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Espionage #3
Deadly Alliance
When Peter Eddy and his commando team inadvertently upset the Soviets during their most recent mission, they never imagined the diplomatic nightmares that would ensue. They have one chance to redeem themselves: tasked with destroying a bridge in Nazi-occupied Bosnia, Peter and his war-weary team reluctantly agree to drop behind enemy lines. The assignment should be a simple one—were it not for the fact that they are being deployed on a suicide mission.
Genevieve Olivier is devastated by the news of Peter’s disappearance. After all they’ve endured in this war, the determined OSS worker is unwilling to simply let go of the man she hopes to spend her life with. Desperate for information, her work as a courier soon escalates into a counterintelligence duel with a Fascist assassin—and Genevieve is his newest target . . .
Genevieve Olivier is devastated by the news of Peter’s disappearance. After all they’ve endured in this war, the determined OSS worker is unwilling to simply let go of the man she hopes to spend her life with. Desperate for information, her work as a courier soon escalates into a counterintelligence duel with a Fascist assassin—and Genevieve is his newest target . . .
317 pages, Paperback
First published April 1, 2014
6 people are currently reading
466 people want to read
About the author
A.L. Sowards
22 books1,218 followersI love books, so that makes Goodreads my favorite social media site. As a reader, I enjoy a variety of books. As a writer, I create historical novels with a wholesome mix of action, adventure, and romance. My stories have earned Whitney Awards, Foreword Indies Finalists positions, Readers’ Favorite Gold and Silver medals, a Historical Novel Society Editor’s Choice Selection, and a Praiseworthy Award.
I'm a wife and a mother of three, and I've called Washington State, Utah, and Alaska home. I'm usually reading a couple books at once and working on multiple writing projects too. Other than that, my life is pretty ordinary. I'm grateful for that. I'll let the characters in my books have all the adventures.
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About My Goodreads Ratings:
I joined Goodreads as a reader first, but since I’m an author too, I’ve made some changes to how I rate books. For fiction, I'll give a book 5 stars if I enjoyed every page. Otherwise, I'll leave the rating blank. For nonfiction, 5 star books are ones I enjoyed enough that I’d like to read them again. They’re books I connected with and highly recommend to others. 4 star books are good books that I thought were worth reading once, and they’re also recommended.
I'm a wife and a mother of three, and I've called Washington State, Utah, and Alaska home. I'm usually reading a couple books at once and working on multiple writing projects too. Other than that, my life is pretty ordinary. I'm grateful for that. I'll let the characters in my books have all the adventures.
Stay in Touch:
Newsletter sign up: https://alsowards.com/newsletter/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/a.l.sowards/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ALSowards/
About My Goodreads Ratings:
I joined Goodreads as a reader first, but since I’m an author too, I’ve made some changes to how I rate books. For fiction, I'll give a book 5 stars if I enjoyed every page. Otherwise, I'll leave the rating blank. For nonfiction, 5 star books are ones I enjoyed enough that I’d like to read them again. They’re books I connected with and highly recommend to others. 4 star books are good books that I thought were worth reading once, and they’re also recommended.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
September 12, 2014
Full disclosure: I was given a signed copy of this book, and I’ve met the author’s family, but that does not influence my review of this book.
Like the previous books in the trilogy (although this can also be read as a standalone), it is a love story at its essence, but it is made more palatable for the (stereotypically) male reader with a war story, and there is plenty of intrigue and suspense as the characters are first separated and then thrust into a series of complex situations that are life-threatening, as one would expect in war-torn Europe of 1944 and 1945.
The best part of these plot twists and turns – aside from being great for the storyline – is that the author is well-versed on the actual events in this region (Italy and the Balkans, in this book) and the intrigues of the various factions and the impact on ordinary peoples living – and dying – in this area that still remain unresolved.
I like that the main characters are affected by the war but not changed from their essential goodness. There is much that is realistic in their relationship as it evolves throughout the books. It really is a well-researched book with realistic and likeable characters, and I recommend it as one of the best novels of World War 2 that I have read.
Like the previous books in the trilogy (although this can also be read as a standalone), it is a love story at its essence, but it is made more palatable for the (stereotypically) male reader with a war story, and there is plenty of intrigue and suspense as the characters are first separated and then thrust into a series of complex situations that are life-threatening, as one would expect in war-torn Europe of 1944 and 1945.
The best part of these plot twists and turns – aside from being great for the storyline – is that the author is well-versed on the actual events in this region (Italy and the Balkans, in this book) and the intrigues of the various factions and the impact on ordinary peoples living – and dying – in this area that still remain unresolved.
I like that the main characters are affected by the war but not changed from their essential goodness. There is much that is realistic in their relationship as it evolves throughout the books. It really is a well-researched book with realistic and likeable characters, and I recommend it as one of the best novels of World War 2 that I have read.
