Connilyn Cossette was firmly established as one of my must-read authors by the time her second book released, but it says something for the quality of both her writing and her stories that this book is her sixth and I’m still saying that. Her stories don’t just bring biblical history to life; they do so through characters and struggles that are wholly relevant to the modern reader. At the same time, they often shed the light of understanding on laws and traditions that can otherwise seem incomprehensible, even harsh, to our twenty-first century ears.

I especially love that this series is based around the cities of refuge and has continued to follow the lives of Moriyah and Darek, from A Light on the Hill, through their children. Although you definitely don’t need to have read the previous books in the series to read this one, there are some ties, particularly to A Light on the Hill, that will be better appreciated if the series is read in order.

As for this book in particular, it is a riveting “prodigal daughter” story. The Rivkah we first meet is bitter and selfish—well characterised, but tempting the reader to whisper, “It serves you right.” But through both Rivkah’s father and Malakhi, we have the opportunity to witness the kind of love that perseveres in spite of everything. Even as Malakhi works through his own bitterness at Rivkah’s betrayal, he is prepared to do whatever it takes to see Rivkah restored to her family. That’s the kind of hero I love to see!

But there are consequences to Rivkah’s earlier choices, no matter how she has matured and no matter how much her family wishes to see her restored to them, and once again Connilyn Cossette uses this to weave a story that only becomes more engrossing the longer you read. Needless to say, I’m thrilled there’s going to be a fourth book in this series!

I received a copy of this novel from the publisher. This has not influenced the content of my review, which is my honest and unbiased opinion.

Connilyn Cossette is a master at recreating Biblical times with such vivid imagery that the reader can't help but feel as if they are in the midst of the journey along with the characters. This wasn't an easy book to let go once I'd finished. I am now impatiently waiting for the release of Like Flames in the Night, the fourth and concluding book in the series.

One thing that was unique about this installment of the series is that it added the theme of the prodigal son with a bit of a twist. You see Rivkah acting out from a mix of selfish rebellion and fear. Despite quickly discovering the flaw in her choices, she fears that she could never be forgiven. What I loved about how the author fleshed out Rivkah's journey was that I was able to personalize and connect with it more deeply. In the biblical account, the younger son takes his inheritance and squanders it. I struggle to be able to look at him with compassion because if I can be honest I can't help but resonate with the older brother's feelings. I believe it's at least in-part to life experiences with a tainted version of this. Yet when I look at Rivkah's story, in a way I can start to see the prodigal in myself. I may not have taken an inheritance and squandered it or lived "on the wild side" until I was penniless, but I have made bad decisions in my life and paid dearly for them. I've felt the weight of what feeling unworthy can do to a person. I've experienced isolation because it feels safer than asking for help or forgiveness. This book has helped me look at the original story through a clearer lens. There really is true beauty in joy in restoration.

As with the other books in this series, this one is told through more than one perspective. It's seen through the eyes of both Rivkah and Malakhi. The two views are exquisitely orchestrated throughout to produce a deeper quality of realism inciting self-reflection and empathy. This is a story not merely read, but experienced. I don't even have the words to say just how deeply this novel sucked me in.

And that ending?? Oh that ending!! Don't worry, no spoilers--but I am now thoroughly impatient for the arrival of the next book! I cannot wait to see how this series concludes (although I also know I'll be sad for it to be over). I honestly can't recommend this series enough! Connilyn Cossette has secured a very deserved place as one of my favorite authors.

*I received a copy of this book from Bethany House and NetGalley. Thoughts and opinions expressed are mine alone.

