Lucifer has successfully been working undercover at Black Shirt Command and passing information to the Allies about vital shipping convoys between Italy and North Africa, but he is no longer able to get his hands on the documents he needs. Field Marshall Rommel, frustrated by how the British seem to know so much about Nazi operations, has sent his trusted second in command Lieutenant Colonel Friedrich Shaeffer to take charge of supply matters. Shaeffer has established his base of operations in Cordelia's hotel for undisclosed reasons, well away from the headquarters of the Black Shirts and Lucifer's prying eyes.
Cordelia must now get the details of the supply routes Rommel is relying on to achieve his military goals, if she is to obtain the papers she needs to leave Italy, but the risks are high - and the longer she stays in Rome, the more she finds herself attracted to Friedrich Shaeffer. Cordelia must use every ounce of her ingenuity to complete her mission and save herself, but can she also protect her heart too?
Lucifer's Game is an immersive wartime adventure that takes you from the baking desert of North Africa, where the battle for military success hangs in the balance, right into the heart of a Rome pulled in different directions by political tension and ambition. Cristina Loggia weaves multiple strands to this story, starting with Rommel's need for supplies that sends Shaeffer to the hotel of a woman he has longed to meet. In telling her tale, based in part of the stories of her own grandfathers, Loggia encompasses so much, bringing in far reaching threads about the reality of war, and the more human factors that dictate how history unfolds.
The story is told through the eyes of multiple characters, mainly Cordelia herself, but also Lucifer, Shaeffer, Father Colombo and a few other intriguing characters we meet along the way - including the deeply unpleasant monk Father Blasius, who would like to see Shaeffer disgraced for very personal reasons of his own. The characters come at you thick and fast at the beginning of the book, and there is a lot of flipping back and forth in time as Loggia guides you through the relationships between the them, and helps you understand what motivates them to act as they do. Although this is a bit confusing at first, you soon get into the rhythm of it, and the background this gives forms a solid base for what follows.
Loggia writes well, weaving threads of intrigue and adventure that serve to up the tension, and I got really caught up in the story after a while, especially when it came Cordelia's destiny. The theme about espionage was very enjoyable, and the way she uses the darker human desires of greed, ambition and revenge to advance the plot was cleverly done. I was less convinced about the love story, but it does add passion to the mix, and it makes for a good story device in showing that decent people were caught up in the conflict on both sides.
The narration by Rachel Capel is rather slow in pace, even at my habitual playback speed of x 1.5, but I was very impressed with the way she handles all the voices of the multiple characters. It is a job well done when there are so many different sorts of characters to turn your voice talents to, and you can manage this without resorting to caricature, which Capel does with aplomb.
My absolute favourite thing about this book is the way Loggia fits her story into the grand scheme of things historically speaking. I really enjoyed how she uses what happens in this book to blend fact and fiction to explore how and why Rommel failed in his bid to win the war in North Africa, as this worked beautifully.
This is an intriguing debut, displaying a real ability in Loggia to craft a gripping story, and shed light on a less examined theatre of World War II, which I found fascinating. I look forward to Cristina Loggia's next book with interest.
December 31, 2021
This was a well researched story set in Italy during World War 2. While the first half of the book was quite detailed, I liked the pace of the story-telling. I did find though that some of the dialogues were overly simplistic and the ending predictable. This book though titled Lucifer's Game is predominantly about Cordelia, a half-Jewish hotel owner attempting to flee Italy. With the help of a Franciscan priest, Father Colombo, she sets about gathering information for the allies and the suspense builds in seeing whether she can satisfactorily deliver. 4 and a half stars.
August 20, 2021
I have always enjoyed second world war books with some historical reference, suspense and romance: this is a great one, with a gripping story, in-depth characters and wonderful scenes descriptions that make you feel as if you are actually there, walking the streets of Rome. I really enjoyed the back-story of the characters as that allowed me to get to know them. The story is original and the writing is fluid with a good mix of descriptions and dialogues- so refreshing these days! It gripped me from the first page and I devoured the book as I wanted to know what happened next - yes it is that good! I won't describe the story as the blurb of the book does a good job already. Really great to see a new author on the scene, I will certainly look out for her next books!
