Mirta Ines Trupp's Blog, page 6
March 10, 2021
Interview with Sara Aharoni
Hello again! Renown Israeli author, Sara Aharoni's third novel, 'Mrs. Rothschild's Love' (the English title is 'The First Mrs. Rothschild'), went instantly to the top of the Israeli bestseller list. Aharoni received the Steimatzky Prize for Best-Selling Book of the Year.
I have read this work and found it inspiring and thought-provoking. As you all know by now, I am fascinated with this time period. The Rothschilds, the Montefiores...what these family were able to accomplish under that level of persecution and oppression is mind boggling!
Find out more here:
https://mirtainestruppauthor.com/2021...
I have read this work and found it inspiring and thought-provoking. As you all know by now, I am fascinated with this time period. The Rothschilds, the Montefiores...what these family were able to accomplish under that level of persecution and oppression is mind boggling!
Find out more here:
https://mirtainestruppauthor.com/2021...
January 31, 2021
Interview with Felicia Grossman
I’m excited to bring you another post in my author’s interview series. Joining us today is Felicia Grossman, author of American historical romance novels Appetites & Vices and Dalliances & Devotion. Felicia is a Delaware native. She now lives in the Midwest with her family and two dogs. When not writing romance, she enjoys eclairs, cannoli, and Sondheim musicals. Sounds like a girl after my own heart!,,,
I invite you to read more here:
https://mirtainestruppauthor.com/2021...
I invite you to read more here:
https://mirtainestruppauthor.com/2021...
January 28, 2021
Author’s Interview with Libi Astaire
Author’s Interview with Libi Astaire
I’m delighted to welcome today’s guest. Libi Astaire is the author of the award-winning Jewish Regency Mystery series; Terra Incognita, a novel about modern-day descendants of Spain’s secret Jews; and The Banished Heart, a novel about Shakespeare, secret Jews, and 1930s Berlin. She lives in Jerusalem, Israel.
As an avid fan of all things Austen and being hot-wired for Jewish historical fiction, I was thrilled to discover Libi’s collection of Jewish mystery novels. The Banished Heart most certainly does not take place in London’s Regency period; my heart was not all aflutter for a Mr. Darcy or a Captain Wentworth, but there is a certain Austenesque quality to Astaire’s story about Herr Hoffmann that set my heart pounding. Austen was known for her shrewd observances of communal mores. The biting social commentary within Astaire’s The Banished Heart cannot be denied. Without further ado, let’s get on with today’s author’s interview.
Host: Libi, I’m excited to hear about your new release. Please tell us all about it.
Guest: The Wreck of Two Brothers, the sixth novel in my Jewish Regency Mystery series, is about two young men who share the same name, Judah Herzveld, but different fates. One is a member of London’s Jewish community, the other is a visiting non-Jewish Dutch diplomat. When the diplomat is found murdered in London’s Great Synagogue, suspicion naturally falls upon his English namesake. But is there really some long-buried connection between the two men that has led to the fatal encounter? Or is the shared name just an unfortunate coincidence that threatens to destroy the life and happiness of an innocent man? As usual, my detective, Mr. Ezra Melamed, has only a few clues to help him unravel the tangle of lies and deceptions behind the mystery of who killed the young diplomat.
Host: Number Six? Kol Hakavod! I’ve enjoyed following Mr. Melamed throughout your previous novels. What draws you to this particular time period?
Guest: When people think of the Regency, which lasted from about 1790 until 1820, they usually think of the novels of Jane Austen. Even though Austen’s novels are wonderful, there was much more going on than young people getting married! For instance, the Industrial Revolution was beginning to make changes in everyday life, including the creation of an increasingly prosperous middle class, while the Napoleonic Wars were very much on people’s minds. So, the Regency was a time of change and social instability, in many ways, which creates lots of possibilities for mystery and intrigue.
I was also intrigued by the Ashkenazic community living in England at this time. While many people are aware there was a Sephardic community, most don’t know there was a sizeable Ashkenazic community too. So, I’ve really enjoyed researching this community and sharing this information with my readers.
Host: I appreciate authors who weave accurate history throughout the storyline. While doing your research, did anything affect or move you? Did anything come as a surprise?
Guest: I used to write about Jewish history for several publications, and I was often asked to write about the Holocaust, which is of course very sad and moving; but it’s hard to stay in that dark place for long stretches of time. I therefore looked upon my mystery series as a kind of escape. Yes, it’s Jewish history. But it’s fun! Of course, there was plenty of poverty—the vast majority of the Ashkenazic community in London was extremely poor. And there was anti-Semitism, as well as discriminatory legislation. All that is in my series. But I’ve also tried to capture the positive energy and optimism of an immigrant community on the move—hopefully upward, although some of my characters do stumble. Otherwise, there wouldn’t be a mystery for my detective to solve.
Host: That is exactly what attracts me to your work and storylines. Your characters are nuanced and diverse. Do you have a favorite among them?
Guest: I started writing the series a decade ago, and there are about a dozen characters who have recurring roles in the stories—sometimes playing a major role and sometimes appearing in just a scene or two. It’s a little community, and I love spending time with all of them. Having said that, I do have a special place in my heart for my two narrators, who take turns narrating the stories—Miss Rebecca Lyon, a Regency miss who aspires to being an author, and General Well’ngone, a young Jewish pickpocket who aspires to eating a good meal by a warm fire.
Host: Have you visited any of the locations you have written about?
Guest: I’m a big believer in visiting locations you write about, and I’ve been to England several times, including a year I spent studying theatre in London. Unfortunately, many of the Jewish locations I write about no longer exist or they look very different today. For instance, the Great Synagogue was destroyed during the Blitz of World War II. Fortunately, there is an abundance of visual history from the period—maps, aquatint prints, etc.—and so I’ve been able to reconstruct some of my locations from these images.
Host: As I’m relatively new to the craft of writing novels, I am curious to know your process for putting “pen to paper.” Are you a panster or a plotter? Do you begin with an outline and know how the story ends from the get-go; or do you go with the flow, and allow your characters to lead the way?
Guest: I’m definitely a “pantser.” I do write a brief synopsis before I begin writing—and have a good laugh when I read it over after the book is finished. The kernel of the story is there, but the personality of the new characters is usually different from what I originally imagined. And then there are the characters who appear out of nowhere and end up playing an important role. I think if I knew “whodunnit” from the get-go, I’d never write the book. Part of the fun of writing the series is that I’m often surprised by what happens.
Host: Are you working on something now? What was your motivation for this new project?
Guest: I’m about to begin work on two holiday-themed novellas for a new collection of short mystery stories. I like the challenge of the novella—writing a satisfying story in less than 40,000 words—and I like the challenge of including information about the Jewish holidays without sounding too preachy. I hope to have the collection on sale around Purim.
Host: I wish you the best of luck with your projects and applaud your dedication and creativity. I’m excited to read the excerpt you’re sharing today! Is there anything else you’d like to add?
