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The Wolf Shall Dwell with the Lamb
In the Lebanese village of Bhamdoun in 1931, Joseph Friedmann is born to a 15-year-old Syrian-Jewish girl hastily married off to a Belgian businessman thirty years her senior. After his parents divorce, Joseph's new Christian step-father refuses to rear a Jewish child. At the age of eight, Joseph is banished to a Catholic convent, where he experiences betrayal, anti-Semitism, and a deep trauma he cannot bring himself to name. He learns to survive by locking away his feelings. But at the age of fifteen, he allows himself to fall in love with Isabella, a nun-in-training. This, too, ends in heartbreak. She leaves the convent, taking with her Joseph's unborn child and his hopes of ever belonging in Lebanon.
Joseph sets out on foot toward Palestine, where he takes part in Israel's 1948 War of Independence. He is finally home. But his new country needs his unique set of skills, and Joseph returns to Lebanon as an Israeli spy. Over time, the tools of his trade - daring, violence, deceit, and suppression of self - exact an ever-increasing toll. After twenty years under cover, he completes one final, decisive operation. Now he faces a escape to safety in Israel, or attempt to lay claim to his future by confronting the past - the mother who forsook him; the abbess who abused him; the lover who deserted him.
THE WOLF SHALL DWELL WITH THE LAMB is a literary thriller. This work contextualizes the geopolitical, religious, social and historical realities of the Arab-Israeli conflict and the roots of the current violence in the Middle East. The world needs this novel precisely at this time. The book reminds us of the historical imperatives leading to the founding of the State of Israel, while acknowledging the pain and longing experienced by its Arab citizens and neighbors.
"An unforgettable story. The Wolf Shall Dwell with the Lamb is a deeply moving, wonderfully written tale of faith, struggle, and survival. It feels both timely and timeless. — Jonathan Eig, winner of the Pulitzer Prize for King: A Life
Joseph sets out on foot toward Palestine, where he takes part in Israel's 1948 War of Independence. He is finally home. But his new country needs his unique set of skills, and Joseph returns to Lebanon as an Israeli spy. Over time, the tools of his trade - daring, violence, deceit, and suppression of self - exact an ever-increasing toll. After twenty years under cover, he completes one final, decisive operation. Now he faces a escape to safety in Israel, or attempt to lay claim to his future by confronting the past - the mother who forsook him; the abbess who abused him; the lover who deserted him.
THE WOLF SHALL DWELL WITH THE LAMB is a literary thriller. This work contextualizes the geopolitical, religious, social and historical realities of the Arab-Israeli conflict and the roots of the current violence in the Middle East. The world needs this novel precisely at this time. The book reminds us of the historical imperatives leading to the founding of the State of Israel, while acknowledging the pain and longing experienced by its Arab citizens and neighbors.
"An unforgettable story. The Wolf Shall Dwell with the Lamb is a deeply moving, wonderfully written tale of faith, struggle, and survival. It feels both timely and timeless. — Jonathan Eig, winner of the Pulitzer Prize for King: A Life
358 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 1, 2026
About the author
Emmet Hirsch
2 books8 followersEmmet Hirsch grew up in Jerusalem and served as an artillery officer in the Israel Defense Forces. He is now an obstetrician-gynecologist and research scientist. In his creative work, Emmet searches for meaning in a life otherwise driven by data and the laws of nature. These themes are explored in reflections on the intersection between the humanities and medicine, short stories, and in the novels The Wolf Shall Dwell with the Lamb and The Education of Doctor Montefiore.
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Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
March 1, 2026
This was a unique story. It follows Joseph from age 8. He is Jewish and winds up in unique situations. For example, he is sent to live in a convent. I enjoyed the history of Israel’s 1948 War of Independence. George Guidall is the narrator and gives a stellar performance. This is fast paced and kept me wanting more. Highly recommend.
I was blessed with an ALC. Thank you NetGalley and Vermillion Thread Press, LLC. The opinions expressed are my own and unbiased.
I was blessed with an ALC. Thank you NetGalley and Vermillion Thread Press, LLC. The opinions expressed are my own and unbiased.
