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The Rabbi's Knight
"The Rabbi's Knight is instantly compelling and fascinating in its arcane plot and propulsive pacing. Literally, a page turner!" -Sylvia Boorstein, PhD, New York Times bestselling author of Happiness Is an Inside Job
"A well-written historical adventure story . . . with unexpected twists and turns that keep you hooked . . . an exciting and historically fascinating read." -Andrew Kaplan, New York Times bestselling author of Blue Madagascar and the Homeland novels
The year is 1290. At the twilight of the Crusades, war-weary Knight Templar Jonathan St. Clair is garrisoned in the port city of Acre in the Holy Land. In possession of an ancient scroll with a cryptic inscription, he learns that it holds the key to unlock the secrets of Jerusalem's Temple Mount.
But time is running out. Acre will soon come under siege, and the one man able to divine the scroll's meaning, Rabbi Samuel of Baghdad, has been targeted for assassination. St. Clair apprentices himself to Rabbi Samuel and together they travel to Jerusalem. On their pilgrimage, they are hunted by scheming emirs in the service of a bitter enemy of Rabbi Samuel. But they are aided in their quest by a brilliant young scholar, Isaac of Acre; a powerful young Scotsman, William Wallace; a learned Muslim mathematician, physician, and cartographer, al-Hasani; and a beautiful independent-minded woman, Zahirah, who avoids serving in an emir's harem by hiding in a leper colony on the shores of the Sea of Galilee.
Rabbi Samuel, St. Clair and the others will risk everything to fulfill their shared and sacred destiny as guardians of the Temple Mount.
"A well-written historical adventure story . . . with unexpected twists and turns that keep you hooked . . . an exciting and historically fascinating read." -Andrew Kaplan, New York Times bestselling author of Blue Madagascar and the Homeland novels
The year is 1290. At the twilight of the Crusades, war-weary Knight Templar Jonathan St. Clair is garrisoned in the port city of Acre in the Holy Land. In possession of an ancient scroll with a cryptic inscription, he learns that it holds the key to unlock the secrets of Jerusalem's Temple Mount.
But time is running out. Acre will soon come under siege, and the one man able to divine the scroll's meaning, Rabbi Samuel of Baghdad, has been targeted for assassination. St. Clair apprentices himself to Rabbi Samuel and together they travel to Jerusalem. On their pilgrimage, they are hunted by scheming emirs in the service of a bitter enemy of Rabbi Samuel. But they are aided in their quest by a brilliant young scholar, Isaac of Acre; a powerful young Scotsman, William Wallace; a learned Muslim mathematician, physician, and cartographer, al-Hasani; and a beautiful independent-minded woman, Zahirah, who avoids serving in an emir's harem by hiding in a leper colony on the shores of the Sea of Galilee.
Rabbi Samuel, St. Clair and the others will risk everything to fulfill their shared and sacred destiny as guardians of the Temple Mount.
487 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 19, 2015
16 people are currently reading
138 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews
May 3, 2017
Would give more than five stars if I could. In his second historical novel set in Israel Cooper establishes himself as a gifted historian with a penchant for research that encompasses his writings into a well-rounded, believable tale of ancient Jerusalem. The story is set in 1290, at a time when the Knights Templar is set to withdraw from Palestine. Jonathon St. Clair, knight and scholar, finds himself in possession of an ancient scroll whose cryptic inscription cannot be translated by the top Jewish scholars in the port city of Acre, however since he has been advised that the mystery to this scroll holds the key to the secrets of Jerusalem’s Temple Mount St. Clair is determined to learn more about Kabballah, the soul of the Torah and written in cypher, and determine the documents secrets.
Bagdad’s top minister, Rabbi Samuel is the one man equipped to unravel the meaning behind the secretive writings, however he is on the run, targeted for assassination by forces within the Jewish congregation. Aided by a young rabbinic scholar of Acre, Isaac, a young William Wallace, whose Scottish father had wanted to have him become a member of the divinity and a Moslem woman, Zahirah, found hiding in the den of lepers to escape her enemies (and who seriously challenges St. Clair’s vow of chastity), along with an eminent mathematician and cartographer, al-Hasani, join forces with Rabbi Samuel and aide him on a mission to Jerusalem to risk all that is precious for their sacred destiny as guardians of the Temple Mount.
