As any of you know who have been reading my book reviews are aware, I do love historical fiction. It's my favorite genre. But in the all the eras I delve into I do love to go back into ancien times. So when I was offered a copy of Babylon to review it hit on two preferred areas of reading; religious and ancient. Yes, this Atheist enjoys reading religious history. Go figure.

The history of the Jewish peoples is not an easy one and this particular part of that story was just one of the many times a conquering horde tried (and failed) to destroy them. I was hooked from the beginning as I followed the trials and tribulations of the people living happily together until suddenly everyting was upended and destroyed.

Many die but those that survive are committed to making sure that despite prohibitions the Faith will live on. The novel covers generations but remains a story of one theme - survival. Not always an easy read, but definitely a book worth reading.

It had me hooked from the beginning and I was reluctant to put the book down at night to go to sleep. The descriptions of the scenery from the city to the desert were vivid and the character development was rich and deep.

A fascinating look at a time period not often covered - at least not in what I have read. But I'll be looking for more. ( )