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The Salt Covenants
“But these plans they have laid out for me like an embroidered rug, showing me where my feet must travel, is to me an awful penance for sins I did not commit.” Isabel
Spain 1493: Isabel has broken her mother’s heart by becoming a sincere convert to Christianity. But when she is noticed by Friar Alonso at La Casa Santa, the Holy House, she is forced to flee the Inquisition by entering into a loveless marriage and sailing with Christopher Columbus on his second voyage to the New World. But all too soon Isabel is forced to struggle alone in her new life and new faith. With all the risks and hardships how is she to survive? And will she ever find love in this strange land? And what of the dangerous Enrique Vivar? Will his hidden agenda cost her her life?
347 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2015
51 people are currently reading
389 people want to read
About the author
Sylvia Bambola
23 books63 followersSylvia Bambola was born in Romania but lived her early years in Germany, a Germany still reeling from the devastation of World War II. At age seven she relocated with her adopted military family and saw the Statue of Liberty and America for the first time. But the memory of those years in Germany lingered and was the inspiration behind her novel, Refiner’s Fire, which won a Silver Angel Award, and was a Christy Finalist.
Life as an “army brat” gave her the opportunity to live in several states, including Hawaii. Then came nursing school in New York after which she married and began a family. Raising two children and being the wife of a business executive made for a busy life. So did working in marketing for a telecommunications company, then a medical software company.
Her first novel, A Vessel of Honor, written under the pen name of Margaret Miller, garnered a Small Press Editor’s Choice Award and was seriously considered for production as a television movie.
Bambola is the author of six published novels, lives in sunny Florida and has two grown children. She’s been a guest speaker at Women’s Aglow and various church functions, is a Bible study teacher at her church, and is learning to play the guitar.
Life as an “army brat” gave her the opportunity to live in several states, including Hawaii. Then came nursing school in New York after which she married and began a family. Raising two children and being the wife of a business executive made for a busy life. So did working in marketing for a telecommunications company, then a medical software company.
Her first novel, A Vessel of Honor, written under the pen name of Margaret Miller, garnered a Small Press Editor’s Choice Award and was seriously considered for production as a television movie.
Bambola is the author of six published novels, lives in sunny Florida and has two grown children. She’s been a guest speaker at Women’s Aglow and various church functions, is a Bible study teacher at her church, and is learning to play the guitar.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
May 27, 2015
Okay, total confession here -- I was not overly impressed with the cover on this book. It looked kinda cheezy, a bit of a hackneyed homemade Photo Shop job. It may not be fair of me, but because of the cover I was initially not expecting much from the story. I was thinking it was going to be another so-so read. Well, surprise surprise -- I ate this story up, immediately moving it to my favorites for this year! The story was SO good! There was humor, heart, drama, action, everything!
Isabel is a teenage Jewess in Inquistion-era Spain, acting as a practicing Christian in public but practing Judaism in secret. To protect her, her parents marry her off and put her and her new husband on one of the boats sailing in Columbus' second voyage. Isabel and the other passengers end up setting up a colony in La Navidad & Santo Domingo (present day Haiti & Dominican Republic). While initially optimistic about developing a community, after a time Isabel sees that her new home is quickly becoming a place full of discontent, class division, prejudice, starvation, violence and rampant illness.
The poor girl suffers through so much before she's even 18! Isabel finds that her faith is one of the few things that keeps her spirit up in the face of such strife and tragedy. I liked how real the story felt, in the way that while there were moments of such sadness, there were also many moments of levity, just the way life is! I especially laughed at the funny, "shaking my head" ways that Isabel and the few other women in the colony fought against female inequality. I loved how when the men got so obsessed with finding gold, the women took it upon themselves to go speak with the local Native American women, asking them how to plant crops, identify and gather local herbs & edible plants, how to make bread... because somebody has to make sure people don't starve, right! But one of the funniest lines in the story was when Isabel expressed to her parents her interest in continuing her education and her mother's response is basically that's all well and good up to a point, but "women who study too excessively get wandering wombs." X-D Also, the relationship between Antonio & Isabel was a thrilling mix of sweetness, innocence, and swoon-worthyness!
I believe this is the first book I've read that talks about what could have happened on Colombus' other voyages, what the people in those other colonies might have been like. which is perhaps partly why I found it so fascinating. We hear so much about his discovery of the Americas, that it's often forgotten that he actually went on FOUR separate voyages. I would recommend this story to anyone who loves historical fiction, a good adventure story, and is always on the search for books with believable, life-like characters.
FTC Disclaimer: BookCrash.com & Heritage Publishing House sent me a complimentary copy of this book in return for an honest review. The opinions above are entirely my own.
November 12, 2015
I'm glad I had access to a dictionary!
I read the Kindle version of this, fortunately, or I'd be lost on at least every other page.
This was historical fiction, regarding a country I know little of...Spain. On top of that its set in the late 1490's. So many terms from that era, those circumstances, and that country were unfamiliar to me. But touching the word on the page brought up the definition, which helped greatly, as there was instant explanation of these words.
It wasn't until I reached the end I found a glossary. Pffffft.
As for the story:
Isabel is a part of a wealthy Jewish family in Seville, Spain. However, in order to escape persecution, their family had to pretend to be Christians, primarily Catholic. The Inquisition carted off peaceful people if they were seen observing Jewish customs, such as following Kosher food rules, or observing Jewish holy days.
Isabel is eventually sent to the Indies with Columbus in one of his several ships on his second voyage I believe, to further establish a settlement, but primarily because Fray Alonso is out to catch her up in the Inquisitions.
She is married off to a spoiled rich nobleman and sent away.
In this new country there are many hardships, new things to learn, establishing trusts, sharing with neighbors and local natives, and lots of work.
Things don't work out as planned, and Columbus isn't the best governor of this new establishment. He's harsh in punishment and allows too many liberties with the natives. He takes them as slaves and sets sail with hundreds of them back to Spain to present to the Queen. He has set himself up with stores of food and rich belongings in this settlement, meanwhile the people he's brought would be starving if not for assistance from natives who show them other foods and how to grow them.
Many other things happen in the book and it truly keeps your interest.
If you like historical fiction, without all the romance, this will be a good book. I learned quite a bit about the Catholic Church and Inquisitions in Spain.