Cooper’s voice is that of the thirteenth century. The wonderful breadth of the tale, the language, the time period is all captured. We get to look at this medieval life at ground level, from the traitors to the tradesmen, the Emir’s to God’s chosen servants, as we tread the streets of Jerusalem, stand before the campfires and engage in hand to hand combat as our hero’s hold stand-fast to all that is right. A compelling read. Best book of the year by far.
Bagdad’s top minister, Rabbi Samuel is the one man equipped to unravel the meaning behind the secretive writings, however he is on the run, targeted for assassination by forces within the Jewish congregation. Aided by a young rabbinic scholar of Acre, Isaac, a young William Wallace, whose Scottish father had wanted to have him become a member of the divinity and a Moslem woman, Zahirah, found hiding in the den of lepers to escape her enemies (and who seriously challenges St. Clair’s vow of chastity), along with an eminent mathematician and cartographer, al-Hasani, join forces with Rabbi Samuel and aide him on a mission to Jerusalem to risk all that is precious for their sacred destiny as guardians of the Temple Mount.
Cooper’s voice is that of the thirteenth century. The wonderful breadth of the tale, the language, the time period is all captured. We get to look at this medieval life at ground level, from the traitors to the tradesmen, the Emir’s to God’s chosen servants, as we tread the streets of Jerusalem, stand before the campfires and engage in hand to hand combat as our hero’s hold stand-fast to all that is right. A compelling read. Best book of the year by far.
January 16, 2016
This is a great read. Very interesting. The only novel that features Jewish subject matter in this period that I know.
June 17, 2023
This was a good book I enjoyed a lot of the Judaism stuff since I am Jewish and I really enjoyed the history of that period and looked up a lot of stuff while I was reading it.
October 17, 2019
My reaction to this novel is a bit mixed. The author's historical research and knowledge of Jewish, Christian and Moslem (but particularly Jewish) thought and customs in this time and area is astounding. I learned a lot - I especially learned the depth of my ignorance of the richness and complexity of Jewish culture and faith, then and now. Because we share many writings in the Torah and the Old Testament, and because Christianity is built on Judaism, it's easy to think we understand Judaism, when we only know the surface.
The author uses this book, and his characters, to philosophize on what I suspect are his own beliefs about faith and spirituality, and the intertwining of Judaism, Christianity and Islam. That's actually not great writing, it's too on-the-nose , but in this case I found it fascinating (because I learned a lot) and inspiring (because I really like his beautifully-stated messages of hope and tolerance).
As fiction, it is a bit weak. The story meanders in places, the characters' goals and motives aren't always clear (like the two young men going to Jerusalem because they've "always wanted to see it" when really, the author just needs to get them there), the stakes aren't always clearly explained, and the "bad guy" dies in the second half leaving us without a clear antagonist, but it does all come together at the end.
I recommend this book because it gives such a unique and fascinating and incredibly well-researched view of a little-explored aspect of the Middle Ages. I think you'll be glad you read it.
The author uses this book, and his characters, to philosophize on what I suspect are his own beliefs about faith and spirituality, and the intertwining of Judaism, Christianity and Islam. That's actually not great writing, it's too on-the-nose , but in this case I found it fascinating (because I learned a lot) and inspiring (because I really like his beautifully-stated messages of hope and tolerance).
As fiction, it is a bit weak. The story meanders in places, the characters' goals and motives aren't always clear (like the two young men going to Jerusalem because they've "always wanted to see it" when really, the author just needs to get them there), the stakes aren't always clearly explained, and the "bad guy" dies in the second half leaving us without a clear antagonist, but it does all come together at the end.
I recommend this book because it gives such a unique and fascinating and incredibly well-researched view of a little-explored aspect of the Middle Ages. I think you'll be glad you read it.