Travel back in time and cultures to a land so different from ours, yet so very alike. Israel is a young nation, yet they are already leaving their first love. Compromise and complacency coupled with a blatant refusal to follow the Creator Who has led them to the new land leaves them vulnerable and divided.
It is against this thrilling backdrop we meet Rivkah, a widow who is promised to her husband’s brother. To what lengths will Rivkah go to escape an unwanted match, meant to give her security?
Connilyn Cossette is now one of my favorite Biblical historical fiction writers. She sets the scene so well, with meticulous research presented throughout a very engaging story. I suspect there are enough Biblical references, suspense, and masculine thoughts (pov is first person, shifting between Rivkah and Malakhi) that even men would enjoy reading this account. Until the Mountains Fall is the third book of the series, The Cities of Refuge. While sweeter if one has the background of the other two, this novel can certainly stand on its own.
So much emotion is packed into this one volume! So many parallels between ancient Israel and God’s people in a free land today.
One issue I grew tired of, I began to realize was simply Malakhi holding a view common to his time and culture. As a woman, I come away from this tremendous work glad that I did not live as a woman of that time. Yet, Cossette also points out the need for women to be treated humanely and loved well, which would have erased much of the burden of being a woman at that
time.
Favorite quotes.
“The more prosperous we’d grown, the less generous we’d become with those who’d been appointed to serve Yahweh and were therefore unable to inherit land of their own.”
“We do not know the whole of the story. But Yahweh does, and we will trust Him with the outcome.”
“So many of our young people don’t care enough to defend this land, Malakhi. They’ve given in to compromise. It’s all too easy to sit back and take tribute from the Canaanites, profiting off our disobedience instead of finishing what Yehoshua and Calev started. We need men to stand and fight with careless abandon. If your generation does not take heed, we would do better to strap on our sandals and walk right back to Egypt, because the enemies that surround us here have nothing to lose and everything to gain.”
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and NetGalley. This did not affect my opinions, which are solely my own.

If you have been reading the Cities of Refuge series by Connilyn Cossette you will not be disappointed in Until the Mountains Fall, book number three.

Cossette has an excellent grasp on the time period and on her bible which shows clearly in this fascinating look at forced marriages within the Hebrew religion. In this case, Rivkah's husband Gidal dies, and her father (the head priest of Kedesh) announces she will marry his brother (Malakhi) to carry on his bloodline. A man Rivkah abhors.

Unfortunately, her father will not listen to her pleas and without fully understanding his reasons behind his insistence that they marry, Rivkah runs away from the only home and family she has ever known. Determined to have her way and do what she wants, she is unprepared for the consequences of what follows.

This story had me captivated from the get-go! The growth of both characters was interesting to watch, especially when Rivkah realizes the damage she had done. And the way Malakhi grows into the man she needs was beautiful.

If you haven't read the other books, not to worry - this can be read as a standalone. However, I highly recommend the entire series!

I received this book courtesy of Bethany House through NetGalley.

What an amazing story! This series by Connilyn Cossette is set in a time period of the nation of Israel that I’m not as familiar with and her research for this time period is extensive. She has taken this research and incorporated it into a story that fired my imagination and pulled me completely into that time period as I read. But it’s the characters that seem to step off the page and become someone that I knew. Rivkah’s story is not pretty. Her story is loosely based on the Biblical account of the Prodigal Son. There are levels of her disobedience and sorrow that grabbed at my heart. She runs away to avoid a marriage with Malakhi, not trying to see his heart for her or her own father’s heart as he had arranged this marriage. Though many times I was frustrated with her, I grew to respect and admire her as she grew in maturity and into a full understanding of her spiritual heritage. Her journey to home is a dangerous one. She must come to trust Malakhi as she never had before if she’s to return home and seek the forgiveness of her father.

I felt Rivkah’s emotions all through her journey. In the process, it made me ever more grateful for the unfailing love of God and the forgiveness of sins I’ve received through Jesus. I was reminded once again that God’s desire for all of us is to be in a close relationship with Him. When a book can touch my heart in that way, it’s well worth reading.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher. I received a copy of this book from the publisher.

It is an honor to be a member of Connilyn’s Wanderers and be a part of her launch team for Until the Mountains Fall. This book is incredible. The story of love and redemption is such a good reminder of God’s love for us. Set in Israel at the end of Joshua’s life, the story of Rivkah is much like the New Testament story of “The Prodigal Son” or the Old Testament story of Hosea and his caring for Gomer in spite of her indiscretions. Connilyn Cossette has created characters with a message for those believe they have fallen too far to be redeemed - We cannot hide from God and He will save us if we but ask. The relationship between Rivkah and Malakhi is one that begins as completely one-sided and as the plot proceeds is shredded to what seems like beyond repair. Rivkah and Malakhi take turns narrating the chapters of the book which gives readers both sides of the story. Life circumstances challenge both Rivkah and Malakhi but in the end….. You need to read it to find out, but I will say Conni does a fabulous job with character development.