Guest: Thanks so much for inviting me, Mirta! Please see the links below:
Website: http://libiastaire.weebly.com
You can get introduced to the Jewish Regency Mystery series for free with the first volume in the series, Tempest in the Tea Room
Excerpt from Chapter Four of The Wreck of Two Brothers:
“I AM NOT AGAINST PROGRESS,” said Mrs. Lyon, “but I do think some young women today are much too forward. I should hope none of my daughters would rush to view a dead person’s body.”
Mrs. Lyon cast a stern glance in the direction of her daughter Rebecca, who had been gazing intently at the sketch of the Dutchman’s face. It was not because Rebecca thought she knew him, but because, being something of an artist herself — as the collection of painted dishes in the breakfront in her family’s drawing room testified — she wondered how the Bow Street Runner had achieved so much with so few strokes.
Mr. Melamed had returned to his home on Bury Street, bringing with him a copy of the sketch the Bow Street Runner had made earlier. This sketch he was now showing to those still gathered in his drawing room: Mr. and Mrs. Lyon and their daughter Rebecca, Mr. and Mrs. Baer, and Daniel and Mordechai Deerfield. Esther Deerfield was upstairs in the nursery, where her son and the younger Lyon children were having a light supper.
While the servants had cleared away most of the remains from the party, the drawing room, which was usually kept in immaculate order, was still in a state of casual disarray. Those who had remained were also making themselves more at ease than a visit in that drawing room usually permitted. For while their degree of intimacy with Mr. Melamed differed, the tragedy had created a connection between them more quickly than a purely social engagement could have done. Thus, a stranger looking upon the scene could have been forgiven for thinking he was observing an extended family at rest on a long Sunday afternoon at home instead of a gathering discussing a murder.
“If you had been blessed with more sons, Mrs. Lyon, you might be more charitable,” said Daniel Deerfield, politely coming to the defense of his absent sibling. “If Eva seems unusually bold for her sex, I am afraid it is because Mordechai and I treated her more like another brother than a sister.”
Mordechai Deerfield, who had already consumed several small fish sandwiches and had now drifted back to the buffet table to see what else there was to eat, commented, “Yes, the fault, if any, is entirely ours. But in one respect I do agree, ma’am, her behavior today was odd. Eva never struck me as the fainting kind.”
“I doubt she has had a wide experience with viewing human corpses,” said Daniel.
“And I hope she does not intend to remedy her lack of experience,” said Mrs. Baer, who had assumed the duties of hostess and was busy with pouring out more tea. “I cannot think why she insisted on going to the synagogue before going home.”
“She said she had misplaced some notes she had written during the previous committee meeting, which she needed to help her prepare for the meeting tomorrow,” said Mr. Melamed, who was looking fatigued from the long day. “She thought someone might have found them and placed them in the cupboard in the upstairs room.”
“Were they there?” asked Mr. Baer.
Mr. Asher Baer and his wife were the owners of a kosher coffee house on Sweeting’s Alley. Like his wife, he possessed an abundant supply of plain common sense. That, along with his ability to think through a knotty problem with clarity, had made him a welcome confident when Mr. Melamed was confronted with some puzzling crime affecting the Jewish community.
“No, they were not,” replied Mr. Melamed. “Thankfully, the Runner accepted her explanation and allowed the Deerfields to go home.”
“I am sure that is all very well,” Mrs. Baer commented. Then, turning to Daniel and Mordechai Deerfield, she said, “But you, gentlemen, are her brothers, and you might drop a word in Miss Deerfield’s ear that now she is engaged she should be more worried about finding ways to please her fiancé than finding committee meeting notes.”
“Herzveld surely knows what he is in for,” said Daniel Deerfield. “He practically grew up in our home. By the way, sir,” he said to Mr. Melamed, “you did not mention the murdered man’s name. Is the information being kept secret, or have they not yet identified the body?”
Mr. Melamed had been expecting the question. In fact, he was mildly surprised no one had asked it earlier, while they were passing around the sketch of the Dutchman’s face. It could be explained, he supposed, because the murdered man was not a member of their community, and so no one in the room expected to know him. Therefore, the man’s name was just one detail among many — and not one of the more interesting ones. As for why he had not mentioned it, on that point Mr. Melamed was clearer. First, he wanted to know if anyone had seen the young Dutchman — where, at what time, and with whom — and for that the sketch was enough. Mention of the name would only lead to useless speculations, after a suitable period of stunned silence.
But because his son-in-law had voiced the question, Mr. Melamed replied, “It is no secret. He carried a card-case. And he was identified by an acquaintance, a Mr. Hendriks, who is a member of the delegation from Holland. His name was Judah Herzveld, and he was also part of the Dutch delegation.”
As he expected, his announcement was greeted with astonishment — looks which ranged from slightly puzzled to outright, open-eyed amazement.
“There are probably dozens of Judah Herzvelds in Holland,” said Mr. Lyon, the first to recover and break the uncomfortable silence.
“Still, it is a strange coincidence,” said Daniel Deerfield.
“It is positively ghoulish,” said his younger brother. “Almost like a ghost rising from his grave to—”
Miss Lyon gave a little gasp. For an admirer of the Gothic novel, which she was, this surprising turn of events was thrilling — almost like one of Mrs. Ann Radcliffe’s stories come to life! She could almost hear the iron chains, which had surely been wrapped around the poor ghost’s legs, clanging in the hallway when —
“Stuff and nonsense,” said Mrs. Baer. “If it had been a ghost, it would not have allowed itself to be killed.”
“I stand corrected, ma’am,” said Mordechai Deerfield, with a mischievous twinkle in his eye. “What would a ghost have done?”
www.mirtainestruppauthor.com
I’m delighted to welcome today’s guest. Libi Astaire is the author of the award-winning Jewish Regency Mystery series; Terra Incognita, a novel about modern-day descendants of Spain’s secret Jews; and The Banished Heart, a novel about Shakespeare, secret Jews, and 1930s Berlin. She lives in Jerusalem, Israel.
As an avid fan of all things Austen and being hot-wired for Jewish historical fiction, I was thrilled to discover Libi’s collection of Jewish mystery novels. The Banished Heart most certainly does not take place in London’s Regency period; my heart was not all aflutter for a Mr. Darcy or a Captain Wentworth, but there is a certain Austenesque quality to Astaire’s story about Herr Hoffmann that set my heart pounding. Austen was known for her shrewd observances of communal mores. The biting social commentary within Astaire’s The Banished Heart cannot be denied. Without further ado, let’s get on with today’s author’s interview.
Host: Libi, I’m excited to hear about your new release. Please tell us all about it.
