This is a great adventure! The book focuses on a Jewish community and a girl that doesn’t want to be forced into a marriage. In her attempt to escape that fate she encounters a dybbuk, and sets out to discover how he died, where his body is located, and the location of a secret and powerful book that he stole from the rebbe of the community.

There is a lot of Jewish folklore included in this book, as well as some Yiddish (thank goodness for Google, lol).

It’s a different premise than I usually read, and the story kept me captivated. It is well written with some truly wonderful characters. I loved Sorel’s character, but I think I really enjoyed the dybbuk that shared her body the most.

If you are looking for a great book that will keep you guessing about what happens next, check this one out!

"The Forbidden Book" by Sacha Lamb is a captivating and thought-provoking novel that expertly blends historical fantasy with themes of love, identity, and courage. Set in a richly imagined world inspired by Jewish folklore, the story follows the journey of two young protagonists who discover a mysterious book with the power to alter their destinies. Lamb's writing is lyrical and evocative, bringing to life a setting that is both enchanting and perilous. The characters are deeply developed, their struggles and triumphs resonating with authenticity and emotional depth. "The Forbidden Book" is not just a tale of adventure and magic, but a profound exploration of self-discovery and the power of knowledge. It's a must-read for fans of historical fantasy and anyone seeking a story that is both heartwarming and intellectually stimulating.

Following up the Angels of the old Country was always going to be difficult, but I think readers are likely to enjoy The Forbidden Book just as much. I do think marketing the main character as a lesbian does the book a disservice because it will draw in readers expecting romance. There really isn't any romance in this book. I'm fine with that, but the marketing should be adjusted, maybe? Sorel is certainly queer-coded and her genderfluidity is a key part of the story, but eh, again, might just disappoint some readers. I was Waiting for romance based on that description, or at least more interrogation of the queer coding of Sorel.

But that's all nit-picking. Really this book was great! I LOVED the twists at the end of the book and did not see them coming. Highly recommend as a queer historical mystery!

An adventurous and interesting read. Reminded me of a lighter version of Lisa See’s Peony in love with the afterlife elements. Read like an epic adventure without the fight scenes, and the Jewish politics were an interesting element. Overall not for me, but not because there was anything wrong with the writing or the storyline. The ending did wrap up a little abruptly compared to the pace of the rest of the novel, but it was a very good ending!

This book blew all of my expectations out of the water. I loved the character development, the overall reflective quality of the plot, and the natural dialogue that happened between characters. Overall, this was a fast read and a book that I will definitely be purchasing a hardback copy of once it releases.