Until the Mountains Fall is book three in Conni’s Cities of Refuge series but can be read alone. If you have read the previous books in the series, you will recognize some of the characters and better understand the backstory, reading the previous books in not necessary to enjoy the book.

I will be adding Until the Mountains Fall to my K-12 Christian School library. It is appropriate for eighth grade and up.

I want to thank Connilyn Cossette and Bethany House Publishers for the complimentary copy of Until the Mountains Fall.

Connilyn Cossette in her novel “Until the Mountains Fall” recreates the world of the Bible with skill and detailed knowledge of the realities of daily life. The novel follows Rivkah, a spoiled and headstrong girl, whose father is the head priest in Kedesh, one of the cities of refuge, where the manslayers, could escape the wrath of avengers of blood and live in peace. Rivkah is a young widow and according to the rules of levirate marriage, she should marry a younger brother of her deceased husband to preserve his line. According to Torah, the first child born from such a marriage would be concerned a child of her dead husband and his rightful heir.

Rivkah is devastated by the death of her husband and feels she was not given enough time to grief. She doesn’t like her new betrothed Malakhi, because he bullied her as a child and besides, he is only sixteen, two years younger than her. In any case she considers him only a mean, silly boy, that will make her life unbearable. She goes to great lengths to break the betrothal, but Malakhi stubbornly refuses to release her. Under the façade of easy manner and indifference he hides deep feelings for Rivkah. He wants to prove to her that he can be a thoughtful, loving husband, but the girl is just as stubborn and refuses to give him a chance. Finally, she makes an ill-conceived and risky decision to flee and start a life apart from her family on her own terms. Of course it all ends in a disaster.

I won’t give anything away, but the story of Rivkah and Malakhi was heartfelt and engaging. It was hard to like Rivkah at the beginning, because she was acting very childish, but she was grieving and it didn’t seem right that she was forced into betrothal only a month after her husband’s death. Most of all I enjoyed the setting of the story around 1380 BC in the ancient cities of refuge. The author weaves the story with ease, emotions of the characters feel real, although I didn’t like some of their behaviour and choices. The only weaker part in my opinion was the fighting scene… I got the impression the author didn’t enjoy writing about fighting men and she wanted to be done with that as fast as possible. It could be so much more dramatic and engaging, but it was strangely flat. I also would like to read more about the secondary characters, they were interesting, but I felt that there were not enough scenes with them. Anyway, Rivkah and Malakhi were a lovely pair and they deserved the HEA after all they went through.

I recommend this novel for fans of Christian historical fiction, especially Biblical fiction. The period showed in the book follows the death of Joshua and appears in the Bible before the Judges.

I received "Until the Mountains Fall" from the publisher via NetGalley. I would like to thank the author and the publisher for providing me with the advance reader copy of the book.

Until the Mountains Fall
by Connilyn Cossette

Bethany House

Bethany House Publishers

Christian

Pub Date 02 Jul 2019

I am reviewing a copy of Until the Mountains Fall through Bethany House Publishers and Netgalley:

Rivkah was recently widowed and refuses to follow the Old Testament Torah laws that say you must marry your husband’s brother if he dies. She instead flees to Kedesh, hoping she will be able to use her talents as a Scribe to make a living!

Malakhi has been in love with Rivkah for years but he never imagined that it would be his brothers death that would lead to wedding her. After Rivkah disappears he throws himself into fighting the Canaanites instead of dwelling on all he lost. With impending war over Israel Rivkah’s father comes to Malakhi with an impossible request.

As the enemies from both inside and outside of Israel grow more threatening by the day, is it to late for the restoration their souls seek?

I found Until Mountains Fall to be a well researched Biblical era Nobel, with strong believable characters making it worthy of five out of five stars!

Happy Reading!