Yes, I do recommend The Salt Covenants.
I read the Kindle version of this, fortunately, or I'd be lost on at least every other page.
This was historical fiction, regarding a country I know little of...Spain. On top of that its set in the late 1490's. So many terms from that era, those circumstances, and that country were unfamiliar to me. But touching the word on the page brought up the definition, which helped greatly, as there was instant explanation of these words.
It wasn't until I reached the end I found a glossary. Pffffft.
As for the story:
Isabel is a part of a wealthy Jewish family in Seville, Spain. However, in order to escape persecution, their family had to pretend to be Christians, primarily Catholic. The Inquisition carted off peaceful people if they were seen observing Jewish customs, such as following Kosher food rules, or observing Jewish holy days.
Isabel is eventually sent to the Indies with Columbus in one of his several ships on his second voyage I believe, to further establish a settlement, but primarily because Fray Alonso is out to catch her up in the Inquisitions.
She is married off to a spoiled rich nobleman and sent away.
In this new country there are many hardships, new things to learn, establishing trusts, sharing with neighbors and local natives, and lots of work.
Things don't work out as planned, and Columbus isn't the best governor of this new establishment. He's harsh in punishment and allows too many liberties with the natives. He takes them as slaves and sets sail with hundreds of them back to Spain to present to the Queen. He has set himself up with stores of food and rich belongings in this settlement, meanwhile the people he's brought would be starving if not for assistance from natives who show them other foods and how to grow them.
Many other things happen in the book and it truly keeps your interest.
If you like historical fiction, without all the romance, this will be a good book. I learned quite a bit about the Catholic Church and Inquisitions in Spain.
Yes, I do recommend The Salt Covenants.
February 3, 2015
The Salt Covenants" is not an easy read but at the same time I could not put the book down. This book is full of heartache but at the same time full of triumph. This is a historical novels with a good dose of romance and adventure! Their is also betrayal and forgiveness.
"The Salt Covenants"is written as if Isabel is telling her story. While reading this story I felt as if Isabel was talking to me and that wasn't just a story I was reading!
This book is a look at how life was for someone that wasn't free to openly show that they were a Christian and it deals with every facet of life.
I was wondering why the title and was glad to found out the reason in the story and it is so fitting, but you will have to read the book yourself to find out why.
I have never read a story about Christopher Columbus, other than history books in school, and this makes me see him in a different perspective. Yes, I know this is fictional but he could have been like this. Okay, I will close this review before I give anything away.
If you like historical fiction I recommend you read Sylvia Bambola's books.
This is the second book of Sylvia Bambola's that I have read and I was so impressed at how both of them has made a lasting impression on me that I went on a search to find every one of her books, two of which are no longer available, but I found them at a library sale and have the others checked out from the library, so I guess you can call me a real fan of Sylvia Bambola.
I was given an ebook copy for an honest review. It is a five star book.
"The Salt Covenants"is written as if Isabel is telling her story. While reading this story I felt as if Isabel was talking to me and that wasn't just a story I was reading!
This book is a look at how life was for someone that wasn't free to openly show that they were a Christian and it deals with every facet of life.
I was wondering why the title and was glad to found out the reason in the story and it is so fitting, but you will have to read the book yourself to find out why.
I have never read a story about Christopher Columbus, other than history books in school, and this makes me see him in a different perspective. Yes, I know this is fictional but he could have been like this. Okay, I will close this review before I give anything away.
If you like historical fiction I recommend you read Sylvia Bambola's books.
This is the second book of Sylvia Bambola's that I have read and I was so impressed at how both of them has made a lasting impression on me that I went on a search to find every one of her books, two of which are no longer available, but I found them at a library sale and have the others checked out from the library, so I guess you can call me a real fan of Sylvia Bambola.
I was given an ebook copy for an honest review. It is a five star book.
November 2, 2015
Five stars is not enough for this incredible book. It was worth every penny i spent on it. I couldn't understand why some reviewers said it was a slow read because i wanted to stay up all night to finish it. The only reason i didn't was that i had to go to work the next day. It is an historically accurate book. Life was dangerous for Isabel during the time of the Spanish Inquisition. She and her family were extremely wealthy Jews who have been forced to convert to the Catholic religion or face expulsion. Isabel considers herself a true Convert since she has learned to love the Nazarene.To protect Isabel, her parents arrange her marriage to a man she doesn't love and sends them to the Indies with Christopher Columbus. Life isn't much better there. Her husband dies and she is forced to marry his brother who actually loves her and treats her well. Other than that life was pretty terrible but it does have a satisfactory ending. I won't spoil the story but it does vividly describe the evils of the Catholic Church and the cruelty of the Spanish Inquisition which made me angry. One of the things that impressed me was the decision she and her husband made to each other to be kind despite how cruel life was. I am going to be looking for more books by this author.
May 25, 2015
I really enjoyed Sylvia Bambola's The Salt Covenants. It is the story of Isabel, a 'Converso' Jew during the Spanish Inquisition. While yet a young teen she is divorced by her arranged 'husband', forced to marry a man she does not love. She must then leave her home and family in order to join her husband on Christopher Columbus' voyage to the New World.
The Salt Covenants is an interesting book, but by no means a quick read. The Characters are well developed and the book is full of historical information.I learned quite a bit about the Jews of the Middle ages in Spain and about the history of Christopher Columbus' voyages.I found myself cheering Isabel on and cringing at some of the plots in the book. This book is definitely not for the faint of heart as there are some graphic scenes...it is the Inquisition after all! So if you love history and don't mind a slower pace, I can certainly recommend The Salt Covenants as a great read.
I was given this book by the author for review purposes, but the opinions stated are entirely my own.
The Salt Covenants is an interesting book, but by no means a quick read. The Characters are well developed and the book is full of historical information.I learned quite a bit about the Jews of the Middle ages in Spain and about the history of Christopher Columbus' voyages.I found myself cheering Isabel on and cringing at some of the plots in the book. This book is definitely not for the faint of heart as there are some graphic scenes...it is the Inquisition after all! So if you love history and don't mind a slower pace, I can certainly recommend The Salt Covenants as a great read.
I was given this book by the author for review purposes, but the opinions stated are entirely my own.