March 3, 2026
This was a fun, fast-paced read with plenty of substance. The characters are well developed, and the story kept me fully engaged from start to finish. More than once, I felt like the author was reading my mind—just when I started thinking it was time for the story to move forward, it did. The dialogue felt natural and believable (something that I find many newer authors haven’t perfected yet), and it’s clear the author did plenty of research—everything felt authentic, even with all the twists and turns of a spy thriller. The setting is challenging, but handled well. I definitely recommend it!
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with an early release in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with an early release in exchange for a fair and honest review.
May 7, 2026
Provided by Emmet Hirsch, Vermilion Thread Press and Net Galley UK as an ARC in audiobook format.
A time and a place in the future where natural enemies co-exist is a prophecy contained within the Book of Isaiah. It is a peaceful prospect and one which, it is sincerely hoped, will apply universally to mankind one day.
In ‘The Wolf Shall Dwell With The Lamb’, author, Emmet Hirsch, combines a fictional narrative with an actual historic backdrop of the 20th century Arab-Israeli conflict, a state of discord which sadly still prevails. He introduces the reader to Joseph Friedmann, a Jewish boy, whose childhood and beyond is a complex, winding labyrinth of displacement, severed family ties, heartache, warfare and covert reconnaissance. Joseph’s cumulative life experiences either shock or delight. The unexpected hides around every corner so much so that you cannot help but want the very best for him and to protect and shield him from further emotional, psychological or physical trauma.
Hirsch juxtaposes characters firmly entrenched in the Christian, Judaistic or Islamic tradition or cause. Some are wise and offer counsel. Others are idealistic, passionate, sympathetic, endearing or downright evil pursuing their own selfish aims. Within these diverse communities and across the Middle East and Europe, Joseph struggles constantly to establish an identity, to put down permanent roots and to counterbalance frequently encountered hostility with love. The question and primary intrigue are: will Joseph attain a happily ever after outcome?
The dialogue, Hirsch’s descriptive technique and evident breadth of his research for this novel are exemplary. Whilst somewhat lengthy, the book is so well drafted and paced that it maintains your interest throughout. All loose ends are tied up and many wrongs thankfully righted. I loved this story. It was gripping and highly rewarding to listen to. Initially, I wrestled with understanding George Guidall’s diction, but this was in due course overcome. I loved the way he brought every individual to life, especially the abbesses.
Irrespective of differing views in today’s fraught society about religion, about Israel and Palestine, about who should live where, Hirsch’s underlying moral message cannot be ignored: the fundamental commonality of the human condition. I am also indebted to the author for acquainting me with The Count of Monte Cristo and plugging a hitherto gap in my personal library.
A time and a place in the future where natural enemies co-exist is a prophecy contained within the Book of Isaiah. It is a peaceful prospect and one which, it is sincerely hoped, will apply universally to mankind one day.
In ‘The Wolf Shall Dwell With The Lamb’, author, Emmet Hirsch, combines a fictional narrative with an actual historic backdrop of the 20th century Arab-Israeli conflict, a state of discord which sadly still prevails. He introduces the reader to Joseph Friedmann, a Jewish boy, whose childhood and beyond is a complex, winding labyrinth of displacement, severed family ties, heartache, warfare and covert reconnaissance. Joseph’s cumulative life experiences either shock or delight. The unexpected hides around every corner so much so that you cannot help but want the very best for him and to protect and shield him from further emotional, psychological or physical trauma.
Hirsch juxtaposes characters firmly entrenched in the Christian, Judaistic or Islamic tradition or cause. Some are wise and offer counsel. Others are idealistic, passionate, sympathetic, endearing or downright evil pursuing their own selfish aims. Within these diverse communities and across the Middle East and Europe, Joseph struggles constantly to establish an identity, to put down permanent roots and to counterbalance frequently encountered hostility with love. The question and primary intrigue are: will Joseph attain a happily ever after outcome?
The dialogue, Hirsch’s descriptive technique and evident breadth of his research for this novel are exemplary. Whilst somewhat lengthy, the book is so well drafted and paced that it maintains your interest throughout. All loose ends are tied up and many wrongs thankfully righted. I loved this story. It was gripping and highly rewarding to listen to. Initially, I wrestled with understanding George Guidall’s diction, but this was in due course overcome. I loved the way he brought every individual to life, especially the abbesses.