Guest: The Wreck of Two Brothers, the sixth novel in my Jewish Regency Mystery series, is about two young men who share the same name, Judah Herzveld, but different fates. One is a member of London’s Jewish community, the other is a visiting non-Jewish Dutch diplomat. When the diplomat is found murdered in London’s Great Synagogue, suspicion naturally falls upon his English namesake. But is there really some long-buried connection between the two men that has led to the fatal encounter? Or is the shared name just an unfortunate coincidence that threatens to destroy the life and happiness of an innocent man? As usual, my detective, Mr. Ezra Melamed, has only a few clues to help him unravel the tangle of lies and deceptions behind the mystery of who killed the young diplomat.
Host: Number Six? Kol Hakavod! I’ve enjoyed following Mr. Melamed throughout your previous novels. What draws you to this particular time period?
Guest: When people think of the Regency, which lasted from about 1790 until 1820, they usually think of the novels of Jane Austen. Even though Austen’s novels are wonderful, there was much more going on than young people getting married! For instance, the Industrial Revolution was beginning to make changes in everyday life, including the creation of an increasingly prosperous middle class, while the Napoleonic Wars were very much on people’s minds. So, the Regency was a time of change and social instability, in many ways, which creates lots of possibilities for mystery and intrigue.
I was also intrigued by the Ashkenazic community living in England at this time. While many people are aware there was a Sephardic community, most don’t know there was a sizeable Ashkenazic community too. So, I’ve really enjoyed researching this community and sharing this information with my readers.
Host: I appreciate authors who weave accurate history throughout the storyline. While doing your research, did anything affect or move you? Did anything come as a surprise?
Guest: I used to write about Jewish history for several publications, and I was often asked to write about the Holocaust, which is of course very sad and moving; but it’s hard to stay in that dark place for long stretches of time. I therefore looked upon my mystery series as a kind of escape. Yes, it’s Jewish history. But it’s fun! Of course, there was plenty of poverty—the vast majority of the Ashkenazic community in London was extremely poor. And there was anti-Semitism, as well as discriminatory legislation. All that is in my series. But I’ve also tried to capture the positive energy and optimism of an immigrant community on the move—hopefully upward, although some of my characters do stumble. Otherwise, there wouldn’t be a mystery for my detective to solve.
Host: That is exactly what attracts me to your work and storylines. Your characters are nuanced and diverse. Do you have a favorite among them?
Guest: I started writing the series a decade ago, and there are about a dozen characters who have recurring roles in the stories—sometimes playing a major role and sometimes appearing in just a scene or two. It’s a little community, and I love spending time with all of them. Having said that, I do have a special place in my heart for my two narrators, who take turns narrating the stories—Miss Rebecca Lyon, a Regency miss who aspires to being an author, and General Well’ngone, a young Jewish pickpocket who aspires to eating a good meal by a warm fire.
Host: Have you visited any of the locations you have written about?
Guest: I’m a big believer in visiting locations you write about, and I’ve been to England several times, including a year I spent studying theatre in London. Unfortunately, many of the Jewish locations I write about no longer exist or they look very different today. For instance, the Great Synagogue was destroyed during the Blitz of World War II. Fortunately, there is an abundance of visual history from the period—maps, aquatint prints, etc.—and so I’ve been able to reconstruct some of my locations from these images.
Host: As I’m relatively new to the craft of writing novels, I am curious to know your process for putting “pen to paper.” Are you a panster or a plotter? Do you begin with an outline and know how the story ends from the get-go; or do you go with the flow, and allow your characters to lead the way?
Guest: I’m definitely a “pantser.” I do write a brief synopsis before I begin writing—and have a good laugh when I read it over after the book is finished. The kernel of the story is there, but the personality of the new characters is usually different from what I originally imagined. And then there are the characters who appear out of nowhere and end up playing an important role. I think if I knew “whodunnit” from the get-go, I’d never write the book. Part of the fun of writing the series is that I’m often surprised by what happens.
Host: Are you working on something now? What was your motivation for this new project?
Guest: I’m about to begin work on two holiday-themed novellas for a new collection of short mystery stories. I like the challenge of the novella—writing a satisfying story in less than 40,000 words—and I like the challenge of including information about the Jewish holidays without sounding too preachy. I hope to have the collection on sale around Purim.
Host: I wish you the best of luck with your projects and applaud your dedication and creativity. I’m excited to read the excerpt you’re sharing today! Is there anything else you’d like to add?
Guest: Thanks so much for inviting me, Mirta! Please see the links below:
Website: http://libiastaire.weebly.com
You can get introduced to the Jewish Regency Mystery series for free with the first volume in the series, Tempest in the Tea Room
Excerpt from Chapter Four of The Wreck of Two Brothers:
“I AM NOT AGAINST PROGRESS,” said Mrs. Lyon, “but I do think some young women today are much too forward. I should hope none of my daughters would rush to view a dead person’s body.”
Mrs. Lyon cast a stern glance in the direction of her daughter Rebecca, who had been gazing intently at the sketch of the Dutchman’s face. It was not because Rebecca thought she knew him, but because, being something of an artist herself — as the collection of painted dishes in the breakfront in her family’s drawing room testified — she wondered how the Bow Street Runner had achieved so much with so few strokes.
Mr. Melamed had returned to his home on Bury Street, bringing with him a copy of the sketch the Bow Street Runner had made earlier. This sketch he was now showing to those still gathered in his drawing room: Mr. and Mrs. Lyon and their daughter Rebecca, Mr. and Mrs. Baer, and Daniel and Mordechai Deerfield. Esther Deerfield was upstairs in the nursery, where her son and the younger Lyon children were having a light supper.
While the servants had cleared away most of the remains from the party, the drawing room, which was usually kept in immaculate order, was still in a state of casual disarray. Those who had remained were also making themselves more at ease than a visit in that drawing room usually permitted. For while their degree of intimacy with Mr. Melamed differed, the tragedy had created a connection between them more quickly than a purely social engagement could have done. Thus, a stranger looking upon the scene could have been forgiven for thinking he was observing an extended family at rest on a long Sunday afternoon at home instead of a gathering discussing a murder.
“If you had been blessed with more sons, Mrs. Lyon, you might be more charitable,” said Daniel Deerfield, politely coming to the defense of his absent sibling. “If Eva seems unusually bold for her sex, I am afraid it is because Mordechai and I treated her more like another brother than a sister.”
Mordechai Deerfield, who had already consumed several small fish sandwiches and had now drifted back to the buffet table to see what else there was to eat, commented, “Yes, the fault, if any, is entirely ours. But in one respect I do agree, ma’am, her behavior today was odd. Eva never struck me as the fainting kind.”
“I doubt she has had a wide experience with viewing human corpses,” said Daniel.
“And I hope she does not intend to remedy her lack of experience,” said Mrs. Baer, who had assumed the duties of hostess and was busy with pouring out more tea. “I cannot think why she insisted on going to the synagogue before going home.”
“She said she had misplaced some notes she had written during the previous committee meeting, which she needed to help her prepare for the meeting tomorrow,” said Mr. Melamed, who was looking fatigued from the long day. “She thought someone might have found them and placed them in the cupboard in the upstairs room.”
