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WWII #1
Dangerous Allies
In Nazi Germany, British agent Jack Anderson risks his life working undercover as an SS officer. And his latest mission—to uncover intelligence about a secret Nazi weapon—is his most perilous yet. Especially since he'll have to work with Katarina Kerensky. The famous actress is too dangerous to trust—and too beautiful to ignore.Desperate to save her mother from the Gestapo, Katia reluctantly agrees to work with the coolly handsome Jack. But can she trust a man whose sense of honor is tangled in a web of lies? In a race against time, Jack and Katia forge an alliance to take down the enemy…and learn whether love can survive in a world gone wrong.
288 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2010
10 people are currently reading
597 people want to read
About the author
Renee Ryan
62 books711 followersRenee Ryan grew up in a small Florida beach town. Surfing didn’t work for her, but that didn’t keep her from watching others tackle the waves. To entertain herself during those countless hours of “laying-out”, she read many of the classics. It wasn’t until the summer between her sophomore and junior years at Florida State University that she read her first romance novel. Hooked from page one, she spent hours consuming one book after another while working on the best (and last!) tan of her life.
Two years later, armed with a degree in Economics and Religion, she explored various career opportunities, including stints at a Florida theme park, a modeling agency, and a cosmetic conglomerate. She went on to teach high school Economics, American Government and Latin in between coaching award-winning cheerleading teams. Several years later, with an eclectic cast of characters swimming around in her head, she began seriously pursuing a writing career. What better excuse to avoid housework and ignore clocks?
Two years later, armed with a degree in Economics and Religion, she explored various career opportunities, including stints at a Florida theme park, a modeling agency, and a cosmetic conglomerate. She went on to teach high school Economics, American Government and Latin in between coaching award-winning cheerleading teams. Several years later, with an eclectic cast of characters swimming around in her head, she began seriously pursuing a writing career. What better excuse to avoid housework and ignore clocks?
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
June 14, 2011
This was truly an incredible book, in my opinion. Ms. Ryan captured the fear and the isolation that a person who is in a harrowing situation and who is trying to do the right thing feels. I cannot even imagine what it must have been like for Jack and Katarina, trapped in an environment where evil is fostered and rewarded, and the slightest mistake could end up with one's horrible demise or failure in a mission to save lives.
What I truly appreciated was how the author wrote a fictional story that spoke to my spirit, my heart, and my intellect. It seems like a coincidence, but it's not. I read this book right when I needed. I am in need of being reminded that I am not in control, and better yet, that's not a bad thing. It's hard to accept that, but there is such a freedom when one does. For a control freak like myself (and Jack and Katarina), acknowledging that you can't control everything is one of the hardest things you must do, but you have to do it all the time. This past week at work was not good, and I tried to do my best in that situation, but I couldn't control all the situations I faced. I had to accept that, and seek God's will in that situation and trust that He would take care of me. So, I could feel what the characters in this book struggled with. But the good news is, that God is in control, and His will is done. It doesn't mean things will always go our way. But the truth is, when God leads you into situations, He will not abandon you or forsake you. I loved how Renee Ryan illustrated this so eloquently. How she had Jack and Katarina recalling scriptures from their childhood (since both had lost faith due to the horrible things that happened to them prior to this book) that reminded them of God's protection. As a Christian, the Holy Spirit will do that, and give the believer peace even in the worst of circumstances. As I read, I could deeply identify with that feelings that these characters I came to love experienced. How things looked so bad, but God's spirit promised His protection and His guiding hand for His children, even those who forgot that He will fulfill His promises. Yes, I read this book right when I needed to, and it helped renew my faith that God would take care of me.
Another thing I loved about this book were how charismatic and powerful the characters of Jack and Katarina were. Their magnetism reached off the page at me. Jack is a true alpha male in the best sense. He is unafraid to put himself on the line for others, always seeks to protect others, and uses his considerable assets of intelligence, training, and adaptability to maneuver in some truly dangerous circumstances. He is also tortured because he has left behind his godly ways after he ended up being forced into the life of a spy, and what his calling has forced him to see and to do. He believes he is doomed for his actions, although he does them for the right reasons. Katarina is an actress whose role lasts twenty-four hours a day. She is playing the role of an empty-headed Russian princess who earns a living on the stage, but has a penchant for getting involved with dangerous men. Deep down, she is a woman who is working for the British as a spy with the goal of protecting her mother, whose heritage could send her to the death camps. I loved the ice cool natures of these characters, and how they handled challenges that came their way. And I loved their vulnerabilities. Both had believed that God abandoned them and that they were on their own, but they learn that God never abandons His children. Sometimes we don't look hard enough to see His guiding hand, even though it's there in the dark. I loved how they found each other in the seemingly forsaken, evil environs of Nazi Germany, surrounded by men who seemed bent on world domination and annihilation of peoples who they felt beneath them, including the Jews, devout Christians (those who didn't follow the new religion of Germany based on nationalism and Nordic/Teutonic paganism), and people who spoke against their regime. Their relationship had real chemistry. I could see that they found something worthwhile in each other on every level. They saw something powerful in each other, that spoke to them. And God worked through both of them to bring them together and back to a knowledge of His love and protection.
This book has some very powerful scenes that made me cry. The scenes in which both characters seem at the end of their strengths, but manage to pull through because of their will, their newly rediscovered faith in God, and His steady hand of protection. I am not one for praying in a group (it makes me feel awkward), but I loved the scene where Jack and Katarina pray together. It made me cry because it was something they both needed and it gave them strength to face the dark circumstances that they needed to confront.
Ms. Ryan did a great job with this period. Although I am an not expert on this period, I have read up on it, and I could see that she did her research, and used that knowledge to write a powerful fiction story set during this horrible time in history.
I am so blessed to find another Christian romance that spoke to me. I had long feared that I wouldn't find any that ministered to me in a deep, powerful manner, and also provided an intense, edgy story that wouldn't leave me wanting more. Dangerous Allies definitely did this for me. Dangerous Allies shows a part of history that breaks my heart and makes me soul-sick. The good thing about this book was that it reminded me that although Nazi Germany seemed like a godless, evil place, and it seemed as though the Lord's presence wasn't there to protect the innocent from the terrors of the Nazis, that wasn't true. There were people of faith there working to end the reign of terror and horror that the Nazis had over Europe during this period. I couldn't ask for more in a book.
