What two things do all men love? Fighting and that other thing that starts with a F.... Ares, the God of War, is no exception. Over time however, where women are concerned, he has become jaded. Make no mistake he still enjoys them, but his heart has grown cold. Looks like a good time to become involved in the latest conflict between the ever warring humans.

June 6, 1944 . . . D-Day . . . Belle is a member of the French Resistance, fighting against the Germans who have taken her country and her parents lives. Now it is D-Day and the Americans are arriving to aid against the Nazi forces. Belle proudly picks up her rifle and heads out to assist in the mission only to run into an Allied soldier with the face of a god.

Colonel A. Riese is here to fight not to find love, but this feisty resistance leader makes his blood pressure soar. Before he knows what has hit him he finds himself wanting to sweep her away and make her his own. But the mission must not be jeopardized. And if Ares claims Belle for his own, will he be able to let her go when the mission is complete?

Taking an actual historical event and using it as the backdrop for a work of fiction has been done many, many times. It takes a talented author to do this and make it work without doing disservice to those involved in said past events. Ms. LaCroix is undoubtedly among those with this talent. This novel remains true to the historic events of the story while incorporating paranormal aspects which make for a fascinating tale.

Watching the centuries old God of War fall for a mortal, albeit an amazing and heroic one, was a delight. And as for Belle falling for Ares . . . you will wish you were in her shoes as he sweeps her away (literally) and gives in to his desires. This short tale is a well crafted and well told one which will linger in your thoughts long after 'The End'.

Reviewed By Johnna
© April 2005