The Dovekeepers is a work of historical fiction set in 70AD in the aftermath of the Roman Empire’s destruction of the Jewish temple in Jerusalem. The desert fortress of Masada became one of the Jewish rebels’ last hold-outs against the Romans in this time of constant war and destruction. Here, Hoffman introduces us to four women who flee through the desert to reach the stronghold. They are heartbroken and damaged when they arrive, burdened by the weight of their traumatized past, but find friendship as they work together in the dovecotes of the fortress. Each woman is given a section of the book in which she narrates from her perspective. We share their journey as they rise from their brokenness to discover renewed faith, strength, and love in the midst of a harsh world.

Hoffman’s writing is beautifully descriptive, bringing small details to life. We feel acutely the women’s experiences. Jewish mysticism is central to the story. We are in a world where myth comes to life: among those we encounter are Malakh ha-Mavet, the angel of death and Shechinah, the Hebrew feminine aspect of God. The total effect is that world Hoffman has created is fully fleshed out and feels as real as yesterday: we are completely immersed in the past.

The story is sad, violent, and deeply moving. The ending is tragic. Hoffman accurately follows history, and the Jews in Masada cannot escape their heartbreaking fate. Hoffman was inspired to write The Dovekeepers when she visited the desert fortress. She describes having an intense spiritual experience in which she felt the presence of those who had died and felt compelled to tell their stories. She does a beautiful job.

Should you read this book?
Read this book if you enjoy historical fiction, if you like moving stories where people transcend their tragic circumstances, stories were redemption, forgiveness, friendship and faith play a vital role, and if you like magical elements in your fiction.

Read-alikes:
Hoffman is a best selling author with many other books to enjoy. If you enjoy The Dovekeepers you may also enjoy The Story Sisters and Here on Earth. You may also enjoy The Night Watch by Sarah Waters, a descriptive and atmospheric war story set in London.