Analyzes the relationship between Pius XI and the notorious Italian dictator, tracing how after coming into power in the same year they forged covert ties to one another to consolidate power and pursue political goals. -- From the publisher.

Rome, 1939 -- The Pope and the dictator. A new pope ; The march on Rome ; The fatal embrace ; Born to command ; Rising from the tomb ; The dictatorship ; Assassins, pederasts, and spies ; The pact -- Enemies in common. The savior ; Eating an artichoke ; The return of the native son ; Cardinal Pacelli hangs on ; Mussolini is always right ; The Protestant enemy and the Jews ; Hitler, Mussolini, and the Pope ; Crossing the border ; Enemies in common ; Dreams of glory -- Mussolini, Hitler, and the Jews. Attacking Hitler ; Viva Il Duce! ; Hitler in Rome ; A surprising mission ; The secret deal ; The racial laws ; The final battle ; Faith in the King ; A convenient death ; A dark cloud lifts ; Heading toward disaster.