The Silver Book 🩶

By Olivia Laing.

The Silver Book by Olivia Laing is a compelling and atmospheric read that plunges you into the dazzling yet shadowy world of 1970s Italian cinema.

Set against the backdrop of Venice and Rome during the turbulent Years of Lead, the story follows Nicholas, a young English artist on the run, who becomes entwined with Danilo Donati, a masterful costume designer working with Fellini and Pasolini.

Laing’s prose is rich and evocative, capturing the magic and menace of Cinecittà studios where film and reality blur. This is part love story, part thriller, and part meditation on the delicate line between illusion and truth.

Nicholas’s hidden secret drives the narrative towards an unexpected and poignant tragedy, adding layers of complexity to the relationship at its heart.

The book’s strength lies in how it explores power, identity, and artistic creation with sensitivity and insight. It may not suit those looking for a fast-paced thriller, but for readers who appreciate mood, depth and a touch of queer romance, it is a rewarding journey.

Olivia Laing’s ability to weave real history with fiction invites reflection on the costs of beauty and ambition. A captivating and thoughtful read that lingers long after the last page.

Thank you so much to Natalie and the team at Penguin General for considering me when looking for ARC reviews. The book is available for pre-order and will be published on the 6th November 2025.

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