Book Review: The Golem and the Jinni

By: Helene Wecker

This novel was amazing. The richness, the culture, the characters. Everything was delightful.

Set in 1899, early progressive era New York, Wecker’s novel tells of Chava, a Golem crafted by dark magic, and Ahmad, a Jinni enslaved in centuries past. When they meet on the streets of New York, both adrift and alone, they grow close. But danger stalks them, seeking to control them.

This is a hefty book at over 800 pages, but the story flows beautifully. There is a clash of cultures, social strata, needs and wants. I actually found the side characters the most interesting. They play important roles in the climax of the book, but their own stories are compelling and thought-provoking.

And now there is a sequel!! The Hidden Palace is out now and is at the top of my TBR list. (Also reassuring is the these books were almost 10 years apart. Worth it!)

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You can find Helene Wecker at www.helenewecker.com and all the socials as @weckerh.

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My first book, Archer 887, is a 2022 Indies Today Awards Contest Finalist, and is on sale now through online book retailers. Pick up a copy, leave a review, and let me know what you think!

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Thanks for reading! Anna