September 14, 2015
Isabel lives in Spain during the turbulent times of the Spanish Inquisition. She is of Jewish descent, and her parents have declared their conversion to Christianity, in compliance with the law. The Salt Covenants opens with the discord between Isabel and her mother resulting from Isabel’s revelation that she is a true convert. Isabel’s family still practices their Jewish religion in the privacy of their home, causing their lives to be in constant danger of being reported to the Inquisitors. Because of various circumstances, Isabel’s parents decide Isabel’s life is best protected by having her marry and, with her new husband, join the second voyage of Christopher Columbus to the new world. The first portion of the book is about events that determine the course of Isabel’s life resulting in the need to leave Spain. The majority of the book chronicles travelling from Spain and life in the new world. Throughout the story, Isabel grows and matures as she faces hardships and setbacks in the new life that has been thrust upon her.
The author used proper Jewish terminology in describing Jewish customs and traditions but also supplied a brief explanation. Ms. Bambola also included a glossary at the back with terms and other items of interest which was helpful. The historical detail with the Spanish Inquisition and Christopher Columbus and his exploratory voyages was fascination. Ms. Bambola obviously researched her subjects well. There were instances of nudity (Indians) and rape. These segments were handled as tastefully as such subjects can be. There were inferences to marital sex. I noted these for disclosure purposes, but I did not find them objectionable as they are realities of a fallen world.
I enjoyed this book. It was not a light-hearted, fast-paced story to simply entertain. There was depth to the story and characters which caused me to ponder on several occasions. It was thought-provoking. I would not recommend it to young teens due to the mature content, but it was a fascinating book for adult readers. I loved the statement Isabel made at the end, “I have come to terms with who I am: a Jewess who has found her Messiah and Savior. And though I will forever walk between these two worlds I am at peace.” We all need to know who we are in the Lord and experience His peace. This was the first book by Sylvia Bambola I’ve read, but I plan to read more of her work in the future.
I received a copy of this book through The Book Club Network in exchange for my honest review.
The author used proper Jewish terminology in describing Jewish customs and traditions but also supplied a brief explanation. Ms. Bambola also included a glossary at the back with terms and other items of interest which was helpful. The historical detail with the Spanish Inquisition and Christopher Columbus and his exploratory voyages was fascination. Ms. Bambola obviously researched her subjects well. There were instances of nudity (Indians) and rape. These segments were handled as tastefully as such subjects can be. There were inferences to marital sex. I noted these for disclosure purposes, but I did not find them objectionable as they are realities of a fallen world.
I enjoyed this book. It was not a light-hearted, fast-paced story to simply entertain. There was depth to the story and characters which caused me to ponder on several occasions. It was thought-provoking. I would not recommend it to young teens due to the mature content, but it was a fascinating book for adult readers. I loved the statement Isabel made at the end, “I have come to terms with who I am: a Jewess who has found her Messiah and Savior. And though I will forever walk between these two worlds I am at peace.” We all need to know who we are in the Lord and experience His peace. This was the first book by Sylvia Bambola I’ve read, but I plan to read more of her work in the future.
I received a copy of this book through The Book Club Network in exchange for my honest review.
June 26, 2015
"The Salt Covenants" by Sylvia Bambola is fiction based on historical events. A book has to be very well written to impress me, and this one is, and did! This book starts in 1493, during the Spanish Inquisition. Main character, Isabel reveals to her family that she has become a true follower of Jesus Christ, this is a dangerous thing in this time period. Many people are burned at the stake over religious differences.
Isabel is a headstrong teenager who tries to do the right thing, but she sees herself as a failure. After much heartache, Isabel's parents decide she must be sent away in order to save her life. They force her to sail with Christopher Columbus to the New World, oh, and she must also marry her deceased sister's fiance. Being a practical gal she tries to make the best of things, despite the fact that her new husband is a drunk and a gambler. This is just the beginning! There is so much more to this story that I fear I cannot do this book justice!
Bambola does an excellent job giving the reader descriptions of the voyage, the illnesses, hunger and deprivations that plague the people on the ships, as well as in their new lands. The beauty of the area, and the attitudes of the nobles and peasants as they try to work to build a community in a foreign country are well expressed. The problems growing food and the many diseases are explained. The unhappiness that the peasants feel as they are unable to better themselves is clear, and so is the desperate desire of many to find gold rather than build homes.
The Salt Covenants held my attention totally. The theme of forgiveness runs throughout the story. Over and over Isabel reminds herself to trust in God, and that it is better to give than to receive. Younger readers should be aware that there are some graphic scenes of violence as well as discussions (not graphic) of rape. Granted, I don't see how the author could have avoided these given the subject matter.
I received this book from the author and The Book Club Network in exchange for my honest review.
Isabel is a headstrong teenager who tries to do the right thing, but she sees herself as a failure. After much heartache, Isabel's parents decide she must be sent away in order to save her life. They force her to sail with Christopher Columbus to the New World, oh, and she must also marry her deceased sister's fiance. Being a practical gal she tries to make the best of things, despite the fact that her new husband is a drunk and a gambler. This is just the beginning! There is so much more to this story that I fear I cannot do this book justice!
Bambola does an excellent job giving the reader descriptions of the voyage, the illnesses, hunger and deprivations that plague the people on the ships, as well as in their new lands. The beauty of the area, and the attitudes of the nobles and peasants as they try to work to build a community in a foreign country are well expressed. The problems growing food and the many diseases are explained. The unhappiness that the peasants feel as they are unable to better themselves is clear, and so is the desperate desire of many to find gold rather than build homes.
The Salt Covenants held my attention totally. The theme of forgiveness runs throughout the story. Over and over Isabel reminds herself to trust in God, and that it is better to give than to receive. Younger readers should be aware that there are some graphic scenes of violence as well as discussions (not graphic) of rape. Granted, I don't see how the author could have avoided these given the subject matter.
I received this book from the author and The Book Club Network in exchange for my honest review.