Thank you, Ms. Ryan.
What I truly appreciated was how the author wrote a fictional story that spoke to my spirit, my heart, and my intellect. It seems like a coincidence, but it's not. I read this book right when I needed. I am in need of being reminded that I am not in control, and better yet, that's not a bad thing. It's hard to accept that, but there is such a freedom when one does. For a control freak like myself (and Jack and Katarina), acknowledging that you can't control everything is one of the hardest things you must do, but you have to do it all the time. This past week at work was not good, and I tried to do my best in that situation, but I couldn't control all the situations I faced. I had to accept that, and seek God's will in that situation and trust that He would take care of me. So, I could feel what the characters in this book struggled with. But the good news is, that God is in control, and His will is done. It doesn't mean things will always go our way. But the truth is, when God leads you into situations, He will not abandon you or forsake you. I loved how Renee Ryan illustrated this so eloquently. How she had Jack and Katarina recalling scriptures from their childhood (since both had lost faith due to the horrible things that happened to them prior to this book) that reminded them of God's protection. As a Christian, the Holy Spirit will do that, and give the believer peace even in the worst of circumstances. As I read, I could deeply identify with that feelings that these characters I came to love experienced. How things looked so bad, but God's spirit promised His protection and His guiding hand for His children, even those who forgot that He will fulfill His promises. Yes, I read this book right when I needed to, and it helped renew my faith that God would take care of me.
Another thing I loved about this book were how charismatic and powerful the characters of Jack and Katarina were. Their magnetism reached off the page at me. Jack is a true alpha male in the best sense. He is unafraid to put himself on the line for others, always seeks to protect others, and uses his considerable assets of intelligence, training, and adaptability to maneuver in some truly dangerous circumstances. He is also tortured because he has left behind his godly ways after he ended up being forced into the life of a spy, and what his calling has forced him to see and to do. He believes he is doomed for his actions, although he does them for the right reasons. Katarina is an actress whose role lasts twenty-four hours a day. She is playing the role of an empty-headed Russian princess who earns a living on the stage, but has a penchant for getting involved with dangerous men. Deep down, she is a woman who is working for the British as a spy with the goal of protecting her mother, whose heritage could send her to the death camps. I loved the ice cool natures of these characters, and how they handled challenges that came their way. And I loved their vulnerabilities. Both had believed that God abandoned them and that they were on their own, but they learn that God never abandons His children. Sometimes we don't look hard enough to see His guiding hand, even though it's there in the dark. I loved how they found each other in the seemingly forsaken, evil environs of Nazi Germany, surrounded by men who seemed bent on world domination and annihilation of peoples who they felt beneath them, including the Jews, devout Christians (those who didn't follow the new religion of Germany based on nationalism and Nordic/Teutonic paganism), and people who spoke against their regime. Their relationship had real chemistry. I could see that they found something worthwhile in each other on every level. They saw something powerful in each other, that spoke to them. And God worked through both of them to bring them together and back to a knowledge of His love and protection.
This book has some very powerful scenes that made me cry. The scenes in which both characters seem at the end of their strengths, but manage to pull through because of their will, their newly rediscovered faith in God, and His steady hand of protection. I am not one for praying in a group (it makes me feel awkward), but I loved the scene where Jack and Katarina pray together. It made me cry because it was something they both needed and it gave them strength to face the dark circumstances that they needed to confront.
Ms. Ryan did a great job with this period. Although I am an not expert on this period, I have read up on it, and I could see that she did her research, and used that knowledge to write a powerful fiction story set during this horrible time in history.
I am so blessed to find another Christian romance that spoke to me. I had long feared that I wouldn't find any that ministered to me in a deep, powerful manner, and also provided an intense, edgy story that wouldn't leave me wanting more. Dangerous Allies definitely did this for me. Dangerous Allies shows a part of history that breaks my heart and makes me soul-sick. The good thing about this book was that it reminded me that although Nazi Germany seemed like a godless, evil place, and it seemed as though the Lord's presence wasn't there to protect the innocent from the terrors of the Nazis, that wasn't true. There were people of faith there working to end the reign of terror and horror that the Nazis had over Europe during this period. I couldn't ask for more in a book.
Thank you, Ms. Ryan.
June 20, 2011
They came to watch her die.
One of the most intriguing first lines I've read and definitely sparked my interest in a subject few authors tackle, let alone a romantic fiction author. I can sum up this book in one word: incredible! But why would I want to do that? *smiles*
The setting is World War Two Nazi Germany. Imagine being undercover, surrounded by not only Nazi's but entrenched in a spy game that at any moment your slightest mistake could get you killed. Now imagine you're of Jewish ancestry.
Katarina "Katia" Kerensky is a famous actress recruited by the British wartime intelligence agency to be an informant. Her own reasons for hating the Nazi's are many (her father, a Russian prince, was killed in front of her eyes) but its her fear for her mother Elena that spurs her to do what she can to help bring about the fall of Hitler's regime. Even though both Katia and Elena embraced Christianity long ago, Elena feels her only way to survive being half Jewish is to hide in plain sight by consorting with and eventually becoming engaged to a Nazi Kriegsmarine (sea captain).
This is how I see Katia:
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American Jack Anderson is working deep undercover with the British spy agency Mi6 as an SS officer under Himmler himself. Trying to uncover intelligence about a secret Nazi weapon, he ends up working with Katia, playing the part of paramour. Her association with high ranking Nazi officers (through her mother) is the perfect "in" for Jack, aka Friedrich Reiter. Jack is one cool customer. He surpasses the alpha male and goes straight to gamma: the man is calm, aggressive and downright dangerous. I love that although this is a Christian-themed romance, the hero is almost scary in his intensity.
The twists and turns keep you reading as fast as you can. Ms. Ryan has done an excellent job with this riveting, fast paced story that is not only thought provoking but inspirational. I cried several times when the intensity of the story just became too much to handle.
