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They met as children, innocents from two different worlds. And from that moment their lives were fated to be forever entwined.
Timothy: Abandoned at birth, he finds a home--and a dazzling career--within the Catholic Church. But the vows he takes cannot protect him from one soul-igniting passion.
Daniel: The scholarly son of a great rabbi, he is destined to follow in his father's footsteps. And destined to break his father's heart.
Deborah: She was raised to be docile and dutiful--the perfect rabbi's wife--but love will lead her to rebellion. And into world's the patriarch would never dare imagine.
Reaching across more than a quarter of a century, from the tough streets of Brooklyn to ultramodern Brasilia to an Israeli kibbutz, and radiating the splendor of two holy cities, Rome and Jerusalem, here is Erich Segal's most provocative and ambitious novel to date--the unforgettable story of three extraordinary lives...and one forbidden love.
Timothy: Abandoned at birth, he finds a home--and a dazzling career--within the Catholic Church. But the vows he takes cannot protect him from one soul-igniting passion.
Daniel: The scholarly son of a great rabbi, he is destined to follow in his father's footsteps. And destined to break his father's heart.
Deborah: She was raised to be docile and dutiful--the perfect rabbi's wife--but love will lead her to rebellion. And into world's the patriarch would never dare imagine.
Reaching across more than a quarter of a century, from the tough streets of Brooklyn to ultramodern Brasilia to an Israeli kibbutz, and radiating the splendor of two holy cities, Rome and Jerusalem, here is Erich Segal's most provocative and ambitious novel to date--the unforgettable story of three extraordinary lives...and one forbidden love.
499 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 1992
130 people are currently reading
1592 people want to read
About the author
Erich Segal
72 books1,310 followersErich Wolf Segal was an American author, screenwriter, and educator. He was best-known for writing the novel Love Story, a bestseller, and writing the motion picture of the same name, which was a major hit.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 183 reviews
May 11, 2019
Yes, clichés and facile presentations of Jews and Catholics abound in this novel, but I don't care - I love a good defrocked priest story and this was a good one.
I just loved everything about the relationship between Timothy and Deborah - the way it began, the manner in which it was consummated, and their eventual reconciliation. I did wish Erich Segal had done a better job showing how Deborah and Tim went from barely acquaintances to a romantic attachment for each other.
I felt the author did a decent job portraying the Jewish and Catholic faiths. The exploration of faith and how one hews to it (Deborah) or not (Daniel) is always an interesting thing to explore. I liked how the author showed that our background has a profound effect on us later in life, even if we try hard to submerge it, as Daniel did. No matter how hard we stray, it seems eventually, we do find our way back “home” in some respect.
I also liked the presentation of how Deborah was able to overcome the prejudices of her father and her Orthodox Jewish community to grow into her own person and do what she wanted, and stand on her own as a mature woman.
My final criticism involves Tim. I felt Segal needed to do a better job showing Tim's devotion to his faith, and that's the reason why he went into the priesthood and continued on for many years. As it was, I had the impression that Tim just "fell" into the collar because there were no other alternatives for him in life. His home life (and therefore, no familial support) was less than ideal, so it seemed his choices in life were limited to the people around him who did show him support, like his boyhood parish priest. When your parents are constantly berating you, I'm sure the priest who is your friend/confidant looks pretty good in contrast. Thus, I felt Tim was steered towards the priesthood, rather than had a true calling.
Still, I love this novel despite its glib narration and simplistic storytelling. Deborah and Tim have been my OTP for many, many years and I just wish there had been a sequel - even just a novella or prologue.
I just loved everything about the relationship between Timothy and Deborah - the way it began, the manner in which it was consummated, and their eventual reconciliation. I did wish Erich Segal had done a better job showing how Deborah and Tim went from barely acquaintances to a romantic attachment for each other.
I felt the author did a decent job portraying the Jewish and Catholic faiths. The exploration of faith and how one hews to it (Deborah) or not (Daniel) is always an interesting thing to explore. I liked how the author showed that our background has a profound effect on us later in life, even if we try hard to submerge it, as Daniel did. No matter how hard we stray, it seems eventually, we do find our way back “home” in some respect.
I also liked the presentation of how Deborah was able to overcome the prejudices of her father and her Orthodox Jewish community to grow into her own person and do what she wanted, and stand on her own as a mature woman.
My final criticism involves Tim. I felt Segal needed to do a better job showing Tim's devotion to his faith, and that's the reason why he went into the priesthood and continued on for many years. As it was, I had the impression that Tim just "fell" into the collar because there were no other alternatives for him in life. His home life (and therefore, no familial support) was less than ideal, so it seemed his choices in life were limited to the people around him who did show him support, like his boyhood parish priest. When your parents are constantly berating you, I'm sure the priest who is your friend/confidant looks pretty good in contrast. Thus, I felt Tim was steered towards the priesthood, rather than had a true calling.