December 14, 2015
Every once in a while on my reading journey, an author is able to grab my attention with their superb writing skills and completely immerse me in that time and place. That was how The Salt Covenants by Sylvia Bambola was for me. This was the first novel I have read by Ms. Bambola and her attention to historical detail was incredible. This was a story about a young Jewish woman who is a true converso to the Christian faith and her life and journey to the New World, sailing with none other than Christopher Columbus on his second voyage. After a devastating loss and the Spanish Inquisition looming, her family fears for her life and so as an obedient daughter she must leave her home country for a strange land with a husband she does not love, nor does he love her. Her trials and tribulations are softened with the friendship and comradery she finds in the only two other women on this voyage to a new settlement.
This is a violent and gritty book especially dealing with the inhumane treatment of not just the Jewish people and the Inquisition, but also the Spainards treatment of the Taino Native Amercan tribe. Through all of this however, Isabel finds comfort in the love of the one true God and His Son. Not at all preachy, this story shows faith being lived out in an oftentimes cold, indifferent, and cruel world. This story is packed with truths, faithfulness, and true love for God, friends, family, and husband. I received a copy for an honest review from the author through The Book Club Network, Inc. and the opinions are my own.
This is a violent and gritty book especially dealing with the inhumane treatment of not just the Jewish people and the Inquisition, but also the Spainards treatment of the Taino Native Amercan tribe. Through all of this however, Isabel finds comfort in the love of the one true God and His Son. Not at all preachy, this story shows faith being lived out in an oftentimes cold, indifferent, and cruel world. This story is packed with truths, faithfulness, and true love for God, friends, family, and husband. I received a copy for an honest review from the author through The Book Club Network, Inc. and the opinions are my own.
September 15, 2015
The Salt Covenants is an amazing historical novel, giving the reader insight into the time of Columbus, the New World and the barbarity of the Spanish Inquisition. Sylvia Bambola certainly has a gift for storytelling as she draws the readers into her characters and their experiences. Isabel a wealthy teenage Jewess and now converted believer in Christ tells her story from the backdrop of Seville in 1493 and the New World. It is a story filled with the beauty of nature and the opulence wealth can bring and one filled with the bloodshed and horrors that a world without pity can bring. The Salt Covenants is evocative, captivating and informative as Isabel struggles to survive loss, marriage, without love, to a gambling drunkard, kidnapping, and hurricanes. From a naive teenager totally dependent on her parents, Isabel matures into a strong woman who learns how to stand firm when the next trouble comes and know that the Merciful One is her refuge and strength. The author includes listing of 'Useful Information' to explain unfamiliar words and religious terms as well as an epilogue and questions for reading groups. A wonderful story of friendships, faith, fidelity and covenantal love.
I received a copy of this book through The Book Club Network (bookfun.org) in exchange for my honest review. I have posted reviews on Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Booksamillion.com, Bookfun.org, and GoodReads.
I received a copy of this book through The Book Club Network (bookfun.org) in exchange for my honest review. I have posted reviews on Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Booksamillion.com, Bookfun.org, and GoodReads.
September 23, 2015
Historical books have never been that interesting to me before, but now, I so enjoyed this book. Sylvia Bambola included all the history of that time, 1493, during the Spanish Inquisition. What I never realized was that there were Jews living in that region during that time. Of course, they were one of the peoples being preyed upon.
Isabella is part of a very wealthy Jewish family. She is very independent and stubborn. Her sister was set to get married but was taken by the Inquisition and very misused and then died. Things were heating up more when Isabella's parents decided that she needed to get away to hide so they sent her on Christopher Columbus's second voyage with her sisters fiance. They were to be married and start a new life in the new World.
The Salt Covenant is a new term to me, I did not realize all that it involved. I can honestly say that I have enjoyed learning all this new history in this format. Wish I could learn all history this way.
I do enjoy a book that is written with details, lots of details explained about places, things, colors, feeling things, touching things and descriptions of all these places. I enjoyed this book from the first page to the last page.
I would recommend this book to all history buffs, but even more to all who love a romantic historical fiction.
I received this book from Book Club Network in exchange for an honest review.
Isabella is part of a very wealthy Jewish family. She is very independent and stubborn. Her sister was set to get married but was taken by the Inquisition and very misused and then died. Things were heating up more when Isabella's parents decided that she needed to get away to hide so they sent her on Christopher Columbus's second voyage with her sisters fiance. They were to be married and start a new life in the new World.
The Salt Covenant is a new term to me, I did not realize all that it involved. I can honestly say that I have enjoyed learning all this new history in this format. Wish I could learn all history this way.
I do enjoy a book that is written with details, lots of details explained about places, things, colors, feeling things, touching things and descriptions of all these places. I enjoyed this book from the first page to the last page.
I would recommend this book to all history buffs, but even more to all who love a romantic historical fiction.
I received this book from Book Club Network in exchange for an honest review.
July 15, 2015
If you enjoy historic novels this is a must read. It is set in Spain and the Dominican Republic during the Spanish Inquisition. It tells the story of a Jewish family and things that the Inquisition force them to do. It also shows how faith in God was a must for the main character, Isabel. The story is written with a lot of speech from that time and a lot of unknown, to me, words, but there is a word list in the back of the book. This word list is very helpful and makes this book a great learning experience also. The characters are well developed and the story flows smoothly. It kept my interest and I finished this book faster than most books because I did not want to quit reading. I fell asleep reading this book more than once, not because I was bored but because of the late hour I had stayed up reading. I highly recommend this book. You won't be disappointed. This book was given me in exchange for my honest review
March 31, 2016
I want to send my thanks to Sylvia Bambola, author and to Goodreads First Reads Giveaway for the copy of The Salt Covenants that I won in the Giveaway.
Isabel breaks her mother's heart by converting the Christianity in the troubled times of the Inquisition in Spain. Forced to marry and immigrate to the New World she finds herself alone and still looking for a place in the strange New World. The Salt Covenants is Christian historical fiction at its best.
Isabel breaks her mother's heart by converting the Christianity in the troubled times of the Inquisition in Spain. Forced to marry and immigrate to the New World she finds herself alone and still looking for a place in the strange New World. The Salt Covenants is Christian historical fiction at its best.
January 1, 2020
Awesome historical adventure romance!
Wow, what a journey! This book totally sucked me in. Isabel is a sympathetic character, a woman at the mercy of her time. It's an absorbing, epic story that encompasses so much and feels so very authentic. Lots of attention to detail, lots of character depth. It's a book that will make you forget where you are while you're immersed in it.
