It was different. I alternated between being really interested in how things were tying into Jewish mythology and religion, then it would never quite get there. Overall, just interesting enough for me to finish it but probably not enough for me to read another. ( )

The Golem of Hollywood is an interesting book. It is not only a suspenseful serial murderer case but it is also Talmudic with the story of the creation of the golem and how it protects the main character. The story is very Jewish. One could call this a Jewish thriller story that should definitely be read or listened to before the Jewish holiday of Rosh Hashanah. It is very intriguing how the Kellermans were able to intertwine the ancient Jewish Talmudic story with present day. The book received five stars in this review. ( )

Something new from Jonathan Kellerman. Still a fast paced mystery/thriller, but a new protagonist, the hapless Jacob Lev, who is drawn into events as mystical as they are puzzling when a modern day serial killer confronts an ancient and mysterious legend.

Love the intricate weaving of the story as it shifts in time and character. Difficult to put down, and a fascinating new read.

Advanced reader copy provided by edelweiss. ( )

I would so have appreciated this story more if I had more of a background in Jewish mysticism. Detective and alcoholic Jacob Lev is put on a case of finding out who left a head (no body) and the Jewish symbol for justice on the counter. The tale entwines the biblical stories of Cain and Abel, the golem of Prague and other Rabbi Loew with modern times. I like Kellerman's prose, but lack of knowledge limited my understanding of the story's ending. ( )

I'm a big fan of Jonathan Kellerman, and this was an interesting departure from the norm. It felt like a blend of myth, suspense, crime, and horror, all pulled together into a story that was more steeped in religion and layers than I'd expected from it. All told, there were moments where I was frustrated with the structure and felt some lagging in where the focus was spent, but I did really enjoy it. I think I might have enjoyed it more if I'd had fewer preconceived expectations based on prior experience with Kellerman's work, but I'm glad to have read it and I look forward to the next book in the series.

Recommended. ( )