Still, I love this novel despite its glib narration and simplistic storytelling. Deborah and Tim have been my OTP for many, many years and I just wish there had been a sequel - even just a novella or prologue.
August 13, 2018
This was my third time reading this book since it was published in 1992. It is definitely a favorite of mine.
Three young people gifted, passionate,dedicated to their beliefs. Yet they search for faith, love in the modern world. The sacred and the secular collide and lives are change forever. ( off book flap in book)
Quote. Pg 205: a single word compensated for all the hardships of life and that is Love. The Greek was to Philein. The human tie. And that is what has given meaning to my life. It is easy for a churchman to loveGod. It is harder to love one’s fellowman. But if it were not so important, why would we be put on earth? I bless God for bringing me you. He gave me someone to share my love of Him.
“ For her the Sabbath was synonymous with love.”
Three young people gifted, passionate,dedicated to their beliefs. Yet they search for faith, love in the modern world. The sacred and the secular collide and lives are change forever. ( off book flap in book)
Quote. Pg 205: a single word compensated for all the hardships of life and that is Love. The Greek was to Philein. The human tie. And that is what has given meaning to my life. It is easy for a churchman to loveGod. It is harder to love one’s fellowman. But if it were not so important, why would we be put on earth? I bless God for bringing me you. He gave me someone to share my love of Him.
“ For her the Sabbath was synonymous with love.”
December 9, 2023
O dziwo BARDZO mi się podobała. Słodko-gorzka, przepięknie opisująca miłość ludzką. Religie przedstawione tak dogłębnie, że aż czuję, że potrafię wyrecytować zasady ortodoksyjnych żydów XD
May 30, 2013
Caught at the cross-roads of choosing between the out-of-bounds, forbidden but all-consuming earthly love for his soul mate and the love for the Father of the Universe, is a young Christian boy, Timothy. This boy's love interest's brother, Daniel, (who are orthodox Jews) is too broad-mined to follow mutely into his his beloved but dogmatic & fiercely conservative father's footsteps to become a celebrated rabbi. In the meanwhile, Deborah, Jewish love interest of the Christian boy, is sent to exile as penance for her nonconforming ways (read, making conversation with a Christian boy, who later hopelessly falls in love with her).
So you see, the plot is thick and entangled. Though, it gets a bit dead bang in the middle of the book, when the Segal begins to draw out detailed descriptions of individual journeys of Timothy's and Deborah's claim to fame in their respective fields. But having said that, it's a great insight, yet not too heavy, into how the two faiths are different yet similar at the same time.
Great writing style, passionate love story. I am glad I was recommended this and didn't let it go!
So you see, the plot is thick and entangled. Though, it gets a bit dead bang in the middle of the book, when the Segal begins to draw out detailed descriptions of individual journeys of Timothy's and Deborah's claim to fame in their respective fields. But having said that, it's a great insight, yet not too heavy, into how the two faiths are different yet similar at the same time.
Great writing style, passionate love story. I am glad I was recommended this and didn't let it go!
January 12, 2009
I learned a lot about the Jewish culture in reading this book, as well as how and why it is not the same as the Jewish faith. The characters were struggling to understand their own heritage and what part of it was choice and what part a required privilege. It was extremely interesting and the characters and locations were well drawn.
May 9, 2017
#ActsOfFaith by #ErichSegal
Did I like this book? Absolutely.
Was it a page Turner? Yes, again(except a few phases in between) .
Did it make me think about a lot of things in the real world? A triumphant yes again and probably the biggest reason why I picked it up in the first place.
Did I agree with the author's thought process/views on religion (Roman Catholic and Judaism in this case) which he tried to portray through his three central characters? Yes again, specially the radical ones (which he could have dwelled on more imo).
But, did it make it to my all time favourite books which I'll revisit again. Surprisingly, no. Somehow, it lacked something which I can't pin point actually. Maybe, it was too predictable most of the times, or maybe just when a thought process was leading to something monumental, it suddenly lost all steam or maybe I was expecting something entirely different.
The ending was good only for the two central characters imo whereas he could have done better with Danny. Timothy is easily the star of the story for me and the only one whose actions in the end justified the build up.
Definitely will recommend it to others.
3.5/5
Did I like this book? Absolutely.
Was it a page Turner? Yes, again(except a few phases in between) .
Did it make me think about a lot of things in the real world? A triumphant yes again and probably the biggest reason why I picked it up in the first place.