June 6, 2014
This is the third book in this series. It began with Espionage. Each book has added another layer to understanding the horrors of living in Europe during WWII. I have enjoyed my journey with Peter Eddy and his amazing companions. They bravely go and help others, sacrificing themselves.
The book begins as Peter is forced to go on another mission. He and Genevieve have just been reunited, into to be torn apart as each has a duty to fulfill. This book focuses on the civil war in Yugoslavia. This is an area of history that I am unfamiliar with. The war was brutal. It is heart wrenching to learn of villagers killed, only because they were on another side of the conflict.
This book adds depth to the characters. They are tested, almost beyond what anyone can endure, but the succeed and excel. Friendships are tested and strengthened in this story. New characters are introduced that you can't help but love and respect.
The book is full of action, violence, and death. There is also a little bit of romance. This book keeps you on your imaginary toes. Just when you think you know what is going to happen, things change and the story progresses in another way. You know the outcome of the book, because it is historical fiction, but you don't know what will happen to the characters you have come to love.
My admiration for the abilities of A.L. Sowards continues to grow. I love her writing. She does an amazing job of setting up the story and bringing the action and images to life. Her research is well done. I look forward to see what she has to offer in the future.
The book begins as Peter is forced to go on another mission. He and Genevieve have just been reunited, into to be torn apart as each has a duty to fulfill. This book focuses on the civil war in Yugoslavia. This is an area of history that I am unfamiliar with. The war was brutal. It is heart wrenching to learn of villagers killed, only because they were on another side of the conflict.
This book adds depth to the characters. They are tested, almost beyond what anyone can endure, but the succeed and excel. Friendships are tested and strengthened in this story. New characters are introduced that you can't help but love and respect.
The book is full of action, violence, and death. There is also a little bit of romance. This book keeps you on your imaginary toes. Just when you think you know what is going to happen, things change and the story progresses in another way. You know the outcome of the book, because it is historical fiction, but you don't know what will happen to the characters you have come to love.
My admiration for the abilities of A.L. Sowards continues to grow. I love her writing. She does an amazing job of setting up the story and bringing the action and images to life. Her research is well done. I look forward to see what she has to offer in the future.
May 11, 2018
May book review
Deadly alliance is 317 pages of intense, action packed reading that will have you in tears and rejoicing. From Serb Croatia to France, the different jobs and people of World War Two come together to make an amazing, brilliant book. Compared to Fireweed, this book gives the reader different points of view from the enemy themselves to the main characters and other important characters. These characters will grow on you as you learn their challenges, beliefs and struggles. And it will change the way you look on life. This is the 3rd book of the series but it is by far an amazing book, I recommend this book to anyone who’s looking for a romantic, action, historical fiction book or just interested in History.
Deadly alliance is 317 pages of intense, action packed reading that will have you in tears and rejoicing. From Serb Croatia to France, the different jobs and people of World War Two come together to make an amazing, brilliant book. Compared to Fireweed, this book gives the reader different points of view from the enemy themselves to the main characters and other important characters. These characters will grow on you as you learn their challenges, beliefs and struggles. And it will change the way you look on life. This is the 3rd book of the series but it is by far an amazing book, I recommend this book to anyone who’s looking for a romantic, action, historical fiction book or just interested in History.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 10, 2014
AN AMAZING STORY!
"A little mystery, a little history, a little romance, and a lot of action, adventure, and suspense."
I was fascinated by the many things that went along with the actual war battles...
The captures, the torture, the imprisonments, and the separation of loved ones.
Just when you think this book could have come to a wonderful ending and the good guys have won there is a new TWIST that takes you through yet another capture...another torture...another terrible situation.
Not so many details that it makes the book scary, but enough that you will definitely AND quickly turn the pages to see if they can ever make it through this terrible war...
Peter and his men have been sent on a mission...destroy a bridge behind the Nazi line in Bosnia.
Peter does not want to leave Genevieve, but if he doesn't her life will be in jeopardy.
What Peter doesn't know is that his commander has tagged this as "a suicide mission...."
One way or another Peter's life is suppose to end.
Can he endure and make it back to his Genevieve?
Genevieve has not heard from Peter.
Everyone believes he is dead, but she holds on to hope.
"Desperate for information, her work as a courier soon escalates into a counterintelligence duel with a Fascist assassin—and Genevieve is his newest target . . ."
Can she stay alive and find her Peter?
My favorite quote:
"What do you say to someone when you've saved their life and they've saved yours and you've been through the worst life has to offer together? What do you say to the men you've starved with, to the man you've face the firing squad with? How do you say good-bye, knowing it might be for the rest of your life?"
A DEFINITE MUST READ!
HISTORY BROUGHT TO LIFE!
SO. SO. SO. GOOD!
