I don’t know how she does it, but with every book Connilyn Cossette manages to draw you into the world of Old Testament Israel, and it’s like you’re actually transported there and left my living room behind. Ok I think I partly know how she does it and that is an impressive amount of research, but still, to be able to have a setting like this is just amazing.

Also, tell me the last time you read a book set in the time of the judges, just before Samuel. I couldn’t think of a single one, and that is another reason that makes it so original: she manages to make you look anew at a tiny piece of the Bible. We start as the Ark of Covenant is taken by the Philistines, where it causes great havoc, and the kings decide to return the Ark to the Israelites to stave off the pestilences.

And then she picks two Philistine children as the main focus of the story. And what a story it is... we start off in Philistine itself, with a clear picture of how a heathen culture and religion functioned. It was quite a brutal story, but always with hope, and the children are told to follow the ark, that’s where they’ll feel peace and shelter and that’s exactly what they do. They are adopted in a faithful family who guards the Ark - and grow up. Eliora, the eldest sister and main character, as the nagging feeling that she needs to earn her place and tries to fit in, that she might not be enough, and works from day till night with a smile on her face because she does honestly enjoy it. She grows an amazing garden, and her faith in God is unwavering. Her brother however, is having a hard time. He doesn’t really want to become Hebrew and is quite troubled and has given up om fitting in. As the Jewish feast of Jom Teroea draws near, Levites from all over arrive at the house, among them her former rescuer, Ronen, but he now has a whole other mission as he is charged with finding the Ark and betraying the family that took Eliora in... but meeting Eliora, his heart is torn in two, as they both find healing in each other.

I absolutely loved this story, every minute of it. The characters grew so much and you really felt the affection growing because of that. The conflict was interesting, and you even get a little invested in where the Ark actually is lol! I had some interesting guesses... all in all, I can really recommend this story that has both a lot of depth and adventure.

I received a free copy through Netgalley but it hasn’t influenced my opinions.

If there were an official Connilyn Cossette Fan Club, I could count myself among the founding members. I have followed her writing career ever since I read her tweet in March 2015 where she mentioned the manuscript for her novel based on the Exodus. By April of the following year, I was enthusiastically sharing my review of her debut novel Counted with the Stars.

What I loved then and what keeps drawing me back is Cossette's impeccable gift for storytelling. Each story is a harmonious blend of word choice, pacing, biblical themes, and wonderfully complex characters; and this is true of her latest release To Dwell Among Cedars.

To Dwell Among Cedars is unique for this genre in that it's set between 1 Samuel 6 and 2 Samuel 6 in a period of time where Scripture is silent. Anyone who has read the Old Testament knows the story of how the ark of the LORD was taken captive by the Philistines and then returned on a cow-drawn cart. What if two Philistine orphans happened to follow that cart and how might the presence of the ark have affected the men of Kiriath-jearim or the home of Abinadab where the ark came to rest? These are the questions Cossette posed and then set about fleshing out in her novel. Even though I prefer books in this genre to lean heavily upon the truth of God's word, the author's use of creative license did not detract from my enjoyment.

Knowing the historical context, you would expect to find the themes of God's judgment, sovereignty, and provision. While these are present, the most dominant theme is that of adoption. Cossette uses Arisa (Eliora) and Lukio's (Natan) adoption into a physical family became the foundation for expounding upon the beauty of the believer's adoption into God's spiritual family.  

I would be remiss not to mention Eliora and Ronen's relationship. Following their initial meeting in Beth Shemesh, 8 years would lapse before they would be reunited in the home of Abinadab. In the interim, Ronen would be changed greatly by his uncle's radical beliefs. Unbeknownst to Eliora, God would use the strength of her faith and character to break down the walls of his heart. To me, this spoke to the importance of living faithful and righteous lives.

In closing, I'd like to say that his book held all the admirable traits of Connilyn Cossette's previous novels. If you are not already a fan, the book may appeal to you based on Eliora and Natan strong sibling bond, the beauty of adoption, a predisposition to books that explore the gray areas of Israel's history, or the allure of a transformational love story. In short, I expect this book to appeal to a wide audience.

4.5/5 Stars

I received this book from the publisher through the NetGalley review program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

TO DWELL AMONG CEDARS is the first novel in the Covenant House series by CONNILYN COSSETTE. I have read and loved all this author;s books, and have been looking forward to reading this one for some time. I am definitely not disappointed. What a truly lovely story of redemption and restoration in which we get a taste of the awesome Presence and holiness of God in His interaction with His people.
With the two Philistine children, we follow the Ark of the Covenant to its resting place among the cedars at Kiryat-Yearim. The children are adopted by Elazar, the Levite who is in charge of guarding the Ark, and his wife Yoela, and treated as part of their large and loving family. Arisa, or Eliora as she is now called, has adopted the Hebrew faith and loves Yahweh and the Ark, which the Hebrew slave, Azuvah, who helped them escape Ashdod, told them to follow. She loves all her brothers and sisters, especially her brother Lukio, or Natan as he is now called, for whom she has felt responsible since their mother died in childbirth and their father abandoned them.
In 1062 BC Ronen, an apprentice Levite, comes to Kiryat-Yearim with a group of Levitical musicians to celebrate Yom Terua, and finds that the young Philistine girl who he carried up the mountain eight years before has turned into a beautiful woman.They have a lot in common, in spite of the fact that he seems to have lost his faith in the miraculous and is hiding a deadly secret - they both feel beholden to the people who have adopted them into their families.
There is intrigue, jealousy, violent disagreement and even idol worship amongst the priesthood. We come across Samuel, the great man of God, with his words of warning and prophetic direction. We are also strongly reminded of the danger of running ahead of the Lord and following man made plans, trying to do things in our own strength.
The novel follows the Bible closely and the fictional characters flesh out the story beautifully, giving us an idea of life at that time for both Hebrew and Philistine through the author's solid research.
I do not want to tell you any more for fear of spoiling the read for you.
I highly recommend To Dwell Among Cedars to anyone who enjoys Biblical fiction. It is a most enjoyable and inspirational read and I am looking forward to the next novel in the series.
I was given a free copy of the book by NetGalley from Bethany House Publishers. The opinions in this review are completely my own.