Did I agree with the author's thought process/views on religion (Roman Catholic and Judaism in this case) which he tried to portray through his three central characters? Yes again, specially the radical ones (which he could have dwelled on more imo).
But, did it make it to my all time favourite books which I'll revisit again. Surprisingly, no. Somehow, it lacked something which I can't pin point actually. Maybe, it was too predictable most of the times, or maybe just when a thought process was leading to something monumental, it suddenly lost all steam or maybe I was expecting something entirely different.
The ending was good only for the two central characters imo whereas he could have done better with Danny. Timothy is easily the star of the story for me and the only one whose actions in the end justified the build up.
Definitely will recommend it to others.
3.5/5
December 30, 2019
Life is not always a straight road for everyone and all the caracter portrays that. Danny folllowing his father food steps closer to becoming next Rabi, finds himself in rather different school of thoughts. Tim on the other hand from being a very mischievous child with pure dedication and hard work becomes archbishop at Rome but still desires for his love of life, while serving the gods. There will always be conflict between one thing or other and what always prevails is love and the most important lesson and nothing else will matter. Where is your faith?
November 20, 2017
This is a wonderful book! So interesting to read about two faiths and how they relate to and perceive God. Since I have always been Protestant, I learned a lot, but am left with questions. The character development was well done. Since this is an older book, I am almost certain I read it many years ago. It is a book worth rereading!
January 23, 2018
I had really high hopes for this book but then realized that the religious themes were actually overwhelming. Maybe I'm biased because I know so few pious people in real life, so the characters and their storylines seemed really far-fetched.
It was a good and interesting story, though. A bit cheesy, but sometimes that's not a bad thing. 3.5 stars.
It was a good and interesting story, though. A bit cheesy, but sometimes that's not a bad thing. 3.5 stars.
March 7, 2023
I enjoyed a look into the differing faiths. Extremes were illuminated in both Catholic and Jewish faiths. A perspective I've not dwelled on, but isn't that why we read....to be entertained yet learn to think beyond ourselves. I found Segal to be an excellent wordsmith and enjoyed looking up words I did not know.
June 30, 2024
A love story, and a beautiful love story at that
July 14, 2021
The book is interesting regarding the many rituals of Christianity and Judaism. What I didn't like were the unrealistic characters. For the most part, the main characters were all self-sacrificing and caught up in the web of guilt and control of both religions and their families.
Sometimes I felt the author was writing just to impress us with his abundant intellectual capabilities and I lost interest. I wanted to see a satisfying resolution between Timothy and Debera and their son (which was the most interesting part of the story), but we are left hanging with a short epilogue.
It could have been a really good book had the author stuck to the relationships and not so much tried to educate us on the two religions. But, if you're interested in religious dogma and rituals, you'll probably enjoy it. Basically it just confirmed my personal thoughts that the Catholic church is a big boy's club corporation and Judaism at it's worst is extremely judgmental and into punishing those that don't adhere to the party line. Religions are inherently well meant - it's the people (mostly male) that use it to justify their own means, power and control where it goes off the rails.
Sometimes I felt the author was writing just to impress us with his abundant intellectual capabilities and I lost interest. I wanted to see a satisfying resolution between Timothy and Debera and their son (which was the most interesting part of the story), but we are left hanging with a short epilogue.
It could have been a really good book had the author stuck to the relationships and not so much tried to educate us on the two religions. But, if you're interested in religious dogma and rituals, you'll probably enjoy it. Basically it just confirmed my personal thoughts that the Catholic church is a big boy's club corporation and Judaism at it's worst is extremely judgmental and into punishing those that don't adhere to the party line. Religions are inherently well meant - it's the people (mostly male) that use it to justify their own means, power and control where it goes off the rails.
May 11, 2013
This is one of the most poorly written book I have read in a long time. It could have been written by a young reader in a creative writing class. This is fiction, not literary fiction. I was mostly interested in the story of Deborah. She had the most dimensions. Tim was a good person and humble, but he never truly interested me. It shows how the two religions have their own set of beliefs, moral compass and personal "demons." Although we have much in common, there are many things that set us very much apart...that was what I got out of this very poorly written novel.
August 17, 2012
A Modern version of SCARLET LETTER.
October 20, 2015
As well researched and plotted as this is, I entered into with skepticism from the outset. Sadly, I wasn't able to let go of it.
May 24, 2025
For over ten years, (not hyperbole) I've seen this book, on the top shelf. I always passed it by, barely dusting it. Acts of Faith, the title, is quite bold. That's what made me pass it by. The noun, "Faith", blaring so bright.
I thought it was a theology book. It was probably a religious textbook. I ignored it.
Until the day I decided to weed my books. Acts of Faith was written by Erich Segal. Erich Segal wrote Love Story. That Erich Segal!!! Acts of Faith is a novel!