January 24, 2023
Great book with well explained characters. Moved along at a good pace and believable action.
November 1, 2021
I really enjoyed reading this book. I love a Thriller and when I saw that it involved spying I was there!
The story is well thought out and the different storylines and characters weave together beautifully to result in this emotional, but gripping, Thriller.
I loved the settings and all the different characters (even the dislikeable ones!). It was also interesting to see real people such as Himmler and Goering mentioned and featured in this story.
At the end there is an epilogue so you get to know what happens to the main characters.
I highly recommend anyone reading this book, but especially for fans of Thrillers or Historical Fiction novels.
The story is well thought out and the different storylines and characters weave together beautifully to result in this emotional, but gripping, Thriller.
I loved the settings and all the different characters (even the dislikeable ones!). It was also interesting to see real people such as Himmler and Goering mentioned and featured in this story.
At the end there is an epilogue so you get to know what happens to the main characters.
I highly recommend anyone reading this book, but especially for fans of Thrillers or Historical Fiction novels.
September 4, 2021
I am a fan of historical fiction, especially World War 2. This book is centred around a woman, who becomes a spy for the Allies against Mussonlini and the Axis Forces. How great to read about the women who helped win the war in Europe as well as the men. Well written and researched, a truly fascinating book.
Thank you Net Galley for providing me with the copy in exchange for my unpaid, honest review.
Thank you Net Galley for providing me with the copy in exchange for my unpaid, honest review.
November 23, 2021
I really enjoy WW2 thrillers, and so was excited to pick this one up. The book has a slow start, the first part I thought could easily have been cut down by a third or so. There’s a lot of telling, not a lot of showing, which doesn’t make for the most engaging reading. Most of this is backstory, and it’s as you move into part two that the plot really drives the story forwards, and this thriller becomes more – well, thrilling.
The scene is set extremely well in the book, whether it’s the streets of Rome, or the plains of Africa, you get a strong sense of place throughout, an easy picture forms in your mind. The characters are well rounded, each with their flaws, and each contributes to the plot, driving it to the conclusion. The research that has gone into the book I can only assume was extensive, as every detail is brought to life on the page, making the story an immersive read. Overall a really enjoyable read, and definitely an author to look out for in the future.
The scene is set extremely well in the book, whether it’s the streets of Rome, or the plains of Africa, you get a strong sense of place throughout, an easy picture forms in your mind. The characters are well rounded, each with their flaws, and each contributes to the plot, driving it to the conclusion. The research that has gone into the book I can only assume was extensive, as every detail is brought to life on the page, making the story an immersive read. Overall a really enjoyable read, and definitely an author to look out for in the future.
November 3, 2021
Rome 1942. While Cordelia Olivieri is desperately trying to escape Italy took over by Mussolini´s brown shirts, the German troops are allowed to use the country as their base for futher military actions towards the North of Africa and beyond. Cordelia´s hiding her Jewish identity and got caught into a very dangerous net of spies involving representatives of the Catholic Church from the Vatican´s neighbouring her hotel, a mysterious Lucifer working for the local ´brown´ police as well as British spies.
Cristina Loggia´s debut novel Lucifer´s Game is set in Italy, not a too frequent setting for WWII historical fiction, as most of the books on this topic are either set in Germany or in France. Personally, I was also attracted about the idea of Cordelia´s Jewish identiy, as Italian Jews are a category rarely featured in fiction - as for now, my only references in this respect are Primo Levi´s Periodical Table and The Gardens of Finzi-Continis by Giorgio Bassani. Cordelia´s mother was English and there are not clear and visible traces of her Jewishness - in her immediate environment or lifestyle of any kind.
As one cannot change historical circumstances and the role of a research-oriented work of fiction is to reveal new details and clarifiy the events, the writer of fiction can use the general known timeline to introduce micro-histories and individual stories. From the literary point of view, it helps to give a face to events while respecting their ´authenticity´ and ´historicity´. A story like Cordelia´s might have happened or not, but its authenticity is less relevant as long as it does not alter the content of the matrix. The author navigates very carefully through this complex net of events, handling the information properly.