“Were they there?” asked Mr. Baer.
Mr. Asher Baer and his wife were the owners of a kosher coffee house on Sweeting’s Alley. Like his wife, he possessed an abundant supply of plain common sense. That, along with his ability to think through a knotty problem with clarity, had made him a welcome confident when Mr. Melamed was confronted with some puzzling crime affecting the Jewish community.
“No, they were not,” replied Mr. Melamed. “Thankfully, the Runner accepted her explanation and allowed the Deerfields to go home.”
“I am sure that is all very well,” Mrs. Baer commented. Then, turning to Daniel and Mordechai Deerfield, she said, “But you, gentlemen, are her brothers, and you might drop a word in Miss Deerfield’s ear that now she is engaged she should be more worried about finding ways to please her fiancé than finding committee meeting notes.”
“Herzveld surely knows what he is in for,” said Daniel Deerfield. “He practically grew up in our home. By the way, sir,” he said to Mr. Melamed, “you did not mention the murdered man’s name. Is the information being kept secret, or have they not yet identified the body?”
Mr. Melamed had been expecting the question. In fact, he was mildly surprised no one had asked it earlier, while they were passing around the sketch of the Dutchman’s face. It could be explained, he supposed, because the murdered man was not a member of their community, and so no one in the room expected to know him. Therefore, the man’s name was just one detail among many — and not one of the more interesting ones. As for why he had not mentioned it, on that point Mr. Melamed was clearer. First, he wanted to know if anyone had seen the young Dutchman — where, at what time, and with whom — and for that the sketch was enough. Mention of the name would only lead to useless speculations, after a suitable period of stunned silence.
But because his son-in-law had voiced the question, Mr. Melamed replied, “It is no secret. He carried a card-case. And he was identified by an acquaintance, a Mr. Hendriks, who is a member of the delegation from Holland. His name was Judah Herzveld, and he was also part of the Dutch delegation.”
As he expected, his announcement was greeted with astonishment — looks which ranged from slightly puzzled to outright, open-eyed amazement.
“There are probably dozens of Judah Herzvelds in Holland,” said Mr. Lyon, the first to recover and break the uncomfortable silence.
“Still, it is a strange coincidence,” said Daniel Deerfield.
“It is positively ghoulish,” said his younger brother. “Almost like a ghost rising from his grave to—”
Miss Lyon gave a little gasp. For an admirer of the Gothic novel, which she was, this surprising turn of events was thrilling — almost like one of Mrs. Ann Radcliffe’s stories come to life! She could almost hear the iron chains, which had surely been wrapped around the poor ghost’s legs, clanging in the hallway when —
“Stuff and nonsense,” said Mrs. Baer. “If it had been a ghost, it would not have allowed itself to be killed.”
“I stand corrected, ma’am,” said Mordechai Deerfield, with a mischievous twinkle in his eye. “What would a ghost have done?”
www.mirtainestruppauthor.com
December 2, 2020
New Blog
Hello everyone. I'm officially off of Facebook and have launched a blog. I'll be hosting author interviews and sharing my love for "period drama" with a bisel yiddishkeit. Please stop by and tell me what you think.
#Jewishhistoricalfiction
https://mirtainestruppauthor.com/
#Jewishhistoricalfiction
https://mirtainestruppauthor.com/
November 23, 2020
Interview with Michelle Cameron
I had the pleasure of interviewing author, Michelle Cameron. Please stop by and take a look around:
https://mirtainestruppauthor.com/cate...
https://mirtainestruppauthor.com/cate...
October 2, 2020
Austen Authors
It is my pleasure to invite you into my world of Jewish Austen Fan Fiction. Please follow the link and leave your greeting or comment.
https://austenauthors.net/jewish-aust...
https://austenauthors.net/jewish-aust...
April 25, 2020
Jewish Historical Fiction Novels
I am an avid novel reader and have been a great fan of the Bronte sisters, Elizabeth Gaskell, Catherine Cookson, and, of course, Jane Austen. However, the collective work of these trail-blazing women had left me wanting. I longed to see someone of my ancestry amid the assemblies and tea parties, strolling through Hyde Park or rambling along the Peak District. Alas, it is a truth universally acknowledged that there are few Jewish characters of worth in historical novels. I decided if I wanted to read something that was not derogatory or tragic, I would have to write it myself. And I did! There is a wealth of history and experiences within the Jewish community that must be extoled. For this reason, I tend to focus on non-Holocaust related material. Along the way, I have been delighted to discover talented and inspiring authors. They too have dedicated themselves to the craft of writing Jewish Historical Fiction. Here are just a few titles for your reading pleasure… (you’re welcome).
AMERICAN REVOLUTION ERA
Pursuit of Happiness, by Sheldon Greene
https://www.amazon.com/Pursuit-Happin...
I kept thinking of Gary Cooper's, 'Sergeant York' or James Stewart in 'Shenandoah,' because the protagonist in this novel is Quaker. I was very pleased, however, to see that the author spared us the negative stereotyping of his many Jewish characters. Indeed, Greene was generous with his research and inclusion of the Jewish community's impact on the war effort.
AMERICAN WESTERN/PIONEER ERA
The Promised Land by Ruhama Veltfort
https://www.amazon.com/Promised-Land-...
The Promised Land covers a wide range of topics and genres: Shtetl life, Immigrants, Mysticism, Pioneers, Frontier, and History. Crazy, but I liked it. Chana and Yitzhak, the two main characters, struggle with the concept of Divine Providence, each in their own unique way. I applaud the author for writing characters and experiences without worrying about being politically correct. All in all, I enjoyed the novel. It was tragic, honest, thought-provoking, and essentially spoke of the human experience of trying to be at peace with God's will.
The Last Woman Standing by Thelma Adams
https://www.amazon.com/Last-Woman-Sta...
The novel presents an adventurous teenage girl, coming of age within the constraints of a Jewish, immigrant home. This work is NOT a Clean Read, but I overlooked the cringe-worthy, sexual scenes. I was curious to read about the Jewish experience in this genre. The family is said to be Prussian; her mother is a devout Jew, her father appears to be less so, assimilated—working on Shabbat, but culturally identifying with his faith. I became restless by the end of the novel with the erotic episodes and the shoot-out scenes, but there was something about this book that touched me. Josephine experienced her connection to Judaism in subtle ways; baking strudel and lekach (honey cake) reminded her of happy times with her father. She communed with G-d through the beauty and serenity of the desert’s evening sky. I have (mostly) enjoyed this novel, and have taken it for what is—a fictionalized accounting of a young, Jewish woman and her experiences in the Wild West.
EDWARDIAN ERA
Destiny by Design: Leah’s Journey, by Mirta Ines Trupp
https://www.amazon.com/Destiny-Design...