All these years have gone by, and I could have enjoyed a good Erich Segal story. This particular story intertwines the lives of 3 people who grew up in New York. The reader gets involved and even though he kind of highly suspects the way the story is going, he rapidly turns each page. Danny and Deborah are brother and sister. Their father is a famous Jewish Orthodox rabbi. Danny is the heir apparent. Deborah is to be married when she turns 18. Both buck the system.
Tim Hogan is an orphan. He is brought up by relatives who never read Dr. Spock. Tim had it rough. In fact, he was a bully, even beating up Danny. However, the day he threw a rock through the rabbi's window changed everything. To pay for the damage, Danny becomes the Shabbat Goy. He lights the lamps for Shabbat. Doing that job, Danny learns Yiddish, and more importantly, meets Deborah.
Since he is Catholic, and she is Jewish, there is no way they can be a couple. They move on. More or less. Sometimes more. More often less. He becomes a priest. Deborah moves to Israel and when she's 18, she moves to a kibbutz.
Meanwhile, Danny tries to survive the pressure to take over the family ministry. He and Tim become good friends, but their lives take them on different journeys.
How these three become involved, and grow together, is the story. Besides the passion, religious politics, and religion, the reader actually learns about the Jewish and Catholic faiths. In fact, I finally understand why Catholic priests can't marry. (I'm sure Erich Segal intended to prove the opposite.) Tim Hogan advances to become a bishop in Brazil. Segal in describing the ceremonial rite states, "Such was the silence in the massive basilica that His Holiness could be heard to whisper, "L'anello." He then said quietly in Latin. "Your hand." Tim complied and stretched forth his wedding finger as the Holy Father pronounced in solemn tones, "Take this ring, the seal of your fidelity. With faith and love protect the bride of God, His holy Church."
This exchange dope slapped me. Don't we say the same vows in our marriage ceremonies? The words spoken during the ring exchange are very significant. They express love, fidelity, and commitment.
Take this ring as a symbol of my love and commitment to you, and as a reminder that I will always be by your side, no matter what life brings.”
I give you this ring as a symbol of my love and devotion to you. I promise to stand by your side, to support and encourage you, and to cherish you for all the days of my life.”
WOWZA! The priest is marrying the church. The church is the bride; hence, her partner must be male. The church has always been called the bride of Christ. The priest marries the church and vows to "love and protect the bride of God, His holy Church."
How do you like that? I learned. I understand. Finally. Oh, and it was a good story, too.
I thought it was a theology book. It was probably a religious textbook. I ignored it.
Until the day I decided to weed my books. Acts of Faith was written by Erich Segal. Erich Segal wrote Love Story. That Erich Segal!!! Acts of Faith is a novel!
All these years have gone by, and I could have enjoyed a good Erich Segal story. This particular story intertwines the lives of 3 people who grew up in New York. The reader gets involved and even though he kind of highly suspects the way the story is going, he rapidly turns each page. Danny and Deborah are brother and sister. Their father is a famous Jewish Orthodox rabbi. Danny is the heir apparent. Deborah is to be married when she turns 18. Both buck the system.
Tim Hogan is an orphan. He is brought up by relatives who never read Dr. Spock. Tim had it rough. In fact, he was a bully, even beating up Danny. However, the day he threw a rock through the rabbi's window changed everything. To pay for the damage, Danny becomes the Shabbat Goy. He lights the lamps for Shabbat. Doing that job, Danny learns Yiddish, and more importantly, meets Deborah.
Since he is Catholic, and she is Jewish, there is no way they can be a couple. They move on. More or less. Sometimes more. More often less. He becomes a priest. Deborah moves to Israel and when she's 18, she moves to a kibbutz.
Meanwhile, Danny tries to survive the pressure to take over the family ministry. He and Tim become good friends, but their lives take them on different journeys.
How these three become involved, and grow together, is the story. Besides the passion, religious politics, and religion, the reader actually learns about the Jewish and Catholic faiths. In fact, I finally understand why Catholic priests can't marry. (I'm sure Erich Segal intended to prove the opposite.) Tim Hogan advances to become a bishop in Brazil. Segal in describing the ceremonial rite states, "Such was the silence in the massive basilica that His Holiness could be heard to whisper, "L'anello." He then said quietly in Latin. "Your hand." Tim complied and stretched forth his wedding finger as the Holy Father pronounced in solemn tones, "Take this ring, the seal of your fidelity. With faith and love protect the bride of God, His holy Church."
This exchange dope slapped me. Don't we say the same vows in our marriage ceremonies? The words spoken during the ring exchange are very significant. They express love, fidelity, and commitment.
