59 pages • 1 hour read
A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
505
Novel • Fiction
Masada, Israel • 70s CE
2011
Adult
18+ years
The Dovekeepers by Alice Hoffman is a historical fiction novel set in ancient Israel during the Siege of Masada from 70-73 CE, weaving a narrative through the perspectives of four resilient women—Yael, Revka, Aziza, and Shirah—each with a history of suffering and endurance, as they live and defend the imposing mountain fortress from the encroaching Roman forces. The novel contains descriptions of graphic violence, sexual violence, enslavement, and abuse.
Mysterious
Emotional
Contemplative
Dark
Fantastical
86,600 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Alice Hoffman's The Dovekeepers enchants with its lyrical prose and richly woven narrative, recounting the lives of four women during the siege of Masada. Praised for its historical detail and emotional depth, some readers found the pacing slow and the multitude of characters hard to follow. Overall, it’s a compelling blend of history and fiction.
A reader who enjoys The Dovekeepers by Alice Hoffman likely appreciates historical fiction infused with myth, magic, and strong female narratives. This novel will appeal to fans of The Red Tent by Anita Diamant and The Mists of Avalon by Marion Zimmer Bradley, who relish deeply researched historical settings and complex characters.
86,600 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Shirah
As one of the protagonists, Shirah is known as the Witch of Moab and embodies feminine power through her adeptness at magic and her complex spirituality. Her strong sense of intuition and formidable presence influence those around her throughout the story.
Aziza
A teenage protagonist with a unique upbringing, Aziza is raised as a boy and becomes a skilled archer and warrior. Her character navigates the challenges of gender identity and societal expectations while forming deep relationships with others.
Revka
An older protagonist central to the narrative, Revka is a grandmother and survivor who speaks less but listens well. Her resilience and practical nature are pivotal in her journey through trauma and healing.
Nahara
Shirah's daughter, Nahara, starts as a bright and supportive young girl and later chooses independence in pursuit of her love. Her narrative highlights themes of choice and agency within her family dynamics.
Eleazar Ben Ya’ir
A charismatic and complex leader of the Zealots, Ben Ya’ir holds significant influence and faces moral challenges. His relationships and decisions impact the fates of several characters throughout the story.
Yoav
A character dealing with deep grief, Yoav is a rabbi and warrior who undergoes personal transformation. His relationships evolve as he contends with loss and finds moments of tenderness despite his hardened exterior.
505
Novel • Fiction
Masada, Israel • 70s CE
2011
Adult
18+ years
Continue your reading experience
Subscribe now to unlock the rest of this Study Guide plus our full library, which features expert-written summaries and analyses of 8,000+ additional titles.