"A little mystery, a little history, a little romance, and a lot of action, adventure, and suspense."
I was fascinated by the many things that went along with the actual war battles...
The captures, the torture, the imprisonments, and the separation of loved ones.
Just when you think this book could have come to a wonderful ending and the good guys have won there is a new TWIST that takes you through yet another capture...another torture...another terrible situation.
Not so many details that it makes the book scary, but enough that you will definitely AND quickly turn the pages to see if they can ever make it through this terrible war...
Peter and his men have been sent on a mission...destroy a bridge behind the Nazi line in Bosnia.
Peter does not want to leave Genevieve, but if he doesn't her life will be in jeopardy.
What Peter doesn't know is that his commander has tagged this as "a suicide mission...."
One way or another Peter's life is suppose to end.
Can he endure and make it back to his Genevieve?
Genevieve has not heard from Peter.
Everyone believes he is dead, but she holds on to hope.
"Desperate for information, her work as a courier soon escalates into a counterintelligence duel with a Fascist assassin—and Genevieve is his newest target . . ."
Can she stay alive and find her Peter?
My favorite quote:
"What do you say to someone when you've saved their life and they've saved yours and you've been through the worst life has to offer together? What do you say to the men you've starved with, to the man you've face the firing squad with? How do you say good-bye, knowing it might be for the rest of your life?"
A DEFINITE MUST READ!
HISTORY BROUGHT TO LIFE!
SO. SO. SO. GOOD!
May 4, 2014
Deadly it is!
First and foremost, this is an intricately weaved love story set during the final months of World War II in one of the forgotten yet turbulent theaters of the war—Yugoslavia.
I applaud the author’s knowledge and research concerning the time era. I found myself falling back on books to verify the historical aspects—they are dead-on. Well done.
I found the insertion of the characters faith refreshing. Most current works try to be politically correct in an effort to not offend. Bunk! My parents lived through the tumultuous time and gave thanks that God stood by the side of the allies to defeat Germany, Italy and Japan. Imagine our world today if we’d have failed.
Guys, for us, there’s plenty of action and intrigue. Think Alistair MacLean.
There aren’t any real cons, more like queries.
1) The use of ‘had’ detracted from the story. With a little work, it will be a smoother read.
2) The action scenes towards the end rivaled believability. Read more like a James Bond novel. How many times can the hero be gravely wounded and still have the inner strength to carry on? Hmm. That could also be a positive.
3) Okay, there is one drawback: the continual use of the character names. For me, it wasn’t necessary to constantly remind the reader who was talking. The excellent character development easily carried the conversation without the name tags.
Women will love this story even if they aren’t fans of WWII. It is an HEA in every aspect.
Well done Amanda. Four stars
First and foremost, this is an intricately weaved love story set during the final months of World War II in one of the forgotten yet turbulent theaters of the war—Yugoslavia.
I applaud the author’s knowledge and research concerning the time era. I found myself falling back on books to verify the historical aspects—they are dead-on. Well done.
I found the insertion of the characters faith refreshing. Most current works try to be politically correct in an effort to not offend. Bunk! My parents lived through the tumultuous time and gave thanks that God stood by the side of the allies to defeat Germany, Italy and Japan. Imagine our world today if we’d have failed.
Guys, for us, there’s plenty of action and intrigue. Think Alistair MacLean.
There aren’t any real cons, more like queries.
1) The use of ‘had’ detracted from the story. With a little work, it will be a smoother read.
2) The action scenes towards the end rivaled believability. Read more like a James Bond novel. How many times can the hero be gravely wounded and still have the inner strength to carry on? Hmm. That could also be a positive.
3) Okay, there is one drawback: the continual use of the character names. For me, it wasn’t necessary to constantly remind the reader who was talking. The excellent character development easily carried the conversation without the name tags.
Women will love this story even if they aren’t fans of WWII. It is an HEA in every aspect.
Well done Amanda. Four stars
February 14, 2017
Wow! This historical fiction WWII book was amazing! I’ve read the first book, Espionage, and thought it was pretty good. But this one blew it out of the water…quite literally (I mean, it’s a war book, right?). Peter and Genevieve from Espionage are still in this book…and their tales will make your hair go gray. Seriously tense action, intrigue, death-defying danger (sorry. I couldn’t help the alliteration), and romance. I love the romance, but if you don’t, you can still read this book. It’s a war book first; the romance is kind of a side story…almost like comic relief to a tragedy…except this is romantic relief. Sigh. I loved it—especially Milos and Marija’s story. Tugged at my heart and still gets to me. Even if you are a murder/action/thriller type reader, you will still love this story. There’s plenty of those things in this book, believe me (I have gray hairs to prove it).
