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The Rabbi's Knight
The year is 1290. The place is Palestine at the twilight of the Crusades.
Warweary Knight Templar Jonathan St. Clair is garrisoned in the port city of
Acre. In possession of an ancient scroll with a cryptic inscription, St. Clair
is more interested in learning Kabbalah than fighting Moslems when he learns
that the inscription holds the key to unlock the secrets of Jerusalem’s Temple
Mount. But no Jewish scholars in Acre can decipher the inscription. And 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.
Deep in enemy territory, 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 treacherous rabbi of Acre, a bitter enemy of
Rabbi Samuel, and aided in their quest by others: a brilliant young scholar,
Isaac of Acre; a powerful young Scotsman, William Wallace; a learned Moslem
mathematician and cartographer; and the beautiful, independent-minded woman
Zahirah, who avoids serving in an emir’s harem by hiding among lepers in a
colony on the shores of the Sea of Galilee. Ultimately, Rabbi Samuel and St.
Clair find they must risk everything to fulfill their shared and sacred destiny
as guardians of the Temple Mount.
Warweary Knight Templar Jonathan St. Clair is garrisoned in the port city of
Acre. In possession of an ancient scroll with a cryptic inscription, St. Clair
is more interested in learning Kabbalah than fighting Moslems when he learns
that the inscription holds the key to unlock the secrets of Jerusalem’s Temple
Mount. But no Jewish scholars in Acre can decipher the inscription. And 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.
Deep in enemy territory, 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 treacherous rabbi of Acre, a bitter enemy of
Rabbi Samuel, and aided in their quest by others: a brilliant young scholar,
Isaac of Acre; a powerful young Scotsman, William Wallace; a learned Moslem
mathematician and cartographer; and the beautiful, independent-minded woman
Zahirah, who avoids serving in an emir’s harem by hiding among lepers in a
colony on the shores of the Sea of Galilee. Ultimately, Rabbi Samuel and St.
Clair find they must risk everything to fulfill their shared and sacred destiny
as guardians of the Temple Mount.
440 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 19, 2015
17 people are currently reading
138 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 83 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!
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.
December 17, 2025
A beautiful and powerful book that created so much conversation in our club. We admired the storytelling, the spiritual depth, and the emotional honesty of the characters. The writing stayed with us long after finishing. Five glowing stars.
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.
February 5, 2026
Our book club chose The Rabbi’s Knight and I honestly did not expect it to hit me this deeply. Jonathan St. Clair and Rabbi Samuel felt so real to me. Their unlikely bond across faith, fear, and history was powerful and emotional. I kept stopping just to think about what loyalty and courage really mean. The way the author blended action with spiritual reflection made every chapter meaningful. This is not just a historical story, it is a story about humanity. Our book club had such rich discussions about forgiveness, faith, and moral responsibility. I closed the book feeling inspired and more thoughtful than when I started.
February 7, 2026
Our book club chose The Rabbi’s Knight expecting a historical adventure, but what we got was something far deeper. The relationship between Jonathan St. Clair and Rabbi Samuel is the heart of this book. Jonathan starts as a knight shaped by duty and violence, but through Rabbi Samuel’s teachings and quiet strength, he begins to question everything he believes about faith, power, and purpose. I was especially moved by how the rabbi never forces wisdom on him. He simply lives it. The spiritual conversations, the danger they face, and the emotional tension all feel real. Our book club spent so much time discussing how people change through compassion instead of force.
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.
February 5, 2026
This book club pick surprised all of us in the best way. The writing is vivid and thoughtful, and the characters feel layered and alive. Rabbi Samuel’s wisdom and Jonathan’s inner struggle stayed with me long after the final page. I loved how the author showed that faith is not simple or perfect, but something people wrestle with. Our book club talked a lot about identity and purpose after reading this. I found myself underlining passages and rereading scenes. This book made history feel personal.
February 7, 2026
This book club read completely surprised me. The author does not just tell us what happens, he shows us how it feels to live in a world torn by war, faith, and fear. Jonathan’s internal struggle between being a knight and becoming a seeker of truth is written with so much honesty. Rabbi Samuel is one of the most inspiring characters I have read in a long time. His patience, courage, and spiritual clarity made me slow down and really think about my own values. Our book club talked about how rare it is to see such respectful dialogue between different belief systems in fiction.
