This is an auction for THE LAST KABBALIST OF LISBON by Richard Zimler.

"Recently, Jewish mysticism has become a popular draw, and this first novel - a best seller in Portugal, where it was first published and where American author Zimler lives - is worthy reading even for those in a nonphilosophical frame of mind. From the moment Berekiah Zarco, a Jewish resident of Lisbon during the early 1500s, discovers the murder of his religious mentor (with a nude female corpse beside the holy man), the story moves quickly. Trailing suspects, Zarco and his cronies navigate the blood-soaked streets of Lisbon during a Christian "purge" of Jewish faithful. Along the way, the reader learns about the age's homeopathic cures and observes a traditional Jewish exorcism. Those who understand and appreciate the history of Kabbalah can revel in the mysticism; the uninitiated will gain perspective while enjoying a literary and historical treat."

• Library Journal (US)

Amazon.com review:

"The Last Kabbalist of Lisbon transports listeners into the universe of Jewish Kabbalah during the Lisbon massacre of April 1506. Just a few years earlier, Jews living in Portugal were forced to convert to Christianity. Many of these New Christians persevered in their Jewish prayers and rituals in secret; the hidden practices of the kabbalists, a mystical sect of Jews, continued as well. One such secret Jew, a manuscript illuminator, who searches for the killer of his beloved uncle Abraham, a renowned kabbalist and manuscript illuminator, discovered murdered in a hidden synagogue. This is a marvellous story, a challenging mystery, and a telling tale of the evils of intolerance, The Last Kabbalist of Lisbon both compels and entertains."

More very favourable reviews on Amazon.com.

Paperback 1999.

318 pages.

Very good condition.

The cost of shipping is $4.95.

There is of course no charge for shipping if you collect this book from my shop in Palmerston North following the auction.

Payment within seven days, please.