What I really enjoyed about this story was the setting. Unlike a lot of WWII books that are set in France, Germany or England, this one starts out in Bari, Italy and then moves into Yugoslavia. I learned a ton about the Serb/Croatian issues there and how they played into the war. Fascinating! Sowards really did her research and I was mesmerized by the information she dropped into the story. It helped me understand a little about modern day Serb relations with others in that part of the world and why the tensions never seem to cease. I would definitely recommend this book. It’s not your normal WWII book—it’s much better.
What I really enjoyed about this story was the setting. Unlike a lot of WWII books that are set in France, Germany or England, this one starts out in Bari, Italy and then moves into Yugoslavia. I learned a ton about the Serb/Croatian issues there and how they played into the war. Fascinating! Sowards really did her research and I was mesmerized by the information she dropped into the story. It helped me understand a little about modern day Serb relations with others in that part of the world and why the tensions never seem to cease. I would definitely recommend this book. It’s not your normal WWII book—it’s much better.
October 31, 2014
I really enjoy this time period. My grandpa served in WWII and it hits home to read about what these characters went through. I've never really known a lot about what was happening at the end of the war in the Yugoslavia area and this book mainly took place in that area. I loved learning more about this part of history, while being entertained with the events happening to some beloved characters.
I don't know if it was my mood or my connection to these characters, but I was really touched and drawn in by a lot of the story. There were parts that had me in tears--especially the parts that were reoccuring with Milos and Marija. He would ask and ask and ask her to marry him and she would tell him they can't marry and then give him reason after reason why not. Each time broke my heart just a little bit, especially when the real reason is discovered. I'm still deeply touched by this story.
I loved the adventure, the true grit and character these people displayed, and the way things all came together. One of my favorite quotes: "From this day to the ending of the world but we in it shall be remembered, we few, we happy few, we band of brothers."
Content: this story is about war--there was killing/death, talk of rape, and some other sad things, but I didn't feel it was graphic; no language; mild romance (kissing).
**I received a copy from the author in exchange for an honest review**
I don't know if it was my mood or my connection to these characters, but I was really touched and drawn in by a lot of the story. There were parts that had me in tears--especially the parts that were reoccuring with Milos and Marija. He would ask and ask and ask her to marry him and she would tell him they can't marry and then give him reason after reason why not. Each time broke my heart just a little bit, especially when the real reason is discovered. I'm still deeply touched by this story.
I loved the adventure, the true grit and character these people displayed, and the way things all came together. One of my favorite quotes: "From this day to the ending of the world but we in it shall be remembered, we few, we happy few, we band of brothers."
Content: this story is about war--there was killing/death, talk of rape, and some other sad things, but I didn't feel it was graphic; no language; mild romance (kissing).
**I received a copy from the author in exchange for an honest review**
May 25, 2014
I loved this book. It is the third one in the series, but you don't have to read them all to enjoy this book. You can tell the author spent a lot of time researching the war in Yugoslavia. It was nice to get a view of what happened when a leader went rogue, and the effect it had on people's lives, and the future of nations. Yugoslavia is a part of the war I knew very little about, and this book put me behind enemy lines, and allowed me to see how the every day people living in the war zone lived and died. It put a very human face on the war. I can't wait to read another book by A.L. Sowards!
July 27, 2016
Wow. This book is filled with action and heart-pounding twists. I feel like I learned so much about WWII, especially in this part of Europe (Yugoslavia). A.L. Sowards is so well versed on the war, strategies, weaponry, and different groups of people, I felt as if I was there. The details were amazing. And the characters were real, unique, and well fleshed out. Superbly done!!! This is the third book in a trilogy, but it can be easily read as a stand-alone. A great read!
April 23, 2014
I've been enraptured by this entire series but this book is my absolute favorite. It's so intense and I adore each of the characters, especially Peter, Genevieve, and Jamie (can he please fall in love at some point?). I seriously bawled at one scene (won't tell you when, but it was terribly sad). It is World War II and the author shows exactly how horrible it would have been so you might want to be careful if you're squeamish. I absolutely loved this book and would highly recommend it.
July 11, 2015
A very exciting, fast-paced story. It really brought home how brutal war is, how death can visit anyone, how ruthless the Nazis were, and the murky mess with the communists immediately after the war. Clearly AL Sowards did a phenomenal amount of research to make the story both accurate and gripping.
June 20, 2020
I wasn't sure I would like this book, but after I got into the story I loved it. It was intense as it followed Peter, Jamie, Moretti, and Krzysztof as they were sent on a mission basically never to survive. They had many close calls with death but things worked out for them in the end. Sorry to have loss Milos. He was a good doctor to them. But his wife Marji was pregnant with their child and it looked like love was in the future for her and Rick, a soldier who had his hand amputated. They were moving to Pittsburgh where they lived only a few miles apart from each other. Kryzsztof had his own love affair with Iuliana and her son Anatolie. And Genevieve had plenty adventure as a spy who had close calls with death many times. But her love for Peter never waivered - even when she was told he was murdered. Great ending to the book that Peter and her were sealed in the temple. A nail bitter in places and a very good read overall.