October 13, 2023
“Rabbis Night” by Michael J Cooper is an absolute gem that captivates from the very first page. Cooper’s storytelling prowess shines brilliantly, weaving a tale that is both heartwarming and thought-provoking. The characters are intricately crafted, each with their own unique charm and depth, making it easy for readers to connect with their journey. I personally love the parallels between Rabbis Night and Indiana Jones in adventure and wit.
One of the most remarkable aspects of this book is Cooper’s ability to blend humor, wisdom, and profound insights seamlessly. The narrative is sprinkled with delightful moments that will make you smile and reflect simultaneously. The story’s exploration of faith, community, and the power of human connection is both inspiring and uplifting.
Cooper’s writing style is engaging and immersive, making it hard to put the book down once you start. The way he paints scenes and emotions with words is simply enchanting. “Rabbis Night” is not just a story; it’s an experience that leaves a lasting impact on the reader.
If you’re looking for a book that will warm your heart, tickle your funny bone, and leave you pondering life’s big questions, “Rabbis Night” is a must-read. It’s a beautiful reminder of the beauty of friendship, the strength of faith, and the magic that can be found in unexpected places. Don’t miss the opportunity to dive into this enchanting tale – you won’t be disappointed!
One of the most remarkable aspects of this book is Cooper’s ability to blend humor, wisdom, and profound insights seamlessly. The narrative is sprinkled with delightful moments that will make you smile and reflect simultaneously. The story’s exploration of faith, community, and the power of human connection is both inspiring and uplifting.
Cooper’s writing style is engaging and immersive, making it hard to put the book down once you start. The way he paints scenes and emotions with words is simply enchanting. “Rabbis Night” is not just a story; it’s an experience that leaves a lasting impact on the reader.
If you’re looking for a book that will warm your heart, tickle your funny bone, and leave you pondering life’s big questions, “Rabbis Night” is a must-read. It’s a beautiful reminder of the beauty of friendship, the strength of faith, and the magic that can be found in unexpected places. Don’t miss the opportunity to dive into this enchanting tale – you won’t be disappointed!
June 8, 2018
An engaging historical novel that took me on a most compelling journey.
I felt like I was there. Mr Cooper tells a fascinating story with twists and turns, educating us along the way.
I felt like I was there. Mr Cooper tells a fascinating story with twists and turns, educating us along the way.
August 15, 2025
The Rabbi’s Knight is a historical thriller set in 1290 at the waning edge of the Crusades. The story follows Jonathan St. Clair, a Knight Templar, who seeks the help of Rabbi Samuel, a renowned Jewish mystic, to decipher a mysterious scroll with cryptic Hebrew inscriptions. Their quest, tangled in political betrayal, religious fanaticism, and secret brotherhoods, unfolds across the Holy Land and brings together characters from vastly different worlds. The plot blends action and philosophy, weaving Kabbalistic lore, Christian mysticism, and Islamic reverence for shared prophets into a fast-paced journey marked by danger and spiritual awakening.
The writing pulled me in from the start. The prose is direct and vivid without trying to show off. It balances historical detail with forward-moving suspense, which kept me up longer than I care to admit. Some of the dialogue occasionally becomes formal, but that’s rare. Cooper’s ability to blend historical fact with myth and to put complex theological ideas into plain speech impressed me. And it wasn’t just dry knowledge, it mattered to the characters, which made it matter to me.
What I loved most, though, was the humanity of it all. I didn’t expect a novel set in the Middle Ages to feel so timely, but it did. A few scenes lean into exposition-heavy dialogue. The book wrestles with how people of different faiths, each with their own stories and wounds, might still come together to chase truth and protect what’s sacred. The friendship between St. Clair and Rabbi Samuel felt genuine, built not on fantasy but on shared vulnerability and grit. The villains, especially the fanatics like Rabbi Petit, are frightening not because they’re caricatures, but because their righteousness feels so real. It reminded me how easily good intentions can rot into cruelty when people forget to listen.
The Rabbi’s Knight is more than just an exciting story about knights and ancient codes. It’s a moving meditation on trust, faith, and the fragile possibility of peace in a broken world. I’d recommend this book to anyone who loves historical fiction with heart, especially readers curious about interfaith dialogue, spiritual traditions, or stories that dare to imagine bridges where others see walls. If you’re tired of the same old sword-and-sandals fare and want something with both soul and suspense, this one’s worth your time.
