The Elixirist by Avraham Azrieli
Reviewed By: Susan Keefe
Susan Keefe reviews and promotes poetry, fiction and non-fiction, and is also author of the Toby's Tails series of children's books.

A life-changing journey in search of a magical elixir.

Avraham Azrieli is a graduate of Columbia Law School in New York and an award-winning author. In this incredible tale, he takes his readers back through the centuries into Old Testament times and reveals a story steeped in mystery and intrigue. It stands alone, however, it is the prequel to ‘Deborah Rising,’ the first in the author’s epic historical ‘Deborah’ series, which tells the journey of the biblical prophetess Deborah in her quest to fullfil her destiny.  

Traditionally, in many countries, your career is dictated by your family heritage, and this is the case for the protagonist in this story, Sall, who is an apprentice healer, under the instruction of his father, in Edom. Although highly respected, and essential, his career is not a glamorous one, yet, his father assures him, it is his destiny

Sall, on the day this book begins, falls under the spell of the beautiful but unobtainable daughter of the High Priest, and this fires a desire to be so much more in the heart of the young man, but how can this happen?

Well, the answer lies in the advice of a magical dwarf, Sall must leave his home and take a dangerous journey to find the elixir of love. The elixir will not only enable him to win her heart but also achieve greatness as the savior of his people.

So, fired with determination, Sall sets off with his donkey and dog. Advised by a merchant to talk to the dream reader, the merchant shows him the way, and her wise words and the secrets she reveals, open his mind and strengthen his resolve to continue his journey. It is a journey fraught with danger, he suffers terrible injuries, trickery, and deceit, yet he also makes friends and alliances and discovers a lot about himself. Over time, these events change the boy into a man, giving him morals and the kind of wisdom which can only be gained through experiences. Until ultimately, as the story reaches its climax, Sall discovers his true destiny and self.

Throughout the story, the characters each have their own vital part and weave their way through his life. It is a true coming-of-age story and wonderfully illustrates how, whatever century or time we are in, every element and person in our lives impacts us in varying degrees. Yet, it also illustrates how, with determination we can make our dreams come true. Highly Recommended!

Author’s Website: https://azrielibooks.com/

The Elixirist: A Novel is available from Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Elixirist-Novel-Avraham-Azrieli-ebook/dp/B08HKPZC2P/ref=sr_1_2?dchild=1&keywords=avraham+azrieli&qid=1600349296&sr=8-2