January 31, 2021
This book pulled at all my heartstrings! From the first page when Peter is sent on another mission so soon after returning from his last I had to know if he makes it back and if he and Genevieve end up together or if war separated for good more loved ones! Felt all of the feels of tragedy, loss, love, miracles, bonding and respect in this book. "What do you say to someone when you've saved their life and they've saved yours and you've been through the worst life has to offer together? What do you say to the men you've starved with, to the man you've faced the firing squad with? How do you say good-bye knowing it might be for the rest of your life?"
February 20, 2024
When this series ended I was able to sigh some relief. I don't know how this men were able to endure all that they did at the hand of the enemies - on all sides of the war. To know that there were men from our government that put men in harms way on purpose. This was a wonderful series that kept me on the edge of my seat and worry as to how it would turn out and I had a hard time putting it down to get other things done. I love it when a book grips me as this series. Now my husband is reading this series.
February 7, 2024
Peter and his commando crew are sent on a mission by a corrupt leader during WWII. They arrive in Bosnia to find a “civil war” with the Chetniks and partisans besides the Nazis and communists. Genevieve and OSS agent is happy to have survived her last mission but is devastated when Peter leaves. She becomes a courier and works with a doctor at the hospital
It was interesting to read about an area in the war in which I was unfamiliar. The hate that exists in that area is so sad.
It was interesting to read about an area in the war in which I was unfamiliar. The hate that exists in that area is so sad.
January 14, 2022
I wanted to like this book as much as I did the first two but I just couldn’t. The two main characters were separated for the majority of this book and although I enjoyed the side characters love stories, It just wasn’t quite on par for me. Still a great read and I enjoyed it, just not as much as the first two.
August 11, 2023
Once again, the author amazes me with her meticulous research about a part of World War Two history, which most of us know very little or nothing about. Amazing history and wonderful enduring love and connection and such sad and tragic losses and terrible horrors that occurred. War is so horrible. But it is hope and love that gets us through it.
December 5, 2018
story of Serbia, Croatia, Bosnia, Yugoslavia area during WWII
January 20, 2022
Book #3 in this series. It was a nice wrap up to the story. I will miss Peter and Genevieve. And this final chapter is as exciting as the first two.
November 24, 2022
Final installment of the Espionage series. It’s amazing what the soldiers had to experience during WWII.
Read
October 22, 2024Really enjoyed this series. Learned a bit more about aspects of WWII that I did not know before.
December 4, 2024
Good ending to the series. Enjoyed reading
July 21, 2025
A 4.5 for me. you definitely need to read the first two, but I really enjoyed this third book!!
April 21, 2016
A digital copy of this book was sent to me by the author in exchange for an honest review. Thank you, A.L.
I read Deadly Alliance without having read the previous books in A.L. Sowards’ Espionage series, but this did not diminish my enjoyment of this book. It is easy enough to understand and the author subtly includes background information and backstories throughout the book, meaning that Deadly Alliance could be considered as a standalone.
Deadly Alliance starts off with a powerful man named Kimby ordering Peter Eddy to bomb a bridge in war-torn Europe. Things are not as they seem, however, and it quickly becomes apparent that Eddy and his team are not meant to return.
“It’s like she’s drowning and asking for my help, and I’m swimming in the opposite direction.”
This book was a fast paced and thrilling ride. Every page was a roller coaster of action, emotion and politics. Even the most mundane of scenes, such as Peter and his team recovering from their wounds in an unknown village in Bosnia, was filled with political intrigue and hostilities. Deadly Alliance wasn’t just about the gunfights and combat that ruled the battlefield. It also emphasized the true mastermind behind war; politics.
What do you say to someone when you’ve saved their life and they’ve saved yours and you’ve been through the worst life has to offer together? What do you say to the men you’ve starved with, to the man you’ve faced the firing squad with? How do you say good-bye, knowing it might be for the rest of your life?
Deadly Alliance jumps from one point of view to another, from Peter Eddy to his girlfriend, Genevieve, to Marija, a Bosnian woman who took them in and to Iuliana, the girlfriend of Krzysztof, one of Eddy’s men. The different perspectives were an excellent aspect of this novel since it allowed me to see the war from various sides. It is commendable how the author was really able to tap into the emotions of her characters, however different they were from each other. I was able to empathize with a soldier, a spy, a Communist, a prisoner, and more. In my opinion, this was what really made the book stand out; it showed us that the different roles people play in war may make them distinct and may classify them as either hero or villain in the post-war world but in the end, they were still humans. And humans make decisions, even awful ones.