The writing pulled me in from the start. The prose is direct and vivid without trying to show off. It balances historical detail with forward-moving suspense, which kept me up longer than I care to admit. Some of the dialogue occasionally becomes formal, but that’s rare. Cooper’s ability to blend historical fact with myth and to put complex theological ideas into plain speech impressed me. And it wasn’t just dry knowledge, it mattered to the characters, which made it matter to me.
What I loved most, though, was the humanity of it all. I didn’t expect a novel set in the Middle Ages to feel so timely, but it did. A few scenes lean into exposition-heavy dialogue. The book wrestles with how people of different faiths, each with their own stories and wounds, might still come together to chase truth and protect what’s sacred. The friendship between St. Clair and Rabbi Samuel felt genuine, built not on fantasy but on shared vulnerability and grit. The villains, especially the fanatics like Rabbi Petit, are frightening not because they’re caricatures, but because their righteousness feels so real. It reminded me how easily good intentions can rot into cruelty when people forget to listen.
The Rabbi’s Knight is more than just an exciting story about knights and ancient codes. It’s a moving meditation on trust, faith, and the fragile possibility of peace in a broken world. I’d recommend this book to anyone who loves historical fiction with heart, especially readers curious about interfaith dialogue, spiritual traditions, or stories that dare to imagine bridges where others see walls. If you’re tired of the same old sword-and-sandals fare and want something with both soul and suspense, this one’s worth your time.
October 14, 2025
Re-release Without Improvements
Originally released in 2015, Michael J. Cooper's novel has not been improved significantly in this new version.
Jonathan St. Clair is a Knight Templar, yet in this story set in the Holy Land, his task is an unusual one: to ensure the safety of Rabbi Samuel of Baghdad - and to learn from him about the Jewish mystical tradition. Many players arrive from all over the known world and threaten both his mission and his sense of who he is and where he truly belongs..
This historical fiction novel starts in 1290 and follows several different strands of narrative before uniting them. The introduction to the revised edition claims to have shortened and improved the novel in order to set it up as the basis for the novel released since. However, I found that the things mentioned in previous reviews were still all there. It was repetitive, the plot melodramatic and not followed through in its complexity, many many typos and even a time inconsistency or two. The language occasionally veers into the archaic, which hinders the reading flow (as do about 20 mentions of a viceroy in a single page).
Since it is historical fiction, it features extensive and graphic fight scenes and throughout I cannot help but notice the author's dislike for both Jewish and Muslim characters and traditions. Even though his hero is tasked with learning Kabbalah, Cooper clearly considers the Christian religion superior and considers Judaism supplementary. That Jews practice a closed practice becomes painfully obvious when the Rabbi refers to his tefillin as 'phylacteries'. No Jew would ever to that.. Maybe Cooper should have stuck to his guns.
There are appearances of a few historically relevant characters such as a young William Wallace but even with that enrichment, the novel falls short of what it aspires to do. The Jewish characters are the author's Christian idea of Jews, the Muslims caricatures and the love story is predictable and suffers from exoticism.
This book is for Christian-socialised lovers of crusade-era historical fiction.
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC.
Originally released in 2015, Michael J. Cooper's novel has not been improved significantly in this new version.
Jonathan St. Clair is a Knight Templar, yet in this story set in the Holy Land, his task is an unusual one: to ensure the safety of Rabbi Samuel of Baghdad - and to learn from him about the Jewish mystical tradition. Many players arrive from all over the known world and threaten both his mission and his sense of who he is and where he truly belongs..
This historical fiction novel starts in 1290 and follows several different strands of narrative before uniting them. The introduction to the revised edition claims to have shortened and improved the novel in order to set it up as the basis for the novel released since. However, I found that the things mentioned in previous reviews were still all there. It was repetitive, the plot melodramatic and not followed through in its complexity, many many typos and even a time inconsistency or two. The language occasionally veers into the archaic, which hinders the reading flow (as do about 20 mentions of a viceroy in a single page).