Having had the privilege of living in Germany during the 1980's and visiting not only Hamburg, where the majority of this story is set, but seeing for myself the atrocities that were committed in the "name of the Fatherland" and "aryan supremacy" gave the story an even more realistic feel.
5 stars / A++
(And special thanks to Danielle who recommended this book. I would have missed out on a truly incredible read otherwise.)
One of the most intriguing first lines I've read and definitely sparked my interest in a subject few authors tackle, let alone a romantic fiction author. I can sum up this book in one word: incredible! But why would I want to do that? *smiles*
The setting is World War Two Nazi Germany. Imagine being undercover, surrounded by not only Nazi's but entrenched in a spy game that at any moment your slightest mistake could get you killed. Now imagine you're of Jewish ancestry.
Katarina "Katia" Kerensky is a famous actress recruited by the British wartime intelligence agency to be an informant. Her own reasons for hating the Nazi's are many (her father, a Russian prince, was killed in front of her eyes) but its her fear for her mother Elena that spurs her to do what she can to help bring about the fall of Hitler's regime. Even though both Katia and Elena embraced Christianity long ago, Elena feels her only way to survive being half Jewish is to hide in plain sight by consorting with and eventually becoming engaged to a Nazi Kriegsmarine (sea captain).
This is how I see Katia:
[image error]
American Jack Anderson is working deep undercover with the British spy agency Mi6 as an SS officer under Himmler himself. Trying to uncover intelligence about a secret Nazi weapon, he ends up working with Katia, playing the part of paramour. Her association with high ranking Nazi officers (through her mother) is the perfect "in" for Jack, aka Friedrich Reiter. Jack is one cool customer. He surpasses the alpha male and goes straight to gamma: the man is calm, aggressive and downright dangerous. I love that although this is a Christian-themed romance, the hero is almost scary in his intensity.
The twists and turns keep you reading as fast as you can. Ms. Ryan has done an excellent job with this riveting, fast paced story that is not only thought provoking but inspirational. I cried several times when the intensity of the story just became too much to handle.
Having had the privilege of living in Germany during the 1980's and visiting not only Hamburg, where the majority of this story is set, but seeing for myself the atrocities that were committed in the "name of the Fatherland" and "aryan supremacy" gave the story an even more realistic feel.
5 stars / A++
(And special thanks to Danielle who recommended this book. I would have missed out on a truly incredible read otherwise.)
February 16, 2011
I LOVED, LOVED, LOVED this story!...I fell in LOVE with Jack Anderson aka Freidrich Reiter and Katarina Kerensky...The STORYLINE, EVERYTHING!...DEFINITELY going on my to keep bookshelf. DEFINITELY fast becoming a FAN of Renee Ryan...Also, LOVE the BEAUTIFUL cover art!
September 23, 2015
Christian Romance Close, but not quite
A World War II spy novel, this is better written than most Christian fiction, but, unfortunately, that still doesn't put it on par with non-Christian fiction.
My biggest complaint with this novel is that it needed more emotional depth. It took almost half the book for me to develop any feelings toward the main characters. I believe that boils down to a case of the author telling, rather than showing, their emotions.
Another thing that bothered me is that the characters' thoughts are incredibly repetitive, so much so that it's a miracle they were able to accomplish anything given the thoughts continually circling through their heads.
Lastly, the author chose to make an extremely abrupt ending, finishing the story in an author's note at the end, almost as if this was based on a true story, although it isn't. The "happily ever after" note by the author isn't even in the form of a epilogue, which would have made at least a little more sense.
The author did do one thing that I appreciate. So much Christian romance nowadays has a godly person pursuing a relationship with a non-believer. Ms. Ryan did not do that. Instead, the hero and heroine are two people who have lost their faith, but find it again together.
The novel is clean and there are no bad words that I recall.
A World War II spy novel, this is better written than most Christian fiction, but, unfortunately, that still doesn't put it on par with non-Christian fiction.
My biggest complaint with this novel is that it needed more emotional depth. It took almost half the book for me to develop any feelings toward the main characters. I believe that boils down to a case of the author telling, rather than showing, their emotions.
Another thing that bothered me is that the characters' thoughts are incredibly repetitive, so much so that it's a miracle they were able to accomplish anything given the thoughts continually circling through their heads.
Lastly, the author chose to make an extremely abrupt ending, finishing the story in an author's note at the end, almost as if this was based on a true story, although it isn't. The "happily ever after" note by the author isn't even in the form of a epilogue, which would have made at least a little more sense.
The author did do one thing that I appreciate. So much Christian romance nowadays has a godly person pursuing a relationship with a non-believer. Ms. Ryan did not do that. Instead, the hero and heroine are two people who have lost their faith, but find it again together.
The novel is clean and there are no bad words that I recall.
October 1, 2015
Reading Through Europe - Saksamaa (11/50)
See on üks neist raamatuist, kus iga pilk reedab tuhat emotsiooni ja iga sõna taga on tuhat mõtet. Kuidas oma näoilmetega nii palju reetvad tegelased üldse spioonideks said, jääb minule küll arusaamatuks.
Raamatu lõpuni lugemine oli pingutus.
Dialoogides järgneb igale lausele paar lehekülge sisemonoloogi, kus üks peategelastest oma mõtetes tõdeb, kui ohtlik teine ikka on (aga samas ka kui seksikas) ja peab plaani, kuidas jõuvahekord jälle enda kasuks pöörata. Mis tal tavaliselt järgmise lausega ka õnnestub, ükskõik kui mittemidagi ütlev see lause ka lugejale ei tunduks. Spioonile kohaste sisemonoloogide vahele on tipitud ka uitmõtted Jumalast, kellesse tal enam usku ei ole.
Ja siis järgneb täpselt sama sisemonoloog teise peategelasega.
Ka polnud raamatus midagi saksapärast (kui natsid välja arvata). Sama hästi oleks võinud tegevus toimuda suvalises USA linnas ja pahalasteks olla mingi suvaline kuritegelik seltskond.