Wonderful story of redemption, love, and heartache. It shows how the parable of the prodigal son can apply in many different ways. I fell in love with the characters, as I do with all of Connilyn's books. If you love historical fiction, then this book and its series, Cities of Refuge, is a definite read!!!

I have read all of the other books in this series, so I had a feeling this new book was going to be a good one. But even I was surprised with the twists and turns in this story, and I finished reading it way faster than I thought possible! A lot of the time when I am reading a good book it can be really hard to put it down, but this time I almost had to pry the book from my own hands. I just had to see what would happen next!

Although I will say this book had more sad events/bad decisions than I would have liked. But the story line handled them well, so the book was still very enjoyable. Overall I would say this is a must read for fans of the "Cities of Refuge Series"!


I received this book free through NetGalley from Bethany House Publishers for my honest review. The opinions are my own.

When Rivkah’s husband dies, her father arranges for her to marry her husband’s brother, according to Torah law. Rivkah can’t stand the idea of marrying Malakhi, who tormented her as a child, and when she can’t convince her father to call off the marriage, she flees, planning to find work as a scribe. However, she soon finds that life outside the city of refugee she has always lived in is vastly different than what she anticipated. When Rivkah runs away from him, Malakhi, who has loved her for years, throws himself into his work and tries to bury his feelings for her. When he is wounded in a fight against the Canaanites, he thinks he has also lost his identity as a soldier for Israel. Still reeling from his injuries and lost hopes, Malakhi is shocked when Rivkah’s father receives word from her, years after she ran away. When his father asks to try to find her, Malakhi can’t deny the request—but he is determined to guard his heart this time. A story of a prodigal daughter, this was just beautiful to read. The themes of forgiveness and not giving up hope were tenderly woven into the story. I loved the setting of ancient Israel and seeing how the Israelites were impacted by disobedience to God’s law and how they were threatened by their enemies because of that disobedience and discord between the tribes; that historical background was just so fascinating. As for the characters…well, I have loved reading about all of the characters in this series and getting to know their hearts, and Rivkah and Malakhi were no exception. Rivkah was stubborn and couldn’t see the good in Malakhi, and yet he persisted, and I loved that—and I loved seeing how Rivkah came to see who he really was. Malakhi was just great—hardworking and big-hearted. I also loved getting to see Rivkah’s and Malakhi’s family members again.
I can’t wait for the fourth book in the series! (Although this is the third book in a series, it could be read as a standalone--but the other books are fantastic, too!)

4.5 stars.

I read an ARC provided by the publisher via #NetGalley. All opinions are my own.

Just when I thought I’d read the best Connilyn Cossette book ever, this stunning story landed in my life.

This fascinating book is a richly woven journey of redemption, hope, love, and forgiveness.

Connilyn Cossette did a magnificent job carrying the reader back through history to an incredibly volatile and powerful time, and exploring some lesser-known events through the eyes of two characters whose brokenness and grief chased them far from home, but who learn that the awe-inspiring goodness of grace can change their lives and futures.

The characters were so rich, relatable, and dynamic, and their journey was incredible!

Seeing Malakhai grown up and watching as his character changed and strengthened, while still staying his signature mischief-making self was fantastic! Watching as his love story with Rivkah changed and grew as well was both heart-breaking and incredible! 😭

And Rivkah! I’ll admit, at first, I was mad at her—her life was filled with so much bitterness and sharpness, especially toward poor Malakhai. But I can understand why. Her past was grief-stricken, and I do not want to try to imagine how shattered a similar loss would leave me. But *spoiler alert* grace changes people, forgiveness and redemption and love change people. And Rivkah became one of my all-time favorite fictional characters throughout her heart-tugging journey.

This book filled me with so many emotions, I am having a hard time expressing just how much it affected me, but I want to tell you this—this story is full of hope. Of second chances and changed hearts. Rescued people. And this story is something altogether special.

Give it a try—I know you will enjoy it too! ❤️


I received a copy of this book for FREE, and a positive review was not required.

The only time I say the words “oh my” is after reading the last page of a fabulous book. Until The Mountains Fall is such a touching story. And that moment in the story when I discover the title’s meaning…oh my… I fall into #TitleLove.