I can't imagine having to do all the research to craft a Biblical fiction novel. I don't read a lot in this genre because a lot of the stories are dry and really don't capture my attention. But I always make an exception after reading my first Connilyn Cossette novel. She does a wonderful way at crafting unique and memorable characters. I love how she takes a story or an element of the Biblical narrative and transforms it into a lively story. A story that takes me back to Biblical times. A story that comes to life on the pages. A story that makes me want to dive into the Bible more and read more about the story she has expended on. I know Cossette takes liberty with the line because it is Historical fiction, not a new discovery on the topic. With her newest story To Dwell Among Cedars, I love how Cossette took the idea of the Ark of the Covenant and made it come to life before my very eyes. A delightful story. I really had a hard time putting it down. The romance was nice and slow. I loved seeing how she didn't toss out the emotions so quickly. I loved how she allowed it to grow naturally. Overall, Cossette is a wonderful crafter of the Biblical fiction. I have enjoyed all her stories and can't wait to read what she crafts next.

I received a complimentary copy of To Dwell Among Cedars by Connilyn Cossette from Bethany House Publishers, but the opinions stated are all my own.

Another excellent read from Connilyn Cossette! She weaves the stories she writes so gracefully from her meticulous historical research and first-hand knowledge of the geographical area to her beautifully crafted characters to make these stories come to life. I love being able to picture each scene in my mind as if I could reach out and touch each person. And though the book is fiction, there is always truth woven gently in to the story. As with many of her previous books, I was so immersed in the lives of the characters that I was brought to tears at the end.

Highly recommended for any reader who not only enjoys Biblical fiction, but historical fiction in general. And to my great delight every time I pick up one of her books, a good clean romance as well,

I absolutely loved this story by Connilyn Cossette and am so happy that it is the beginning of a new series. The author clearly did a lot of research for this book and discusses some of her findings at the end. I am someone who reads the Bible and doesn’t put too much thought into the unwritten details. The Bible states the Ark of the Covenant stayed with Abinidab & Eleazar for 20 years. Cossette creates a story of what those first eight years may have looked like in the place where the Ark resided. Stories like this get me to realize there were people and events going on around the Ark.

Overall, I loved the story and the characters. They all had their strengths and weaknesses, just as we all do. I can't wait to read the next book in this series.

I received this book from the publisher through the NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

This is book 1 of a new series. And it's really good. The research involved in this book must have been countless hours to get the biblical chronology correct and the Hebraic names of the characters, etc. I really, really enjoyed reading this book and will definitely be watching for future books in this series.
There was only one thing that confused me a little and that was the story "first person" telling their story. I didn't immediately realize that the chapter "name" was the person who was telling the story in their words in that particular chapter and that changed throughout the book. So once I caught on to that, the confusion was clarified.

This was an excellent book and left me knowing that there is more to the story with a bit of a cliff hanger and I can't wait! This author is wonderful! The book had a little romance, action and kept my attention to the end. I loved how the Bible times came to life! Incredible!

I received an ebook version of this book from the author. All thoughts are my own.

I love well-researched Biblical Fiction, and I can always depend on Connilyn Cossette to deliver just that! To Dwell Among the Cedars is an inspiring book that shows the reader what it means to be in covenant with God.

The story centers around Eliora (Arisa), a former Philistine who, along with her brother Natan (Lukio), is raised by a Hebrew slave (Azuvah) in a violent idol-worshipping home in Ashdod. After a terrifying confrontation with their cousin, the Azuvah realizes she must help the children escape to safety. So she says, "Follow the ark. Do not turn to the right or to the left, and do not stop until it dwells among the cedars, and you are sheltered in perfect peace." With those words to guide her, Arisa miraculously finds the ark and follows it to Kiryat-Yearim, where she and her brother are found by Ronen, a Levite musician.

As the year's pass, Arisa and Lukio are adopted into Elazar's family and become Eliora and Natan when they join in covenant with the Hebrews. As they are frequently reminded, they now share in the same inheritance Yahweh provided for the Jewish people through Abraham. And while they are grafted into the family of Abraham and share in the blessings of the covenant, both Eliora and Natan have a hard time believing it.

I loved how this story depicted how the children were grafted into the covenant. It is a stark reminder that those who follow Jesus are also part of that same covenant. A holy covenant with God and one, I think we tend to take for granted.

The spiritual and character development of Ronen and Eliora unfolded beautifully. This is a story with so many lessons and layers that the reader will be dwelling on it long after the last page.

If you like well-researched Biblical Fiction, you will enjoy this book. I highly recommend it!

I received this book courtesy of Bethany House Publishers, through NetGalley, for my honest opinion.

This totally different take on a familiar bible story, with a Philistine as the main character, really surprised me. It showed the history of the times in a new light, which is often hard to do, but something I have come to expect from this author. While the story reaches a wonderful conclusion, you are left wanting more of the story, and looking forward to the next book.
The detail of the history of the ark is so telling, that I found I wanted to learn more when I finished.

Connilyn Cossettte is a master storyteller, her words holding me under their spell from the first to the last. Have you ever been so captivated by a story, that you did not want it to end?

Eliora's journey both physically as well as spiritually is beautiful written, each page revealing layers of truth that are timeless. This reader appreciated the subtle theme of seeking God's presence in our lives in this fictional account of the Ark's journey into Philistia and its return to the Hebrew people. The author's vivid prose brings to life the discord amongst the Hebrew people during the last days of the judges. Her attention to detail and research bring to life the stories of old. Highly recommend for fans of Biblical fiction.

What keeps me returning to Cossette's books is that within delicately crafted stories, there are timeless truths and insights that speak to me. To Dwell Among Cedars is such a story and I cannot wait to read Lukio's story in the sequel.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author/publisher and was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.

Connilyn Cossette does it again! She took a story from the Bible that was not well known and brought it to life! I love this author because she dares to do just that, take biblical stories that are not so well known and weave her own ideas into them but staying true to the Word of God and history.

This story is taken from 1 Samuel 4:1-11 where the Israelites, under the High Priest Eli's sons Hophni & Phineas, take the Ark of the Covenant that represents the place where God's presence dwells with His people, into a battle with the Philistines. They did not seek the Lord first, and end up losing the battle to the Philistines, but also lose the Ark to them. The Philistines capture the Ark and trouble ensues for them because of it.

The story picks up in Ashdod, a Philistine city, where we meet two of the main characters Arisa and her brother Lukio, who are orphaned by their father after their mother dies giving birth to Lukio. Arisa and Lukio are cared for by their Hebrew slave who comes with them as they are dumped on their aunt and uncles doorstep. Their aunt and uncle tolerate them but the Hebrew slave Azuvah is the one who loves them and cares for them. She teaches them her language and tells them all about the One True God, Yahweh and all the stories about Him that were handed down from generation to generation to her, and the place where His presence dwells, the Ark of the Covenant.