Editorial Review by Historical Readers’ Blog and Awards
Leah Abramovitz's story is a novel exuding passion and understanding of life in Odessa (Imperial Russia), and it affords more than a glimpse of the Jewish community and all the Abramovitz family have built for future generations. But, with the coming of pogroms (violent anti-Semitism) the family decide to start a new life in Argentina. As an émigré within a new country, Leah matures from an idealistic romantic teenager into a woman of strong mind and purpose in life. The narrative, the dialogue, and the characters initially bring to life the emotions of a family in jeopardy amidst impending and ongoing likelihood of persecution in late 19th and early 20th century Russia. The strength to close a door on one life and start anew in Buenos Aires for the Abramovitz family is as heartbreaking as it is daunting. I heartily recommend this delightful and engrossing family novel for the Historical Readers' Award. Not only is the story steeped in historical facts and the Jewish faith, it radiates love of family across the generations. It is as educational as it is entertaining, which is the last important factor for any award winning novel in my humble opinion.
ELIZABETHAN ERA
The Banished Heart, by Libi Astaire
https://www.amazon.com/Banished-Heart...
I was thrilled to discover Libi Astaire and her collection of Jewish Regency mystery novels. “The Banished Heart” most certainly does not take place in London's Regency period—my heart was not all aflutter for a Mr. Darcy or a Captain Wentworth, but there is a certain Austenesque quality to Astaire's story about Herr Hoffmann that set my heart pounding. Austen was known for her shrewd observances of communal mores. The biting social commentary within this novel, of what it meant to be a Jew in Germany— a Jew in Spain—a Jew in England, cannot be denied. Jane Austen was known for her realism. We are transported to her world through vivid descriptions of ordinary people. We connect with Austen’s characters, because we relate to the Universal themes of human emotions and relationships. I felt the same intensity in reading “The Banished Heart.”
Caledonia by Sherry V. Ostroff
https://www.amazon.com/Caledonia-Sher...
The author combines history, romance and suspense in this narrative. I was drawn to the storyline as it encompasses history of the Jews escaping the Spanish Inquisition and establishing themselves, of all places, in Scotland. The added intrigue of a modern-day woman, sort of floundering in her world of loss and mystery, connecting with her 17th century Jewish ancestor reeled me in. Ostroff paints a highly descriptive picture to emphasize the lengths one will go to, not only to survive, but to thrive. Every decision one makes has the potential to be life altering. The very powerful instinct to survive might only be surpassed by the human need to be remembered—to endure.
GEORGIAN ERA
An Open Heart by Caroline Warfield
https://www.amazon.com/Open-Heart-Car...
There was a certain lightness to this novel, except—gasp!—there were Jewish people involved. I was happy to note that the author spoke to the marginalization of British Jews in high society, as well as their contributions and achievements (the storyline of coming to Wellington's aid was very well done). I think my favorite scene had to be the impromptu, Shabbat service held in the Duchess of Haverford's drawing room. The signing of the ketubah (marriage contract) was delightful! I loved this book!
Lady Barbara's Dilemma by Marjorie Farrell
https://www.amazon.com/Lady-Barbaras-...
We have two storylines to follow here—actually three, if you count the attractive Scotsman! All quite charming, to be sure, but it was Sir David Treves, a secondary character, who captured my attention. There are no broad, brush strokes of evil Christians and saintly Jews OR saintly Christians and evil Jews. Both David, and the handsome Scotsman, speak to the difficulty of knowing “how to balance two identities,” and I loved the ongoing theme of being true to oneself. I had my fill of society balls and fripperies, teas, rides through Hyde Park, and even a Friday night, Oneg Shabbat. I enjoyed the romance; but as a fair warning to sensitive readers, this is not entirely a Clean Read. The author wove her research beautifully into the Georgian narrative, sharing the under-acknowledged complexities and contributions of Jewish people in England.
REGENCY/ JANE AUSTEN FAN FICTION
The Meyersons of Meryton, by Mirta Ines Trupp
https://www.amazon.com/Meyersons-Mery...
Editorial Review by Jane Austen Readers’ Book Awards
Flurry and panic of an imminent double wedding at the Bennet household is apparent throughout this novel. Essentially this is a mid-themed, “Pride & Prejudice” variation. While the Bennet family, Mr. Charles Bingley, and Mr. Fitzwilliam Darcy provide a familial feel to this novel, Rabbi Meyerson and his family bring to light a Jewish community within Meryton. Mrs. Bennet and her daughters unfamiliar with the Jewish faith are as intrigued as they are baffled by it. With alacrity Miss Mary Bennet embraces the mayhem all around, rather pleased her many seeming faults are less noticeable. In the meanwhile Mr. Bennet discovers he and the Rabbi have a deal in common. Their covert observations, however, are not without risk. Unfortunately the pickle the two elders fall into requires an intrepid hero. Mr. Darcy is therefore the man of the moment, and Mr. Wickham is involved in the dark mix. The novel has amusing asides and a literary touch to the prose. For the uninitiated there is a great deal of enlightenment to the Jewish faith in all its facets, and the Jane Austen Readers’ Award is hereby granted to Mirta Ines Trupp for "The Meyersons of Meryton."
RUSSIAN REVOLUTION ERA
Red Winter: One Woman's Struggle to Survive the Russian Revolution
by Kyra Kaptzan Robinov
https://www.amazon.com/Red-Winter-Str...
This is a beautifully and intelligently written novel. I was hooked with the first few paragraphs, so much so, that I completed the book in one day. That is not to say that this work is a quick or easy read; there is a certain depth to the writing. The author expertly allows us to feel the bitterness of the snow or luxuriate in the warmth of a fur coat, to savor the smoked salmon, hearty soups and succulent vareniki, and harder still, to be gripped with fear and anxiety, but yet have the courage to fight on. There are moments of joy, nostalgia and achievement, but there is no escaping the dark and terrifying story of what happened to the people of Nikolaevsk-on-Amur. I am also of Russian descent; my Jewish ancestors lived in various locations of this vast empire. This was a moving—poignant—account that hit home for me. The Universal Truths evident in the powerhouse that was Luba, and those within her circle of family and friends, make this story easily relatable to a wide and diverse audience. Congratulations to the author for bringing this story to light and honoring her ancestors.
SAGA
The Reason for Wings by Joyce Reiser Kornblatt
https://www.amazon.com/Reason-Wings-L...
This familiar narrative, told with a transcendent twist, was too compelling for me to pass by. Kornblatt weaves a tale so rich and full bodied that each sentence is more satisfying, each line satiating this reader with descriptions full of metaphor and heart-wrenching detail. In my opinion, tagging this book a Holocaust novel does it a disservice. It would be a shame for someone to overlook this novel thinking its pages were filled with that particular horror. But don’t misunderstand me—this book is not without horror. The saga spans across history and continents through the lives of mothers and daughters. With resplendent imagery and a brilliant use of history, the author leads us through their tragic and bittersweet lives. Leaving not one emotion untouched, Kornblatt allowed me to live fully and absolutely with these women, to grieve, to rejoice, to struggle, to exalt and to decry—so completely did I identify with them. This is a painful story, but it is not without hope and therein lies the beauty of the narrative. For whenever a people have been beaten and nearly destroyed, it has been their will to protect their children, their struggle for freedom, their resiliency… their faith that has given wings to their hope (“You, yourselves, have seen what I did to Egypt, and how I carried you on eagle wings and brought you to Me.” [Exodus 19:4]). I can’t recommend this book enough.