Take this ring as a symbol of my love and commitment to you, and as a reminder that I will always be by your side, no matter what life brings.”
I give you this ring as a symbol of my love and devotion to you. I promise to stand by your side, to support and encourage you, and to cherish you for all the days of my life.”
WOWZA! The priest is marrying the church. The church is the bride; hence, her partner must be male. The church has always been called the bride of Christ. The priest marries the church and vows to "love and protect the bride of God, His holy Church."
How do you like that? I learned. I understand. Finally. Oh, and it was a good story, too.
January 14, 2021
Erich Segal is the best and my favorite writer and Acts of faith, love story and other epic books are included in libraries of my Karachi University and IBA, and I would say it's a must read for the students of business and politics and religion and life in general!! I read it during studies and it helped me a lot to understand the world the psychology of people and about love!! Needless to mention I see myself and my life as a part of these books!!
I love the atmosphere and history but most of all I am mesmerized by his style of writing.
I still remember many quotes from the books but my favorite was:
" The limelight was just too short...!!!!"
My latest poem somehow show the colors of Danny Rossie and few other characters from the book, though not fully.. published on many online magazines, please enjoy..
Kiss you, Blue!
Naila Hina
He is trying his luck in music
After clenching my voice off!
I had an excellent flare for music
And dancing and singing and
All things aesthetics, gymnastics
But he influenced and inflicted
Fear inside me of all kinds
I'm afraid of heights now, though
I always were a high flyer and
Ever upward, most modern, best
In aerobics! Lived in zero gravity
Never pulled by gravity at all but
He had more gravitational power
Than most black holes in space!
The attraction of his kiss took me
Below the depths of Tartarus
And inside the ancient pyramids
Luxor, Takht Taus, Bahisht e kul!
He is trying his fat fingers on piano
Becoming a pianist, guitarist,
And artist of many talents, violinist!
Fiddling with a wooden chordophone!
Harmonica, harmoniums, ukulele!
Mouth organs, flutes, in addition
To the stringed musical instruments!
His nosy voice getting husky due
To excess of drinking and smoking!
He makes great tune in drunken
State, writes epic poetry in wilderness!
Always keeping me at the edge of the
Forest! Never letting me in the inner
Lyre but kept luring me through his
Lyrics to be a hunt always chasing
The hunter, not caring for my safety!
I love the atmosphere and history but most of all I am mesmerized by his style of writing.
I still remember many quotes from the books but my favorite was:
" The limelight was just too short...!!!!"
My latest poem somehow show the colors of Danny Rossie and few other characters from the book, though not fully.. published on many online magazines, please enjoy..
Kiss you, Blue!
Naila Hina
He is trying his luck in music
After clenching my voice off!
I had an excellent flare for music
And dancing and singing and
All things aesthetics, gymnastics
But he influenced and inflicted
Fear inside me of all kinds
I'm afraid of heights now, though
I always were a high flyer and
Ever upward, most modern, best
In aerobics! Lived in zero gravity
Never pulled by gravity at all but
He had more gravitational power
Than most black holes in space!
The attraction of his kiss took me
Below the depths of Tartarus
And inside the ancient pyramids
Luxor, Takht Taus, Bahisht e kul!
He is trying his fat fingers on piano
Becoming a pianist, guitarist,
And artist of many talents, violinist!
Fiddling with a wooden chordophone!
Harmonica, harmoniums, ukulele!
Mouth organs, flutes, in addition
To the stringed musical instruments!
His nosy voice getting husky due
To excess of drinking and smoking!
He makes great tune in drunken
State, writes epic poetry in wilderness!
Always keeping me at the edge of the
Forest! Never letting me in the inner
Lyre but kept luring me through his
Lyrics to be a hunt always chasing
The hunter, not caring for my safety!
April 3, 2024
Acts of Faith: Examining Interfaith Conflict and Attraction
Erich Segal's "Acts of Faith" explores the tensions and attractions between faiths through the lives of three protagonists. Daniel, heir to a Rabbinical dynasty, Deborah, his sister yearning for freedom, and Timothy, a Catholic priest with a hidden past, find their paths intertwined.
While the novel does touch on finding common ground, the primary theme revolves around the challenges of navigating interfaith relationships. Daniel and Deborah's upbringing clashes with Timothy's Catholic background, creating obstacles for their desires. Religious traditions and expectations act as barriers, highlighting the complexities of love across faiths.
Segal delves into the internal conflicts of the characters. Daniel questions his preordained path, Deborah rebels against societal constraints, and Timothy grapples with forbidden love and his own faith. These internal struggles showcase the individual's yearning for personal fulfillment that may not align with religious expectations.