Wow, what a journey! This book totally sucked me in. Isabel is a sympathetic character, a woman at the mercy of her time. It's an absorbing, epic story that encompasses so much and feels so very authentic. Lots of attention to detail, lots of character depth. It's a book that will make you forget where you are while you're immersed in it.
February 17, 2024
Historical fiction during the Spanish Inquisition and Christopher Columbus’ discovery of the Indies. The cruelty of the time and hardships of the time are humbling. The description of the conditions left me gagging at times. It’s and interesting read and I did learn things I did not know. Solid 3 stars
April 5, 2018
Historical novel
I enjoy historical fiction. I enjoyed this novel because I learned about the Inquisition, the conversos,, Christopher Columbus ' governing in Hispaniola and how the Tainos were mistreated. I learned about Jewish culture of that time period.
The story had an interesting plot and a wide array of characters.
I wish I'd known there was a glossary. It would have been helpful, though inconvenient in an ebook
I enjoy historical fiction. I enjoyed this novel because I learned about the Inquisition, the conversos,, Christopher Columbus ' governing in Hispaniola and how the Tainos were mistreated. I learned about Jewish culture of that time period.
The story had an interesting plot and a wide array of characters.
I wish I'd known there was a glossary. It would have been helpful, though inconvenient in an ebook
May 3, 2020
Excellent, informative and weighty
This may be one of the most difficult books I have ever reviewed. The information was rich, but depressing. The characters were well developed and evoked strong emotional response. The time in history was horrifying, depressing and frightening. Truly the heart of man is wickedly evil.....and yet history repeats itself!! May we not become cowardly in the face of evil, but stand in the power of Yeshua.
This may be one of the most difficult books I have ever reviewed. The information was rich, but depressing. The characters were well developed and evoked strong emotional response. The time in history was horrifying, depressing and frightening. Truly the heart of man is wickedly evil.....and yet history repeats itself!! May we not become cowardly in the face of evil, but stand in the power of Yeshua.
April 7, 2015
I won "The Salt Covenants"as a giveaway from Good Reads. When I opened the package, I had my doubts about the book. The photograph on the front put me off, as it looked like a self-published novel. But it was published by Heritage House, and signed by the author, and, after all, I had been intrigued enough with the description of it to enter my name to win it.
Once I opened the book, I was totally engrossed in the story. The novel takes place in the 1490's, after Queen Isabella of Spain has expelled the Jews from Spain. Only those who convert to Christianity may stay, but their allegiance to their new religion is constantly doubted, especially by the Inquisition. In fact, many "conversos" remain faithful to Judaism in secret, but the main character in "The Salt Covenants," Isabel, (re-named after her conversion for the Catholic queen), has truly come to believe in Jesus as the son of God. However, she is alone among her family, who are all going along with the pretense of conversion so as to remain in Spain, where their properties and business are. (The Catholic Spaniards called these Jews "maranos" or pigs, an offensive enough name to Christians, but doubly so to observant Jews who do not eat pork as it is considered unclean.)
After a tragedy involving one of the inquisitors and Isabel's sister, resulting in her death, Isabel's parents, desperate to get her away from the clutches of the Inquisition, wed her to her dead sister's betrothed, and put them on a ship in the second fleet of Columbus to sail to the New World.
Unfortunately, Isabel's husband Sebastian has no interest in her, mourning the loss of his fiancee. Things do not improve when they arrive at the island of Espanola, (today divided between the Dominican Republic and Haiti). Sebastian makes no attempt to hide his infidelities. Isabela takes comfort in her friendship with a former servant of her family's, Maria, who has traveled with her husband and children to start a free life in the New World. Surprisingly, Isabel finds an unlikely ally in Fray Buil, the priest of the village of La Isabela where she and Sebastian have settled. He admires her unceasing work in nursing other travelers who fell ill on the voyage, and others who have been infected with New World illnesses after their arrival.
An unfaithful husband, more sick and dying settlers than she can take care of, bands of natives who are warlike, and peaceful natives who become vengeful in return for the atrocities committed on them by the Spanish, and a son of Maria's who seems bent on killing Isabel, there is never a dull moment in this book.
Despite all this, there is a just ending for Isabel. But I won't spoil it.
By the way a "salt covenant" occurs in the book when Isabel and her husband each take a pinch of salt from their own sheepskin pouches. She puts a pinch of salt from her pouch into his and he puts a pinch of salt from his pouch into hers. Then they each shake their own pouch. Salt was very valuable, and once you have mixed your salt with another's, you can never separate the grains of your salt from theirs, because it is impossible to tell them apart. It is something akin to pricking fingers and rubbing your blood with the blood of the other.
If you like historical novels, this is a look into the lives of the second wave of Spanish settlers to the "New World," and all of the dangers and opportunities it presented. It is also a tale of escape from the Spanish Inquisition, and the story of a woman of indomitable spirit.
Once I opened the book, I was totally engrossed in the story. The novel takes place in the 1490's, after Queen Isabella of Spain has expelled the Jews from Spain. Only those who convert to Christianity may stay, but their allegiance to their new religion is constantly doubted, especially by the Inquisition. In fact, many "conversos" remain faithful to Judaism in secret, but the main character in "The Salt Covenants," Isabel, (re-named after her conversion for the Catholic queen), has truly come to believe in Jesus as the son of God. However, she is alone among her family, who are all going along with the pretense of conversion so as to remain in Spain, where their properties and business are. (The Catholic Spaniards called these Jews "maranos" or pigs, an offensive enough name to Christians, but doubly so to observant Jews who do not eat pork as it is considered unclean.)
After a tragedy involving one of the inquisitors and Isabel's sister, resulting in her death, Isabel's parents, desperate to get her away from the clutches of the Inquisition, wed her to her dead sister's betrothed, and put them on a ship in the second fleet of Columbus to sail to the New World.
Unfortunately, Isabel's husband Sebastian has no interest in her, mourning the loss of his fiancee. Things do not improve when they arrive at the island of Espanola, (today divided between the Dominican Republic and Haiti). Sebastian makes no attempt to hide his infidelities. Isabela takes comfort in her friendship with a former servant of her family's, Maria, who has traveled with her husband and children to start a free life in the New World. Surprisingly, Isabel finds an unlikely ally in Fray Buil, the priest of the village of La Isabela where she and Sebastian have settled. He admires her unceasing work in nursing other travelers who fell ill on the voyage, and others who have been infected with New World illnesses after their arrival.