As the Philistines bring the ark to the city of Ashdod, trouble brakes out majorly for the Philistines and that leads to many of them getting tumors, their main god Dagon's huge stone body being broken by an earthquake, which caused many of the residents of Ashdod have so many problems such as famine and sickness, and that led to Arisa & Lukio's aunt & uncle both dying. After the death of their aunt and uncle, Arisa & Lukio's cousin Mataro wants to send Arisa to be a temple prostitute, and he wants to make money off young Lukio making him fist fight for money. Azuvah risks her own life to save Arisa & Lukio, and tells them to follow the Ark because she knew the Philistines would eventually take it back to the place where it belongs, among the Hebrews, her relatives. The opportunity for escape happens, and Azuvah tells Arisa to "“Follow the Ark, Arisa. Do not turn to the right or to the left, and do not stop until it dwells among the cedars and you are sheltered in perfect peace.” This book tells the story of how Arisa, who takes her brother with her and flees for their lives, obeys and follows the ark back to where it belonged: among the Hebrew people.

This story will weave a beautiful tale of how two Philistine orphans follow the Ark and are grafted into God's family, and how He shows them His love and restoration through a family who looks past their lineage, and who sees them for who they are. It also tell the tale of the Ark as it was brought back amongst the Hebrews and the struggles there were regarding who rightfully should care for it, hence we learn about the Levite Ronen who ends up becoming a very important person in Arisa's and her families lives...but with a plot that will totally surprise you!!

The Lord really touched me personally with this book, but if I share I will give too much away. But through Connilyn's story, God spoke to my heart and encouraged me so much in my own life, and I can't recommend this book enough! This story was fascinating, interesting, unpredictable, beautiful, and just a great story! So please take the time to read this and all.her other books. I pray God will speak to your heart and encourage you as He did me! So worth the time!!!

Wow. Another fabulous book from Connilyn Cossette. The historical background for the story is so fascinating; I was absolutely drawn in by the idea of two Philistine children following the Ark as it's sent back to the Hebrews from the Philistines, who no longer want it after they've been stricken by plagues and pestilences. The idea of different factions within the Levites was also so interesting, with some wanting it to remain at Kiryat Yearim and others wanting to return it to Shiloh. That was an excellent backdrop for Eliora's and Ronen's stories. Cossette did a fantastic job showing why Eliora and Ronen acted the way that they did--how their earlier hurts and traumas really impacted the choices that they made. They were both realistic and likable characters, and I loved seeing the realizations they each came to about themselves, their families, and God. This book is really well-written, and I can't wait to read the sequel.
5 stars.
I read an ARC provided by the publisher via #NetGalley.

To Dwell among Cedars continues Ms. Cossstte's wonderful overarching series (Out of Egypt and Cities of Refuge) with the first in her the Covenant House series which is a captivating and exciting portrayal of biblical characters and events in the times of the Old Testament, from the times of Moses to the times of the judges of Israel. This time period is often forgotten in Christian fiction writing, but Ms. Cossette excels in capturing her reader's interest as well as in bringing the pages of scripture to life in stories of characters who would have experienced the greatness of God at that time. I appreciate how Ms. Cossette is careful to accurately represent the truth of the Bible while adding a personal perspective of the old testament events from the eyes of a fictional character. Her talent for setting characters in ancient history with realistic troubles, challenges, and characteristics is exceptional and is what keeps readers engaged with her writings. I am a huge fan of Ms. Cosette's works and To Dwell among Cedars continues her excellent work.
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It was well written, had believable characters, and had a very intriguing and complex plot full of unique challenges and situations. I loved the way that Ms. Cossette gave some relatable and real struggles to Eliora to deal with in her life, her self-doubt and her sense of not belonging. I appreciated how Eliora was able to overcome these challenges and to be a good role model of the Christian woman. I also enjoyed the relationship between Eliora and Ronan and their struggles and difficulties they overcame. I enjoyed the rich context of this book set in the biblical time of the judges of Israel. There were some small sections towards the beginning of the book where it seemed to be tedious reading, but not for long. Overall, it was excellent and another exciting addition to the collection of Ms. Cossstte's excellent works of biblical Christian fiction.
This book begins with a well-known biblical account of the defeat of Israel and the capture of the ark by the Philistines. When the conquering army takes the ark of God into their cities, God brought great destruction and disease upon the Philistines. Eliora is a young Philistine girl living in the city ravaged by the ark of God. She and her younger brother Natan are spared solely because of God's mercy and His answering the prayers and pleading of an old Hebrew servant woman whom has served as Eliora and Natan's surrogate family. When grave danger makes Eliora and Natan suddenly leave their homeland, they follow the ark as it is surrendered back to the Israelites. When the Israelites first discover the ark, they approach it with irreverence and are struck dead by God's righteous fire. Eliora and Natan are eyewitnesses to this great display of God's power and are frightened, yet desire to stay with the righteous Israelites who come to carefully move the ark to a secluded mountain and guard it.
Eliora and her brother abandon their Philistine homeland and are adopted into a loving Israelite family, the very family who guards the ark of the covenant. Many years later a great feast is held to gather Israelites from many far places to praise and worship God together. One such Israelite, Ronen, a Levite musician comes to rediscover the captivating Philistine girl he rescued many years ago now all grown and even more beautiful than the scared and hungry Eliora he met after the devastating fire of God came from the ark of God.
Ronen has come to Kiryat Yearim for more than just his musical talents. He and many of his friends and relatives are plotting to find the secret place where the ark is to take it by force and bring it back to the temple where it rightfully belongs. Ronen is tasked with getting close to the family that guards and protects the secret hiding place of the ark, but he never expected to have to deceitfully manipulate his attachment to Eliora. Can he truly use her to discover the hiding place of the ark? Will his plotting be discovered? Will Eliora be able to fix the newly-strained family ties that Ronan's betrayal has left her with. Will Ronan be able to go through with his part of the plot? What will happen to Israel? Is there a hope for a peaceful future with the many different factions in Israel? Read this book to find out!
Disclaimer: Bethany House Publishers graciously provided me with a copy of this book through NetGalley. All opinions are my own and part of an unbiased review.

“To Dwell Among Cedars,” by Connilyn Cossette is now among my most favorite books ever. The way that she weaves the storyline for Arisa while staying true to the historical accuracy of the Ark being kept in the home of Abinadab at Kiryat-Yearim is nothing short of amazing. Every possible human emotion is on display as each character is developed to create a scene so vivid the reader cannot help but be immersed. Cossette is truly at her best as she is using her gifts to put the love of God on display for all to see.

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and was not required to write a favorable review. All opinions are my own.

"We can never guess what may come of our obedience, but that is not for us to know anyhow. We are not the All-Knowing One. We are simply called to 'hear and obey' and to love Adonai our God with all our hearts, all our minds, and all our strength."