Hinne: 2
Ehk siis…
Väga pettumust valmistav.
See on üks neist raamatuist, kus iga pilk reedab tuhat emotsiooni ja iga sõna taga on tuhat mõtet. Kuidas oma näoilmetega nii palju reetvad tegelased üldse spioonideks said, jääb minule küll arusaamatuks.
Raamatu lõpuni lugemine oli pingutus.
Dialoogides järgneb igale lausele paar lehekülge sisemonoloogi, kus üks peategelastest oma mõtetes tõdeb, kui ohtlik teine ikka on (aga samas ka kui seksikas) ja peab plaani, kuidas jõuvahekord jälle enda kasuks pöörata. Mis tal tavaliselt järgmise lausega ka õnnestub, ükskõik kui mittemidagi ütlev see lause ka lugejale ei tunduks. Spioonile kohaste sisemonoloogide vahele on tipitud ka uitmõtted Jumalast, kellesse tal enam usku ei ole.
Ja siis järgneb täpselt sama sisemonoloog teise peategelasega.
Ka polnud raamatus midagi saksapärast (kui natsid välja arvata). Sama hästi oleks võinud tegevus toimuda suvalises USA linnas ja pahalasteks olla mingi suvaline kuritegelik seltskond.
Hinne: 2
Ehk siis…
Väga pettumust valmistav.
August 28, 2010
This is an excellent story set at the beginning of WWII. Renee Ryan has done an admirable job representing what the life of a spy might have been like, the risks they took, and what their mistakes might cost them. You also sense the cold, steely indifference of Nazi SS officers within her descriptions of their actions and expressions. Most of it was not predictable at all; I found myself wondering which way the story might go several times. The one thing that did disappoint me was that Ms. Ryan gave a kind of "epilogue" in her letter to the reader that made a sequel seem unlikely, and I would have loved to follow this story much farther and in great detail.
July 23, 2016
This book took me a chapter or two to get into but I'm so glad I didn't give up. One of my new favorites! I loved the excitement and the unique plot of the two spies. It read like an old black and white movie running through my head. Highly recommend
February 1, 2016
One of my favorite opening scenes --and opening lines-- ever. This is a special read from an author who cares about story.
August 21, 2019
This book is definitely one of the best books I've read all summer. All year. In my life. And not for want of good books either. It's everything you could ever want in a spy book set in the 1940s: two people from different nationalities who do not quite trust each other despite sharing the same loyalty. There are mind games, secret agendas, covers, and double agents. To deepen the story is not only the chemistry between our two protagonists, but also the journey they both take back to God despite all they've done and seen. A beautiful story. I recommend it to anyone and everyone.
February 17, 2017
Too much religious preaching and repetitive preaching at that. The religious preaching showed up in inopportune or inappropriate times (such as when Jack is having a major conversation with Heinrich Himmler and all he can think about is one-liners from the Bible - dude pay attention to your surroundings). There was one point in the preaching that crossed the line into bigotry; painting all pagans as evil because some Nazis believed in the occult and/or pagan spirituality was a big turn off for me.
Aside from the constant preaching, this was a good story about two British spies: Kat (a former Russian princess and now actress in Germany) and Jack (an American naval engineer on loan to the Brits). The conflict was something different than most of the romances I read - how do to spies trust each other with their lives, their hearts, and the missions? I thought the writing really captured how they went about trusting each other slowly while planning and completing the parts of the mission. There was an intensity to the espionage scenes that kept me engaged in the story. However, the author's note at the end (a substitute for an epilogue) felt sloppily written and as a last minute add-on to turn the HFN ending into a HEA. Personally, I would have preferred the HFN ending.
Aside from the constant preaching, this was a good story about two British spies: Kat (a former Russian princess and now actress in Germany) and Jack (an American naval engineer on loan to the Brits). The conflict was something different than most of the romances I read - how do to spies trust each other with their lives, their hearts, and the missions? I thought the writing really captured how they went about trusting each other slowly while planning and completing the parts of the mission. There was an intensity to the espionage scenes that kept me engaged in the story. However, the author's note at the end (a substitute for an epilogue) felt sloppily written and as a last minute add-on to turn the HFN ending into a HEA. Personally, I would have preferred the HFN ending.
August 2, 2010
Troubled times often inspire intense romance. Each day is an unknown, faith is tested, and what good is present must be grasped with both hands. In Dangerous Allies, set during WWII Nazi Germany, Renee Ryan has created an inspirational romance that is not only intense but thought provoking. This fast moving tale of suspense features a tortured alpha hero and a smart, engaging heroine, each with their own secrets to hide. As these two explore the challenges of being Christians fighting a very present evil as well as their unexpected love for each other, the reader cannot help but alternately hold their breath and cheer them on. Definitely one for the keeper shelf.
August 26, 2010
I RECEIVED THIS BOOK AS A PRIZE IN A GOOD READ COMPETITION YESTERDAY, BEING AN AVID READER I DECIDED TO READ THE BOOK DESPITE IT BEING A HISTORICAL/ROMANTIC NOVEL WHICH ISN'T MY NORMAL READING CHOICE. I NORMALLY READ MYSTERIES AND THRILLERS HOWEVER I ENJOYED AND FOUND, THIS BOOK A COMPULSIVE READ. I KEPT SECOND GUESSING PEOPLES MOTIVES WHY WAS ELENA MARRYING A NAZI, WOULD THEY ALL END UP IN ENGLAND OF COURSE I WAS WRONG ON BOTH ACCOUNTS WOULD THERE BE A HAPPY ENDING I WILL LET YOU READ TO FOR YOUSELF . ALL THE CHARACTERS WERE BELIEVABLE AND ESPECIALLY THE ACTION PASSAGES I FOUND MYSELF VISUALISING THEIR ACTIONS.
STUART
STUART
September 28, 2010
This book swept me away from the first few pages and I was hooked! There's something about female spies who are good at what they do and unselfish in their motives....and meet handsome equally dedicated male spies who challenge them. I didn't want this book to end.
October 29, 2010
I love it! This is great story I ever read.