Irrespective of differing views in today’s fraught society about religion, about Israel and Palestine, about who should live where, Hirsch’s underlying moral message cannot be ignored: the fundamental commonality of the human condition. I am also indebted to the author for acquainting me with The Count of Monte Cristo and plugging a hitherto gap in my personal library.
May 9, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley, Victory Editing, and the author for the opportunity to listen to this audiobook.
I was a little worried at the beginning because, although George Guidall has been a favorite narrator of mine since I listened to A Land Remembered more than 20 years ago, something about the pacing of his reading felt slightly off at first. I wasn’t sure if it was due to his age or a deliberate tempo meant to match the character’s dialect.
Once I adjusted to the pace, however, it was no longer a hurdle to my listening enjoyment.
I predict this book will become one of those “word-of-mouth” novels that steadily gains traction over time. It embodies exactly what I love about historical fiction. I have very little knowledge of the Middle East, and its history can feel overwhelming to approach, especially given current events and the region’s long history of unrest. But this author introduced me to unfamiliar territory while subtly drawing me deeper into the lives of the characters than I realized at first. Even better, I never saw the twists and turns coming. Nothing is more frustrating than being able to predict every outcome.
I especially appreciated the author’s ability to humanize all sides involved in the conflict. Who is bad? Who is good? A skilled storyteller gives readers perspectives from every side.
As a Huntsville, Alabama resident, I was also tickled to hear Werner von Braun mentioned.
I’ll end this review by saying I was sobbing by the end, tears of both joy and sadness. That’s all I ever ask from a book, though very few writers can truly deliver it. You delivered, Emmet Hirsch.
And finally, Mr. Guidall remains a favorite and beloved narrator of mine.
I was a little worried at the beginning because, although George Guidall has been a favorite narrator of mine since I listened to A Land Remembered more than 20 years ago, something about the pacing of his reading felt slightly off at first. I wasn’t sure if it was due to his age or a deliberate tempo meant to match the character’s dialect.
Once I adjusted to the pace, however, it was no longer a hurdle to my listening enjoyment.
I predict this book will become one of those “word-of-mouth” novels that steadily gains traction over time. It embodies exactly what I love about historical fiction. I have very little knowledge of the Middle East, and its history can feel overwhelming to approach, especially given current events and the region’s long history of unrest. But this author introduced me to unfamiliar territory while subtly drawing me deeper into the lives of the characters than I realized at first. Even better, I never saw the twists and turns coming. Nothing is more frustrating than being able to predict every outcome.
I especially appreciated the author’s ability to humanize all sides involved in the conflict. Who is bad? Who is good? A skilled storyteller gives readers perspectives from every side.
As a Huntsville, Alabama resident, I was also tickled to hear Werner von Braun mentioned.
I’ll end this review by saying I was sobbing by the end, tears of both joy and sadness. That’s all I ever ask from a book, though very few writers can truly deliver it. You delivered, Emmet Hirsch.
And finally, Mr. Guidall remains a favorite and beloved narrator of mine.
May 8, 2026
What a unique storyline. This novel is the life of Joseph, who, at 8, is basically abandoned by his mother to live in a convent and receive his education there. It is important to note that Joseph is Jewish, so a convent is not the first place you would expect him to land. But his mother has ties to this convent, and for her, it was the best place she could think of to leave him. While these years are not easy, you can see his growth into a young man, and what shapes him into the man he becomes.
The author does a wonderful job of weaving history into this novel and the conflicts that still occur in the Middle East. Some of the conflict remains today regarding religious beliefs and freedoms. People's narrow-mindedness is just as true today as it was back then.
The story starts off a little slowly until it hits about the 30% mark, and from there it becomes faster-paced and draws the reader into the history of the world at that time. I was drawn into Joseph's world and eager to see what would happen next.
I found this tale intriguing and admire the author for the authentic world he portrayed, and the world he shared drew me in, as if I were there.
We give this book 4 paws up.
