This passionate tale of personal, religious, and political conflict takes place in early 20th-century New York and follows immigrant rabbi Herschel and his bride, Rifka, through the early stages of their marriage. Since their wedding was cunningly arranged by Rifka's father, Abraham (who is also Herschel's foster parent), the couple's relationship is rickety from the start. Herschel makes no effort to conceal his dislike of Rifka and his love for her sister, Manya, whom he had expected to wed all along. Although Herschel opposes Orthodox Judaism, his new congregation is Orthodox. Meanwhile, fervent activist Rifka must fight to broaden her husband's sexist views of women. Regrettably, Friedman (Trail of the Dove) does not explore her characters' intellectual growth, especially Herschel's, in as much depth as would seem necessary for the main points to stand out. Further, readers need to have a basic understanding of Jewish customs; those who don't will be at a disadvantage. Finally, although carefully narrated, this saga feels rushed and would have worked better as a multipart epic that would allow the author to explore her characters' predicaments with more patience. No complaints about the format of this e-book original.—Audrey Snowden, Cleveland OH