2 FEBRUARY 1929, Page 31

CHAINS. By Joseph Delmont. (Hutchinson. 7s.

Translated from the Russian, this story deals with the com- munity in a Southern village during a reign of terror before the War. The aspirations and quarrels of- a Jewish family, and the sufferings inflicted upon it during anti-Semitic uprisings, form the main themes. , But the canvas is crowded with minor characters, and the novel, with its grim scenes and beautiful interludes, is a real " slice of life," presented with passion and tenderness.