February 7, 2026
Our book club picked this because of the setting, but we stayed for the characters. Jonathan St. Clair is not a simple hero. He is confused, loyal, afraid, and searching. That made him feel real. Rabbi Samuel carries grief, wisdom, and hope all at once, and the way he guides Jonathan without controlling him was powerful to read. I loved how the author used their journey not just to move the plot, but to explore questions about God, destiny, and moral responsibility. This book club choice led to one of our most emotional discussions yet
February 7, 2026
Reading this with my book club felt like being part of something meaningful. The emotional depth of The Rabbi’s Knight really stood out. The danger they face is intense, but what stayed with me more was the inner transformation. Jonathan learns to listen instead of fight, and Rabbi Samuel shows that true strength comes from wisdom and compassion. The scenes where they talk about Kabbalah and the nature of the soul were some of my favorites. Our book club kept returning to those moments again and again.
February 7, 2026
Our book club wanted something with depth and soul, and this book delivered exactly that. The spiritual journey in this story is just as powerful as the physical one. Jonathan’s struggle between being a soldier and becoming a student of wisdom was incredibly moving. Rabbi Samuel feels like someone you want to sit with and listen to for hours. The author’s ability to write faith without making it rigid or narrow really impressed me. Our book club discussions turned into reflections on our own beliefs and fears.
February 12, 2026
Our book club picked The Rabbi’s Knight because of the historical setting, but we ended up loving it for the emotional journey. Jonathan St. Clair is such a layered character. He begins as a knight defined by obedience and violence, but through Rabbi Samuel’s influence, he learns to question, listen, and reflect. The way the author shows growth through dialogue instead of just action is beautiful. Rabbi Samuel’s calm wisdom felt grounding, especially in moments of danger. This book club read made us talk about what real courage looks like.
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.
February 5, 2026
I read this with my book club and we were all blown away by how emotional and human this story felt. The relationship between Rabbi Samuel and Jonathan is written with so much care. You can feel their fear, hope, and courage in every chapter. I loved how the author did not rush the spiritual growth of the characters. It felt earned and honest. This book club read gave us some of our deepest discussions yet.
February 7, 2026
This book club read was unforgettable. The author writes history in a way that feels alive and personal. I could see the streets, feel the tension, and sense the fear and hope in every chapter. Jonathan’s identity crisis and Rabbi Samuel’s steady moral compass created such a strong emotional contrast. I loved how the rabbi never preaches, but instead teaches through example. Our book club talked a lot about how this book shows that learning is as much about unlearning as it is about knowledge
February 7, 2026
This book club read touched me more than I expected. The emotional honesty in Jonathan’s character made me feel close to him. His confusion, guilt, and hope are all written so naturally. Rabbi Samuel’s calm presence brings light into even the darkest moments of the story. I loved how the author used their conversations to explore big questions without ever losing the story’s momentum. Our book club felt changed after finishing this book.
February 12, 2026
Reading this with my book club felt like traveling through history with a spiritual guide. The author’s research shows in every detail, but it never feels heavy. Jonathan’s internal conflict between loyalty to his order and loyalty to his conscience was incredibly powerful. Rabbi Samuel represents faith that is thoughtful, compassionate, and strong without being rigid. Our book club had such meaningful discussions about belief and doubt after finishing this.
February 12, 2026
This book club pick turned into one of our most emotional reads. I loved how the author explored identity through Jonathan’s struggle to understand who he is beyond being a knight. Rabbi Samuel’s presence feels like a quiet anchor in a violent world. Their conversations about the soul, destiny, and responsibility really stayed with me. Our book club kept coming back to those moments when Jonathan chooses understanding over force.
February 12, 2026
Our book club wanted something deep, reflective, and meaningful, and this book delivered all of that. The characters feel human, flawed, and searching. Jonathan’s fear and courage are written with honesty, and Rabbi Samuel’s wisdom never feels preachy. I appreciated how the author showed that faith can be both a struggle and a comfort. This book club read gave us some of our richest conversations yet.
Author, what scene best captures the heart of this story for you?
Author, what scene best captures the heart of this story for you?
Displaying 1 - 30 of 83 reviews