A review by bionicturtle64
Unholy Land by Lavie Tidhar

challenging reflective medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? No
• Loveable characters? No
• Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
• Flaws of characters a main focus? No

4.5

This was not what I expected in a very good way.

I was under the impression this was simply an alt-history story where the Zionist Congress approved the plan to settle a Jewish homeland near Uganda instead of Palestine. And this is that novel - Tidhar writes excellent and fascinating world building to bring state of Palesntina and its version of world history to life. 

But this also a story of multiversal world-hopping which reminded me of This is how you lose the Time War. At times, the prose could be intentionally confusing and vague, but did so show the blurring of realities.

At its heart, this story wants to grapple with the conflict between Israelis and Palestinians. Whilst I would have enjoyed a book just about the alt-history setting, what Tidhar does with this premise is really unique and impactful. 

That being said, it doesn’t always work. By nature of its story parts were confusing to follow, making this a harder read at points. As well, the main driving force of the main character’s missing cousin was dull, if I’m being honest. Nevertheless, I really enjoyed this.