This is one of those times when I finish a book and have no idea how a review can do it justice. I can only say that this book fulfilled one of my main desires of reading. To be changed. Rivkah and Malakhi grow and change through this story, and their searches for happiness, fulfillment, and forgiveness changed me as well. I connected with Rivkah’s stubbornness as well as Malakhi’s persistence.

To be completely honest, the parable of the Prodigal Son has always troubled me. My sympathies sided with the son who had stayed loyal and honored and respected his father. I felt for him when it seemed his father didn’t appreciate his loyalty and celebrated the return of the reckless son who had turned his back on everything and everyone who loved him. I understood how the loyal son might feel overlooked and unappreciated.

But now, after reading this story, inspired by the story of the wayward son, but involving a rebellious daughter instead, I understand fully. The loyal son in the Bible wasn’t overlooked or taken for granted, but the father’s grief for the missing son weighed so heavily on his father’s heart that his answered prayers relieved the unbearable grief he’d held in for so long.

I’ve loved the first three books in the Cities of Refuge series, and can’t wait for the conclusion, Like Flames Against the Night.

Cover Love:
Connilyn’s books have gorgeous covers—all of them—but this one…oh my!
Title Love:
I love the title and the sentiment behind it.

Source: I received a complimentary copy from the publisher and NetGalley. I was under no obligation to post a positive review.

#UntilTheMountainsFall #CoverLove #TitleLove

Sometimes we can get lost in ideologies and philosophies... or some misplaced conviction.
What we fail to notice is that there's something deeper leading us there. We'd usually point out desire or temptation, but what about grief? And, in truth, can it just be a deep aching thirst we are trying to quench?

"Until the Mountains Fall" is Connilyn Cossette's story of a prodigal daughter. She honest when portraying anger and selfishness leading Rivkah's decision, to the point that we wonder how much does she love her father. But Conni also portrays very well the blindness we don't notice that guide our actions. This darkness we don't know how to handle.

Rivkah is sobered soon enough, as we find out five years later her misdeeds. The guilt of not being able to undo a list of many things has her on her knees. We find a Rivkah who has been humbled but is still desperate inside because prison has become her reality. How can she find the strength to go against the system, how can she hold on to hope as she has abandoned the Author of life and faith?

Malakhi has loved Rivkha forever, but he never imagined his dream of marrying her would come at the cost of his dear brother's death. But when she betrays him, he decides to occupy his mind wit preparation for war. But, five years later, we find the mischievous Malakhi broody and given into the limitations of a war wound. It seems as if Yahweh is taking everything from him, not to mention leaving him with a family who only pastures him to get married.

When Malakhi and Rivkah's path crosses once again, they barely recognize each other's soul, and the what-ifs, if patience had been nurtured during difficult times, are dangled between them.

I was wary about how Connilyn would open up Rivkah's heart towards Malakhi, and how his offering of forgiveness would be played out. But I'm glad to say it was organically done. To the point of tears.

If you've read the Cities of Refuge series, then you know forgiveness is sometimes an unmentioned but always an important theme. And here, in Until the Mountains Fall, we have the perfect portrait of a love that's unending in pursuit, yet not naive. Grounded in the depths of knowledge of who the giver is are and who there loved ones were made to be.

I can't wait for Tirzah's book!!!

Every time I read a book by gifted storyteller Connilyn Cossette, I feel like I have stepped right through the pages into the world that she has painted. My experience reading Until the Mountains Fall was certainly no exception!
Set during the time period between the Conquest and the Judges, this third installment of her Cities of Refuge series focuses on Rivkah the daughter of Kedesh’s High Priest, and Malakhi, the youngest son of a family she has known all her life. Rivkah had married Malahki’s brother but is left a widow not long into their marriage. Her father then arranges for her to marry Malahki, following the Levirate Law. Malahki has always secretly loved Rivkah, but she still views him as the boy who took delight in teasing her when they were children. Not wanting to marry him, she runs away and soon regrets her decision, finding herself in horrible circumstances she feels unable to escape. Heartbroken, her father and Malakhi refuse to give up on her, even as the years pass. When they finally meet again, the situation has become incredibly challenging to repair as Malahki attempts to bring her home.
This beautifully written tale is reminiscent of the story of the Prodigal Son. The wealth of research done by the author to make the setting historically accurate is obvious, and her eloquent way with words and gift for bringing characters to life have resulted in a book that is nearly impossible to put down. The story serves as a poignant reminder that no matter how far we run, we are never outside the bounds of God’s grace and love nor the opportunity for forgiveness and redemption.
I highly recommend Until the Mountains Fall to anyone who enjoys Biblical fiction or reading about other cultures and time periods. I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed are entirely my own.