October 29, 2010
I loved this book! Katia and Jack are real heroes, and I was scared for them until the end. Wonderful story with heartfelt characters. Thank you, Renee, for bringing their story alive.
January 15, 2024
This is a tension-filled romantic suspense story set during the fraught-filled days of World War II. The suspense was enthralling, with many exciting moments; and the main characters, both spies working against the Nazi regime, were both admirable and likeable I cared about these two and held my breath at the situations they found themselves in. Their love blossoms quicklyand sweetly despite the times. This is also an inspirational story, showing their faith blossoming amid the terrors of war. Renee Ryan obviously did a ton of research but also infused this book with characters who have lots of heart and ideals. Their faith journey is very realistic and appealing. I recommend this book highly!
January 10, 2011
ETA:
After the author surprised me with a nice comment on my review, I decided to plow through to the end anyway to see if my viewpoint would change once I gave the story a full shot.
Unfortunately, my dislike still remained the same. :( BUT, I feel one way that would improve the story is to actually make the spy play out his role as the go-to henchman for Himmler. The book comments frequently on how the English/American spy who is pretending to be an evil SS officer is constantly walking a razor edge between doing horrible things and preserving his moral sanity. But do we ever see him walk that edge? No. He snoops around a shipyard for Himmler and gets shot at. And he looks mean at key points. But that's about it. He doesn't murder anyone, he doesn't threaten or manipulate or do anything that would make someone crap their pants. All of his dark, twisted undercover shenanigans are hand-waved into the mist. Additionally, even if I could force myself to believe that he was capable of committing atrocious acts for the sake of his cover, the guy apparently can switch his Nazi facade on and off like a switch. As soon as he's with the girl, BAM! "Ohh, God will see us through this, go with me to America!"
At the level of infiltration this guy is at, I feel that he has to maintain his facade at a far greater level than he currently has it. He has to do truly terrible things without flinching, and if you do it enough, I feel that it should bleed into his everyday life as well. He shouldn't be able to turn it off. Sure, the Russian actress can be his beacon of light and all that, but it should be a fierce struggle with lots of pain and darkness.
Of course, that will never happen, since the word count is way to short, and the publication line is way too fluffy G-rated to allow any sort of real darkness to permeate its pages. YA books deal with sterner stuff with more impact than any Love Inspired book. It's too bad; the story premise is a guilty pleasure of mine.
------------------------------
Fantastic fail once again. The concept seemed awesome enough, but what was I thinking?? This is the Love Inspired line, and a "romance" novel to boot, which somehow always runs hand-in-hand with incompetant writing and the flattest tension-building ever. Dear author, I'll believe cunning and devious scheming when I see it, not when you pronounce it after every sentence the character says. And seriously, I don't see how anyone can be a spy when their emotions are constantly flitting across their faces for the other to pick up. Hasn't anyone heard of pokerface?
If you want fabulous British-Nazi doppleganger fun, read E. Phillip Oppenheim's "The Great Impersonation". Sure, the premise stretches believability, but certainly no more than this book, and it handles the reality-bending with far more finesse and excitement. Oppenheim's British-German spy is actually hot and smart, for one thing. Not like "Dangerous Allies"' sad sack of romantic shorthand for an alpha spy hero.
Will not finish!
After the author surprised me with a nice comment on my review, I decided to plow through to the end anyway to see if my viewpoint would change once I gave the story a full shot.
Unfortunately, my dislike still remained the same. :( BUT, I feel one way that would improve the story is to actually make the spy play out his role as the go-to henchman for Himmler. The book comments frequently on how the English/American spy who is pretending to be an evil SS officer is constantly walking a razor edge between doing horrible things and preserving his moral sanity. But do we ever see him walk that edge? No. He snoops around a shipyard for Himmler and gets shot at. And he looks mean at key points. But that's about it. He doesn't murder anyone, he doesn't threaten or manipulate or do anything that would make someone crap their pants. All of his dark, twisted undercover shenanigans are hand-waved into the mist. Additionally, even if I could force myself to believe that he was capable of committing atrocious acts for the sake of his cover, the guy apparently can switch his Nazi facade on and off like a switch. As soon as he's with the girl, BAM! "Ohh, God will see us through this, go with me to America!"
At the level of infiltration this guy is at, I feel that he has to maintain his facade at a far greater level than he currently has it. He has to do truly terrible things without flinching, and if you do it enough, I feel that it should bleed into his everyday life as well. He shouldn't be able to turn it off. Sure, the Russian actress can be his beacon of light and all that, but it should be a fierce struggle with lots of pain and darkness.
Of course, that will never happen, since the word count is way to short, and the publication line is way too fluffy G-rated to allow any sort of real darkness to permeate its pages. YA books deal with sterner stuff with more impact than any Love Inspired book. It's too bad; the story premise is a guilty pleasure of mine.
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Fantastic fail once again. The concept seemed awesome enough, but what was I thinking?? This is the Love Inspired line, and a "romance" novel to boot, which somehow always runs hand-in-hand with incompetant writing and the flattest tension-building ever. Dear author, I'll believe cunning and devious scheming when I see it, not when you pronounce it after every sentence the character says. And seriously, I don't see how anyone can be a spy when their emotions are constantly flitting across their faces for the other to pick up. Hasn't anyone heard of pokerface?
If you want fabulous British-Nazi doppleganger fun, read E. Phillip Oppenheim's "The Great Impersonation". Sure, the premise stretches believability, but certainly no more than this book, and it handles the reality-bending with far more finesse and excitement. Oppenheim's British-German spy is actually hot and smart, for one thing. Not like "Dangerous Allies"' sad sack of romantic shorthand for an alpha spy hero.
Will not finish!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 2, 2024
This was a fascinating book that sucked me in from the first page and kept me hooked to the end. World War Two is a rare setting for a category romance, making this book doubly appealing. Here, we have an American man and a Russian woman teaming up to acquire vital intelligence for the British.
Katia is the daughter of a murdered Russian prince. She and her mother fled to Germany years ago, and Katia grew up to become a celebrated actress. She puts those skills to work as a spy for the British to defeat the Nazis and protect her mother. Their secret Jewish heritage would mean their deaths if it were discovered. The story opens as she is about to meet her latest contact. Jack is deep undercover as an SS officer working directly for Himmler. The things he has done because of it have taken a toll on him, and he is deeply cynical about human nature.