The author does a wonderful job of weaving history into this novel and the conflicts that still occur in the Middle East. Some of the conflict remains today regarding religious beliefs and freedoms. People's narrow-mindedness is just as true today as it was back then.
The story starts off a little slowly until it hits about the 30% mark, and from there it becomes faster-paced and draws the reader into the history of the world at that time. I was drawn into Joseph's world and eager to see what would happen next.
I found this tale intriguing and admire the author for the authentic world he portrayed, and the world he shared drew me in, as if I were there.
We give this book 4 paws up.
Review of advance copy
I was just captivated by this remarkable book. I listened to the audible edition before the hard copy was released and I finished it in a weekend because it was so engrossing! The story takes place mostly in the middle of the last century in the Middle East and involves the complex interplay between Jewish, Christian and Muslim people. Most of the characters are good people who want to do good things for themselves, their families and their people but the delicate complexities of religion, politics and history cause them to hurt each other and themselves in times of war and identity.
The author has done a phenomenal job of treating these complexities with understanding and empathy while still presenting a true historical context. This is the beauty of historical fiction when mastered as spectacularly as in this one-of-a-kind book. I highly recommend it to everyone trying to understand the issues facing the Middle East today. It is truly a rare find!
The author has done a phenomenal job of treating these complexities with understanding and empathy while still presenting a true historical context. This is the beauty of historical fiction when mastered as spectacularly as in this one-of-a-kind book. I highly recommend it to everyone trying to understand the issues facing the Middle East today. It is truly a rare find!
Review of advance copy
I just finished this beautiful, interesting, exciting, thoughtful novel. It kept me company in the middle of the night and, unfortunately, kept me awake for a long time reading instead of sleeping because I didn’t want to put it down. This book presents historical fiction in both an entertaining and educational way. Fast-paced, believable, and well-researched, with captivating characters that I found myself caring deeply about.
The book is an excellent introduction to the complex world of the Middle East, and does so respectfully and thoughtfully. It humanizes the difficulties of living in the region and the interesting interplay of different religious faiths.
The author's knowledge of, love for, and respect for the different countries and cultures shines throughout. This book deserves a wide readership.
The book is an excellent introduction to the complex world of the Middle East, and does so respectfully and thoughtfully. It humanizes the difficulties of living in the region and the interesting interplay of different religious faiths.
The author's knowledge of, love for, and respect for the different countries and cultures shines throughout. This book deserves a wide readership.
May 6, 2026
Over the weekend, I read "The Wolf Shall Dwell with the Lamb." It is a truly compelling story! Days later, the memory of it still dwells within me, and I find myself re-reading sections. From the first page to the end, the lyrical writing drew me in and carried me forward. It has a compelling story arc that offers a gripping tale of a man's struggle to overcome personal adversity, lead a valiant, successful effort to defend his country against its aggressors, and eventually achieve personal happiness. Strong characters, in-scene action filled with suspense, tension, and conflict are threaded throughout. The scenic geographic descriptions are a gift to readers like me who have not visited the area, inviting them to appreciate the setting and feel as though they are in attendance and part of the scene. In my opinion, this book deserves consideration for a book award.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Excellently researched and written historical fiction. The story is plausible during a time of conflict and limited technology.
I though the pace of the story was well timed and the jumps in the timeline were appropriately placed to keep the story moving across decades of time. Sex and cursing were minimally used and like wise appropriate for the story.
Having spent time in Iran, Jordan, Israel and Egypt and could see how someone existing below the social radar could blend in and disappear at will.
The one thing I noticed in Israel, that is mentioned in the story, is how many Jews are not practitioners of the Jewish faith, claiming their right to Israel based solely on their Jewish ethnicity. Of course this flies in the face of Deuteronomy 28.
I though the pace of the story was well timed and the jumps in the timeline were appropriately placed to keep the story moving across decades of time. Sex and cursing were minimally used and like wise appropriate for the story.
Having spent time in Iran, Jordan, Israel and Egypt and could see how someone existing below the social radar could blend in and disappear at will.
The one thing I noticed in Israel, that is mentioned in the story, is how many Jews are not practitioners of the Jewish faith, claiming their right to Israel based solely on their Jewish ethnicity. Of course this flies in the face of Deuteronomy 28.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
The story follows the heartbreaking journey of Joseph from when he was born to his death.