Thus, although the Vatican (and especially the Pope at the time) had a highly problematic (to keep it diplomatically, which I am not) - not fully acknowledged - responsibility towards Jews, there were individuals belonging to the Church hierarchy at different levels who were probably involved in underground individual activities against the Germans, Italian Brown shirts and aimed at protecting and saving the Jews. Those characters are mostly featured in Lucifer´s Game. Particularly interesting for the book is the double game and the ways in which it was played by the characters, with the determination of individuals facing extraordinary circumstances they chose to react to, abandoning, at least temporarily their existential confort.
Although it takes a bit of time to warm up into the story, at least the last 100 pages promise a breathless turn of events, dealing not only with expected course of facts but it includes also a short romance - forbidden, but which adds more dramatism, surprising the reader.
After reading the book, there are a lot of interesting questioning and reflection that may follow, particularly regarding motivations and human psychology during terrible distressing times. It is a captivating story recommended for anyone looking for some new takes on WWII spy stories with main - brave - human characters.
Lucifer´s Game has as well enough material for a book club discussion, as allows a long debate not only about the general ´bad versus evil´ everyday struggle, but also regarding specific episodes and decisions the characters featured are taking.
Rating: 4.5 stars
Disclaimer: Book offered as part of a book club, but the opinions are, as usual, my own
Cristina Loggia´s debut novel Lucifer´s Game is set in Italy, not a too frequent setting for WWII historical fiction, as most of the books on this topic are either set in Germany or in France. Personally, I was also attracted about the idea of Cordelia´s Jewish identiy, as Italian Jews are a category rarely featured in fiction - as for now, my only references in this respect are Primo Levi´s Periodical Table and The Gardens of Finzi-Continis by Giorgio Bassani. Cordelia´s mother was English and there are not clear and visible traces of her Jewishness - in her immediate environment or lifestyle of any kind.
As one cannot change historical circumstances and the role of a research-oriented work of fiction is to reveal new details and clarifiy the events, the writer of fiction can use the general known timeline to introduce micro-histories and individual stories. From the literary point of view, it helps to give a face to events while respecting their ´authenticity´ and ´historicity´. A story like Cordelia´s might have happened or not, but its authenticity is less relevant as long as it does not alter the content of the matrix. The author navigates very carefully through this complex net of events, handling the information properly.
Thus, although the Vatican (and especially the Pope at the time) had a highly problematic (to keep it diplomatically, which I am not) - not fully acknowledged - responsibility towards Jews, there were individuals belonging to the Church hierarchy at different levels who were probably involved in underground individual activities against the Germans, Italian Brown shirts and aimed at protecting and saving the Jews. Those characters are mostly featured in Lucifer´s Game. Particularly interesting for the book is the double game and the ways in which it was played by the characters, with the determination of individuals facing extraordinary circumstances they chose to react to, abandoning, at least temporarily their existential confort.
Although it takes a bit of time to warm up into the story, at least the last 100 pages promise a breathless turn of events, dealing not only with expected course of facts but it includes also a short romance - forbidden, but which adds more dramatism, surprising the reader.
After reading the book, there are a lot of interesting questioning and reflection that may follow, particularly regarding motivations and human psychology during terrible distressing times. It is a captivating story recommended for anyone looking for some new takes on WWII spy stories with main - brave - human characters.
Lucifer´s Game has as well enough material for a book club discussion, as allows a long debate not only about the general ´bad versus evil´ everyday struggle, but also regarding specific episodes and decisions the characters featured are taking.
Rating: 4.5 stars
Disclaimer: Book offered as part of a book club, but the opinions are, as usual, my own
December 13, 2021
Lucifer's Game is a WWII spy novel that took place in Rome, which was unexpexcted, since often the location was in Germany. I found the charcters to be strong and memorable , I feel that the author did a great job fleshing out the characters.
.Lucifer was a British spy and a member of the group called the Blackshirt, he also was a member of the Mussoili's party thus he went by the name of Lucefer's given name was Peter Lord, he was the son of an affluent Yorkshire merchant; however. he was not exactly what was considered clean, dispite a privivleged upbringing.. Peter spent time in jail and was recruited directly after a stay in Scotland yard.