The initial meeting between Katia and Jack is difficult. Neither trusts the other, yet they must work together to secure the information they seek. Matters become complicated when Katia's mother shows up with her Nazi naval officer fiancé, and Jack's suspicions are further aroused. However, time is short, and Jack and Katia must find a way to work together to accomplish their mission. It isn't easy. Katia is confident in her abilities and adamant in her need to be hands-on during their mission. Jack is accustomed to working primarily alone. Their power struggle was intriguing, and I enjoyed watching them work out the details.
Of course, things rarely go to plan during something like this. The twists and turns of this story kept me glued to the pages as Jack and Katia dealt with one issue after another. The complications felt realistic, and I enjoyed seeing them work through them. As the deadline drew nearer, the escalating tension kept me reading long past my bedtime as I had to know how it turned out. The conclusion was a nail-biter that had me truly worried for Katia's safety.
I enjoyed watching the development of Jack and Katia's relationship. Though initially distrustful and antagonistic, there were also sparks of attraction and fascination. As much as they irritated each other, there was also a great deal of respect for each other's abilities. That respect quickly turned to caring despite obstacles to doing anything about it. The manner of the resolution was unexpected but made sense under the circumstances. I liked the author's note at the end, which replaced an epilogue.
As this was a Love Inspired novel, Katia and Jack's faith was also a large part of the story. Each of them believed that they had been abandoned by their god. Katia blamed him for her father's death. Jack believed that the terrible things he'd done put him beyond redemption. Opening their hearts to each other also opened their hearts to a renewal of faith.
Katia is the daughter of a murdered Russian prince. She and her mother fled to Germany years ago, and Katia grew up to become a celebrated actress. She puts those skills to work as a spy for the British to defeat the Nazis and protect her mother. Their secret Jewish heritage would mean their deaths if it were discovered. The story opens as she is about to meet her latest contact. Jack is deep undercover as an SS officer working directly for Himmler. The things he has done because of it have taken a toll on him, and he is deeply cynical about human nature.
The initial meeting between Katia and Jack is difficult. Neither trusts the other, yet they must work together to secure the information they seek. Matters become complicated when Katia's mother shows up with her Nazi naval officer fiancé, and Jack's suspicions are further aroused. However, time is short, and Jack and Katia must find a way to work together to accomplish their mission. It isn't easy. Katia is confident in her abilities and adamant in her need to be hands-on during their mission. Jack is accustomed to working primarily alone. Their power struggle was intriguing, and I enjoyed watching them work out the details.
Of course, things rarely go to plan during something like this. The twists and turns of this story kept me glued to the pages as Jack and Katia dealt with one issue after another. The complications felt realistic, and I enjoyed seeing them work through them. As the deadline drew nearer, the escalating tension kept me reading long past my bedtime as I had to know how it turned out. The conclusion was a nail-biter that had me truly worried for Katia's safety.
I enjoyed watching the development of Jack and Katia's relationship. Though initially distrustful and antagonistic, there were also sparks of attraction and fascination. As much as they irritated each other, there was also a great deal of respect for each other's abilities. That respect quickly turned to caring despite obstacles to doing anything about it. The manner of the resolution was unexpected but made sense under the circumstances. I liked the author's note at the end, which replaced an epilogue.
As this was a Love Inspired novel, Katia and Jack's faith was also a large part of the story. Each of them believed that they had been abandoned by their god. Katia blamed him for her father's death. Jack believed that the terrible things he'd done put him beyond redemption. Opening their hearts to each other also opened their hearts to a renewal of faith.
September 19, 2011
Deep in the Third Reich, Katia Kerensky plays a dangerous game. The dispossessed daughter of a murdered Russian prince, Katia came of age in her mother's German homeland, becoming a popular stage actress. But the princess's most radical role is wrapped up in her deepest secret -- with a Jewish maternal grandparent, Katia works as a spy for the British to defeat the Nazi agenda and secure her mother's protection. Jack Anderson is Katia's latest contact -- an American working for the British in deep cover as one of Himmler's henchmen, the fearsome Friedrich Reiter. The horrors Jack has experienced in order to maintain his cover have stolen his faith in God and humanity, and working with a beautiful, headstrong, and idealistic German contact does not fit into his plans. But in order to secure valuable intelligence, Katia and Jack must take the greatest risk of all -- a leap of faith in each other and the God they both thought had long-since abandoned them.
Dangerous Allies was a nice change of pace for me, a diverting slice of escapist fiction set during my favorite historical time period. In my experience with category romance, its rare to find European-set World War II spy stories, and Ryan has a bit of a flair for crafting characters that feel authentic to the time period, in that they are highly aware of the horrifying dangers facing them during this time period. With the bulk of the novel's action taking place over a 2-3 day time period, Ryan keeps the action moving at a brisk pace and develops a relatively believable romance between her two leads, considering the length constraints of the category romance format. That said, Jack's near constant self-loathing and Katia's obsessive angst grew rather tedious. There's too much time spent dissecting their emotional hang-ups, whereas devoting some of the novel's precious word count to developing their (rushed) relationship would've brought some balance to the storyline.
Ryan crafts an engaging enough historicalthat I'll definitely be on the lookout for future World War II-set titles. Dangerous Allies hints at an affinity for the time period that makes me hope Ryan gets the chance to write similar trade-length historical romances, where she'd have the luxury of developing her characters, storyline, and sense of time and place, resulting in a richer and less-rushed reading experience. A quick and diverting read!
Dangerous Allies was a nice change of pace for me, a diverting slice of escapist fiction set during my favorite historical time period. In my experience with category romance, its rare to find European-set World War II spy stories, and Ryan has a bit of a flair for crafting characters that feel authentic to the time period, in that they are highly aware of the horrifying dangers facing them during this time period. With the bulk of the novel's action taking place over a 2-3 day time period, Ryan keeps the action moving at a brisk pace and develops a relatively believable romance between her two leads, considering the length constraints of the category romance format. That said, Jack's near constant self-loathing and Katia's obsessive angst grew rather tedious. There's too much time spent dissecting their emotional hang-ups, whereas devoting some of the novel's precious word count to developing their (rushed) relationship would've brought some balance to the storyline.