Death itself didn’t scare her, but there were many ways to die, and some of the possibilities were terrifying.
This book highlighted what other war historical fiction novels have always emphasized; that in a war torn world, there is no bad guy or good guy. There is only a person who makes choices fueled by their own beliefs and experiences. Deadly Alliance certainly succeeded in rendering that message to the reader.
Although the themes of Deadly Alliance was outstandingly written, the narration fell flat on me. Pivotal scenes and plot twists had no emotional effect whatsoever. I honestly felt that I should have been crying my heart out or tearing up during particular points in the novel, but I wasn’t. My eyes didn’t water once while I was reading the book and frankly, it was disappointing. There were so many scenes that had the potential to reduce me into a waterfall at Yosemite but the prose fell short, even coming off as dull at some points. Don’t get me wrong, the characters and the dialogue were written beautifully but it just didn’t resonate with me.
“That’s the trick, I guess. Some days you don’t feel much like living, so you pretend you feel differently. And sometimes, by the end of the day, living doesn’t seem so hard.”
The huge issue I had with Deadly Alliance’s narration is minute compared with my enjoyment of this novel. It’s a smashing historical fiction bursting with great scenes and strong characters. What makes it unique was how you don’t just see World War II from the point of view of a soldier. You also view it from the perspective of a spy, a Resistance member, a politician, and more. Family relationships, romantic relationships and even the bond among comrades is heavily played in this novel. Deadly Alliance was a fantastic book, one that I highly recommend.
I read Deadly Alliance without having read the previous books in A.L. Sowards’ Espionage series, but this did not diminish my enjoyment of this book. It is easy enough to understand and the author subtly includes background information and backstories throughout the book, meaning that Deadly Alliance could be considered as a standalone.
Deadly Alliance starts off with a powerful man named Kimby ordering Peter Eddy to bomb a bridge in war-torn Europe. Things are not as they seem, however, and it quickly becomes apparent that Eddy and his team are not meant to return.
“It’s like she’s drowning and asking for my help, and I’m swimming in the opposite direction.”
This book was a fast paced and thrilling ride. Every page was a roller coaster of action, emotion and politics. Even the most mundane of scenes, such as Peter and his team recovering from their wounds in an unknown village in Bosnia, was filled with political intrigue and hostilities. Deadly Alliance wasn’t just about the gunfights and combat that ruled the battlefield. It also emphasized the true mastermind behind war; politics.
What do you say to someone when you’ve saved their life and they’ve saved yours and you’ve been through the worst life has to offer together? What do you say to the men you’ve starved with, to the man you’ve faced the firing squad with? How do you say good-bye, knowing it might be for the rest of your life?
Deadly Alliance jumps from one point of view to another, from Peter Eddy to his girlfriend, Genevieve, to Marija, a Bosnian woman who took them in and to Iuliana, the girlfriend of Krzysztof, one of Eddy’s men. The different perspectives were an excellent aspect of this novel since it allowed me to see the war from various sides. It is commendable how the author was really able to tap into the emotions of her characters, however different they were from each other. I was able to empathize with a soldier, a spy, a Communist, a prisoner, and more. In my opinion, this was what really made the book stand out; it showed us that the different roles people play in war may make them distinct and may classify them as either hero or villain in the post-war world but in the end, they were still humans. And humans make decisions, even awful ones.
Death itself didn’t scare her, but there were many ways to die, and some of the possibilities were terrifying.
This book highlighted what other war historical fiction novels have always emphasized; that in a war torn world, there is no bad guy or good guy. There is only a person who makes choices fueled by their own beliefs and experiences. Deadly Alliance certainly succeeded in rendering that message to the reader.
Although the themes of Deadly Alliance was outstandingly written, the narration fell flat on me. Pivotal scenes and plot twists had no emotional effect whatsoever. I honestly felt that I should have been crying my heart out or tearing up during particular points in the novel, but I wasn’t. My eyes didn’t water once while I was reading the book and frankly, it was disappointing. There were so many scenes that had the potential to reduce me into a waterfall at Yosemite but the prose fell short, even coming off as dull at some points. Don’t get me wrong, the characters and the dialogue were written beautifully but it just didn’t resonate with me.
“That’s the trick, I guess. Some days you don’t feel much like living, so you pretend you feel differently. And sometimes, by the end of the day, living doesn’t seem so hard.”
The huge issue I had with Deadly Alliance’s narration is minute compared with my enjoyment of this novel. It’s a smashing historical fiction bursting with great scenes and strong characters. What makes it unique was how you don’t just see World War II from the point of view of a soldier. You also view it from the perspective of a spy, a Resistance member, a politician, and more. Family relationships, romantic relationships and even the bond among comrades is heavily played in this novel. Deadly Alliance was a fantastic book, one that I highly recommend.