An unfaithful husband, more sick and dying settlers than she can take care of, bands of natives who are warlike, and peaceful natives who become vengeful in return for the atrocities committed on them by the Spanish, and a son of Maria's who seems bent on killing Isabel, there is never a dull moment in this book.
Despite all this, there is a just ending for Isabel. But I won't spoil it.
By the way a "salt covenant" occurs in the book when Isabel and her husband each take a pinch of salt from their own sheepskin pouches. She puts a pinch of salt from her pouch into his and he puts a pinch of salt from his pouch into hers. Then they each shake their own pouch. Salt was very valuable, and once you have mixed your salt with another's, you can never separate the grains of your salt from theirs, because it is impossible to tell them apart. It is something akin to pricking fingers and rubbing your blood with the blood of the other.
If you like historical novels, this is a look into the lives of the second wave of Spanish settlers to the "New World," and all of the dangers and opportunities it presented. It is also a tale of escape from the Spanish Inquisition, and the story of a woman of indomitable spirit.
June 3, 2015
Anyone who is a history buff, especially about the Middle Ages, this is the book for you. Through excellent research, Sylvia Bambola has written an intriguing story about the Spanish conquest of the New World. The story starts in Spain in 1493. The Inquisition is taking hold and those who are not Catholic, especially Jews, are being expelled from the country, forced to convert, or are brought up before the Inquisitors for torture, imprisonment, or death. Isabel comes from a wealthy Jewish merchant family. She has come to love the Savior, much to her mother’s distress. Through a series of events, Isabel finds herself in grave danger. Her family believes her only recourse is to bind her in a loveless marriage and send her to the New World on Columbus’ Second Voyage. Being one of three women on the voyage, life is difficult. Life becomes more difficult when the ship arrives hoping to find a thriving start to their colony only to find all the sailors who were left behind from the first voyage are dead. The colonists must start anew. When the crops from Europe do not grow in this island climate, Isabel goes to the native people for help. She develops a relationship with them, only to see them harmed by the Spaniards. Can Isabel ever overcome all the obstacles in her path including the dangerous man who has accompanied them?
As a history teacher, I was very engrossed in this book. Often works of historical fiction are more fiction than historical, which I find very frustrating. There was so much accurate information about the Inquisition, the voyages to America, life in the New World, and of special interest, many of the customs of the time. I appreciated the author’s notes at the back of the book as well as her list of sources. I have read several of Sylvia Bambola’s books which is why I was interested in reading this one. It did not disappoint.
I received this from the Book Club Network in exchange for my opinion.
As a history teacher, I was very engrossed in this book. Often works of historical fiction are more fiction than historical, which I find very frustrating. There was so much accurate information about the Inquisition, the voyages to America, life in the New World, and of special interest, many of the customs of the time. I appreciated the author’s notes at the back of the book as well as her list of sources. I have read several of Sylvia Bambola’s books which is why I was interested in reading this one. It did not disappoint.
I received this from the Book Club Network in exchange for my opinion.
May 10, 2015
I was quite impressed and pleased by this book. I had previously read Mrs. Bambola’s “Rebekah’s Treasure” and enjoyed that one, so I was excited to read another book by her when the chance came up. Though the time period was different, and thus the themes varied, it was still excellent.
This was a fascinating and well-written story, and a very full one. It is kind of hard to review because of that reason, but it really was good. At one point towards the end, I was worried it wouldn’t end happily, but I was really glad – and relieved – when it did! Main character, Isabel, had to go through a lot of trials, but the Lord gave her strength through them all. The history behind it all and weaved through it was spectacular.
I enjoyed seeing more into what it would’ve been like for those in 1493, especially for the Jews – or conversos* as they had to be, though it was sad too. So many struggles and wrongs and so many committed to them in the name of Christ. I loved though, that Isabel came to know Jesus and believing in Him as her Savior. It was all written beautifully. Oh and the part where they mentioned the Salt Covenant – that was so cool! I hadn’t heard of a salt covenant before, but it was really neat, and I loved it.
There were some more graphic scenes in various situations, which is why I would recommend this book for more mature readers (perhaps 17+). However, it was still a good read.
For me, it was a relaxing, quiet, yet very adventurous book, one I enjoyed!
I received a free copy of this book from the publishers through BookCrash in exchange for my honest review, which I have given.
*A convert from Judaism to Christianity; usually implies a forced conversion – from the glossary in back of book.
This was a fascinating and well-written story, and a very full one. It is kind of hard to review because of that reason, but it really was good. At one point towards the end, I was worried it wouldn’t end happily, but I was really glad – and relieved – when it did! Main character, Isabel, had to go through a lot of trials, but the Lord gave her strength through them all. The history behind it all and weaved through it was spectacular.
I enjoyed seeing more into what it would’ve been like for those in 1493, especially for the Jews – or conversos* as they had to be, though it was sad too. So many struggles and wrongs and so many committed to them in the name of Christ. I loved though, that Isabel came to know Jesus and believing in Him as her Savior. It was all written beautifully. Oh and the part where they mentioned the Salt Covenant – that was so cool! I hadn’t heard of a salt covenant before, but it was really neat, and I loved it.
There were some more graphic scenes in various situations, which is why I would recommend this book for more mature readers (perhaps 17+). However, it was still a good read.
For me, it was a relaxing, quiet, yet very adventurous book, one I enjoyed!
I received a free copy of this book from the publishers through BookCrash in exchange for my honest review, which I have given.
*A convert from Judaism to Christianity; usually implies a forced conversion – from the glossary in back of book.
July 6, 2017
Interesting book set in the discovery of what is now North and South America. Placed in a time when Christianity was becoming more wide spread, whether by good means or bad, and in a time during such discovery. While some did mean well discovering new lands for the monarchy and for their religion, some people are just cruel as we see in Enrique. Others, as in Antonio and Isabel, they are more true to what Jesus was teaching. To be newly converted and to have the death of your sister to follow you as you're married to a new person, she was previously in an arranged marriage when a child to another Jew, and explore a new trading route must have been difficult. Especially a land in which was never known before.
