Today begins the fourth of my efforts to mark each week leading to the publication of Isabela’s Way next September. This historical novel set in the 17th century tells the story of a young girl who must escape the Inquisition in Portugal and find her way to her father in Germany. Along the way and with the assistance of allies, she learns of her religious heritage and helps others to find safe passage. My intention was to write a story of coming-of-age, resilience, love and loyalty, and summoning courage in challenging and dangerous times, imagining what it might have been like for a talented young woman exiled from her home because of religious persecution.
In this 49th week leading to publication, I reflect deeply in the “Days of Awe” — the days between Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish new year, and the observance of Yom Kippur, the day of atonement. More sobering still, this week marks one year since the Hamas attack on Israel, the devastating murders, hostage taking and resulting war that continues to this day. Too much of what I wrote as pure fiction in my novel is being repeated in the present moment. I wish I could offer to decision makers a page from my characters’ playbook and summon their courage and resourcefulness to do whatever it takes to end this cycle of sorrow….
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