The Four Winds of Heaven by Monique Raphel High
https://www.amazon.com/Four-Winds-Hea...
Monique Raphel High, granddaughter of Sonia de Gunzburg, has done a remarkable job in bringing us the story of her ancestors and in describing the beauty of the era—as well as the horror. Heart-wrenching romance and tragedies, so typical of Russian classics, kept me glued to the page. I applaud the author for providing another view of Russian Jews. "Fiddler on the Roof" is so ingrained in our minds, it seems that we can only visualize Tevye and the people of Anatevka. We forget that Jews of the upper echelons of society rubbed elbows with European and Russian nobility. We forget of the trials and tribulations of the Rothschilds, the Brodskys, the Gunzburgs, and many others. This is not light reading. This novel speaks volumes of the human condition, the vulnerability, the fragility, and the strength to fight and to survive.
SPANISH INQUISITION ERA
Hidden Ones: A Veil of Memories by Marcia Fine
https://www.amazon.com/Hidden-Ones-Me...
While there are innumerable accounts that speak of the mass exodus of Eastern European Jews escaping to the ‘goldene medina’—The United States of America—this book provides much insight into another, equally fascinating experience, that is to say: the migration of Sephardic Jews to the New World. This novel points to the impetus of how and why crypto-Jews (Conversos) came to live in North and South America. Marcia Fine has written a resplendent novel, an heirloom for those of Sephardic ancestry, as well as a thought-provoking read for all who are eager to benefit from the author’s extensive research. Our ancestors are more than just grainy, black and white photographs that we store away in a drawer or hang upon our walls. They were flesh and blood, with tremendous stories of passion, accomplishments, tragedies and loss. I congratulate Ms. Fine, for honoring these brave souls with “Hidden Ones: A Veil of Memories”. The novel is a must read—this story must be known. As the author states, Judaism is a faith of remembrance. We are commanded to teach our children and to encourage respect for those who passed before us. In every generation…L’dor v’dor.
TIME TRAVEL
Becoming Malka, by Mirta Ines Trupp
https://www.amazon.com/Becoming-Malka...
Editorial Review by Brooks Kohler, Author and Founder of Laptiast.com
There are some stories that stand out above others and deserve praise; “Becoming Malka” is one of them. I could not put this manuscript down. I breezed through it in what seemed like hours. While some stories have left me guessing, Becoming Malka left me imagining. Through skillful use of prose and well-researched history pertaining to Jews living in Russia, Ukraine, and Argentina, the book is more than simply fiction. It is an educative resource that will enlighten the minds of all who read it. Being one who does not enjoy spoiling a plot, I am going to end now and let you get to what I am convinced will not be a chore of a read. We put up with a lot on this amazing planet to remain content. Thankfully, there are those who write well to help us manage.
Me & Georgette, by D.B. Schaefer
https://www.amazon.com/Me-Georgette-D...
While I occasionally found myself being reminded of Mr. Collins, Caroline Bingley, and even Lady Catherine de Bourgh, I stopped and allowed the author’s characters to weave their own stories and create new images. "Me & Georgette" brings Regency and Yiddishkeit successfully into a shidach, and marries the two worlds beautifully. Filling a void for many Period readers, I believe the storyline would resonate with a diverse audience—Jewish or not. Devorah's spirit and intelligence reminded me of many of our beloved Regency heroines. I couldn't wait to read the end; not because I was eager to set down the book, but rather I was dying of curiosity to see how the time-travel issue was dealt with...Jewishly. I won't give away any further details or spoilers. A delightful read!
VICTORIAN ERA
The First Mrs. Rothschild by Sara Aharoni, Yardenne Greenspan
https://www.amazon.com/First-Mrs-Roth...
Inspiring. Thought-provoking. Enlightening. “Dignity is a powerful thing. We shall use it to break through the walls of the ghetto and set ourselves free.” I am fascinated with this time period: The Rothschilds, the Montefiores...what these families were able to accomplish, under that level of persecution and oppression, is mind boggling! Sara Aharoni has done a remarkable job bringing this family to life for me. Kol hakavod.
Thank you for your interest. Follow me on Facebook at www.facebook.com/mirtainestrupp or on Goodreads, Instagram and Pinterest.
#JewishHistoricalFiction #Jewishbooks #jewishprotagonists #Jewishindieauthor #NonHolocaust #JewishArgentina #RussianJews #ArgentineJews #RegencyJews #SpanishJews #SheldonGreene #SaraAharoni #MirtaInesTrupp #DBSchaefer #MarciaFine #LibiAstaire #RuhamaVeltfort #ThelmaAdams #KyraKaptzanRobinov #MoniqueRaphelHigh #JoyceReiserKornblatt #SherryVOstroff #CarolineWarfield #MarjorieFarrell
AMERICAN REVOLUTION ERA
Pursuit of Happiness, by Sheldon Greene
https://www.amazon.com/Pursuit-Happin...
I kept thinking of Gary Cooper's, 'Sergeant York' or James Stewart in 'Shenandoah,' because the protagonist in this novel is Quaker. I was very pleased, however, to see that the author spared us the negative stereotyping of his many Jewish characters. Indeed, Greene was generous with his research and inclusion of the Jewish community's impact on the war effort.
AMERICAN WESTERN/PIONEER ERA
The Promised Land by Ruhama Veltfort
https://www.amazon.com/Promised-Land-...
The Promised Land covers a wide range of topics and genres: Shtetl life, Immigrants, Mysticism, Pioneers, Frontier, and History. Crazy, but I liked it. Chana and Yitzhak, the two main characters, struggle with the concept of Divine Providence, each in their own unique way. I applaud the author for writing characters and experiences without worrying about being politically correct. All in all, I enjoyed the novel. It was tragic, honest, thought-provoking, and essentially spoke of the human experience of trying to be at peace with God's will.
The Last Woman Standing by Thelma Adams
https://www.amazon.com/Last-Woman-Sta...
The novel presents an adventurous teenage girl, coming of age within the constraints of a Jewish, immigrant home. This work is NOT a Clean Read, but I overlooked the cringe-worthy, sexual scenes. I was curious to read about the Jewish experience in this genre. The family is said to be Prussian; her mother is a devout Jew, her father appears to be less so, assimilated—working on Shabbat, but culturally identifying with his faith. I became restless by the end of the novel with the erotic episodes and the shoot-out scenes, but there was something about this book that touched me. Josephine experienced her connection to Judaism in subtle ways; baking strudel and lekach (honey cake) reminded her of happy times with her father. She communed with G-d through the beauty and serenity of the desert’s evening sky. I have (mostly) enjoyed this novel, and have taken it for what is—a fictionalized accounting of a young, Jewish woman and her experiences in the Wild West.