Since it is historical fiction, it features extensive and graphic fight scenes and throughout I cannot help but notice the author's dislike for both Jewish and Muslim characters and traditions. Even though his hero is tasked with learning Kabbalah, Cooper clearly considers the Christian religion superior and considers Judaism supplementary. That Jews practice a closed practice becomes painfully obvious when the Rabbi refers to his tefillin as 'phylacteries'. No Jew would ever to that.. Maybe Cooper should have stuck to his guns.
There are appearances of a few historically relevant characters such as a young William Wallace but even with that enrichment, the novel falls short of what it aspires to do. The Jewish characters are the author's Christian idea of Jews, the Muslims caricatures and the love story is predictable and suffers from exoticism.
This book is for Christian-socialised lovers of crusade-era historical fiction.
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC.
August 11, 2025
This is my first book by Michael J. Cooper, and I will be reading the rest of this series because of The Rabbi's Knight.
This unique historical novel is based in 1290 when the Crusaders are withdrawing from Israel. A Knight, Jonathan St. Clair, is looking how to translate a mysterious inscription before Acre falls and partners with Rabbi Samuel of Baghdad, agreeing to protect him during a perilous journey to Jerusalem in return for helping him translate the inscription. Other travel companions include William Wallace (lovely surprise), Isaac, a brilliant young scholar from Acre, a learned Moslem mathematician and cartographer; and Zahirah, who hides among leper colony on the shores of the Sea of Galilee to avoid the cruel emir.
The depth of details regarding the historical relationships between Muslims, Christians and Jews is rich and engaging, enlightening and stimulating as you learn more about all 3 cultures from the fascinating theologies, advanced medical practice, astrology and mathematics that existed to name a few. There is suspense, intrigue, romance, unexpected friendship, betrayal. loyalty and deep faith woven throughout the book. The beginning starts off with a bang, the middle is a bit slower, and the end is surprising and satisfying.
If you enjoy historical novels from a captivating era that bring rich and fascinating details with a plot that is suspenseful and enriching, this is a must read.
A deep appreciation to NetGalley, Köehler Books, and Michael Cooper for the privilege of the ARC, it was a pleasure to read. All opinions expressed are my own.
This unique historical novel is based in 1290 when the Crusaders are withdrawing from Israel. A Knight, Jonathan St. Clair, is looking how to translate a mysterious inscription before Acre falls and partners with Rabbi Samuel of Baghdad, agreeing to protect him during a perilous journey to Jerusalem in return for helping him translate the inscription. Other travel companions include William Wallace (lovely surprise), Isaac, a brilliant young scholar from Acre, a learned Moslem mathematician and cartographer; and Zahirah, who hides among leper colony on the shores of the Sea of Galilee to avoid the cruel emir.
The depth of details regarding the historical relationships between Muslims, Christians and Jews is rich and engaging, enlightening and stimulating as you learn more about all 3 cultures from the fascinating theologies, advanced medical practice, astrology and mathematics that existed to name a few. There is suspense, intrigue, romance, unexpected friendship, betrayal. loyalty and deep faith woven throughout the book. The beginning starts off with a bang, the middle is a bit slower, and the end is surprising and satisfying.
If you enjoy historical novels from a captivating era that bring rich and fascinating details with a plot that is suspenseful and enriching, this is a must read.
A deep appreciation to NetGalley, Köehler Books, and Michael Cooper for the privilege of the ARC, it was a pleasure to read. All opinions expressed are my own.
July 30, 2025
I'm not sure how many stars to give here. On the one hand, I like the concept. An English knight and a Rabbi in Crusader Israel work together, along with Muslim friends, to decipher a hidden code and root out bad players. There's a lot of action and some good twists and turns. The ending was solid, with some unexpectedly heavy parts mixed into the redemption and resolution.
However, I got bored somewhere in the middle and began to skim. There were some plot holes (why would the bad guy throw the important paper in the garbage and not into the fire, like other parts of the story?), probably too much Hebrew for the average reader, and some very predictable elements. The romance was cheesy, and the physical parts were cringey.
I'll go with 2.75 rounded up. Historical fiction fans may enjoy this.
