Cindy J. (cindyj) - reviewed on 9/13/2015 + 62 more book reviews

Isabel lives in Spain during the turbulent times of the Spanish Inquisition. She is of Jewish descent, and her parents have declared their conversion to Christianity, in compliance with the law. The Salt Covenants opens with the discord between Isabel and her mother resulting from Isabel's revelation that she is a true convert. Isabel's family still practices their Jewish religion in the privacy of their home, causing their lives to be in constant danger of being reported to the Inquisitors. Because of various circumstances, Isabel's parents decide Isabel's life is best protected by having her marry and, with her new husband, join the second voyage of Christopher Columbus to the new world. The first portion of the book is about events that determine the course of Isabel's life resulting in the need to leave Spain. The majority of the book chronicles travelling from Spain and life in the new world. Throughout the story, Isabel grows and matures as she faces hardships and setbacks in the new life that has been thrust upon her.

The author used proper Jewish terminology in describing Jewish customs and traditions but also supplied a brief explanation. Ms. Bambola also included a glossary at the back with terms and other items of interest which was helpful. The historical detail with the Spanish Inquisition and Christopher Columbus and his exploratory voyages was fascination. Ms. Bambola obviously researched her subjects well. There were instances of nudity (Indians) and rape. These segments were handled as tastefully as such subjects can be. There were inferences to marital sex. I noted these for disclosure purposes, but I did not find them objectionable as they are realities of a fallen world.

I enjoyed this book. It was not a light-hearted, fast-paced story to simply entertain. There was depth to the story and characters which caused me to ponder on several occasions. It was thought-provoking. I would not recommend it to young teens due to the mature content, but it was a fascinating book for adult readers. I loved the statement Isabel made at the end, "I have come to terms with who I am: a Jewess who has found her Messiah and Savior. And though I will forever walk between these two worlds I am at peace." We all need to know who we are in the Lord and experience His peace. This was the first book by Sylvia Bambola I've read, but I plan to read more of her work in the future.

I received a copy of this book through The Book Club Network in exchange for my honest review.

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