December 26, 2020
A. L. Sowards writes a powerful book. It has intrigue, romance, tragedy. and lots of suspense. She was obviously done a lot of historical research to make the story as accurate as possible. It has a lot of last minute rescues which makes it a little less believable. it Is like a high action movie in this respect. It makes the book very intense and I often had to go do something else between chapters. I didn't realize it was last in a series of three (I think) until, as I read, there were references to things that happened in earlier books. It can be read as a stand-alone novel, however.
February 12, 2015
Deadly Alliance, the third and final installment of the Espionage series, takes place during the final year of WWII. Peter and Genevieve are the main characters, who both have way more war and espionage experience than any young person should. Almost as soon as they are reunited, the war separates them. Their duties take them far from each other, and one circumstance after another makes it almost certain they will never survive, let alone find each other again.
Peter has several of his closest war buddies with him, but Genevieve is very alone. She stays busy at the hospital, but the war has taken too much for her to feel happy without Peter. He is determined to do his duty for his country and the men that are serving with him. While he hopes to be united again with Genevieve and live the rest of his life by her side, Peter knows that sometimes the only option is to make the ultimate sacrifice.
The story is told mainly from Peter and Genevieve’s points-of-view, with a large focus on events occurring in the fight between the Serbians and Croatians, the Partisans and Chetniks, located in Yugoslavia. The characters encounter several battle scenarios and devastated villages that show the face of war in that area of the world. The author’s style isn’t flowery or roundabout but straightforward, intended for an audience of men and women who enjoy reading WWII fiction and prefer a hint of romance.
Deadly Alliance takes the reader along as the characters move from one seemingly insurmountable circumstance to another. I haven’t read a lot of WWII fiction but I can see that Deadly Alliance and the other books in the Espionage series are well-researched. I follow A.L. Sowards on Goodreads so I see how many WWII books she reads. This knowledge comes through in how easy it was to slip into the time period each time I picked up the book.
I appreciated Peter and Genevieve’s devotion to doing whatever they could to end the war, even at the risk of their own lives. They go through some emotional experiences, however, they have been at war for some time now and witnessed many things no one should ever see. At times they are simply resigned to their circumstances, or hardened by previous events. I was anxious for both the war to end, and to find out what would ultimately happen with our heroes. Just when I thought all was said and done, the author threw in a twist that had me in some serious suspense.
Overall, Deadly Alliance is an enjoyable and satisfying conclusion to the series. I would recommend the Espionage series to anyone who enjoys clean, well-researched historical fiction, particularly WWII fiction. While LDS elements are present, it isn’t a major theme of the book. I look forward to more from A.L. Sowards, and can’t wait to see what she has in the works.
Peter has several of his closest war buddies with him, but Genevieve is very alone. She stays busy at the hospital, but the war has taken too much for her to feel happy without Peter. He is determined to do his duty for his country and the men that are serving with him. While he hopes to be united again with Genevieve and live the rest of his life by her side, Peter knows that sometimes the only option is to make the ultimate sacrifice.
The story is told mainly from Peter and Genevieve’s points-of-view, with a large focus on events occurring in the fight between the Serbians and Croatians, the Partisans and Chetniks, located in Yugoslavia. The characters encounter several battle scenarios and devastated villages that show the face of war in that area of the world. The author’s style isn’t flowery or roundabout but straightforward, intended for an audience of men and women who enjoy reading WWII fiction and prefer a hint of romance.
Deadly Alliance takes the reader along as the characters move from one seemingly insurmountable circumstance to another. I haven’t read a lot of WWII fiction but I can see that Deadly Alliance and the other books in the Espionage series are well-researched. I follow A.L. Sowards on Goodreads so I see how many WWII books she reads. This knowledge comes through in how easy it was to slip into the time period each time I picked up the book.
I appreciated Peter and Genevieve’s devotion to doing whatever they could to end the war, even at the risk of their own lives. They go through some emotional experiences, however, they have been at war for some time now and witnessed many things no one should ever see. At times they are simply resigned to their circumstances, or hardened by previous events. I was anxious for both the war to end, and to find out what would ultimately happen with our heroes. Just when I thought all was said and done, the author threw in a twist that had me in some serious suspense.
Overall, Deadly Alliance is an enjoyable and satisfying conclusion to the series. I would recommend the Espionage series to anyone who enjoys clean, well-researched historical fiction, particularly WWII fiction. While LDS elements are present, it isn’t a major theme of the book. I look forward to more from A.L. Sowards, and can’t wait to see what she has in the works.