Cordelia, an attractive female and was described as "heads turned when she walked by." Cordelia was of Jewish decent, her mother was Jewish and her father was Columbia,, since containing a small amount of Jewish blood, she was only recignize as Jewish. Cordelia went undercover as a Catholic nun, which allowed her to hide the procured document.under her skirt., Cordelia's assigment was to photograph the supply line that was going to North Africa.
I enjoy Cordelia's writing, I liked that her style was tight and not flowery, I am a word person, so I liked her use of vocabulary, infact on more than one occasion, I used the Wikepidia feature on my Kindle. My only issue, which was the romantic elements in the novel, there was explicit sex scenes that made me uncomfortable. This was nothingt againt the author, it is my own preference. I gave this novel 4.5 stars out of 5, only only because I do not care for romantic novels. Thank you NetGalley, the publisher, and Criistina Loggia for the opportunity to read this novel in exchange for an honest review.
.Lucifer was a British spy and a member of the group called the Blackshirt, he also was a member of the Mussoili's party thus he went by the name of Lucefer's given name was Peter Lord, he was the son of an affluent Yorkshire merchant; however. he was not exactly what was considered clean, dispite a privivleged upbringing.. Peter spent time in jail and was recruited directly after a stay in Scotland yard.
Cordelia, an attractive female and was described as "heads turned when she walked by." Cordelia was of Jewish decent, her mother was Jewish and her father was Columbia,, since containing a small amount of Jewish blood, she was only recignize as Jewish. Cordelia went undercover as a Catholic nun, which allowed her to hide the procured document.under her skirt., Cordelia's assigment was to photograph the supply line that was going to North Africa.
I enjoy Cordelia's writing, I liked that her style was tight and not flowery, I am a word person, so I liked her use of vocabulary, infact on more than one occasion, I used the Wikepidia feature on my Kindle. My only issue, which was the romantic elements in the novel, there was explicit sex scenes that made me uncomfortable. This was nothingt againt the author, it is my own preference. I gave this novel 4.5 stars out of 5, only only because I do not care for romantic novels. Thank you NetGalley, the publisher, and Criistina Loggia for the opportunity to read this novel in exchange for an honest review.
January 1, 2022
A great debut.
This was a nicely paced thriller, speeding up as it reached it's dramatic conclusion.
The use of real life characters mixed with the fictional made things a lot more real, and really helped set the scene. The link to Rommel and his desert campaign and how the events in the book effected it was a very clever hook for readers like me who like things based during WW2.
The author had clearly done lots of research as it showed, the borrowing of incidents that had happened to relatives during the war really added to the atmosphere (the rice!!!! 😱😱😱)
I was excited to read this as I had read little based during Mussolini's Italy, it didn't disappoint. It had a great mix of history, suspense and romance with really well written characters that really pulled me in and I was heavily invested in the outcome.
This should appeal to both (WW2) historical fiction & spy thriller fans alike, though if you don't normally read those genre's I think you should still give it a go. It would also make a great TV mini series I think.
Many thanks to the author for the opportunity to read and for joining in the read-a-long on the Pigeonhole. The extra details and insights were greatly appreciated.
With thanks also to The Pigeonhole for facilitating as ever.
This was a nicely paced thriller, speeding up as it reached it's dramatic conclusion.
The use of real life characters mixed with the fictional made things a lot more real, and really helped set the scene. The link to Rommel and his desert campaign and how the events in the book effected it was a very clever hook for readers like me who like things based during WW2.
The author had clearly done lots of research as it showed, the borrowing of incidents that had happened to relatives during the war really added to the atmosphere (the rice!!!! 😱😱😱)
I was excited to read this as I had read little based during Mussolini's Italy, it didn't disappoint. It had a great mix of history, suspense and romance with really well written characters that really pulled me in and I was heavily invested in the outcome.
This should appeal to both (WW2) historical fiction & spy thriller fans alike, though if you don't normally read those genre's I think you should still give it a go. It would also make a great TV mini series I think.