Ryan crafts an engaging enough historicalthat I'll definitely be on the lookout for future World War II-set titles. Dangerous Allies hints at an affinity for the time period that makes me hope Ryan gets the chance to write similar trade-length historical romances, where she'd have the luxury of developing her characters, storyline, and sense of time and place, resulting in a richer and less-rushed reading experience. A quick and diverting read!
August 15, 2020
Wow! I can see why this book won the 2011 The Daphne Du Maurier Award For Excellence In Mystery/Suspense, Inspirational Division. The intrigue level was exceedingly high for most of the book. I found it very engaging - although not at all restful!
Katarina Kerensky is an exiled Russian princess living in Germany. Horrified at what the Nazi's are doing, she is working for the British, getting them the information they require to help protect Britain and to win against the Germans. An excellent actress on stage, she also uses those skills to play the very dangerous game of espionage. That, and also to hide the fact she and her mother have a very dangerous secret.
She trusts no one. Not even God - He let her down years ago when her father was killed at the hands of the Russians.
Then she meets Friedrich Reiter, her contact for the next mission she has been assigned. He is the first person to get through her guard, knock her off balance, get her thinking about God - and prove himself trustworthy of her secrets and her heart.
Jack Anderson has been working undercover in the SS, is now to meet up with the famous actress. Hardened by the persona he has had to take on, and the things he has had to do, he can't afford to let this beautiful contact turn his head and trust her with his heart.
As one thing after another goes wrong, Jack and Katia forge an alliance to beat the enemy - and find not only a love to last a lifetime, but one also for eternity.
Just one thing to note: like Katia, I was disappointed that her mother, a Christian, engaged herself to a non-believing Nazi marine official. However, in times of great fear, I know preservation of life is what people go with rather than Biblical teaching, and I can understand why that fear lead to the decision she ultimately made. I am glad that Renee Ryan brought out though that it was fear leading to that decision, and that Elena's daughter questioned her decision. Although the unequal yoke wasn't mentioned (which I would have preferred) the fact of a Christian being with a Nazi was mentioned as not being a good thing.
*Thanks to the author for a copy of this book which I received through the LIH group here on Goodreads. No review was required of me.*
Katarina Kerensky is an exiled Russian princess living in Germany. Horrified at what the Nazi's are doing, she is working for the British, getting them the information they require to help protect Britain and to win against the Germans. An excellent actress on stage, she also uses those skills to play the very dangerous game of espionage. That, and also to hide the fact she and her mother have a very dangerous secret.
She trusts no one. Not even God - He let her down years ago when her father was killed at the hands of the Russians.
Then she meets Friedrich Reiter, her contact for the next mission she has been assigned. He is the first person to get through her guard, knock her off balance, get her thinking about God - and prove himself trustworthy of her secrets and her heart.
Jack Anderson has been working undercover in the SS, is now to meet up with the famous actress. Hardened by the persona he has had to take on, and the things he has had to do, he can't afford to let this beautiful contact turn his head and trust her with his heart.
As one thing after another goes wrong, Jack and Katia forge an alliance to beat the enemy - and find not only a love to last a lifetime, but one also for eternity.
Just one thing to note: like Katia, I was disappointed that her mother, a Christian, engaged herself to a non-believing Nazi marine official. However, in times of great fear, I know preservation of life is what people go with rather than Biblical teaching, and I can understand why that fear lead to the decision she ultimately made. I am glad that Renee Ryan brought out though that it was fear leading to that decision, and that Elena's daughter questioned her decision. Although the unequal yoke wasn't mentioned (which I would have preferred) the fact of a Christian being with a Nazi was mentioned as not being a good thing.
*Thanks to the author for a copy of this book which I received through the LIH group here on Goodreads. No review was required of me.*
September 1, 2011
Dangerous Allies by Renee Ryan ISBN978-0-373-82844-9
This book takes place in Nazi, German from November 1939 to February 1940. Renee's writing brings you to be part of the espionage, slinking through enemy territory, watching every dark corner and every word spoken. Never knowing who is friend or enemy and knowing all the walls have ears.
Jack Anderson is an American working with the British. Freidrich Reiter was sent to kill Jack and impersonate him but the table turned and now Jack is undercover as this soulless killer Herr Reiter. He no longer believes that God loves him, how could He after the life Jack has lived the past two years even if it was to save lives. Jack is now on his next mission. He is not sure who to trust, is he being set up and is this beautiful actress friend or foe. He can only move forward with caution.
Katarina Kerensky is a Russian princess. Her genes have blessed her with beauty and poise. She seen her father die when she was a young girl and now her mother, Elena, Katia were in exile here in Germany. They had a deep secret that if found out would mean their death. That is why Katia is working with the British to conquer the Germans and to get her mother out of this place. She has become a famous actress. People love to come and see her die on the stage every night. Tonight she will meet with her new contact.
Katia and Jack were ready to meet in her dressing room when her mother shows up. Something she has never done before. Elena'a escort was Hermann Schmidt, a strong Nazi who followed all the rules. Seeing him made Jack more suspicions of Katarina. It made Katia wonder why her mother would be with such a man.
Katarina's acting abilities help her seem like a ditzy woman. It comes in handy often. Jack see's through her though and within the three days they must work together they start to trust each other. Through Katia's bravery and courage Jack starts returning to his Christian roots as does Katarina.
This book takes place in Nazi, German from November 1939 to February 1940. Renee's writing brings you to be part of the espionage, slinking through enemy territory, watching every dark corner and every word spoken. Never knowing who is friend or enemy and knowing all the walls have ears.
Jack Anderson is an American working with the British. Freidrich Reiter was sent to kill Jack and impersonate him but the table turned and now Jack is undercover as this soulless killer Herr Reiter. He no longer believes that God loves him, how could He after the life Jack has lived the past two years even if it was to save lives. Jack is now on his next mission. He is not sure who to trust, is he being set up and is this beautiful actress friend or foe. He can only move forward with caution.