April 23, 2015
“Deadly Alliance” is the final book in a trilogy, though it works just as well as a stand-alone novel (which is how I read it — I actually had no idea there were two other books). Like “An Ocean atween Us,” it was abundantly clear that Sowards had done her due diligence on the time and place she wrote about — World War II in Italy and Yugoslavia. The novel follows Peter Eddy and his commando team as they drop behind enemy lines, unaware that they’ve been deployed on a suicide mission. Meanwhile, Peter’s girlfriend Genevieve, an OSS spy, finds herself battling new enemies as well. With heart-pounding plot twists and turns aplenty, Peter, Genevieve, and their various comrades experience plenty of action, with true-to-the-era violence and even death.
“Deadly Alliance” drew me in quickly and kept me hooked right through the last page (although the far-fetched finale disappointed me slightly). The history was, at times, hard to follow, but it didn’t detract from my interest in the book. The characters were well drawn and appealing — or hateful, in the case of the enemies who played significant roles. I appreciated the believable dialogue and the relationships that felt so genuine. Overall, this book has been my favorite out of five LDS-authored historical novels I've read in the past few months — strongest writing, most intricate plot, realistic narrative, and great characters.
“Deadly Alliance” drew me in quickly and kept me hooked right through the last page (although the far-fetched finale disappointed me slightly). The history was, at times, hard to follow, but it didn’t detract from my interest in the book. The characters were well drawn and appealing — or hateful, in the case of the enemies who played significant roles. I appreciated the believable dialogue and the relationships that felt so genuine. Overall, this book has been my favorite out of five LDS-authored historical novels I've read in the past few months — strongest writing, most intricate plot, realistic narrative, and great characters.
February 11, 2015
I've really enjoyed this series by A.L. Sowards. Historical Fiction is one of my favorite genres, and Sowards does a great job pulling the reader in.
I read the last book in the series, Sworn Enemy, over a year ago, so it took a little bit to get caught back up on the story through details mentioned here and there.
The story really keeps a reader interested by the twists and turns of war, and the different situations each of the characters is in. Although romance isn't the main focus of the novel, I enjoyed what was included and the connection it helped me make with the characters.
There are several separations in this book, and overall I was happy with the outcome of these. However, at one point there is a reunion between some characters that I would have loved more emotion to. The meeting was fairly rushed (even for the situation they were in), and it felt lacking given the build up. That said, it didn't kill the story for me. There are definitely some losses in the book, but it has a satisfying, happy ending.
If you like historical fiction, I highly recommend this clean series. It gives a great depiction of war without focusing on gory details.
I read the last book in the series, Sworn Enemy, over a year ago, so it took a little bit to get caught back up on the story through details mentioned here and there.
The story really keeps a reader interested by the twists and turns of war, and the different situations each of the characters is in. Although romance isn't the main focus of the novel, I enjoyed what was included and the connection it helped me make with the characters.
There are several separations in this book, and overall I was happy with the outcome of these. However, at one point there is a reunion between some characters that I would have loved more emotion to. The meeting was fairly rushed (even for the situation they were in), and it felt lacking given the build up. That said, it didn't kill the story for me. There are definitely some losses in the book, but it has a satisfying, happy ending.
If you like historical fiction, I highly recommend this clean series. It gives a great depiction of war without focusing on gory details.
February 15, 2016
Action Packed
What was billed to be a short mission planned by a highly placed officer in the intelligence corps was really intended to send Peter and three other men to their deaths. Instead, prior wartime experience and a fortuitous run-in with Cheknik fighters helped them survive in the middle of the civil war in Yugoslavia while evading the Nazis. Meanwhile Gabrielle is pulled back into espionage work and finds herself fighting off an enemy intent on killing her while at the same time resisting the attention of a man who loves her even though she has been told Peter is dead. This story with its diverse cast of characters portrays both the political as well as the combat challenges that took place in the Adriatic Sea region during World War Two. Sweet romance
What was billed to be a short mission planned by a highly placed officer in the intelligence corps was really intended to send Peter and three other men to their deaths. Instead, prior wartime experience and a fortuitous run-in with Cheknik fighters helped them survive in the middle of the civil war in Yugoslavia while evading the Nazis. Meanwhile Gabrielle is pulled back into espionage work and finds herself fighting off an enemy intent on killing her while at the same time resisting the attention of a man who loves her even though she has been told Peter is dead. This story with its diverse cast of characters portrays both the political as well as the combat challenges that took place in the Adriatic Sea region during World War Two. Sweet romance
April 7, 2017
This book is listed as Historical Fiction but I am not sure how historical it really is. Yet the story was very interesting. I only just found out it was part of a series, so it does stand on its own. Peter and his team face terrible odds and everything that could go wrong on the mission does go wrong. I don't think the 'bad guy' was supposed to be a big secret because it was obvious from the start. Lots of plot twists and turns and several last minute saved from death scenes. I enjoyed it in the end. no language, no sex, lots of violence (rape, stabbings, shootings, beating, fighting, choking) A nice subtle use of the Book of Mormon and Faith.
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