Many thanks to the author for the opportunity to read and for joining in the read-a-long on the Pigeonhole. The extra details and insights were greatly appreciated.
With thanks also to The Pigeonhole for facilitating as ever.
January 2, 2022
Lucifer’s Game is a debut WW2 spy thriller by Cristina Loggia.
In short, Jewish Cordelia Olivieri is on a mission to escape Rome where facist leaders gather. In order to secure a safe passage out of Italy, Cordelia forms a dangerous alliance with the British Army.
Being a avid reader of spy thrillers I was looking forward to reading Cristina’s debut and I wasn’t disappointed. The story had many interesting characters each involved in a dangerous power game involving the British Army, the Church, the Gestapo and the Wehrmacht whilst through the core of it was Cordelia’s personal crusade for freedom. It’s a nicely paced thriller with a satisfying end. I look forward to reading more from Cristina.
In short, Jewish Cordelia Olivieri is on a mission to escape Rome where facist leaders gather. In order to secure a safe passage out of Italy, Cordelia forms a dangerous alliance with the British Army.
Being a avid reader of spy thrillers I was looking forward to reading Cristina’s debut and I wasn’t disappointed. The story had many interesting characters each involved in a dangerous power game involving the British Army, the Church, the Gestapo and the Wehrmacht whilst through the core of it was Cordelia’s personal crusade for freedom. It’s a nicely paced thriller with a satisfying end. I look forward to reading more from Cristina.
October 27, 2021
I really enjoyed this well paced World War 2 spy thriller sprinkled with a bit of war time romance. It is a really atmospheric read as you get taken on a journey through war time Rome. I’ve read quite a few books set in WW2 but this one is slightly different to the norm as it is set in Italy. This is most definitely a cleverly woven story of intrigue, and suspicion with some very well crafted characters including some that you’ll definitely love to hate. This book might be set in war time but it is a positive and heart warming story about the lengths people will go to overcome adversity. This book is a perfect reminder of how the war effected the whole of Europe and really brings the time period alive.
November 6, 2021
I received a free ebook from The publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
This book follows Cordelia an Italian hotel owner during World War II. Cordelia is attempting to hide that she is half Jewish and figure out how to get out of the country. This book offers twists and turns and keeps you reading because you have to know what happens next. You’re invested in the characters and trying to guess what’s going to happen to who. The book follows a few view points that all tie together by the end.
TW: threat of violence, sexual assault not in detail, torture
This book follows Cordelia an Italian hotel owner during World War II. Cordelia is attempting to hide that she is half Jewish and figure out how to get out of the country. This book offers twists and turns and keeps you reading because you have to know what happens next. You’re invested in the characters and trying to guess what’s going to happen to who. The book follows a few view points that all tie together by the end.
TW: threat of violence, sexual assault not in detail, torture
January 3, 2022
The book was extremely well researched and has a great plot about spying in Italy in WWII. The characters are well developed and the pace is good, it kept me wanting to read on most days.
There was something about the style of writing, it seemed to lack sophistication, a bit of overstating some of the events and feelings which was slightly irritating but didn’t happen in the places where the historical parts were narrated.
A really good story though which kept me on the edge of my seat, thanks Cristina and Pigeonhole.
There was something about the style of writing, it seemed to lack sophistication, a bit of overstating some of the events and feelings which was slightly irritating but didn’t happen in the places where the historical parts were narrated.
A really good story though which kept me on the edge of my seat, thanks Cristina and Pigeonhole.
January 3, 2022
I read this book with The Pigeonhole HQ and couldn't wait for the next stave each day. It was a gripping novel and very informative about the life of Jews in Italy during WW2, a lot of which I hadn't realised.
There is lots of history which is very interesting, great characters, a budding romance and lots of tension and thrills. A bit like a pantomime, there are characters you will cheer for and characters you will boo and my heart was literally in my mouth at times. I enjoyed it so much I have bought it for a friend as a late Christmas present.
There is lots of history which is very interesting, great characters, a budding romance and lots of tension and thrills. A bit like a pantomime, there are characters you will cheer for and characters you will boo and my heart was literally in my mouth at times. I enjoyed it so much I have bought it for a friend as a late Christmas present.