The story unveiled Joseph's life to me to be full of loss, unconsciously feeling the loss of a loved one together with generally feeling lost within himself.
As much as some of the story left me yearning for Joseph to find happiness, he showed a will of steel determination and bravery like no other until he found it.
A deeply moving read covering many events including the history of Israel's 1948 War of Independence which kept my attention throughout.
My thanks to NetGalley and Vermilion Thread Press LCC in sharing this eARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
#NetGalley #VermilionThreadPressLCC #EmmetHirsch
The story unveiled Joseph's life to me to be full of loss, unconsciously feeling the loss of a loved one together with generally feeling lost within himself.
As much as some of the story left me yearning for Joseph to find happiness, he showed a will of steel determination and bravery like no other until he found it.
A deeply moving read covering many events including the history of Israel's 1948 War of Independence which kept my attention throughout.
My thanks to NetGalley and Vermilion Thread Press LCC in sharing this eARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
#NetGalley #VermilionThreadPressLCC #EmmetHirsch
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Wonderful book!!! 5 stars!! While not a true story, the author draws from historical accounts and tries to bring events alive through the telling of Joseph Friedmann's life.
It had that rare triple win: I felt connected to Joseph's character, the writing was beautiful, and the plot kept moving.
Highly recommend for anyone interested in historical fiction. I listened to the audiobook and the narrator was good, but there was something about the recording that made it hard to hear at times. Nevertheless, I would still recommend both as a book and audiobook. Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC.
It had that rare triple win: I felt connected to Joseph's character, the writing was beautiful, and the plot kept moving.
Highly recommend for anyone interested in historical fiction. I listened to the audiobook and the narrator was good, but there was something about the recording that made it hard to hear at times. Nevertheless, I would still recommend both as a book and audiobook. Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC.
Read
April 16, 2026Fantastic read! Unique and engrossing piece of historic fiction with a surprising amount of current-day relevance. I thoroughly enjoyed this tale recounting the life-long adventures of an exceptionally brilliant soldier, patriot and spy -- from the protagonist's unconventional upbringing inside a Catholic convent to his battlefield heroics and daring feats of espionage -- this story delivers countless breathtaking moments and unexpected twists. Add to this the author's strong and singularly charming narrative voice and you have a book that will earn its place among your favorites. Highly recommend!
Review of advance copy received from Storygraph
I feel so fortunate to have received advance access to this treasure from NetGalley! I expect everyone will be singing its praises soon.
Fantastic! I absolutely could not put it down. Joseph's story, his life, will stay with me for weeks, and months, and years. The writing and the character development are top-notch. The story is focused on a time/geography that I don't think is commonly explored, and certainly I hadn't read any fictionalizations like it before. Deserves more than five stars. Highly recommend.
Fantastic! I absolutely could not put it down. Joseph's story, his life, will stay with me for weeks, and months, and years. The writing and the character development are top-notch. The story is focused on a time/geography that I don't think is commonly explored, and certainly I hadn't read any fictionalizations like it before. Deserves more than five stars. Highly recommend.
Review of advance copy
I absolutely loved everything about this book. As someone who reads at least five books a month, it's rare for me to find a story that truly holds my attention from beginning to end-but this one did just that.
It's a fast paced and expertly written suspenseful novel, with in depth character development. At times, especially in the orphanage, my heart was pounding!
One of the standout elements for me was how the author seamlessly wove historical details into the narrative.
Overall, a gripping, intelligent and beautiful novel.
I give it 5 stars
It's a fast paced and expertly written suspenseful novel, with in depth character development. At times, especially in the orphanage, my heart was pounding!
One of the standout elements for me was how the author seamlessly wove historical details into the narrative.
Overall, a gripping, intelligent and beautiful novel.
I give it 5 stars
Review of advance copy received from Author
I found myself completely engaged in this book and read it very quickly. I enjoyed following the main character's life and where his background and experiences took him in life. The story flowed well, was filled with tons of interest and the character development was rich. The story is relevant to current times. This book and story would make a fabulous movie. I highly recommend this book and already have to many, many people.
Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews