A review by tawallah
The River Midnight by Lilian Nattel

4.0

Sometimes a random pick from the library uncovers an unknown treasure. This historical fiction narrative mixed with elements reminiscent of fairy tale is set in a small fictional community in Poland called Blaszka. Set in the late nineteenth century we are told the story of about a year in the life of four Jewish women who were once childhood friends. It is almost like interconnected stories except each narrative adds a new look at a tale we should already know. It is not easy to write a story in this style but Lilian Nattel nails it like a pro. By the end of the narrative I was both happy about this look into a Jewish community with all its traditions and small town sagas. And even though the town on reflection seemed too good to be true, I can’t help but have enjoyed this book. It tackled infertility, justice, dealing with grief and death, sexuality and gender roles. But the one major point that was driven home is that everyone has layers. If you are willing to look, really look you can uncover the true nature of that person, not what you believe to know.