I quite enjoyed the story, though there were times in which I found it tedious and couldn't bear reading. I couldn't help but feeling for our new hero. The flow of the story was nicely written with only one or two minor mistakes that I could notice; there were times when I found myself easily distracted, but that was minor and I spent more time wondering where the time went as it kept me interested. Definitely recommend for those who are interested in period pieces, especially those that involve Christianity.
I received this book through Goodread's first reads.
I quite enjoyed the story, though there were times in which I found it tedious and couldn't bear reading. I couldn't help but feeling for our new hero. The flow of the story was nicely written with only one or two minor mistakes that I could notice; there were times when I found myself easily distracted, but that was minor and I spent more time wondering where the time went as it kept me interested. Definitely recommend for those who are interested in period pieces, especially those that involve Christianity.
I received this book through Goodread's first reads.
April 3, 2015
I have never been a big fan of historical novels, although I remember enjoying "Girl With the Pearl Earring" very much. I wasn't sure I wanted to read "The Salt Covenants", but the first chapter ensnared me immediately. The narrator, Isabel, is so strong and courageous. She is forced to flee the Spanish Inquisition by marrying a man she doesn't love and sailing with Christopher Columbus on his second trip to the New World.
I knew practically nothing about this period in history but learned a lot by the time I turned the last page. The author made things easier by adding an invaluable section of useful information, which included a glossary of unfamiliar words. The characters were very real and the story moved along at a rapid pace. A great read!
The epilogue was also welcome. I was not surprised to read that the Inquisition spread to Santo Domingo and Mexico....and the Spaniards' cruelty resulted in their being called The Black Legend. The horrors of the Inquisition and the treatment of natives in the New World was appalling.
I want to thank Sylvia Bambola, Heritage Publishing House, and especially the Goodreads First Reads program for this free book....reading it was a gratifying experience.
I knew practically nothing about this period in history but learned a lot by the time I turned the last page. The author made things easier by adding an invaluable section of useful information, which included a glossary of unfamiliar words. The characters were very real and the story moved along at a rapid pace. A great read!
The epilogue was also welcome. I was not surprised to read that the Inquisition spread to Santo Domingo and Mexico....and the Spaniards' cruelty resulted in their being called The Black Legend. The horrors of the Inquisition and the treatment of natives in the New World was appalling.
I want to thank Sylvia Bambola, Heritage Publishing House, and especially the Goodreads First Reads program for this free book....reading it was a gratifying experience.
April 4, 2015
I love when I am pleasantly surprised by a book, when I begin a new book not exactly sure if I will like it and find myself drawn into the story.
That’s what happened with The Salt Covenants. This was such an interesting time in history and in a setting we often don’t think about when it comes to persecuting Jews. When I think about Jews being treated poorly I usually think about Germany and World War II, not Spain.
Sylvia definitely did her homework in writing this book. The characters are rich and well-developed. My heart broke so many times while reading this book as families were torn a part.
What I kept thinking about as I read was that Christians where the ones doing all this horrible stuff. People who are supposed to be modeling Christ to the world are killing and raping people who don’t believe like them.
I felt Isable’s struggle as she claimed this new faith yet saw what so many Christians were doing to her people. I wondered how she could continue to hold strong. It would be so easy to walk away and not believe. But she remained strong.
I really enjoyed this book and think if you like historical fiction set in unique places this is a book you will enjoy as well.
A copy of this book was given to me by the author in exchange for an honest review.
That’s what happened with The Salt Covenants. This was such an interesting time in history and in a setting we often don’t think about when it comes to persecuting Jews. When I think about Jews being treated poorly I usually think about Germany and World War II, not Spain.
Sylvia definitely did her homework in writing this book. The characters are rich and well-developed. My heart broke so many times while reading this book as families were torn a part.
What I kept thinking about as I read was that Christians where the ones doing all this horrible stuff. People who are supposed to be modeling Christ to the world are killing and raping people who don’t believe like them.
I felt Isable’s struggle as she claimed this new faith yet saw what so many Christians were doing to her people. I wondered how she could continue to hold strong. It would be so easy to walk away and not believe. But she remained strong.
I really enjoyed this book and think if you like historical fiction set in unique places this is a book you will enjoy as well.
A copy of this book was given to me by the author in exchange for an honest review.
July 20, 2016
The Salt Covenants is a beautiful story. Sylvia Bambola is excellent in her depth of character development and masterful storytelling. The protagonist, Isabel , is a thoughtful heroine, passionate and vivacious. A Jewess by birth and a Christian by conversion, she constantly is faced with persecution and difficulty. Forced to venture into the terrifying new world of America, hers is not an easy life. Her story is painful at times, but is also full of beauty and devotion as she fights to survive in a world that threatens her faith and her life.
Bambola’s storytelling brings clarity to this difficult time in history and the reader gets to see it all up close and personal. The characters’ struggles ring true and from beginning to end, I was hooked. Bambola is truly gifted and I look forward to reading her other books!
I received this book from bookfun.org in exchange for an honest review.
This review was posted to Amazon, Barnes&Noble, Goodreads, CBD, Deeper Shopping, and Library Thing (if available).
Bambola’s storytelling brings clarity to this difficult time in history and the reader gets to see it all up close and personal. The characters’ struggles ring true and from beginning to end, I was hooked. Bambola is truly gifted and I look forward to reading her other books!
I received this book from bookfun.org in exchange for an honest review.
This review was posted to Amazon, Barnes&Noble, Goodreads, CBD, Deeper Shopping, and Library Thing (if available).
June 8, 2015
I wish I was better at putting my thoughts down on paper, because I don’t think I will be able to adequately describe how much I enjoyed reading The Salt Covenants by Sylvia Bambola. Upon starting the book, I felt a little like a stranger in a strange land, but I was quickly drawn into Isabel’s life story. It felt like a friend inviting me into her world and becoming part of it. The book takes place in Seville, Spain and the New World during the time of the Spanish Inquisition. I learned so much not only about this time period, but about how the Jewish people were persecuted during this time, and the challenges of sailing to and “settling” a new world. This was one of those rare books that was very enlightening, but also made me feel as though the characters were real and dear. I laughed and cried, and did not want it to end. I’m looking forward to reading more of Sylvia’s books!
