The Book of Uriel by Elysse Hoffman – Book Review

The Book of Uriel is an immersive historical fantasy set in Poland during the Holocaust. The story begins with a gut-wrenching scene. In the aftermath of a brutal attack, the angels from his tales need his help to save Michael, the guardian angel of the Jewish people. To save his people, Uriel needs to find the angel and free him from the Angel of Death while hiding among the Nazis.

I wasn’t sure I was going to like it at first but the more I read the harder it was to put the book down. The world-building was wonderfully created with vivid imagery and the characters were endearing. I especially loved the companionship between Uwen and Uriel.

My favorite part of the story revolved around the folklore and fantasy aspects of Uriel’s quest, but that’s because fantasy is more up my alley than historical fiction. The theme of this novel is dark and gruesome, so I appreciated the lighter notes of folklore and fantasy in Uriel’s quest.

Melding the reality of WWII with Jewish folklore and fantasy makes for an intense read especially when presented from the point of view of a child.

I recommend The Book Of Uriel to historical fiction lovers of all ages.