I wasn't sure about this book at first, but I soon found myself gripped by the emotional rollercoaster of the main character. The book became almost impossible to put down. I began wishing that I didn't have to get up in the morning so that I could stay in bed and read just one more chapter. The characters were complex, so much that sometimes they were hard to understand, but this is part of what made this book so attractive for me.

Not one for WW2 buffs, but a book for those who wish to explore character's emotions and the idea of romance in a complex situation.

I liked this book. It really captivates your interest from the start with believable characters and a mostly realistic plot. Fairly sad, but nicely written. ( )

great book...reminded me of a movie...jew falls in love with nazi...husband off fighting for the jews. ( )

This seems to be a writing class exercise that somehow escaped and was published. Dreadful, with a trite plot, flat characters, and poor writing. ( )

I went into this book skeptical and was almost right about it. There were times where it was pretty cheesy. There were eye rolling moments, especially when you find out specific information about the Kommadant (about his past) and also what happens to Emma towards the end of the book. Nevertheless I trudged along the novel, waiting to see if there was any particular part of action, or something exciting about to happen. I actually finished this novel because I was stubborn enough to read it from cover to cover. I'd have to say I was mildly dissapointed.

There were good parts I have to admit. Emma went through some very close call moments in order to gather information needed for the resistance. Although it seemed as if it wasn't enough and when asked to get "closer" to the Kommadant, it felt as if they shunned her for it. It was rather mind boggling, as they were asking for her to do so in the first place but, well I suppose if seen cavorting with the enemy, what else were you supposed to think? Some parts of there book just were a little too convenient and you second guess as to how realistic this would be. I wish there was more to it, it just seemed to be lacking in overall substance and depth.

I couldn't really get close or really like Emma in the first place. I saw her as somewhat silly and naive. I wasn't sure if she agreed to do this job because she actually had feelings for the Kommandant or if she was thinking of helping out in the first place. It was hard to say. She just seemed so flaky that way. Throughout the book she moans about her conflicting loyalties between the two men she loves, although I am sure it's difficult, it got annoying after a while. Surely survival would be more on the mind instead of wondering what two men will think once the truth is out. The characters in this novel just seemed flat and not well rounded out. They were two dimensional. The only exception I would say would be Krysia (who also is my favorite) I liked her strength and courage throughout the entire novel.

However I'd have to say, I liked the ending. It was very ambiguous and things were left open. Although the situation did look bleak and hard I can't help to wonder now what's going to happen to these characters. I know there is a sequel to this book however with the way it is written I am a little hesitant as to whether I will pick it up or not. I'd like it in more detail, more realism, and more depth into the story.

Overall, not really a book I would recommend to those who love reading WWII themes. It's too bad as it falls short, but had the potential to be a dramatic novel. With so much information out there on the subject, research and detail should have been noted and incorporated into the novel and it would have improved it drastically. Romance lovers may like this novel instead. ( )