I received this book from bookfun.org in exchange for my honest opinion.
I received this book from bookfun.org in exchange for my honest opinion.
July 30, 2015
The Salt Covenants by Sylvia Bambola was an interesting read about the early Spanish settlements in the new world. While the story in totality was enticing, it did take a little while for me to get into it.
Isabel struggles as a true convert to Christianity in Spain in 1493. After an incident with the Spanish Inquisition, Isabel is forced into a loveless marriage and must leave the country on Columbus’ second voyage. In the New World, Isabel is not without trouble; there were some sketchy characters always lurking about.
I did enjoy the descriptive nature Ms. Bambola used. I could picture several of the scenes thoroughly because of the sensory detail she used. If you like New World history or historical novels about Spain, then this is the book for you.
I received The Salt Covenants from The Book Club Network and the author in exchange for my honest opinion which I’ve provided here.
Isabel struggles as a true convert to Christianity in Spain in 1493. After an incident with the Spanish Inquisition, Isabel is forced into a loveless marriage and must leave the country on Columbus’ second voyage. In the New World, Isabel is not without trouble; there were some sketchy characters always lurking about.
I did enjoy the descriptive nature Ms. Bambola used. I could picture several of the scenes thoroughly because of the sensory detail she used. If you like New World history or historical novels about Spain, then this is the book for you.
I received The Salt Covenants from The Book Club Network and the author in exchange for my honest opinion which I’ve provided here.
March 18, 2015
Great story about the main character, Isabel, who runs afoul of the Inquisition and travels with her new husband on Christopher Columbus' fleet to the New World.
After losing her husband, she learns to grow food and survive in an alien land. She sees many things she does not like, such as the vile treatment of the Taino natives in the area.
She then finds love with her second husband Antonio, and they start building their lives together. When he is called away to a new settlement, she is kidnapped by a man involved in the rebellion against the Columbus brothers. She escapes with the help of a Taino man whos son was killed by the kidnapper, Enrique. He helps her find her way back home to Antonio.
In conclusion, it was an exciting tale of life in the time of Columbus and seemed very well researched. Special thanks to Goodreads First Reads for the copy.
After losing her husband, she learns to grow food and survive in an alien land. She sees many things she does not like, such as the vile treatment of the Taino natives in the area.
She then finds love with her second husband Antonio, and they start building their lives together. When he is called away to a new settlement, she is kidnapped by a man involved in the rebellion against the Columbus brothers. She escapes with the help of a Taino man whos son was killed by the kidnapper, Enrique. He helps her find her way back home to Antonio.
In conclusion, it was an exciting tale of life in the time of Columbus and seemed very well researched. Special thanks to Goodreads First Reads for the copy.
August 13, 2015
Salt Covenant is filled with history that is sure to delight any history buff. This is the first book I have ever read about the Inquisition from the perspective of the Jews who were forced in many cases to become false converts to the Christian faith. It is well written and it is obvious that the author has done a lot of research.
Salt Covenant is filled with interesting facts not only about the Inquisition but also about the Jewish faith and culture. This is not a quick read. It is very heart breaking at times as Sylvia Bambola doesn’t hold back in describing the life of the Jewish Converso. I ended this book with a fresh perspective. This was my first Sylvia Bambola book and received this copy in exchange for my honest opinion. But I doubt it will be my last as I do enjoy books so filled with historical content.
Salt Covenant is filled with interesting facts not only about the Inquisition but also about the Jewish faith and culture. This is not a quick read. It is very heart breaking at times as Sylvia Bambola doesn’t hold back in describing the life of the Jewish Converso. I ended this book with a fresh perspective. This was my first Sylvia Bambola book and received this copy in exchange for my honest opinion. But I doubt it will be my last as I do enjoy books so filled with historical content.
August 14, 2015
The Salt CovenantsThis book, The Salt Covenants, by Sylvia Bambola had me feeling so many different emotions. It begins in Spain in 1493. Isabel was a girl who wanted to express her feelings and ideas in a time and place where this was not favorable. One of the things that she wished she could share was her conversion to Christianity. However due to many circumstances, including the Inquisition, she was married to her late-sisters betrothed and then had to sail to the New World on Christopher Columbus's second voyage.
The images and issues are beautiful and terrifying and Bambola was able to use words to express these to the reader so I felt like I was right there with Isabel.
This is a remarkable book by a talented author. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to read it.
I was given this book by the author, and bookfun.org in exchange for my honest review.
The images and issues are beautiful and terrifying and Bambola was able to use words to express these to the reader so I felt like I was right there with Isabel.
This is a remarkable book by a talented author. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to read it.
I was given this book by the author, and bookfun.org in exchange for my honest review.
April 26, 2016
I enjoyed this book immensely. It is the story of diaspora Jews in Spain during the Spanish Inquisition. Should they convert or not? Would it make a difference to their lives and safety if they actually converted? Can one remain a Jew and say one has converted or will converting for safety's sake make one apostate?
These are just some of the questions Jews of the 1400s in Spain faced. This story follows the life of one young lady entering marriage age and faced with her beliefs and the political climate of the time. The story follows her unfolding, dangerous, and unpredictable life at the hands of priests, king and queen, her parents, and other Jewish adults.
Will she follow her heart or will she live life the way she is told? These questions are ours today whether you are a Christian or not.
These are just some of the questions Jews of the 1400s in Spain faced. This story follows the life of one young lady entering marriage age and faced with her beliefs and the political climate of the time. The story follows her unfolding, dangerous, and unpredictable life at the hands of priests, king and queen, her parents, and other Jewish adults.
Will she follow her heart or will she live life the way she is told? These questions are ours today whether you are a Christian or not.
August 2, 2015
This was a wonderful book that made me laugh and cry. I had not known much about the "converso". I am Catholic and it can be hard to read about how hard and cruel people were during the times of the inquisition. This is a story of a young girl named Isabel who ends up marrying a man she does not love and sailing on the second voyage that Columbus took to the new world. She is one of the only females that is there and that is hard. Here she has to survive and watch as the natives are treated horribly.. There are many secrets that are revealed and many good times and bad times that she must go through. I loved the characters and the story. I received a copy of this through Bookcrash.com for a fair and honest opinion. I hope to read many more by Sylvia Bambola.
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