EDWARDIAN ERA
Destiny by Design: Leah’s Journey, by Mirta Ines Trupp
https://www.amazon.com/Destiny-Design...
Editorial Review by Historical Readers’ Blog and Awards
Leah Abramovitz's story is a novel exuding passion and understanding of life in Odessa (Imperial Russia), and it affords more than a glimpse of the Jewish community and all the Abramovitz family have built for future generations. But, with the coming of pogroms (violent anti-Semitism) the family decide to start a new life in Argentina. As an émigré within a new country, Leah matures from an idealistic romantic teenager into a woman of strong mind and purpose in life. The narrative, the dialogue, and the characters initially bring to life the emotions of a family in jeopardy amidst impending and ongoing likelihood of persecution in late 19th and early 20th century Russia. The strength to close a door on one life and start anew in Buenos Aires for the Abramovitz family is as heartbreaking as it is daunting. I heartily recommend this delightful and engrossing family novel for the Historical Readers' Award. Not only is the story steeped in historical facts and the Jewish faith, it radiates love of family across the generations. It is as educational as it is entertaining, which is the last important factor for any award winning novel in my humble opinion.
ELIZABETHAN ERA
The Banished Heart, by Libi Astaire
https://www.amazon.com/Banished-Heart...
I was thrilled to discover Libi Astaire and her collection of Jewish Regency mystery novels. “The Banished Heart” most certainly does not take place in London's Regency period—my heart was not all aflutter for a Mr. Darcy or a Captain Wentworth, but there is a certain Austenesque quality to Astaire's story about Herr Hoffmann that set my heart pounding. Austen was known for her shrewd observances of communal mores. The biting social commentary within this novel, of what it meant to be a Jew in Germany— a Jew in Spain—a Jew in England, cannot be denied. Jane Austen was known for her realism. We are transported to her world through vivid descriptions of ordinary people. We connect with Austen’s characters, because we relate to the Universal themes of human emotions and relationships. I felt the same intensity in reading “The Banished Heart.”
Caledonia by Sherry V. Ostroff
https://www.amazon.com/Caledonia-Sher...
The author combines history, romance and suspense in this narrative. I was drawn to the storyline as it encompasses history of the Jews escaping the Spanish Inquisition and establishing themselves, of all places, in Scotland. The added intrigue of a modern-day woman, sort of floundering in her world of loss and mystery, connecting with her 17th century Jewish ancestor reeled me in. Ostroff paints a highly descriptive picture to emphasize the lengths one will go to, not only to survive, but to thrive. Every decision one makes has the potential to be life altering. The very powerful instinct to survive might only be surpassed by the human need to be remembered—to endure.
GEORGIAN ERA
An Open Heart by Caroline Warfield
https://www.amazon.com/Open-Heart-Car...
There was a certain lightness to this novel, except—gasp!—there were Jewish people involved. I was happy to note that the author spoke to the marginalization of British Jews in high society, as well as their contributions and achievements (the storyline of coming to Wellington's aid was very well done). I think my favorite scene had to be the impromptu, Shabbat service held in the Duchess of Haverford's drawing room. The signing of the ketubah (marriage contract) was delightful! I loved this book!
Lady Barbara's Dilemma by Marjorie Farrell
https://www.amazon.com/Lady-Barbaras-...
We have two storylines to follow here—actually three, if you count the attractive Scotsman! All quite charming, to be sure, but it was Sir David Treves, a secondary character, who captured my attention. There are no broad, brush strokes of evil Christians and saintly Jews OR saintly Christians and evil Jews. Both David, and the handsome Scotsman, speak to the difficulty of knowing “how to balance two identities,” and I loved the ongoing theme of being true to oneself. I had my fill of society balls and fripperies, teas, rides through Hyde Park, and even a Friday night, Oneg Shabbat. I enjoyed the romance; but as a fair warning to sensitive readers, this is not entirely a Clean Read. The author wove her research beautifully into the Georgian narrative, sharing the under-acknowledged complexities and contributions of Jewish people in England.
REGENCY/ JANE AUSTEN FAN FICTION
The Meyersons of Meryton, by Mirta Ines Trupp
https://www.amazon.com/Meyersons-Mery...
Editorial Review by Jane Austen Readers’ Book Awards
Flurry and panic of an imminent double wedding at the Bennet household is apparent throughout this novel. Essentially this is a mid-themed, “Pride & Prejudice” variation. While the Bennet family, Mr. Charles Bingley, and Mr. Fitzwilliam Darcy provide a familial feel to this novel, Rabbi Meyerson and his family bring to light a Jewish community within Meryton. Mrs. Bennet and her daughters unfamiliar with the Jewish faith are as intrigued as they are baffled by it. With alacrity Miss Mary Bennet embraces the mayhem all around, rather pleased her many seeming faults are less noticeable. In the meanwhile Mr. Bennet discovers he and the Rabbi have a deal in common. Their covert observations, however, are not without risk. Unfortunately the pickle the two elders fall into requires an intrepid hero. Mr. Darcy is therefore the man of the moment, and Mr. Wickham is involved in the dark mix. The novel has amusing asides and a literary touch to the prose. For the uninitiated there is a great deal of enlightenment to the Jewish faith in all its facets, and the Jane Austen Readers’ Award is hereby granted to Mirta Ines Trupp for "The Meyersons of Meryton."
RUSSIAN REVOLUTION ERA
Red Winter: One Woman's Struggle to Survive the Russian Revolution
by Kyra Kaptzan Robinov
https://www.amazon.com/Red-Winter-Str...
This is a beautifully and intelligently written novel. I was hooked with the first few paragraphs, so much so, that I completed the book in one day. That is not to say that this work is a quick or easy read; there is a certain depth to the writing. The author expertly allows us to feel the bitterness of the snow or luxuriate in the warmth of a fur coat, to savor the smoked salmon, hearty soups and succulent vareniki, and harder still, to be gripped with fear and anxiety, but yet have the courage to fight on. There are moments of joy, nostalgia and achievement, but there is no escaping the dark and terrifying story of what happened to the people of Nikolaevsk-on-Amur. I am also of Russian descent; my Jewish ancestors lived in various locations of this vast empire. This was a moving—poignant—account that hit home for me. The Universal Truths evident in the powerhouse that was Luba, and those within her circle of family and friends, make this story easily relatable to a wide and diverse audience. Congratulations to the author for bringing this story to light and honoring her ancestors.
SAGA
The Reason for Wings by Joyce Reiser Kornblatt
https://www.amazon.com/Reason-Wings-L...