January 5, 2022
Although this book starts slowly it soon picks up speed and at times makes you take deep breaths. The story is set during WWII mostly in Rome. It’s a tale of heroism, espionage and many heart stopping moments with a great cast of characters. Some of these characters are good and some are just pure evil. I really enjoyed this book and will be recommending it to friends and family.
Thanks to Pigeonhole and Cristina for the opportunity to read this.
Thanks to Pigeonhole and Cristina for the opportunity to read this.
November 25, 2021
Refreshing take on the WWII historical fiction thriller! I enjoyed learning about the Vatican's involvement in the war. The author clearly did their research and did an excellent job in world building. Overall, this was an enjoyable read that kept me engaged until the end! Can't wait to see more from this author in the future. :)
October 18, 2021
I enjoy historical and spy fiction and I would recommend people who do to give this book a read, as it provides a touching look at what life may have been like during that time period, its challenges and the chances taken by those who wanted to combat the Fascist and Third Reich regimes. The storytelling is compelling and the characters are very interesting. I liked their back stories and I feel confident recommending this novel to friends.
November 2, 2021
Loved this book loved the story the plot setting was amazing the writing style beautiful written. Loved the characters and the chemistry between them. Plenty of drama in this book you love. Thank you for the gifted book. The history of the book is well researched as well.
December 16, 2021
This historical novel set in WWII involving a Jewish hotelier in Italy and a handsome German Officer is very well written. As tension builds you participate in Cordelia’s journey. An excellent read and recommended.
December 31, 2021
I really enjoyed this. Set in Italy during the second World War it was not something I was familiar with but the author has taken her time to research and explain so one never feels out of their depth. It's a mix of a love story and a spy thriller which I loved. A good solid debut.
December 31, 2021
Lucifer’s Game by Cristina Loggia is an interesting WW2 story by a debut author. It was a fascinating story about Italy in WW2 and was a spy story with a hint of romance. I thought the characters were excellent and the storyline was intriguing and thought provoking.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book.
Highly recommended.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book.
Highly recommended.
March 22, 2022
*Source* Publisher
*Genre* Historical / Thriller
*Rating* 3-3.5
*Thoughts*
Lucifer's Game is author Cristina Loggia's debut fiction novel. Spies, military secrets, and a personal crusade for freedom leads to an utterly gripping World War II thriller. This story is one of the first that I've read that centers mostly around Italy during World War II as well as scenes from Erwin Rommel, the Desert Fox, in Africa who could have won the war for the Axis were it not for some very well placed spies and circumstances.
*Full Review @ Gizmos Reviews*
https://gizmosreviews.blogspot.com/20...
*Genre* Historical / Thriller
*Rating* 3-3.5
*Thoughts*
Lucifer's Game is author Cristina Loggia's debut fiction novel. Spies, military secrets, and a personal crusade for freedom leads to an utterly gripping World War II thriller. This story is one of the first that I've read that centers mostly around Italy during World War II as well as scenes from Erwin Rommel, the Desert Fox, in Africa who could have won the war for the Axis were it not for some very well placed spies and circumstances.
*Full Review @ Gizmos Reviews*
https://gizmosreviews.blogspot.com/20...
October 22, 2021
I really enjoyed this book, being a big fan of historical fiction. There was a lot characters being introduced in the first couple of chapters but once the story began to unfold, I found myself unable to put it down. I loved the spy storyline in the book and was on edge for Cordelia and Father Colombo at the end of the book, with tension and suspense being portrayed well to the reader. This was a good book and I would recommend to anyone who likes this genre of reading.
December 31, 2021
Thanks to Cristina Loggia & Pigeonhole for a copy of this very enjoyable read. I loved the setting, both time period and place - the historical aspects were well researched and felt very authentic.
December 31, 2021
What a great read! Both story and plots were well thought of. Suspense all through the novel even though I could guess at the conclusion towards the end! The historical details were well researched and interesting.
January 13, 2022
Loved the detail, the emotional rollercoaster ride which kept me on the edge of my seat!
Looking forward to your next novel @Cristina Loggia
Looking forward to your next novel @Cristina Loggia
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