The novel incorporates details of religious practices from Judaism and Catholicism. This provides context for the characters' struggles but can also be seen as a way to highlight the differences between the faiths, rather than fostering a deep understanding.
While the portrayal of interfaith dialogue might not be as nuanced as real-world encounters, "Acts of Faith" remains a compelling story about love, faith, and the choices we make. It explores the power of attraction that transcends religious boundaries while acknowledging the difficulties of navigating such relationships.
"Acts of Faith" is a thought-provoking exploration of interfaith conflict and desire. While some elements may be romanticized, the novel serves as a starting point for considering the complexities of love and faith across religious lines.
Erich Segal's "Acts of Faith" explores the tensions and attractions between faiths through the lives of three protagonists. Daniel, heir to a Rabbinical dynasty, Deborah, his sister yearning for freedom, and Timothy, a Catholic priest with a hidden past, find their paths intertwined.
While the novel does touch on finding common ground, the primary theme revolves around the challenges of navigating interfaith relationships. Daniel and Deborah's upbringing clashes with Timothy's Catholic background, creating obstacles for their desires. Religious traditions and expectations act as barriers, highlighting the complexities of love across faiths.
Segal delves into the internal conflicts of the characters. Daniel questions his preordained path, Deborah rebels against societal constraints, and Timothy grapples with forbidden love and his own faith. These internal struggles showcase the individual's yearning for personal fulfillment that may not align with religious expectations.
The novel incorporates details of religious practices from Judaism and Catholicism. This provides context for the characters' struggles but can also be seen as a way to highlight the differences between the faiths, rather than fostering a deep understanding.
While the portrayal of interfaith dialogue might not be as nuanced as real-world encounters, "Acts of Faith" remains a compelling story about love, faith, and the choices we make. It explores the power of attraction that transcends religious boundaries while acknowledging the difficulties of navigating such relationships.
"Acts of Faith" is a thought-provoking exploration of interfaith conflict and desire. While some elements may be romanticized, the novel serves as a starting point for considering the complexities of love and faith across religious lines.
May 2, 2020
Este fue un libro que cayó en mis manos por casualidad (en una vieja librerìa que ya no existe en mi ciudad de residencia por años) y que acabó convirtiéndose en uno de mis favoritos. Cuando en estos días leìa en redes sociales sobre Unorthodox, me acordè en el fondo de este libro y de Deborah, que aunque no rompe del todo con su familia judìa ortodoxa, quiere poder expresar su amor a Dios de la misma manera en que lo hacen los hombres de su familia, por lo que termina enfrentàndose a su radical padre, al igual que su hermano Daniel. Y en tercer lugar, la historia de Timothy, un rebelde muchacho que termina encaminado hacia el sacerdocio y el ascenso en la jerarquìa catòlica. Con algunos tópicos irreales y alguna romantizaciòn de màs, el relato de Erich Segal termina absorbiendo al lector lìnea a lìnea tocando tópicos como la diferencia entre hombres y mujeres por motivos religiosos, el celibato sacerdotal catòlico (aunque de manera superficial) y algunos elementos de lo que se conoce como Teologìa de la liberaciòn y la opciòn por los pobres y desamparados. Lectura fàcil y, a pesar de los fallos y de un final muy poco pulido, muy recomendable.
June 7, 2021
First of all I want to say that I have never heard of this author or his books before. So, I went into this with no information whatsoever about the book’s content or Segal’s writing style.
I have to say that I was on the brink of giving up on this book many times mainly because I thought that there were a lot of things happening at the same time and when it came to the demonic possession of one of the rabbi’s daughters I had to distance myself from this. However I continued reading and oh boy I’m so glad I did because the way Segal wrapped the three storylines of Danny, Deborah and Tim made me so incredibly happy.
I loved how Acts of Faith presents three characters who discover that having faith is not always easy, is not always pretty. Faith sometimes tests us but the important thing is to face and move past those obstacles to truly understand what Faith means (to each and every one of us in our unique way)
I have to say that I was on the brink of giving up on this book many times mainly because I thought that there were a lot of things happening at the same time and when it came to the demonic possession of one of the rabbi’s daughters I had to distance myself from this. However I continued reading and oh boy I’m so glad I did because the way Segal wrapped the three storylines of Danny, Deborah and Tim made me so incredibly happy.
I loved how Acts of Faith presents three characters who discover that having faith is not always easy, is not always pretty. Faith sometimes tests us but the important thing is to face and move past those obstacles to truly understand what Faith means (to each and every one of us in our unique way)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 4, 2025
(4.5 stars rounded up to 5)
This is a panoramic saga of a tale taking to you to the heart of the Jewish and Catholic faiths, whilst bringing to life the characters of the book through love, betrayal, faith and much more.
