The Sanhedrin Chronicles by J.S. Gold
Feels at once real and mythological, effortlessly drawing readers in from the very first page and never letting them go.
There’s hardly anything I love more than a unique mythological fantasy, and The Sanhedrin Chronicles by J.S. Gold surpassed my expectations with its distinct worldbuilding, complex characters and stunning prose. To my fellow fantasy lovers, I cannot recommend this book enough!
In this urban fantasy, ancient Hebrew mysticism comes alive on the streets of New York as college student Arthur Rose, in the wake of his estranged father’s death, uncovers a world he never could have imagined — and a destiny only he can fulfill.
A Chosen People, A Destined Man
Arthur hadn’t seen his father in years, not since he was left at his uncle’s house as a child. So when a strange woman shows up claiming to have killed his father, he can’t quite believe it. Nor the fact she’s now after him, determined to find some ancient stone blessed by God.
But this is just the beginning of Arthur’s story as he’s quickly drawn into a world of magic and secret history.
Arthur thought the Sanhedrin were just some ancient Hebrew council, not a group of magic-wielding demon-killers. Jews were never the sword-wielding heroes of history. They were the victims. Or so Arthur thought. Now he’s not just one of God’s chosen warriors, he’s a chosen among the chosen, someone destined for great power — or great destruction.
Evil forces lurk around every corner — led by the run-down Rifka and the powerful demoness perched on her back — while secrets from the past beg to be uncovered. If Arthur wants to save the world, and the woman he loves, he’ll have to embrace his heritage and master his magic quickly — without succumbing to its power.
Magic That Leaps Off the Page
The most defining features of The Sanhedrin Chronicles are the unique magic systems, mystical lore and worldbuilding. One might compare the magic systems to Harry Potter —one of the highest compliments in my mind!
The Sanhedrin use magic in a variety of ways, each broken into a different “house” of sorts — Speakers, Namers, Binders, Menders, Bondsmen — each specializing in a particular type of magic and drawing their power from a different portion of the Tree of Life. Each style is uniquely connected to Hebrew faith and history, and I found myself learning a bit more about a culture I’m very unfamiliar with.
I wish there were more stories like this, because author J.S. Gold goes far beyond magic and history. Gold crafts a story that feels at once real and mythological, effortlessly drawing readers in from the very first page and never letting them go.
Characters You’ll Love and Hate
One of the things that first drew me in while reading The Sanhedrin Chronicles wasn’t the captivating systems of magic or the harrowingly vivid descriptions of demons. It was Arthur. And, to an even greater extent, Rifka.
These are complex and sympathetic characters, ones with strengths and flaws, attitudes and beliefs, personalities and memories and lives that fly off the page. I found myself loving Arthur’s spirited attitude, and his struggles with identity and morality felt real. More than once I found myself holding my breath, waiting to see what he would do next.
And Rifka. Oh, Rifka. I was drawn to her narrative like a moth to a flame — and I won’t say anything more, because I don’t want to spoil the story!
A Hidden Gem Worth a Read or Two
Underneath its modern setting and distinct magic and lore, at its core, The Sanhedrin Chronicles is a classic fantasy tale of good vs. evil — one with a struggling protagonist you’ll love to root for.
It’s a fun fantasy adventure full of stunning — and, at times, shocking — imagery, high stakes, and characters you’ll both love and hate. It’s been a while since I’ve read such an engaging story. There are many fantasy options out there, so many it can feel overwhelming at times. But The Sanhedrin Chronicles is a gem hidden within these multitudes, and it deserves some time in the spotlight.
About J.S. Gold:
J.S. Gold is a proud son of New Rochelle, New York – go Huguenots! He’s an alumnus of S.U.N.Y. Binghamton, where he received his Bachelors in Political Science, Philosophy and Law. He continued his education at Long Island University, obtaining his Master’s in Education, and Gettysburg College, where he received a Master’s in American History.
Fantasy has been a constant companion throughout his life, the cry of a Kamehameha lifting his spirits as much as Gandalf’s wisdom. By day, he teaches history to high schoolers who hopefully remember it. He lives (and jokes, and dances, and sings) with his wife, daughter, son and two cats on Long Island, New York.
Publish Date: 11/19/2024
Genre: Fantasy
Author: J.S. Gold
Page Count: 420 pages
Publisher: Histria SciFi & Fantasy
ISBN: 9781961511880