In the Arms of the Enemy

In the Arms of the Enemy is a terrific WWII romance with a nice historical heft to it. Lisbeth Eng's characters - the heroine, Italian Resistance fighter Isabella who must put herself, body and soul, on the line for her cause, and the two men who love her, the Italian Resistance commander, Massimo, and the heroic German Captain, Gunter - have nice layers to them, making them realistic and complex. The background of Italy during the War is very historically detailed in the book and it makes for a good atmosphere and setting which works whether the scene is a romantic picnic, or a deadly stand-off. I loved the supporting cast of characters who are all different and interesting, adding a lot to the story, particularly Isabella's close friend, the somewhat self-absorbed, but truly loyal, Silvia. Isabella's actions and conflicts are picture perfect and both male characters are dashing and brave in time-honored romance tradition, while still coming across as flesh and blood men. There is danger galore, lots of romance, a smidgen of spicy sex, and plain, old, sweeping drama to wrap up this tale in. Definitely a must-read for lovers of war-torn romance, World War II women's fiction, and anyone who likes a good, romantic story.

Fantastic story can't wait to see what the author has for us next!

Eng pens a suspenseful tale of love, betrayal, desperation and hope with "In The Arms of the Enemy." Isabella Ricci is a spy for the Italian resistance. When she's told to make a German mark, Isabella doesn't realize how dangerous the assignment is, not only to her person, but to her heart. Set in Verona, Italy in 1944, the Nazis have established a base. The Italian resistance is alive and thriving. Isabella Ricci belongs to the Verona branch. With the encouragement of her lover and fellow resistance leader, Massimo Baricelli, Isabella meets an old friend, Sylvia, who introduces her to the world of social parties where Germans and Italians mingle. At one of these parties, Isabella meets Captain Günter Schumann. He works in supply and is a linguist. Günter is immediately smitten with Isabella. The young Italian is beautiful and carries herself humbly, unlike most of the women he's met. He takes Isabella on several romantic dates. Despite herself, Isabella is charmed by Günter and becomes his lover. As Isabella dates Günter, she learns more about the Nazi occupation. She makes a copy of his keys and begins copying documents for the resistance. All the while, the duplicity is weighing on her soul. Günter's lovemaking is intense, as well as soulful, while all Massimo cares about is Isabella's ability to slip him information useful to the resistance. When Isabella is caught, what choice will her heart make - Massimo or Günter? Eng's plot is complex, yet smooth and easy to follow. She brings a rich authenticity to the locale and setting with vivid descriptions that are easy to visualize and don't weigh down the writing. Eng's style of writing is nice to follow. Günter, Massimo, and Isabella are interesting characters. Massimo is dedicated, but it is clear his heart comes second. Günter is sensitive and soulful, yet not afraid to do what he knows must be done. Isabella is daring and brave, but her heart becomes a battleground for two men's love. The supporting cast is strong and a delight to read about. The story is sophisticated for romance readers with love scenes that are tasteful, yet a bit tame. As a reader, I would have liked Isabella and Günter's love scenes to be a bit more steamier, since theirs is the love that endures, but honestly, that's a small thing in the overall novel. "In The Arms of the Enemy" will run the reader though a gambit of emotions that will invoke happiness, frustration, and nervousness, but ultimately will leave them believing in the power of love.

Author Lisbeth Eng, "In the Arms of the Enemy," has crafted a riveting story of romance, betrayal and intrigue with page turner passion that keeps the reader glued to the end. The characters are true to life and reveal the brutal nature of one of the Resistance's leaders as well as the sensitive nature of the other male lead, yet the love scences titillate the imagination without offending one's sensibilities. This novel sheds dramatic light on the subject of wartime espionage with vivid images of the Italian Resistance and German Third Reich occupation, the conflicts and dangers of romance and loyalty to country. Submitted by Polly Guerin (PollyTalk)

I just finished this book and I loved it. The author really captured the stark reality of WW II, but better than that, she gave Germany a face and a heart through Gunter. He was a German but not a Nazi. The distinction was clear and enlightening. Isabella was also a marvel. Her strength, her courage added depth to her and to the story. The story itself was captivating and an excellent mix of fact and fiction. And, I am glad that Massimo turned out to have a heart. Congratulations on a great story. I give it 4 stars! ---mcf

"In the Arms of the Enemy" is the perfect blend of romance, drama, and my personal favorite, historical fiction. Fascinating characters, suspense, and plot twists make this novel a great read. Well done, Lisbeth Eng.