The writer is particularly adept at bringing to live the places the book is set in, whether that's Brooklyn, Boston, Jerusalem, a Kibbutz, Rome and the Favalas of Brazilia. The reader feels like they've been transported there.
Yes this book is incredibly schmaltzy, the ending trailed for a long time, the left wing politics of the author sometimes detracts particularly when talking about the Kibbutz as a paradise, when it's far more complex than that and I should know as my relatives live on a Kibbutz.
Those though are minor quibbles from what is an excellent book which moved me, excited me and made me think of my own Jewish faith. I would definitely recommend this book.
This is a panoramic saga of a tale taking to you to the heart of the Jewish and Catholic faiths, whilst bringing to life the characters of the book through love, betrayal, faith and much more.
The writer is particularly adept at bringing to live the places the book is set in, whether that's Brooklyn, Boston, Jerusalem, a Kibbutz, Rome and the Favalas of Brazilia. The reader feels like they've been transported there.
Yes this book is incredibly schmaltzy, the ending trailed for a long time, the left wing politics of the author sometimes detracts particularly when talking about the Kibbutz as a paradise, when it's far more complex than that and I should know as my relatives live on a Kibbutz.
Those though are minor quibbles from what is an excellent book which moved me, excited me and made me think of my own Jewish faith. I would definitely recommend this book.
March 9, 2024
Segal takes readers on a journey spanning continents and decades. We encounter the rigid traditions of a Brooklyn Jewish family, the bustling life of a Brazilian city, and the spiritual heart of Jerusalem. The novel delves into the clash between religious doctrine and personal yearning, raising questions about faith, forgiveness, and the boundaries of love.
Segal offers a balanced portrayal of Judaism and Christianity, highlighting their beauty and challenges. The book sparks thought-provoking questions about the role of faith in our lives.
Acts of Faith is a captivating novel that will stay with you long after you turn the last page. It's a thought-provoking exploration of love, faith, and the choices we make in life. If you enjoy sweeping family sagas with a touch of religious intrigue, this book is worth checking out.
Segal offers a balanced portrayal of Judaism and Christianity, highlighting their beauty and challenges. The book sparks thought-provoking questions about the role of faith in our lives.
Acts of Faith is a captivating novel that will stay with you long after you turn the last page. It's a thought-provoking exploration of love, faith, and the choices we make in life. If you enjoy sweeping family sagas with a touch of religious intrigue, this book is worth checking out.
June 2, 2025
My mom snagged this from a book fair stall back in the 2000s and promptly DNF’d it. I picked it up years later—and haven’t been the same since.
Acts of Faith didn’t just tug at my heartstrings, it yanked them, wrapped them around a crucifix, set them on fire, and then whispered, “But wait, there’s more.” Religion, love, sin, guilt, pining, tragedy—Segal really said suffer. And I did. Willingly.
Tim’s line—“God damn you, Deborah. He can’t love you half as much as I do”—That sentence alone carries more ache than some entire novels. That man had me gasping, kicking my feet, and praying for divine intervention.
The novel is gorgeous, tragic without being melodramatic, romantic without being saccharie. I read this book every three years and every single time, it makes me cry, laugh, scream into my pillow and consider hurling myself off my balcony.
Acts of Faith didn’t just tug at my heartstrings, it yanked them, wrapped them around a crucifix, set them on fire, and then whispered, “But wait, there’s more.” Religion, love, sin, guilt, pining, tragedy—Segal really said suffer. And I did. Willingly.
Tim’s line—“God damn you, Deborah. He can’t love you half as much as I do”—That sentence alone carries more ache than some entire novels. That man had me gasping, kicking my feet, and praying for divine intervention.
The novel is gorgeous, tragic without being melodramatic, romantic without being saccharie. I read this book every three years and every single time, it makes me cry, laugh, scream into my pillow and consider hurling myself off my balcony.
October 30, 2025
I had read Love Story by Erich Segal years ago, but can't remember what the story was about. Then by chance, I encountered Erich Segal's books on the shelf and picked up Acts of Faith.
Story about Daniel, Deborah and Timothy. One destined to be a great religious leader, in a long line of illustrious rabbis. Second yearns to be placed in a similar position, struggles to reach there but has secrets that she can't tell the person she most wants to tell. And the third who started from nowhere, but due to his determination to leave everything behind, starts on a path that leads to the exalted circles within the Vatican, something he had never dreamed of.
These three individuals cross paths over time, test each other's faith and eventually make a leap of faith in their own life.
Very interesting book - learned so much about Jewish faith and their customs.