Another incredible, heart-wrenching, soul-stirring Biblical fiction from Connilyn Cossette! To Dwell Among Cedars starts a new series The Covenant House, set during the time of the judges when Samuel starts his ministry. The story starts with the Ark's capture by the Philistines and the subsequent arrival of the Ark at Beth-Shemesh, and unfolds with the years following the Ark being ensconced within the mountain village of Kiryat-Yearim. The author has an uncanny ability to transport you to this faraway land and place you in the middle of the thriving community to see, hear, taste, smell, touch, and feel the daily activities, the novelty of hosting Yom Teruah (Rosh Hashanah) celebration, the unrest and division within the Levites, and the spiritual apathy and ignorance rampant in Israel during that time. Painted on this vivid backdrop, there are profound faith lessons on sense of worth and purpose, God's immeasurable grace and mercy, and the meaning of God's adoption of us as His children. If you enjoy Biblical fiction, this book is a must read. It will stay with you long after you've finished the book and have you going back to 1 Samuel 4-7 to see these Biblical passages with fresh eyes.

I loved Eliora, the rescued Philistine girl who becomes adopted into a loving and devoted Levite family that guards the Ark. She's loving and tender with a servant's heart but still struggles with her Philistine heritage and her place within the arms of a loving and gracious Yahweh as well as within her family. Her younger brother Natan (Lukio) grabbed my heart with his impulsive and rebellious ways that are fueled by rejection and resentment and I can't wait for the next book in the series where we'll get to meet the grown-up version of this young man. Ronen is so lovely in his genius and dedication as a Levite musician, devotion and loyalty to family, sense of justice (though sometimes misguided), and tenderness. There is awe, wonder and splendor of Yahweh seen with ethereal beauty of worship within these pages as well as betrayal, sweet romance, and power of familial love.

Definitely in my top 20 reads of 2020! I received a copy of the book from Bethany House Publishers and was under no obligation to post a positive review. All comments and opinions are solely my own.

Five stars is not enough for this book! Rich, biblical history with a gentile’s faith to challenge each and every believer. I love how Arisa was adopted into a family of Levites and the picture it provided of her being adopted, or grafted, into God’s family. She was even given a new name, Eliora to symbolically show her new citizenship. Her struggle to accept this adoption freely is beautifully portrayed and a reminder to all that we do not earn our place in our family. I also really enjoyed the dichotomy of Eliora’s faith with that of her brother, who did not embrace this new place and family as fully or easily as his sister. Ronen has his own lessons to learn and Eliora is a graceful tool in helping him learn to be true to his calling and to his God. Their story has a sweet build and demonstrates the power of trust and surrender. A beautiful love story to satisfy each love seeker’s heart, both in terms of a human relationship as well as God pursuing His people. I cannot wait for Lukio’s (Natan’s) story in follow up to this one. I highly recommend this for all lovers of biblical fiction. You will be blessed, challenged and encouraged as you read through this delightful story. Connilyn is an expert at transporting you into the story and into the lives of her characters. You will walk where they walk and experience their lessons up close and intimately.
I was given a complimentary copy from the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions expressed are my own, freely given.

The moment time stands still as you read the last word of a fantastic book is one of the best and worst feelings in the world. Why do all great books come to an end, and why do authors continue to put readers through the hurricanes of their imaginations only to spit us out at the last moment, leaving us to pick up the pieces? In a matter of a few pages, your heart can go from overflowing with love to breaking! Connilyn Cossette's newest series, The Covenant House, is no exception, though don't let that dissuade you from embarking on a fabulous new adventure into ancient Israel where Samuel is the judge, the Philistines have won a victory over the Israelites, and the Mishkan (temple) has been destroyed. Introducing the new characters and storyline, To Dwell Among Cedars immediately sweeps readers into its raging waters (literally) before taking them into the eye of the storm and then back into the category two hurricane that will only grow stronger as you get closer to the end.

Eight years ago, 1070 BC, the Philistines captured the Ark of the Covenant and brought it into the city of Ashdod, throwing it at the feet of Dagon in triumph. However, at the Ark's presence, the Philistines' god is thrust to its knees and plagues wash over their land, forcing them to return their prize to the Israelites. At this time, Eliora and her brother, Natan, flee from their family home in Ashdod and follow the Ark of the Covenant into Israelite territory, where they are rescued by a Levite and adopted into Abinidab's household, whose family was given the charge to protect the Ark.

As the Fall Feast approach and the Levites gather to celebrate, everyone is busy making preparations and organizing the gatherings that will take place. It's a time to be joyful and festive, yet unrest stirs within the Levitical tribe as they argue over where the Ark of the Covenant should be kept and who is the rightful high priest. Believing Samuel is a false prophet and that the priesthood should return to Eleazar's line after the devastating defeat at the hands of Eli, son of Itamar, a plan is forged to steal the Ark of the Covenant and take it to where a group of Levites have begun reconstructing the Mishkan.

Returning to Kiryat Yearim, Ronen is at the center of the plot to steal the Ark. Determined to make his uncle proud and fulfill his duty of uncovering the hidden location of the Ark, Ronen is caught off guard when he is reunited with the Philistine girl he saved as a teenager all those years ago. Now grown up, Eliora is radiant and captures Ronen's attention, testing his loyalties and belief in the mission. Will Ronen and his entourage succeed in their desire to move the Ark? Is he on the right side of God's desires? And, what about Eliora, she's lived among the Israelites for almost a decade, but has she truly found peace and identity?

A powerful story of adoption, covenant, promise, love, and war, To Dwell Among Cedars not only gives Biblical fiction lovers another amazing story to share with friends but is a narrative that will stay in your mind for days and months to come. I still have not recovered from this novel, and I don't think I will until the next book is released (July, please hurry!).

To Dwell Among Cedars spoke to my heart and moved me to praise the Father for all the testimonies He has given us. Though this is a story that will entertain, it will also be an inspiration to draw closer to our Creator and learn who He truly is! While thousands walk away from their faith each year, plagued with doubt, I have never been more convinced of Adonai's realness and presence. Connilyn Cossette did an outstanding job of showing what true faith and servitude looks like, dealing with doubt and identity through protagonists we can all relate to. I loved how each character was given a chance to experience the Holy Spirit, though not everyone accepted this opportunity. Too many authors tend to stay in the New Testament, believing that personal relationships with the Father only began after Jesus' resurrection, but that's not true. God has been using His people since the beginning of creation, and Connilyn Cossette never fails to display this in her novels.

