Daniel Grogan, younger brother of Kabbalah rabbi, Jeff Grogan, and good friend of temple rabbi, Peggy Witwater, passes out before his wedding and then breaks it off with his bride. It is assumed he has cold feet, and inexplicably Rabbi Witwater discovers she is strongly attracted to him. But Daniel Grogan soon starts blacking out and missing time, finding that he’s done or said horrible things. As the relationship between Daniel and Peggy ebbs and flows, the young rabbi finds herself in the midst of turmoil in her temple when the new head rabbi seems to undercut everything she has come to cherish there. When Daniel’s situation threatens his life and Peggy’s soul, Jeff Grogan begins to suspect a dybbuk, a restless spirit, has entered Daniel.

Sorter offers a rare glimpse into Jewish temple life in her portrayal of Peggy Witwater. Also, it is the first encounter I’ve had with a Jewish exorcism. I was not aware that rabbis did that. This one is held on the eighth night of Chanukah. There also is a sound explanation of purification that involves the mikvah, a ritual bath.

Soul Obsession is a story of stubbornness, betrayal, love, and forgiveness. It’s a good read.