The Midwife of Venice by Roberta Rich

Set in the 16th century Venice and Malta, the story brings a vivid picture of Jewish ghetto in Venice. 

Hannah is a talented Jewish midwife of Venice, a gift aided by the secret “birthing spoons” designed by her. When asked to attend to a Christian woman, she is torn as a Papal edict forbids Jews from rendering medical treatment to Christians. The payment sways her to risk her life as the sum is enough to ransom her beloved husband, Isaac, who has been captured at sea. 

At the same time, in Malta Isaac awaits for the Society for the Release of Captives to offer his freedom.

History and traditions of Jewry and Christianity come alive in this story. Among them, reality of the 16th century of noble women to birth an heir. And if the choice is to save one, it is to save an heir. A woman can be easily replaced. And using any tool during the birth is seen as heresy.

Very engrossing story, with most chapters ending in such interesting way that it’s hard to stop reading, and making it a very quick read.

@Facebook/BestHistoricalFiction