Thank you to NetGalley, Köehler Books, and Michael Cooper for the opportunity to review an advanced copy.
However, I got bored somewhere in the middle and began to skim. There were some plot holes (why would the bad guy throw the important paper in the garbage and not into the fire, like other parts of the story?), probably too much Hebrew for the average reader, and some very predictable elements. The romance was cheesy, and the physical parts were cringey.
I'll go with 2.75 rounded up. Historical fiction fans may enjoy this.
Thank you to NetGalley, Köehler Books, and Michael Cooper for the opportunity to review an advanced copy.
November 11, 2025
This is a most unusual book set in 1290. The Jews have been banished from England and anywhere they go, their peace is fragile and fickle. Even though the Muslims have conquered much of the Holy Lands, taking it back from the Crusaders, it is still a more welcoming and accepting place than many. There are still a few Knights Templar strongholds like Acre but there are plans afoot to lay siege. To say that there is much duplicity and deceit is to put it mildly. But there are truth seekers of Judaism, Christianity and Islam. Throughout the book they find their way to each other in journeys to Jerusalem and become friends and allies.
They will need each other as men with evil on their minds try to thwart and kill them. Some have simple reasons- power, wealth and conquest. Others want to prevent the truth about their activities to die with the travellers. There is a combination of historical characters with others brought in to round out the tale. It is an exciting story, filled with adventure and close calls. What I found even more fascinating was the philosophies and perceptions that were shared both of religion and of men. While the knights and a student go from one challenge to another, they also learn so much wisdom that they are then asked to take forth with them once the initial journey is completed.
The reader will get a full picture of what life must have been like in that pivotal year and get a sense of the people beyond the superficial. It is a book that will please a wide range of readers. Five purrs and two paws up.
They will need each other as men with evil on their minds try to thwart and kill them. Some have simple reasons- power, wealth and conquest. Others want to prevent the truth about their activities to die with the travellers. There is a combination of historical characters with others brought in to round out the tale. It is an exciting story, filled with adventure and close calls. What I found even more fascinating was the philosophies and perceptions that were shared both of religion and of men. While the knights and a student go from one challenge to another, they also learn so much wisdom that they are then asked to take forth with them once the initial journey is completed.
The reader will get a full picture of what life must have been like in that pivotal year and get a sense of the people beyond the superficial. It is a book that will please a wide range of readers. Five purrs and two paws up.
December 18, 2025
This read like a historically based Lord of the Rings. We have a rabbi (Rabbi Samuel) who must be protected by a crusading knight (Sir Johnathan St. Claire), and together with a band of legends and historical figures (William Wallace), they set on a heroes journey. It was interesting to learn some historical facts, and I found myself researching multiple settings and historical events to see what was factual and what was part of the plot. In the end, I found myself happy with the story, and can see where this story sticks out, being an immersion of multiple cultures and experiences. All in all…I liked it and would recommend it to people who like historical fiction.
July 24, 2025
I enjoyed this book. I found it to be an informative, exciting story about a fascinating time in history. And for the most part, the pacing is very good. However, I found the characters flat; I neither loved the protagonists nor hated the antagonists. It was like I had no stake in the characters and don’t miss them now that I finished the book. I found the theology fascinating, but it sometimes came at the expense of pacing. Nonetheless, this book is well worth reading. Thank you to Netgalley and Köehler Books for the advance reader copy.
December 11, 2025
Our book club read The Rabbi’s Knight this month and we were blown away by how deeply the story touched us. The relationship between Rabbi Samuel and St. Clair brought so much emotion and depth to our discussion. We all felt the tension of the Crusades and the beauty of the message about unity and faith. The writing is powerful and heartfelt, and several of us said we felt changed by the ending. This book reminded us why we love reading together. Truly unforgettable.
December 11, 2025
My book club chose The Rabbi’s Knight because we wanted something historical and meaningful, and we got so much more than that. The emotional weight of the characters felt incredibly real. The scenes in Safed had us talking for hours. The author has an amazing gift for blending suspense, wisdom, and spiritual insight. Everyone in our club agreed that this story stays with you long after you close the book.
