"When Twilight Breaks" by Sarah Sundin - wonderful pre-WWII romance

Evelyn Brand is an American foreign correspondent as determined to prove her worth in a male-dominated profession as she is to expose the growing tyranny in Nazi Germany. But she walks a thin line--if she offends the government, she could be expelled from the country, but if she fails to truthfully report on major stories, she'll never be able to give a voice to the oppressed. As part of an assignment, she meets American graduate student Peter Lang, who is working on his PhD in German. Disillusioned with the chaos in the world due to the Great Depression, he is impressed with the prosperity and order of German society. But when the brutality of the regime hits close, he discovers a far better way to use his contacts within the Nazi party--to feed information to the shrewd reporter he can't get off his mind. But their efforts to expose oppression attract unwanted attention, pulling them deeper into danger as the world marches toward war.

This was a thoroughly engaging story. It technically takes place before World War Two (pre-invasion of Poland), so we see each step Germany takes in downward spiral into fascism, but from the perspective of two Americans living in the country--with, at least initially, differing viewpoints on Germany's choices.

The author touches on some of the seductiveness of the Nazi regime, like things as basic as giving up a few freedoms to see one's family fed; accepting a few harsh penalties to see crime reduced and the streets cleaned up; ignoring unjust ideologies to see prosperity and dignity restored after years of destitution and degradation---all tantalizing rewards for a few small compromises here and there. It's little wonder that Peter is initially impressed with the way Germany has grown over such a short time.

However, Peter is both convicted and disillusioned as the senseless violence increases, making him a worthy hero for our spunky heroine. I loved their romance, especially their close friendship before Evelyn will allow him into her heart. And that climax! Super thrilling. I enjoyed it immensely. 

Thank you Revell and NetGalley for the complimentary e-book. I was not required to write a positive review, and all opinions are my own.