Rebecca of Salerno: A Novel of Rogue Crusaders, a Jewish Female Physician, and a Murder

"Esther Erman's meticulously researched novel of Jewish life in the Middle Ages brings the fragility of Jewish existence to life. The reader discovers a strong, brave woman who, while pursuing a path to become a healer in the face of great odds, holds on tenaciously to basic Jewish values like the pursuit of justice. . . . a compelling story."

-Rabbi Sheldon Lewis author of Torah of Reconciliation and Letters Home: A Jewish Chaplain's Vietnam Memoir

"With grace and verve, Esther Erman revives the character of Rebecca, bringing that valiant and resourceful heroine to Salerno . . . [hoping] to leave her memories of England behind. However, she once again learns how expendable her fellow Jews are when faced with antisemitic sentiment."

--Michelle Cameron, author of The Fruit of Her Hands and Beyond the Ghetto Gates

"A rich historical tapestry rife with fascinating characters and an intriguing, page-turning story. Readers will be dazzled by the descriptions of life in medieval Salerno and fall in love with the smart, passionate Rebecca in this satisfying mystery."

--Hannah Jayne, author of Truly, Madly, Deadly and The Girl in the Headlines

"Erman deftly weaves a wealth of historical detail into a gripping, fast-paced tale of vengeance, love, and healing . . . very much a novel for our time. Erman's masterful achievement left me feeling moved and inspired."

--Juliet Shields, professor and author of Nation and Migration

". . . a superb work of historical fiction. It is everything the genre begs for: romance, intrigue, and a captivating mystery. Set at the end of the 12th century and the dawning of the 13th. . . a lively picture of life for Jews, especially Jewish women, in much of Southern Europe, including colorful and historically accurate descriptions of clothing and food preparation. . . not only an enjoyable read, it is a history lesson for Jews and gentiles alike."

--Sara Zeff Geber, PhD, author and freelance columnist

". . . a compelling story of a passionate Jewish heroine solving a murder mystery in the brutal setting of the Crusades. The depth of her knowledge of the customs and language of this period is unsur- passed. A book to be read with relish by lovers of historical fiction."

--Neil Kaplan, author of Acquiring Polish Citizenship by Descent

"Meticulously researched and populated with a cast of engaging characters . . . Rebecca must pit her intelligence and resourcefulness against the forces of anti-Semitism and misogyny to solve a murder. This historical novel boasts witty dialogue, a fast pace, and an ingenious plot."

--Roberta Rich, author of The Midwife of Venice, The Harem Midwife, and A Trial in Venice