Oh! This book! From late night reading sessions to a bit of ugly crying, this was such a stunning entry in a magnificent family saga. Connilyn Cossette truly has a gift for bringing the Old Testament to life with intrigue and romance as abundant as the milk and honey of the Promised Land.

Rivkah and Malakhi have been butting heads since childhood. Malakhi, a particularly mischievous child, enjoyed teasing the too serious Rivkah and she has never forgotten his harassment. After a brief marriage to Malakhi’s older brother Gidal, the newely widowed Rivkah balks when her father promises her in marriage to her tormentor. When her father refuses to be swayed, insisting this marriage will be good for her, she flees Kedesh. Malakhi is left reeling from Rivkah’s betrayal and finds himself drowning in bitterness. When their paths cross again can they learn to understand each other and step onto the path God has laid before them?

Until the Mountains Fall is a love story rife with pride and humbleness, rejection and acceptance and plenty of forgiveness along the way. It is so easy to see yourself in these characters and their struggles that you won’t see the emotional waves coming until they roll right over you. While this book could be read as a standalone, I would recommend reading it within the series. This a must read for fans of Biblical fiction and romance.

I received a copy of this book from the author and Bethany House Publishers in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.

Wow, I was so intrigued by this series! From page one till the end, I was hooked. I don't read many biblical historical fiction, but Cossette's books grabbed my attention and I'm glad I finally took the time to read her fantastic work. The characters seem so real and became fast friends. The idea of writing a series about the cities of refuge is original and I enjoyed this different kind of setting than what I usually read. Connilyn Cossette has a new fan! I look forward to her future books.

Biblical fiction is not my genre of choice, but in my opinion, no one does biblical fiction like Connilyn Cossette. Her stories are descriptive, engaging, romantic, and relevant. Therefore, I will probably--definitely--read every single story she writes.

This particular story was about Rivkah and Malakhi and as far as Hebrew heroes go, I think Malakhi ranks pretty high on my list of Cossette's male leads. His heart for Rivkah and this overwhelming spirit of gentleness he had toward her grabbed me right from the get-go. I wanted a happily ever after for him the moment I "met" him.

And we all know the story of the prodigal son, right? Well, that was Rivkah in a nutshell. She started out a character I wasn't terribly attached to, but by the end I was cheering for her as I would my own daughter.

Until the Mountains Fall was full of history and adventure as well as a love between a father and daughter (and that between a mother and son) that knew no bounds. But I'd be remiss if I failed to mention the sweet-but-powerful romance thread throughout. Malakhi and Rivkah's story is definitely one for the books--whether you're a biblical fiction fan or not.

Recently widowed, Rivkah's father the priest betroths her to Malakhi, her husband's brother. In pain and rebellion at the forced marriage, Rivkah flees Kedesh and experiences even greater entrapment. Will she survive? And what secret is she hiding?
I really like Connilyn Cossette's writing style. It's clear, concise and well-paced. I also liked the depth of the main characters. Even though this is book three in the City of Refuge series, I had little problem following the plot once I sorted out all the characters. One thing I didn't like is the romance - too gushy in places for my personal tastes.
Note: "Until the Mountains Fall" does include numerous triggers, including war violence, sexual assault, and domestic abuse. However, the author takes care to write in a sensitive way and keep the novel clean.

Rivkah, the main character, finds herself alone after becoming a widow at a young age. Bound by Levitical law, she is given in marriage to her husband’s brother. What happens next will thrill the reader with compassion, heart ache and an understanding of true grace. This is a must read!