Story about Daniel, Deborah and Timothy. One destined to be a great religious leader, in a long line of illustrious rabbis. Second yearns to be placed in a similar position, struggles to reach there but has secrets that she can't tell the person she most wants to tell. And the third who started from nowhere, but due to his determination to leave everything behind, starts on a path that leads to the exalted circles within the Vatican, something he had never dreamed of.
These three individuals cross paths over time, test each other's faith and eventually make a leap of faith in their own life.
Very interesting book - learned so much about Jewish faith and their customs.
May 14, 2017
A complete page turner, despite its hefty 500+ pages.
It was an enlightening read, with regards to the Jewish culture and history, and it had a lot of insights into Christianity.
At times the religious aspects of the book are overwhelming, but, those are definitely overcome by how much you get to learn about these religions. The story takes us through New York, Israel, Brazil and Rome, and is never a drag to read. Yes, it is a little predictable, and maybe Daniel should have had a bit more limelight, but Segal's storytelling is marvelous and smooth. Timothy, no doubt, is beautifully etched as a character, and it was a pleasure to read through Deborah's journey in what was a man's world of being Rabbis.
I would definitely recommend this to Segal fans, and those who like romance novels or simply want to know more about Jewish customs, through a story.
It was an enlightening read, with regards to the Jewish culture and history, and it had a lot of insights into Christianity.
At times the religious aspects of the book are overwhelming, but, those are definitely overcome by how much you get to learn about these religions. The story takes us through New York, Israel, Brazil and Rome, and is never a drag to read. Yes, it is a little predictable, and maybe Daniel should have had a bit more limelight, but Segal's storytelling is marvelous and smooth. Timothy, no doubt, is beautifully etched as a character, and it was a pleasure to read through Deborah's journey in what was a man's world of being Rabbis.
I would definitely recommend this to Segal fans, and those who like romance novels or simply want to know more about Jewish customs, through a story.
February 16, 2021
After reading this book, I can surely say that I have been introduced to the intricacies of both Christianity and Judaism and how religion plays a big role in the modern world. I love how the characters are portrayed in the story. Each of them have their own personality, an identity of their own. It is truly a thought provoking novel which makes you wonder about ideas of sin, salvation and faith. Whether everything our religion dictates should be adhered to or should we follow whatever our heart says, is a question that will surely linger in your minds when you read this book.
I just wish the author emphasized a little more on the relationship of Deborah and Timothy. Otherwise the book is worth reading, it is slow paced at few places.
I just wish the author emphasized a little more on the relationship of Deborah and Timothy. Otherwise the book is worth reading, it is slow paced at few places.
April 9, 2020
Enjoyed this book. It is of the old fashioned Herman Wouk sweeping saga ilk. It takes readers through the decades of three major characters. It crosses the globe: Brooklyn, Rome, Israel, New England, Brazil, Quebec. While some of the action is serendipity to the point of high "unlikelies", it is nevertheless much like getting oneself involved watching a television miniseries. I could almost envision some of the screenplay. You can get 'lost' in enjoying this tale of two religions, the conflicts of being a father's child/living up to the father's dreams. Or not. I liked Deborah's character the most.
December 1, 2024
It was well written in terms of the depth of it and deep dive into Hasidic Jewish life along with Catholic priesthood. I felt like I learned a lot from the book in that regard. I know Mr. Segal did his homework based of the Acknowledgements section in the back of the book along with the way it is written.
However, the story was a bit bland at times. I felt like I was reading a book that would be perfect for
a religiously-focused Hallmark or made for TV movie. I ready it cover to cover. However, it was not my thing. No disrespect to Mr. Segal or anyone that loves the book. These three stars are based on the bland story and my personal preferences.
However, the story was a bit bland at times. I felt like I was reading a book that would be perfect for
a religiously-focused Hallmark or made for TV movie. I ready it cover to cover. However, it was not my thing. No disrespect to Mr. Segal or anyone that loves the book. These three stars are based on the bland story and my personal preferences.
July 26, 2018
I love all Erich Segal's books, and this one was great too, although more low-key. He describes the world of Judaism and Catholicism in a very engaging and interesting way, providing specific details and terminology. The plot takes place in NYC, Israel and Rome, which also adds to the charm of this book. The interaction between people from different religious backgrounds is very educative and I think teaches us tolerance.
December 8, 2021
Once again Erich Segal writes a love story - love of God, love of a significant other, love of church, love of tradition and love of family and friends.
Although I saw the human love interests as more infatuations, the in-depth descriptions of the religious practices and traditions were fascinating to me! So were the vivid descriptions of the different communities and landscapes.
This was a worthwhile read!
Although I saw the human love interests as more infatuations, the in-depth descriptions of the religious practices and traditions were fascinating to me! So were the vivid descriptions of the different communities and landscapes.
This was a worthwhile read!
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