This familiar narrative, told with a transcendent twist, was too compelling for me to pass by. Kornblatt weaves a tale so rich and full bodied that each sentence is more satisfying, each line satiating this reader with descriptions full of metaphor and heart-wrenching detail. In my opinion, tagging this book a Holocaust novel does it a disservice. It would be a shame for someone to overlook this novel thinking its pages were filled with that particular horror. But don’t misunderstand me—this book is not without horror. The saga spans across history and continents through the lives of mothers and daughters. With resplendent imagery and a brilliant use of history, the author leads us through their tragic and bittersweet lives. Leaving not one emotion untouched, Kornblatt allowed me to live fully and absolutely with these women, to grieve, to rejoice, to struggle, to exalt and to decry—so completely did I identify with them. This is a painful story, but it is not without hope and therein lies the beauty of the narrative. For whenever a people have been beaten and nearly destroyed, it has been their will to protect their children, their struggle for freedom, their resiliency… their faith that has given wings to their hope (“You, yourselves, have seen what I did to Egypt, and how I carried you on eagle wings and brought you to Me.” [Exodus 19:4]). I can’t recommend this book enough.
The Four Winds of Heaven by Monique Raphel High
https://www.amazon.com/Four-Winds-Hea...
Monique Raphel High, granddaughter of Sonia de Gunzburg, has done a remarkable job in bringing us the story of her ancestors and in describing the beauty of the era—as well as the horror. Heart-wrenching romance and tragedies, so typical of Russian classics, kept me glued to the page. I applaud the author for providing another view of Russian Jews. "Fiddler on the Roof" is so ingrained in our minds, it seems that we can only visualize Tevye and the people of Anatevka. We forget that Jews of the upper echelons of society rubbed elbows with European and Russian nobility. We forget of the trials and tribulations of the Rothschilds, the Brodskys, the Gunzburgs, and many others. This is not light reading. This novel speaks volumes of the human condition, the vulnerability, the fragility, and the strength to fight and to survive.
SPANISH INQUISITION ERA
Hidden Ones: A Veil of Memories by Marcia Fine
https://www.amazon.com/Hidden-Ones-Me...
While there are innumerable accounts that speak of the mass exodus of Eastern European Jews escaping to the ‘goldene medina’—The United States of America—this book provides much insight into another, equally fascinating experience, that is to say: the migration of Sephardic Jews to the New World. This novel points to the impetus of how and why crypto-Jews (Conversos) came to live in North and South America. Marcia Fine has written a resplendent novel, an heirloom for those of Sephardic ancestry, as well as a thought-provoking read for all who are eager to benefit from the author’s extensive research. Our ancestors are more than just grainy, black and white photographs that we store away in a drawer or hang upon our walls. They were flesh and blood, with tremendous stories of passion, accomplishments, tragedies and loss. I congratulate Ms. Fine, for honoring these brave souls with “Hidden Ones: A Veil of Memories”. The novel is a must read—this story must be known. As the author states, Judaism is a faith of remembrance. We are commanded to teach our children and to encourage respect for those who passed before us. In every generation…L’dor v’dor.
TIME TRAVEL
Becoming Malka, by Mirta Ines Trupp
https://www.amazon.com/Becoming-Malka...
Editorial Review by Brooks Kohler, Author and Founder of Laptiast.com
There are some stories that stand out above others and deserve praise; “Becoming Malka” is one of them. I could not put this manuscript down. I breezed through it in what seemed like hours. While some stories have left me guessing, Becoming Malka left me imagining. Through skillful use of prose and well-researched history pertaining to Jews living in Russia, Ukraine, and Argentina, the book is more than simply fiction. It is an educative resource that will enlighten the minds of all who read it. Being one who does not enjoy spoiling a plot, I am going to end now and let you get to what I am convinced will not be a chore of a read. We put up with a lot on this amazing planet to remain content. Thankfully, there are those who write well to help us manage.
Me & Georgette, by D.B. Schaefer
https://www.amazon.com/Me-Georgette-D...
While I occasionally found myself being reminded of Mr. Collins, Caroline Bingley, and even Lady Catherine de Bourgh, I stopped and allowed the author’s characters to weave their own stories and create new images. "Me & Georgette" brings Regency and Yiddishkeit successfully into a shidach, and marries the two worlds beautifully. Filling a void for many Period readers, I believe the storyline would resonate with a diverse audience—Jewish or not. Devorah's spirit and intelligence reminded me of many of our beloved Regency heroines. I couldn't wait to read the end; not because I was eager to set down the book, but rather I was dying of curiosity to see how the time-travel issue was dealt with...Jewishly. I won't give away any further details or spoilers. A delightful read!
VICTORIAN ERA
The First Mrs. Rothschild by Sara Aharoni, Yardenne Greenspan
https://www.amazon.com/First-Mrs-Roth...
Inspiring. Thought-provoking. Enlightening. “Dignity is a powerful thing. We shall use it to break through the walls of the ghetto and set ourselves free.” I am fascinated with this time period: The Rothschilds, the Montefiores...what these families were able to accomplish, under that level of persecution and oppression, is mind boggling! Sara Aharoni has done a remarkable job bringing this family to life for me. Kol hakavod.
Thank you for your interest. Follow me on Facebook at www.facebook.com/mirtainestrupp or on Goodreads, Instagram and Pinterest.
#JewishHistoricalFiction #Jewishbooks #jewishprotagonists #Jewishindieauthor #NonHolocaust #JewishArgentina #RussianJews #ArgentineJews #RegencyJews #SpanishJews #SheldonGreene #SaraAharoni #MirtaInesTrupp #DBSchaefer #MarciaFine #LibiAstaire #RuhamaVeltfort #ThelmaAdams #KyraKaptzanRobinov #MoniqueRaphelHigh #JoyceReiserKornblatt #SherryVOstroff #CarolineWarfield #MarjorieFarrell
March 27, 2020
Free PDF
Last year, THE MEYERSONS OF MERYTON won a Jane Austen J.A.F.F. award. To commemorate that honor, I'm offering a free PDF to those who are interested. Send a PM with your email, and I will reply "post haste."
Kind reviews on Goodreads and Amazon are most welcome!
Kind reviews on Goodreads and Amazon are most welcome!
March 4, 2020
Amazon ranking (fickle!)
Last year, I was invited to be the key note speaker in Argentina. The organization that sponsored my trip had read one of my Austen-inspired novels, "Destiny by Design ~ Leah's Journey." Imagine my surprise this morning, almost a year to date of the event, when I saw the book listed as #1 on Amazon's Kindle Unlimited. I realize this number fluctuates continually, but it is a joy to see!
https://www.amazon.com/Destiny-Design...
https://www.amazon.com/Destiny-Design...
February 6, 2020
Ebook file updates
For those of you who have downloaded BECOMING MALKA or DESTINY BY DESIGN- LEAH'S JOURNEY, you can now receive free updated files via your Kindle, tablet, etc. These are newly formatted and edited versions. Thanks again for your support!
