Incantation by Alice Hoffman

I'm not sure how many YA novels have been written about Jews who hid their religion during the Spanish Inquisition, but this is the first one I've read.

In Incantation, Estrella's whole life transforms when she discovers the secrets of her family. Years before, in order to avoid persecution, her ancestors pretended to convert to Christianity, but secretly practices their faith. When the family is betrayed by someone thought to be a friend, Estrella must make some decisions that will change her life forever.


I like the way Alice Hoffman writes. The story is deceptively simple -- emotions are laid bare, straightforward. Before the reader notices, bam!, he's sucker-punched and his gut's in knots. As he turns the pages, he hopes for a twist to make things better for Estrella and her family, knowing that it was unlikely to occur.


Definitely recommended for fans of historical fiction, Incantation rates a 'B' from me.