Katarina Kerensky is a Russian princess. Her genes have blessed her with beauty and poise. She seen her father die when she was a young girl and now her mother, Elena, Katia were in exile here in Germany. They had a deep secret that if found out would mean their death. That is why Katia is working with the British to conquer the Germans and to get her mother out of this place. She has become a famous actress. People love to come and see her die on the stage every night. Tonight she will meet with her new contact.
Katia and Jack were ready to meet in her dressing room when her mother shows up. Something she has never done before. Elena'a escort was Hermann Schmidt, a strong Nazi who followed all the rules. Seeing him made Jack more suspicions of Katarina. It made Katia wonder why her mother would be with such a man.
Katarina's acting abilities help her seem like a ditzy woman. It comes in handy often. Jack see's through her though and within the three days they must work together they start to trust each other. Through Katia's bravery and courage Jack starts returning to his Christian roots as does Katarina.
April 11, 2017
I don't usually read inspirational romances, but I love historical romances set in times and places other than Regency England, so I gave this one a try. It just didn't work for me. The religious aspect was really, really strong, and unfortunately the characters all sounded like modern-day American evangelical Christians in their religious thought and practices - which, considering that the heroine is a Russian émigré, made no sense. Russian Orthodox Christianity is very different from evangelical Christianity, and the author made no indication that she was aware of that, or of the existence of Russian Orthodoxy at all. (Maybe the heroine wasn't intended to be Russian Orthodox; fine, but that requires at least a sentence of explanation.) So much of the plot revolves around the characters' religion that this inaccuracy tainted the whole book for me: I didn't trust the author's understanding of the time period, place and culture the characters lived in. It basically threw me out of the story from page one and I couldn't get back in. If you're a reader more comfortable with inspirational romances than I am, this will probably not be an issue, but if you're someone who generally sticks to non-religious fiction, this one is probably best avoided.
May 30, 2013
Wow I'm not sure what to say about this one. It wasn't bad, just very bittersweet? The only thing that stopped me from giving it a 5 star was the constant use of God, Lord and the christianity in the book. It was so overdone to a point where I had to stop reading and giving myself a bit of rest or else I'd have given up completely. I understand they were during times of war and their faith was something people hung on to a lot, but it was a bit too extreme.
The moments between Katarina and Jack could have been explored a little more, in my opinion, more deeply. I felt like the romance was a bit lackluster, the kiss just okay, and I definitely missed a sex scene.
This book ended up leaving more sad than happy for some reason.
The moments between Katarina and Jack could have been explored a little more, in my opinion, more deeply. I felt like the romance was a bit lackluster, the kiss just okay, and I definitely missed a sex scene.
This book ended up leaving more sad than happy for some reason.
June 26, 2011
Some readers, this one included, usually don't read a lot of romance. They sometimes find the dialogue overwrought with emotion and the situations unbelievable with too much drama. However, sometimes, especially in the case of "Dangerous Allies" by Renee Ryan, those elements are absent from the story and the book actually pleasantly surprises the reader. This is one of those times.
Continue reading on Examiner.com A review of Dangerous Allies, WWII spies, Nazis, and romance - San Francisco Christian fiction | Examiner.com http://www.examiner.com/christian-fic...
October 21, 2010
I don't think I've ever read a more unrealistic love story. It was like... BAM!!! Katia and Jack love each other! There was no middle ground. I mean, I guess I believe in love at first site but this was just ridiculous. The characters were just soooo unbelievable and soooo stereotypical I couldn't stop scoffing at basically every other page. OH! and the ending, so crazy! It ended perfect, almost too perfect.
On a positive note I very much enjoyed the historical parts of the story. Although I'm not sure how much was actual true history it gave some foundation to an otherwise lofty tale.
On a positive note I very much enjoyed the historical parts of the story. Although I'm not sure how much was actual true history it gave some foundation to an otherwise lofty tale.
August 14, 2010
Dangerous Allies is one of the few novels that I have read set WWII Nazi Germany, Renee Ryan has created my absolute favorite characters the tortured selfless alpha hero, and the smart independent also selfless heroine.both keeping a secret,besides the romance itself my favorite thing was that i was kept on my toes, like was stated before me, you just had to question peoples motives add in that both that both of then are spys, and you have a wanderfull mix if history and romance. I really enjoyed this story!
January 12, 2015
A wonderful book! I loved the two main characters! There was romance and action which are two of my fave! The book is set in Nazi Germany which is not a common time in history to set a romance novel. This being said it was perfect for our main characters who were definitely brave and heroic. I loved that together they found the return of their faith in God. All in all if you love action, romance and God you'll really enjoy this book!!
December 30, 2015
Oh l loved this book so much!!! I almost would have thought it was part of the love inspired suspense line with all the danger and intrigue involved! Right up my alley! Although up made sure not to read before bed time as these kind of books keep my mind awake! Haha
I really felt like I was in Germany in 1939, and I felt right along with the characters the stress and danger. I enjoyed everything about this book! Well done.
I really felt like I was in Germany in 1939, and I felt right along with the characters the stress and danger. I enjoyed everything about this book! Well done.
August 14, 2011
This book is amazing. From the riveting plot to the interesting and cool characters, Dangerous Allies has it all. The only drawback...it ended. I really would like a sequel but why stop there, I want a trilogy on what happens next. I think it is doable.
I will most certainly be reading the rest of Renee Ryan's books I can get my hands on.
I will most certainly be reading the rest of Renee Ryan's books I can get my hands on.
August 1, 2014
I fell in love with Ms. Ryan's writing through her Charity House series. So even though I'm not a huge WWII historical reader, her name on the book as the author was enough to have me buy it.
Amazing. It was full of intrigue and the desperation of the many cultures of people who were involved in the war.
It kept me riveted through the last page. Excellent story.
Amazing. It was full of intrigue and the desperation of the many cultures of people who were involved in the war.
It kept me riveted through the last page. Excellent story.
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