If you have never read Connilyn Cossette and are looking for a thrilling, inspiring, and chain-breaking novel that brings the Bible to life, To Dwell Among Cedars is the book for you! If you are familiar with Connilyn's incredible books, I can assure you that you will not be disappointed by her latest release! Don't miss your chance to experience Eliora and Ronen's journeys into the depths of their souls as they discover what it means to be loved and accepted by a God of forgiveness and promise!

*Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with a pre-release copy of this book. My thoughts and opinions are entirely my own!*

My heart is full upon completion of reading Connilyn Cossette’s newest offering, To Dwell Among Cedars, #1 The Covenant House. This Biblical fiction book contains everything I am looking for in its genre. Scriptural accuracy, while approaching an age-old narrative of Israel in Samuel’s time from a unique viewpoint of Philistine Arisa (Eliora). Cossette vividly portrays all the emotions- the terror, the fear, the astonishment, the romance, and the suspense. As the uncertainty of being orphans at the whims and mercy of others is clearly shown, I couldn’t help myself from being drawn into Eliora’s life as she struggles for a sense of belonging and security, and ultimate love. Though she and Lukio(Natan) are adopted by generous and loving priest Elazer and his family, Eliora always feels herself an outcast.
Ronen, a member of a different priestly line than Elazer, first finds Arisa and Lukio (Natan) as they follow the Ark back into Israeli territory after its Philistine capture. An orphan himself, he deals with some of the same insecurities of not belonging as Eliora. These are a driving force in his thoughts and actions. There we have wonderful, multiple storylines going.
I loved Connilyn’s style-immediately warm and enticing you into the narrative, enveloping you into the ancient Biblical events very quickly.
Cossette sets the stage with some unusual premises. Not once did I feel that believability was stretched. One other point that makes me greatly treasure this novel is the many nuggets of truth shared and spoken naturally in uncontrived conversation. Connilyn Cossette is a master in her world of Biblical fiction. I am very sad it will be another year before we can read Natan (Lukio’s) story.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author, as well as NetGalley. I am voluntarily leaving this review. All thoughts are my own.

Notable Quotables:

“There is no magic in the box itself, Arisa. The power is that of the hand of Yahweh. It is merely a vessel, but one that signifies the sacred covenant between Israel and our God and above which has hovered the very shekinah of the Eternal One.”

”But the Eternal One was not made by man; there is no place you can go that he will not be with you.”

”He is the God Who Sees. There is no place you can go to escape his vigilant watch over you.”

”It is not the Ark you must follow, my precious child. It is the God who made you.”

”...So why do you work so hard for a place at their table when you already have one?” “... you are working so hard to earn something you’ve already been given.”

”Because you are the woman the Creator made you to be, no matter where you come from or what you look like.”

”No matter what decision I made, the cost would be great... the cost of going against the will of the Eternal One was greater by far.”

Connilyn Cossette just keeps getting better and better (which I didn't think possible because she's already so amazing!). This book is the start of her new Covenant House series, set in the time of Samuel. This book follows Arisa (later Eliora) and Lukio (later Natan), who are 2 Philistine children. Their loving Hebrew slave has told them stories of her homeland and taught them her language, which becomes super important when they end up running for their lives following the Ark, that has been sent out of Philistia back to the Hebrews. It is there that they meet Ronen, who becomes important to their story both as children and later as adults. I loved the unique setting of Kiryat-Yearim, where the Ark rested for 70 years before David took it back to Jerusalem, and the characters - some of whom are mentioned in scripture (such as Abinadab and Samuel) and others fictional (such as Eliora, Natan and Ronen), who were all lovely and relatable characters. I loved the message that even a child that was an enemy of the Hebrews could be grafted in to the family of God. I loved the setting - a festival which served as a cover for a sinister plot regarding the Ark. I loved the underlying messages of God's love, grace and mercy. I loved the modern day lessons that we could glean from it, including a super-relevant political infighting that was on the verge of erupting into a civil war. I loved the story-line and character development. I even loved the romance because Ms. Cossette does those so well! There was absolutely nothing about this book that I didn't love. What I loved most was how the author brought a little-known part of the Scriptures to life for me. I will never read that section of Samuel the same way again. I can't wait for Lukio's story next!

Special thanks to the author and publisher for an advance copy of the book. I was under no obligation to write a review and the thoughts contained herein are my own.

It's such a privilege to have been chosen by Connilyn Cossette to read and review her latest work, To Dwell Among Cedars, as I'm a big fan of hers! I love her books so much compared to other Biblical fiction authors because they centre around events rather than people. By doing that she gives herself a bit more creative license with the story and you don't have that conflict of whether a Biblical character would of really said this or done that. Connilyn Cossette's stories get you excited to go and read the Bible, making the stories and people seem more real and giving you a glimpse of how the mighty works of God would have been experienced by ordinary people. Often when we read the Bible we can just focus on the main figures and forget the hundreds and thousands of other unnamed people who were also witness to those wonderous events. Ronen and Eliora could have been some of those unnamed people that were alive during the prophet Samuel's time. Eliora is a Philistine that witnessed the havoc that the Ark of the Covenant wreaked on the city of Ashdod. Convinced of it's power, she follows it back to it's homeland with her brother, Lukio, and is eventually adopted into a Hebrew family. Ronen is a Levite who has become immune to the power of God, convinced that God's miracles are fabled stories of the past. Their romance is so sweet and special! I loved how even though Eliora so quiet and shy, Ronen sees and hears her, all the time wondering how other men fail to see what an amazing women she is. This story gives us a fascinating look into a part of Biblical history that would otherwise have been skipped over for the next exciting story. While it's mostly fiction, it still opens your eyes to the time of the early prophets and reminds you that the Bible is not just stories but accounts of real events and real people. I'm beyond excited for the sequel of this story where we'll find out what happens to Lukio!

This book is a thrilling addition to the world of Biblical fiction. On the surface, it is such a simple story: broken girl meets broken boy...both experience the power of God. Then there is the layer of it being set at the beginning of 1 Samuel and seeing life through the eyes of the people at the time of Israel's last judge, Samuel. Add in the element of a Philistine perspective. Next comes the story of adoption, both literal and spiritual. Throw in the drama of a plot to steal the Ark of the Covenant. And yet, I haven't even scratched the surface of this amazing book!

The world building in this book is extraordinary and puts you in the heart of the action.

Connilynn Cossette has once again succeeded in creating a masterful novel that leaves you wanting more.

I received an advanced reader copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.

This was such a beautiful read for me. I truly enjoyed the history and atmosphere within this book. I felt like I was there at the beginning of Samuel's time. The writing was flawless. Each character was so unique to the other which I truly enjoyed.