December 11, 2025
Our book club selected The Rabbi’s Knight after hearing wonderful things, and the novel exceeded every expectation. The emotional layers in this story are astonishing. We were captivated by the journey, the symbolism, and the sense of destiny woven throughout. The author’s writing is not only vivid but deeply soulful. A masterpiece.
December 11, 2025
This book was a revelation for our book club. We were touched by the way the story handles faith, conflict, and humanity with such grace. The characters stay with you long after you read the final page. Many of us felt inspired by the courage and compassion shown in the story. A brilliant and heartfelt novel.
December 11, 2025
This novel was a favorite at our book club. We talked a lot about the courage of Rabbi Samuel and how incredible his wisdom felt throughout the story. Many of us were struck by how the themes of peace and shared humanity feel even more important today. The writing is breathtaking and the pacing kept us turning pages late into the night. What a moving, inspiring story.
December 11, 2025
Our book club could not stop talking about this book. The characters felt so real that we kept imagining them long after the meeting ended. The author takes history and turns it into something alive and full of emotion. The bond between the rabbi and the knight touched us all and made us reflect on the power of compassion. We highly recommend this read.
December 11, 2025
I was completely immersed from the first chapter, and when my book club met, everyone felt the same. The book blends mystery, history, spiritual reflection, and danger in a way that feels effortless. We especially loved the messages about wisdom and inner strength. This was one of our most meaningful discussions of the year.
December 11, 2025
The Rabbi’s Knight sparked one of the richest conversations our book club has ever had. The themes were powerful, the characters unforgettable, and the emotional journey left several of us in tears. It takes great talent to create a story that teaches, inspires, and entertains all at once. Truly beautiful writing.
December 11, 2025
This book was a highlight for our book club this year. We were captivated by the journey across the Holy Land and the complex relationship between the characters. The writing is poetic and filled with meaning. We walked away from our discussion feeling inspired and grateful for such a powerful reading experience.
December 11, 2025
Our book club dove into The Rabbi’s Knight and everyone agreed that it is a rare kind of novel. It feels ancient and modern at the same time. The bravery of the characters stirred something deep in us. We loved the wisdom that flows through the dialogue, especially in the scenes between the rabbi and the knight. This book sparked a meaningful conversation about faith and courage.
December 11, 2025
This book club pick was absolutely unforgettable. The rich history, the emotional depth, and the thrilling tension kept all of us talking well past our meeting time. We were amazed at how the author blends spirituality with action in a way that feels so natural. Every character has real heart. A truly stunning story.
December 13, 2025
The Rabbi’s Knight was a treasure for our book club. The way the author writes about human connection across cultures moved us deeply. Rabbi Samuel became one of our favorite characters we have ever discussed. His strength, compassion, and wisdom sparked heartfelt reactions from our entire group. A book full of meaning.
December 14, 2025
Our book club had such a wonderful experience reading and discussing this book. The rabbi’s wisdom touched all of us and the bond between him and St. Clair gave us a lot to reflect on. The suspense kept us turning pages, but it was the heart of the story that stayed with us. A beautiful and inspiring read.
December 22, 2025
I did not expect this book to hit me the way it did. Our book club picked it thinking it would be mostly historical, but it turned into something much more personal. The conversations between the rabbi and the knight stayed with me all week. I kept thinking about how wisdom and courage show up in quiet ways. This book made our book club meeting feel deeper than usual.
December 22, 2025
This was one of those book club reads where everyone showed up with notes and still felt like we did not have enough time. I found myself rereading certain passages because they felt meaningful in a way I could not rush. The rabbi’s calm strength really moved me. It felt honest and human, not preachy at all.
December 11, 2025
Our book club loved the balance of action and spiritual wisdom in this book. The scenes were vivid and intense, but what touched us most was the message about unity and shared humanity. The rabbi’s voice carried a lot of emotional power. Several members said this is a book they will read again.
December 13, 2025
Our book club loved every page of this book. The story is filled with wisdom and suspense, and so much heart. We found ourselves pausing often to reflect on the messages within the story. It takes a gifted writer to turn history into such a powerful emotional journey. Highly recommended.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews