To Dwell Among Cedars falls into the fantastic fiction category.  Few writers can take a portion of Scripture and create a fictional story that lures the reader back thousands of years into a captivating story the way Connilyn Cossette does.  Connilyn well researches ancient history, and because of those historical elements, the reader feels alive in the story, walking among the cedars, inhaling the fragrance of Eliora’s garden and enjoying ancient Hebrew culture.  Connilyn weaves sweet romance, human frailty, family devotion, intrigue, mystery, and adventure into a page turner read.  

Arisa and her brother, Lukio (two of the main characters) are Philistine orphans.  The Hebrew slave woman in their uncle’s home teaches them as young children the ways of God, the Hebrew language and tells them to follow the Ark of God.  And, they follow the Ark at the appropriate time and enter Israelite land.  Ronnen, a young Levitical musician, discovers the pair and brings them to the family in the area where the Ark has come to rest.  Eliora and Natan (their new Hebrew names) are adopted by the family and embraced as their own blood kin.  

The books leaps forward a few years, and Ronnen re-enters the story.  He rekindles his friendship with Eliora and Natan, and becomes a helper to the family.  Ronnen is captivated by Eliora’s essence and begins having feelings for her.  However, Ronnen was sent on a mission by his uncle, a mission that may destroy his relationship with Eliora and her adopted family.  The adventure that ensues at this point of the book makes it hard to put down.  The book is highly entertaining!

Connilyn beautifully weaves faith into her books.  She grabs a snippet of Biblical history and creates an incredible story around that portion.  I am always astounded and captivated by her creativity.  (She truly has a writing gift!)  And, I always learn a lot about ancient Biblical history by reading her books.

Connilyn is an incredible wordsmith and knower of the human heart.  She weaves these abilities into her story.  The reader’s heart strings are pulled awake as Connilyn develops each character well.  

I love how Connilyn tackles deep, human issues; such as, Eliora lives in mental chains of servitude to a family that loves her.  Ronnen struggles deeply with wanting to please his uncle and doing the right thing (which would go against his uncle’s wishes).  Natan feels like an outcast and thus, makes poor choices (his final poor choice leaves the reading hanging over the edge of the cliff, aching for the next book).  

Thank you, Connilyn, for transporting me to Ancient Israel for a few hours.  I am highly excited to read Book 2 of The Covenant House series.  

Needless to say, this book is a MUST READ.  You will not be disappointed.

This is one of Connilyn Cossette's beautiful historical novels dealing with the Old Testament.  In this one we have Eliora and Ronen. Eliora was a Philistine but had been adopted by a Jewish elder.  This elder was the guardian of the Ark of the Covenant.  It had been stolen by the Philistines and then returned and he was hiding it.  Ronen is a Levite that is trying to find the Ark of the Covenant and get it back into Levite hands.  What ensues is a rich and colorful tale that brings us much information that enriches our study of the Bible. 
 
I highly recommend this to anyone who like good OT historical fiction.  This author is one of the best. 
 
I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from NetGalley.  All views expressed are only my honest opinion.

Will their loyalties tear them apart?

In the last decade that I've started reading Biblical fiction I've run across authors that I've enjoyed and some that I've chosen to only read the one book. But there are a few that have stood out above all the rest for their attention to historical detail, their never-failing adherence to Biblical fact, and because they are downright exquisite storytellers. Author Connilyn Cossette most definitely fits in with that group and is one of my top two or three favorites. And it's because of books like To Dwell Among Cedars which is the first book in her new The Covenant House series...

Connilyn Cossette is one of those if-she-writes-I'll-read-it authors so I only had a vague idea of what To Dwell Among Cedars is about. However, as with her previous series, she blew me away with this powerful and moving tale of a girl longing for acceptance, a man longing for family, and the awesome power of the Almighty. I was completely captivated by the story, with all of its drama and emotion, as the author so vividly brought the ancient Holy Land to life on the printed page and straight into my imagination.

At time To Dwell Among Cedars was hard to read with some of the ancient pagan customs, but it was an ever powerful story, and the lessons that the Hebrews had to learn then are just as valid for Christians today. Don't get me wrong, this isn't a sermon by any means, Connilyn Cossette can also tell an entertaining story like nobody's business. So, if you do enjoy well-written Biblical fiction you should check out this first book in The Covenant House series...

(I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are entirely my own.)

Great book by Connilyn Cossette! I loved how well researched it was and how she was able to tell us a story about a time in the Bible that I didn’t know much about. I think most of us don’t really remember this story since it isn’t told as often as Samson and Delilah or David and Goliath so I think it was great that she shared this story. I also thought she did a great job of showing us the division that there was with in the tribe of Levi and showing us the hostility that existed among the Hebrews and Philistines. Overall, I thought this was a great book and I look forward to reading more by her.

I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, and or authors.  A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.

Cosette has woven an incredible journey of sacrifice and love between the pages of To Dwell Among Cedars. There is not a doubt in my mind that she has thoroughly researched the time, place, and setting because from beginning to end, magnificent descriptors drew me straight into the story. I would venture to say she is becoming (if she isn’t already) an expert on all things Old Testament.

Everything about this story is incredible. I don’t even have the right words to describe the relationships between the characters, the intricate details that never seem too heavy, and the beauty that comes from obeying the Lord. If you choose to begin this journey, your emotions will be tugged first one way, then another. You will not want to put this book down, and then you will anxiously await the next one.

Fans of biblical fiction need to read this book! I received a copy from the publisher and author. No compensation has been received.

I thoroughly enjoyed Connilyn Cossette’s newest novel, To Dwell Among Cedars. Arisa/Eliora captured my imagination at the beginning and I quickly became invested in her story.  Eliora’s devotion to Yahweh and the Ark of the Covenant undergirds all that she does. Such dedication set an encouraging example to those around her and for the reader. I loved journeying with her as she learned her true value and I rooted for her as she arose in boldness when necessary. 

While Eliora shines in To Dwell Among Cedars, the story has a substantial romance thread between her and Ronen. Ronen’s quest to move the Ark of the Covenant to a different location besets their blossoming love. This difficulty added a layer of tension to their unexpected and beautiful love story.

To Dwell Among Cedars is the first installment in The Covenant House series by Connilyn Cossette. I am eager for book two. Five stars!

Disclosure of Material Connection: I was provided a copy of this book by the author or publisher. All opinions in this review are my own.

A Philistine woman who worships Yahweh alone. A Levite who doubts the Lord keeps His promises. Which is right?

I have often wondered just how the writer of I Samuel knew what happened in the five cities of the Philistines during the time the Ark of the Covenant resided there. And how they knew the reasoning behind the method by which the Ark was returned to Israel. To Dwell among Cedars gives quite a plausible explanation along with a beautiful story of adoption, hope, and forgiveness.

It was interesting to see some of the events of I Samuel from a new perspective. And the contrast of the manner of living of the Philistines and the Hebrews. During these dark times, with many Israelites worshipping the idols of the nations who had lived in the land before them, there remained a remnant who worshipped only the true and living God.

Eliora, though she was adopted and loved by a Levite family, struggled daily with feelings of unworthiness. She believed that if she messed up enough, she would be cast aside. I loved the beautiful picture of adoption she learned. That of being grafted into the family. Becoming a permanent part of it, and being loved, not because of anything she did or didn't do but simply because of who she was.

After the death of his father and brothers in the battle in which the Philistines captured the Ark, Ronan doubted whether God still cared about His people, despite hearing of the exploits of God on behalf of the Israelites his entire life. He lost his desire to compose the beautiful songs of worship he had written in the past and relegated himself to the role of maintaining and repairing the instruments of the Levites. It was so moving how Eliora helped him overcome his doubt and led him to a place of being able to once again raise his voice in worship.

The intrigue related to the plot to capture the Ark added to the enjoyment of this lovely story.

Readers who enjoy stories that help them imagine "what ifs" related to Biblical events will want to be sure to read To Dwell among Cedars.

I have such respect for authors of Biblical fiction and the copious amounts of research they do to bring Scripture to life in a new and illuminating way. Connilyn Cossette excels in creating settings that draw you in, characters that draw you close, and a plot that doesn’t let go.

Central to the plot of To Dwell Among Cedars is the ark of the covenant and specifically the time period from when the Philistines took it to when it was returned on a cart drawn by cows.

But this book is about finding our value in how we are loved and not in what we do to be loved. While remaining true to Biblical teachings of God’s judgement and provision, Cossette takes us deeper into discovering value. Eliora discovers the love of the family that adopted her and her brother is not broken by her or her little brother's actions—neither good or bad. How much greater if God’s love for those he calls children?

To Dwell Among Cedars has a lot happening—from the relationship between Eliora and her brother as well as their adoptive family, the activities around the ark, Ronen’s mission and doubt, and the sweet and gentle romance he develops with the woman he once rescued as a girl—but the story would not be as poignant and moving if any of them. 



Disclosure statement: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this audiobook and was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.

Connilyn Cossette has a unique talent for making Biblical fiction come alive on the page. I don’t usually read many books in this genre, but since I discovered her last series, Cities of Refuge, I’m hooked on her stories. I’m always amazed at how she can take a small slice of history from so long ago and create fascinating tales around it. To Dwell Among Cedars is such a book, and I was totally hooked from the first page. Eliora and Ronen are realistically flawed and engaging main characters, and I enjoyed seeing their spiritual growth and their relationship evolve. A stellar and imaginative cast of supporting characters, including Eliora’s younger brother Natan, and a captivating storyline made this book a fascinating read.

Cossette’s impeccable historical details show evidence of her extensive research into Biblical times and people and gives authenticity to her story. Sweet messages of faith, hope, and the importance of a loving family add a layer of dimension and depth to it. 

I’m looking forward to reading Natan;s (Lukio) story in the next book of the series. There is a bit of a cliffhanger at the end of the book in regard to him, but it sets him up for his story to come.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy from Bethany House and NetGalley. All opinions are my own.

I love Connilyn Cossette's storytelling style. Her novels are always so well crafted and original. This story has themes of love, family and belonging, and is told through the eyes of a Philistine girl. The setting is so original. I highly recommend this book for fans of biblical fiction.

I received a copy of this book for free for the purpose of review.

This book marks the beginning of Connilyn's new duology focusing on a pair of Philistine siblings.

To be completely honest, I was a little disappointed (even though I can totally understand why the author went this direction) to learn that we were officially leaving behind the characters from her previous series. But I was still very much looking forward to her new book since Connilyn Cossette is such an amazing author.

Once again, the author was able to bring the past to life. I absolutely love the new characters and can't wait to find out what happens in the next book! From my point of view Arisa (Eliora) and Lukio (Natan)'s story is very unique. I must admit that I really appreciate how most of this author's biblical fictions are based on some what if situations. It gives us readers a different perspective on stories we know while making biblical figures come to life.

Thanks to the publisher for providing me a copy of the book. It did not affect my review.

This book took my emotions in different directions and safely returned it to one place in peace and awe.

A wonder this book is. The story was unpredictable, captivating and intriguing. I can only imagine the kind of research that went into writing this book because characters and accounts were so vivid and up close.

The plot was so amazing, captivating and refreshing. I saw mercy, love and acceptance in a marvelous new light. The twist and turns were so unpredictable. I could never imagine or predict what would happen until it did. And that kept me reading and reading because all my predictions just came up short. But the outcome of the book is one I will always remember.

The characters stellar. Relatable and charming. Even the not so pleasant ones were enjoyable to read about. I loved the journeys the main characters took to accepting and enjoying God's marvelous love for them. Their struggles were real and their victories ecstatic.

Connilyn Cossette did a marvellous job here.

I received a copy of this book and this is my honest opinion

Connilyn Cossette simply stuns me with every new novel she releases! Her characters are always stellar and before I even realize what’s happened, I end up completely immersed in the landscapes of the Old Testament. She has a gift for spinning a wonderful story from such a small amount of text and the hours of research that must have gone into this book shine through. From the Philistine city of Ashdod to the mountain top of Kiryat-Yearim, Arisa and Lukio face the loss of family and the emotional turmoil of joining another, becoming Eliora and Natan. After losing his family to the Philistine’s, Ronen embraces the political views of his uncle, along with his scheming. With opposing factions amidst the Levitical community and a plot to shift control of the Ark, Eliora and Ronen must decide where they stand and what they are willing to sacrifice for their beliefs.

There was a little bit of cliffhanger to the ending that has me more than anticipating Lukio’s tale. If you are looking for some great Biblical fiction, this is a book you will want to check out. Fans of Jill Eileen Smith, Tessa Afshar and Mesu Andrews absolutely need to check out Connilyn Cossette’s books! 

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

I enjoy Biblical fiction so much! 
This book was no exception. I simply couldn't put it down until I finished so this was a late night read for me.
Cossette does such a wonderful job in bringing these characters to life while staying true to the actual Bible story.
I very much enjoyed the story of the Ark. It sure went through a lot! 
Cassette describes the scenes so well that I found myself transported back in time. 
Her research well... It's awesome.
I love that this story offers hope and leaves your heart feeling full and satisfied. 
Sometimes blessings come when we least expect it and the best part? Is when they come from the Lord and an author that is great at what she does!
5 stars for this beautiful story about the Ark. This history in this book is just wow!!
My thanks for a copy of this book.
I was NOT required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.

I was so excited to find out that Connilyn Cossette has a new series coming out at the end of this year. I was even more so when I had the opportunity to read the first book from The Covenant House series, To Dwell Among Cedars. I was not disappointed. I thought it was a great read. I loved the history and the author’s ability to vividly bring this story to life. I could not put it down and took no time to read. It is so very good.

I am giving To Dwell Among Cedars a very well deserved five plus stars. I highly recommend it for readers who enjoy Biblical fiction. I look forward to the next installment from The Covenant House series.

I received To Dwell Among Cedars from the author, but was not required to write a review. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.

To Dwell Among Cedars is another captivating Biblical fiction book from talented storyteller, Connilyn Cossette. Her books are fascinating stories, rich with detail that take readers right into the scenes of Scripture. Readers will love this fictional account of a young Philistine girl. Arisa follows the Ark of the Covenant during its return to Israel after its earlier capture by the Philistines.  The story unfolds with subsequent events as a faction of Israelites scheme to remove the Ark to another site. The characters have depth and reality. Their emotions and strengths resonate well with readers. And what is a good fiction book without a romance? Readers are entertained with that as well. The development of  Arisa/Eliora and Ronen's relationship quickly drew me in. The historical lessons are blended well with lessons about family struggles and learning to value oneself because of who (or Whose) you are and not because of what you can do. To Dwell Among Cedars is the beginning of a new series, The Covenant House, and I fear the wait for the next book will be a long one. 
I received a copy of the book from the publisher, and a favorable review was not required. The opinions are my own.

Eloria and her younger brother, Luca, find refuge with the most unlikely of allies: the Israelites. Her new family offers love and safety. However, Eloria continues to struggle with an unrelenting need to prove herself and to fit in. Can she earn her place with her new family?

I related to this character! How many of us feel if we only worked harder, we would find that elusive acceptance? Eloria’s sweet spirit and upbeat outlook contrasts with her troubled brother, who also struggles to find his place. Their relationship creates a wonderful tension.

The need to belong and the fear of never being good enough are strong themes throughout the book. Both Ronen and Eloria discover that friendship can offer a second home. A better home. I’m reminded of Provers 18:24. A man of many companions may come to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother (ESV).

I was fascinated with the research relating to the ark. I can’t say much more, but Cossette expands on a lesser known time when the ark remained at Kiryat Yearim. Her descriptions of the ark and the Dagon temple were absolutely thrilling! A sweet romance and a believable redemptive message make this is my top Biblical fiction choice for 2020. Five stars!

Connilyn Cossette takes readers to a time period we know little about in the Bible, the time at the end of Judges, when everyone did what was right in their own eyes, and prior to Saul becoming king. This story revolves around the return of the Ark of the Covenant to Israel and what it may have been like to be caught up in that event.
I really enjoyed this book. Though there wasn’t a lot to go off of, I think Connilyn did a good job of staying true to what we know from the Biblical account and bringing to life the time period. 
I loved reading about Eliora and her realizations pertaining to being brought into her family, and into relationship with Yahweh. Both she and Ronen struggle to feel like they belong, and both work for their place in their families. With Eliora in particular, her struggles to believe she is accepted and belongs, take on new depth when seen through the lens of the struggles many have in resting in the fact that they are already acceptable to God when coming through Jesus Christ.
I thought the character of Ronen being portrayed as a skeptic was really interesting. It was a good way of showing where a lot of the Israelites were at then. This book also highlighted that people are people. Those that lived in that time and those that live now struggle with the same things, deal with the same sins, and are given that same wonderful grace from God.
This is the start to another really good series from Connilyn Cossette, and I cannot recommend her work enough. I will be waiting eagerly for the next book in this series that follows Eliora’s brother, Natan (Lukio).

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.

Once again Connilyn Cossette has proved herself as one of my absolute favorite authors of Biblical fiction. Her writing is impeccable, creating imagery so tangible you feel yourself being sucked through the pages into the very setting of the characters. I had been VERY impatiently waiting for this one, and I was not disappointed in the least! I'm only sad I have to wait again for the next in the series to release.

Eliora was such an amazing character, and I felt myself clinging desperately to her story hoping for her healing and happiness. She had such a heart of gold yet struggled to grasp her full worth. She endlessly continued to put more weight on her shoulders, believing that it was what she did for others that earned her her place and love in their lives. I could relate to her in more ways than I'd like to admit, but it served to only hold me more captive in her story. 

I liked that Ronen was a complex character, who was flawed yet genuine. He looked to his uncle and cousin to help fill the void that had been created when he lost his family, and just like Eliora, he was looking for a place where he could belong and feel loved and wanted. Despite wanting to make his uncle proud he was also seeking God's will, and that was more important to him than any human relationship. He went through a lot of growth throughout the story, and  his desire to be obedient to God made him another character that was easy to root for.

I honestly couldn't recommend this novel enough!! I absolutely ADORED this story, and was not ready to let the characters go when I finished reading. I now sit impatiently waiting for the next book in the series. Absolutely amazing! 

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

Again Connilyn Cossette takes a little known part in the Bible and makes the people come to life.  I loved that she can make me want to know more about this time period.  This book gives these characters great personalities that make you want more.  I love that Eliora and Ronen help each other and then get to know each other.  I am really looking forward to Lokio’s story.  He seems to be a very complicated young man.  I received a copy of this book from the author fir a fair and honest opinion that I gave of my own free will.