Eliora is such a sweet girl who stills struggled with the understanding of being in a family and not having to work for love and support. I adored her shyness. I loved the faith she had even though she was originally a Philistine. She was such a joy to read!

Lukio is the younger brother of Eliora and he frustrated me the whole book. However, he is such a broken child with abandonment issues. My heart ached for him and seeing him battle with happiness was hard. I still have high hopes for him.

Ronen is such a sweet guy caught up with a twisted family. I liked him a lot. I liked seeing his struggle with faith and believing God's power after dealing with a loss. I think he learned some valuable lessons and grew from the beginning to the end of the story.

The romance was adorable but also absolutely frustrating because as a reader you know the motives, but can also see the genuine emotion between Eliora and Ronen. I think it was a great progressive romance that felt very realistic. I loved the drama, loved the secrecy, enjoyed the cute moments and loved the ending.

The other characters were all so interesting. I also enjoyed seeing the different tribes and other nations that lived in those times. The faith aspects were great for me. This was a well-written story!

Overall, I enjoyed this book and can't wait for the sequel, Between the Wild Branches, to be released next year !!

Connilyn Cossette's Biblical fiction is always wonderful, and the debut novel of her newest series was so well done. This book focuses on the time period in the early 1000's BC when the Ark of the Covenant was at Kiryat-Yearim. Cossette is a master storyteller and brings the disagreement between two groups of Levites over the resting place of the Ark to life as she weaves in excellent historical research as well as Old Testament events and characters of the period. I appreciated that the main focus was on the Ark and that the romance between Risa and Ronen played a back story. I look forward to reading the second book in this series as we hopefully follow what happens to Risa's brother, Lukio.

**I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley. Opinions are mine alone. I was not compensated for this review.

When the Cities of Refuge series ended, there was growing tension between the Israelites and the foreign nations surrounding them. In "To Dwell Among Cedars", we learn that this tension has escalated to the point that there is now contention between the Israelites themselves. And yet, there is still goodness and hope. And family. Which is defined beyond blood or nationality.

Connilyn Cossette reverently reminds us of the importance of community, especially help each other keep the faith and persevere. She endears us to a pair of siblings as lost as any of us, and a boy trying to come to grasp his own grief. Moreover, it is a story of a God whose creativity and beauty surpasses understanding.

When Connilyn Cossette writes a new book, I immediately look forward to reading it. She does a beautiful job of weaving the text of scripture with imagination for a delightful tale of Biblical fiction. To Dwell Among Cedars is book 1 in a new series, The Covenant House.

The story begins when Eliora, a Philistine and the main character, is uprooted from her home and finds herself adopted into an Israelite family. She finds herself unknowingly caught in a plot to steal the Ark of the Covenant which her family guards.

Throughout the story you see God’s character beautifully revealed. Many of us shy away from the Old Testament, but this book helps to bring it to life and increases my desire to both know the Old Testament and God better. This book is a must read for lovers of Biblical fiction. It is one of my favorite books of the year. Not many books keep my up late into the night, but this one did! (One of my other 2020 favorites is also by C.C., Like Flames in the Night) Her next book in the series should be out July 2021, titled Between the Wild Branches. I can’t wait to read it. Add both of these to your “want to read” list.

I received this book from the publisher through the NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

At this point, I read all but one of Connilyn’s books (which I plan to get to the very first), and have loved them all. So I was excited when I heard this book was available. I was not disappointed, immediately the story started strong, presenting Eliora and Natan’s life in Philistine territory. They were already in a dire predicament, having lost their mother and father, and now in the care of their harsh aunt, her husband, and their cruel son – their cousin.

If not for their Hebrew slave caretaker, Azuvah, who sacrificed her life to help them escape one night, things would have turned out grim for them.

A lot happened before their escape, such as a plague wiping out many, including their aunt and her husband. But the adventure and the bulk of the story took off when Eliora and Natan found themselves in Hebrew territory.

The strength of the story was the internal conflicts Eliora, Natan, and Ronen – the young man who they first met after their escape, struggled with. These conflicts centered on acceptance of who they were and who they are now, and especially with Ronen, who to trust when it came to capturing the arc. As Ronen and Eliora’s relationship grew, and as Ronen connected with her family, he was challenged with the idea of if capturing the arc was the right thing to do and if Eliora’s family was even wrong for having it.

This is what I like about Connilyn’s stories the most, and especially this one. She does a good job of carving out real human struggles, especially internal struggles. Sometimes the answer isn’t clear, but a decision has to be made. I believe this author succeeded in addressing the problems these characters faced, and concluding them in a way that was believable and justified.

Weaknesses?

I honestly thought about this and couldn’t find any. As a reader I didn’t struggle to get through the story and every chapter and scene, whether full of action, or at rest, served a purpose and pushed the story forward. I was sad when I reached the end, but I’m happy to know a second book is on its way.

I would definitely recommend this story to those who love biblical fiction that’s character driven. Especially stories that deal with tough human issues, especially internal struggles.

***This book was given to me by NetGalley for an honest review.***

This is definitely my new favorite book by Connilyn Cossette! This story had me captivated and I couldn’t stop reading! Her descriptions are so detailed that this story came to life for me. I had such a clear picture of everything in my head. I can’t wait for the next book!!



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

Connilyn Cossette is a master storyteller when it comes to Biblical fiction. Her stellar writing immediately draws you into her stories and makes you feel as if you are actually there. Her characters are always so real and likable, flaws and all, and you can’t help but root for them the entire time you are reading their story.

I immediately loved Eliora and the way she cared for her younger brother, Natan, and the rest of her family. I felt so bad for her as she struggled to believe her adopted Levite family had truly grafted her into their hearts. Ronen was also very likable and I was sympathetic to him being torn between his family and what they expected of him and Eliora and her family. My only issue with this story was that I felt like it was a bit slow in some parts.

The next story in this duology is about Natan. I’m really looking forward to seeing how his story plays out. If you are a fan of Biblical fiction, you really need to read Connilyn Cossette’s stories.

To Dwell Among Cedars (The Covenant House, #1)
Somewhat accurate, as far as I can tell. A story that kept my interest from beginning to end.

Connilyn Cossette has penned another amazing Christian fiction book. She takes a unique look at the period of time the Ark of the Covenant was in Kiryat-Yearim. I love how she blends the Biblical text with fictional characters to draft an interesting look at what it might look like if 2 Philistine children follow the Ark and then live among the Jewish people. She also weaves an interesting tale of feuding Levite groups that both want possession of the precious ark. And, she manages to weave a tale of romantic love through the story. She even works in a very prominent Old Testament Prophet too. All of these add up to another intriguing and entertaining tale taken right out of scripture, with a little extra creativeness.

