Submitted by Karen Lesiak, Sacred Heart Church, East Berlin, CBS Class of 2008; Director of the Archbishop O’Brien Library, Saint Thomas Seminary.
Alice Hoffman’s novel,
the
Dovekeepers, set in Ancient Israel, is the story of four women who
survive
the siege of Masada in 70 CE. Masada is one of the final events in the first
Jewish-Roman war chronicled by Flavius Josephus and is the only detailed and
recorded account of the siege. Coming from very different backgrounds, these
women, all dovekeepers, are bold, resourceful, fiercely independent, insightful
and passionate and must forge through betrayals of love, friendship and other
adversity. Hoffman’s novel is historical work of fiction, both imaginative and
well-researched. Themes include the importance of religion, symbol of the lion
and bonded relationships between the women. As a testament to the human spirit,
it is a fascinating and insightful read.
NOTE: Although the siege of Masada is not described in the Bible, it is a key event in the first Jewish-Roman war, which impacted in definitive ways the development of Christianity and Judaism, as well as the New Testament. Entering into this historical event will undoubtedly help many to "get into" the New Testament more deeply. I (BJ) haven't read this one yet, so I'm looking forward to a good read at the beach this summer!
Alice Hoffman’s novel, the
Dovekeepers, set in Ancient Israel, is the story of four women who 