Although the entire city of Ashdod seemed to have been shaken, the Hebrews’ Ark had not moved. Perhaps the God of the Hebrews had not been bested after all.

When you start, you won’t want to stop reading this incredible story of two orphaned Philistine children who did just as their nanny had told them - Follow the Ark. Starting in Ashdod where the gods of the Philistines were no match for the Ark, the importance of this symbol is seen throughout the book. The Ark has stood the test of time - from the wandering in the wilderness to its current resting spot among the cedars. The author has such a wonderful way with words that I could almost see the hills and smell the cedars. The description of the views were enough to to make you wish you were there.

Life had been tough for Arisa and Lukia, but perhaps this had prepared them for their adoption into a Hebrew home and family. Rescued by a young Levite apprentice, their terror turns into a haven of blessing. Realizing that they have been grafted into a new family creates many problems for one, but not the other. Learning to believe that God will be with them wherever they go is a lesson not easily grasped, but vital to their future.

This ARC was received through Baker Publishing Group and Bethany House Publishers. The impression and comments are my own and were in no way solicited.

Another outstanding book by Connilyn Cossette. A master storyteller who weaves a well-crafted story who bring the bible to life. To Dwell Among Cedars is the beginning of the author’s new Covenant series set during the time of judges when Samuel begins his ministry. You will read about the struggles, love and joy of the characters, you will feel their emotions as they follow the ark. The book deserves more than five stars

Timeless truths that remind me each day that God is with us through trials and tribulations with grace and mercy, that we are His children. If you enjoy reading historical fiction, this book is for you.

I received an e-book from the author in exchange for an honest opinion. All opinions are my own.

Words always fail me when I try to describe how much I love Mrs. Cossette's Biblical fiction books. I know that I would love any genre of story she chose to write because her character-building is so on point and her storytelling is just so good, but the fact that she chooses to write Biblical fiction makes her books life-changing for me. Every single one of them has brought new insight and dimension to my spiritual walk and this one was no exception. I love how this particular book highlighted that the "God of Israel" has always had a heart for people of other nations who desired to follow Him with all their heart and joined themselves to His people. I think this is a truth that many of us think began only when Jesus came so I always love it when someone teaches on this truth, but to have it in story form is the very best! I also loved the beauty of the theme of adoption that Mrs. Cossette wove into this story. It broke my heart and moved me to tears several times to see such a beautiful picture of how Israel's God has made us His own illustrated in this book. I highly recommend this book!

I have heard so much about Author Connilynn Cossette and looked forward to reading this book. The author’s research of Biblical times is in-depth. Although her retelling is not rewriting the story from the Bible but fleshing out characters that may have lived during that time. I was muddled with the name pronunciations of people and ceremonies that were different from the Bible as in Moses was spelled Mosheh. A glossary would have been helpful to explain the differences. Probably since I am a newbie to this author I was not as familiar with these things as veteran readers would be. With that said I did enjoy the comparison of adoption being ‘grafted’ into a family just as we are ‘grafted’ into God’s family through Jesus. I will absolutely read this author again knowing a little more what to expect.
I received a complimentary copy from Net Galley. The opinions are my own.

I love how Connilyn Cossette brings Biblical fiction to life in her novels! In this particular book, I learned so much about the way life might have been like for the Israelites before the era of the kings and learned even more about the Ark of the Covenant and its importance to the Israelite community. Connilyn writes beautifully, transporting you as the reader easily back in time to experience Biblical culture. She includes such impeccable research and detail that I feel the Bible is respected and honored in her fictional story. I felt myself growing closer to God reading this book and was impressed with how the spiritual themes were applicable to my life and inspiring to my own circumstances. The characters were captivating and I enjoyed reading about their interactions and growth in the story. Overall, I really enjoyed this novel and highly recommend it!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. Opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.

Gifted writer Connilyn Cossette has done it again! Her newest work of Biblical fiction, To Dwell Among Cedars, held me riveted from start to finish, and I am excited that it is just the first book in her newest series.
I have been a huge fan of Cossette’s books since reading her first one, Counted With the Stars, and the same extensive research, close attention to detail, and amazing character development have shone through on every page of all her texts. This book is certainly no exception!
To Dwell Among Cedars starts at the time when the Israelites took the Ark of the Covenant into a battle with the Philistines without first seeking the Lord’s guidance, as recorded in 1 Samuel 4: 1-11. The Israelites ended up losing both the battle and the Ark to their enemies. In Cossette’s story, we experience the happenings from an unlikely vantage point: that of an orphaned girl and her brother in the Philistine city Ashdod, where the Philistines bring the Ark. Affliction and destruction ensue after the Ark’s arrival in the city, setting in motion the chain of events in this beautifully told story of God’s sovereignty and how, through grace and faith, all are welcome to be grafted into the covenant as part of God’s spiritual family.
This inspiring book greatly touched and encouraged me, and I pray that it will do the same for all who read it. It reminded me that we are all welcome at God’s table if we are simply willing to trust and follow Him. We do not need to work to earn our place there; it has already been given to us!
I received a copy of To Dwell Among Cedars from the publisher through NetGalley but was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are entirely my own. I highly recommend this book, as well as Cossette’s other works, to anyone who enjoys Biblical fiction.

A Philistine girl is adopted by her enemy and she lives her life to serve them. But, why should she work so hard to please a family who loves her dearly? As the years go by she also can not forget the kind boy who found her hiding from the powerful Arc of the Covenant, a mystery that she is drawn to. Mrs. Cossette weaves a tale within the truths of the Bible and helps us to see with awe the power and majesty of the One true God. This book was different from her others in the way that there are many long conversations between the heroine and her family. It is slower than her previous stories but not in a boring way. As always, I go away feeling ministered to in my deepest depths. Thank you, Mrs. Cossette.

What I love about Cossette is that she never fails to transport me to a world I've read about but never really stopped to fully imagine. And these days, I am all about the escape from reality. Give me all the cultural nuances of biblical times, the vivid descriptions the author excels at, and delightful new characters I enjoy exploring--I'm here for it.

This particular quote stuck to my guts: "There is no song more beautiful than the one the Creator is composing with every single note of your life, one he’s been weaving together even before your first breath.”

Pretty good reminder, don'tcha think?

Cossette has a gift in telling beautiful stories with heartfelt, relevant messages. I'm already anticipating her next one! If you find yourself in need of an escape like I so often am, this is a story I'd recommend.

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.

To Dwell Among Cedars by Connilyn Cossette
I have to say if you are looking for a historical, Christian book "To Dwell Among Cedars" by Connilyn Cossette is the book for you. This is one amazing book.

Synopsis - Eight years ago, after the Philistine surrendered the stolen Ark of the Covenant back to the Israelites. Eliora and her little brother decided to leave their Philistine home and followed the Ark to Kiryat-Yearim. They were taken in by a loving Levine family. A faction of Hebrews found that Kiryat-Yearim was a unfit place for the Ark and so did a Levine musician, whom was sent to get close to Eldora to find the location of the Ark. To do so Ronen has to charm Eldora

My Thoughts - To Dwell Among Cedars is such a well written book with adventure, faith and learning about yourself. The author made story come to life through the great research and her imagination. The story was a great page-turner! The characters are likeable and well intertwined into the story. This book touched me through laughter and some tears. I'm looking forward to the next book in the "Covenant House" series.

Favorite quote - "He is a God who sees. There is no place you can go to escape His vigilant watch over you." PG. 264

Rating - I gladly give "To Dwell among Cedars" a 5 out of 5 stars

Recommendation - I will recommend this book to family and friends through Facebook, Book bud, Goodreads, Amazon and my blog.

Disclaimer - I received this compliment copy of this book from the publisher, author and Net gallery from a honest review. All thought are mine.

To Dwell among Cedars
by Connilyn Cossette
Back of the Book: “Eight years ago, when the Philistines stole and then surrendered the ark of the covenant back to the Israelites, Eliora left her Philistine homeland to follow the ark to the community of Kiryat Yearim. There, the family she was adopted into has guarded the ark at the top of a mountain in seclusion.
Ronen is a Levite musician determined to secret away the ark to a more fitting resting place, watched over by priests who would restore the Holy of Holies. He never expected that the Philistine girl he rescued years ago would now be part of the very family he's tasked to deceive.
As Ronen's attempts to charm Eliora lead them in unexpected directions, betrayal leaves Eliora with strained family ties and Ronen questioning his own loyalties. Ultimately, Eliora and Ronen are caught up in the battle for the soul of Israel and its future under the leadership of Samuel, the last judge before the era of the kings begins.”
Impressions: The beginning was a bit slow but once the book started flowing, I realized the purpose of it.
Ratings: Murder, false god worship, death, slavery, abuse, gambling
Liked: I feel like biblical romances are so full of reminders that the people God chose to use in the Bible were very much human. We certainly live with different environments or circumstances but we share love, loss, and hope. I love imagining biblical characters ordinary lives. Connilyn Cossette did a wonderful job weaving together this fictional romance with biblical inspiration.
Disliked: I so wanted Ronen to realize the truth sooner but I am happy with how things turned out and look forward to the next book in this series. I also dislike having to wait for the next book in this series 😊
Learned: I often think how hard it might be for non-Christians in today’s age to come around to finding the truth of the Bible. I realized that even God’s chosen people struggled with finding their faith. The miraculous things that were happening in their time did not convince them and this had me going down the bunny trail of all the disbelief the Bible describes over time. The Israelites showed their disobedience over and over again in the Old Testament. In the New Testament when Jesus was here on earth there were so many who did not believe Him. God worked on the hearts of His people then and He will work on the hearts of people today. Our lack of faith or disbelief is not something new but God’s faithfulness is not new either. It encouraged me that being the light, reflecting God's goodness is important in reminding others of His presence today.
Quotes: “Let go of the firm grip you have on Natan. Release him to the care of the God Who Sees, and have faith that no matter what may happen to that boy, and no matter how far he may stray, Yahweh still holds him in the palm of his hand.”
“…choosing truth over comfort was never easy.”
“There is no song more beautiful than the one the Creator is composing with every single note of your life, one he’s been weaving together even before your first breath.” – What a beautiful thought.
“But…but I am Philistine.’ ‘That you are,’ he said, with a gentle smile, ‘and Avraham was Amorite. Rahab was of Canaan. Calev was a Kenite. And many who entered this land with Yehoshua were of Egyptian and other foreign descent.” – God uses the faithful.
I received a copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review shared here.

To Dwell among Cedars by Connilyn Cossette is an exquisite read. This story took my breath away, had me in tears, and left me with a wonderful sense of hope and belonging. As with all Cossette novels, To Dwell among Cedars is masterful. The plot is highly engaging and captivating. I truly hated to put this book down. The historical and Biblical details are so well researched and so brilliantly illustrated that I felt transported to the time of the Judges. I could feel the debauchery and vileness of Ashdod. I could smell the verdant cedars of Kiryat Yearim. I could feel the terror as the Ark was mishandled by self-serving men. To Dwell among Cedars is a fully interactive read! In addition, the characters are simply wonderful. Eliora and Ronen are fully developed, realistic, and truly endearing. I will not forget these characters. Their struggles and frustrations and heartaches are so universal I felt I could easily relate to both. And, as if this isn’t enough, this story is replete with timely messages and themes that had me self-reflecting and crying out to Jesus. To Dwell among Cedars is the cathartic read I didn’t even know I needed!

I don’t understand what it means to be loved just cause. That absolutely doesn’t make any sense to me. I’m going to be 40 years old in just a few months and I STILL struggle with this concept. How is it possible that the Creator of EVERYTHING loves me just cause? I’m puny and insignificant and messy. I make mistakes — sometimes really big ones. I really struggle with anger. And I HATE stupid. BUT, I’m a great worker bee. I can clean anything. I can grade anything. I can blog with the best of them. My boss needs a volunteer for a conference — I’m there. My husband needs dinner now — I’ve got it. My daughter needs help with a project — it’s on. I will work until I basically pass out. And with all that work comes appreciation and love and acceptance, right? Nope. Most of the time, my works go unnoticed. And then my mistakes happen. And then I feel unlovable, unforgivable, unacceptable. Eliora is my fictional soul sister. I can’t tell you how many times I burst into tears while reading her story because what she does in this novel is what I do — try to earn love through works. You know what this gets people like me and Eliora? Exhaustion, soul weariness, utter frustration, and, if we are not careful, total hopelessness. For the first time in my life, through the reading of this novel, I think I finally understand what it means to be accepted by God, to be loved by Him. It turns out I don’t have to understand WHY God loves me, I just need to accept that He does. I am walking away from To Dwell among Cedars a little smarter and a lot stronger in my walk with Jesus.

If you can’t tell already, I highly recommend To Dwell among Cedars. This beautiful story is not one I will soon forget. If you love Biblical Literature, Historical Fiction, or just plain good stories, then this is definitely the book for you!

I received a copy of this novel in eBook form from the publisher, Bethany House Publishers, via NetGalley in order to review. In no way has this influenced my review. The opinions expressed in this review are my own.

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 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

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!