I finished this book in the wee hours of the morn, while in the middle of my roller coaster month of schedule weirdness, at the Old Folks Home. Of course I didn't have my computer with me so my initial thoughts are like dust in the breeze, gone to some other home and far away from my fingertips on the keyboard. However, I've spent some time marinating on other thoughts that this book brings me and am finding that words are so very hard. Words that make sense in my head can't seem to reach my fingertips. First though, this is my fifth book by Connilyn Cossette (and oddly enough it's the fifth book she's published too!) and I have yet to close the back cover disappointed. Well, perhaps disappointed is the wrong word as I tend to feel disappointed that the story is over and sit back and wonder where the time went and wonder why I have to wait so long for the next book. I mean, can't she just call me every day and tell me stories, no waiting required? OK, perhaps I'm needy or something. Back to lack of disappointment. So many people read through a book and come away with profound quotes and other things. I read through a book and find a story, sometimes flying through the pages so enmeshed in what is happening that I forget to do life things like eat, drink, sleep. . .especially sleep. This is one of those times. I don't have profound quotes to share with you. But, in true Fizzy fashion, where I didn't pick up in one thing I usually find some random connection to real life, sometimes something that means nothing to anyone else. . .but this time? Yeah, this time.

In 'A Light on the Hill', Moriyah ultimately took what could be a life long punishment for the love of a child. Not even her own child, but her child. Eleven years later that child, Eitan, is an adult and feels trapped by the vow he made his 'parents' (Moriyah and Darek) to never leave the city walls. He is chafing at this promise will little understanding of it's importance when Darek brings Sofea and her cousin Prezi to their home. A foreign girl from across the sea who does not speak their language, doesn't know the culture, and definitely has no point of reference for their faith. However, they all have one thing in common; guilt, shame, and an overwhelming need for self-forgiveness. Fine, three things, but they are all entwined together. I can't say too much without tossing out spoilers like candy at the Homecoming Parade but I'll do what I can. Eitan goes so far as to take the vow of a Nazirite when Darek does not allow him to join the military when he comes of age. He feels guilty and shamed (by himself and others) that he is not able to defend his family, culture, and country. On one hand, Eitan understands that the inability to leave the city walls is for his protection but on the other he wants to be just like every other young man in his community. His guilt is doubled as what he had done as a child and what it prevents him from doing as an adult merge. And in guilt he finds shame. And in shame he lacks self-forgiveness. He has been forgiven for his childhood crime by God but he can't forgive himself as it causes him to lack what he finds normal. And enters Sofea, and his shame and guilt and self-forgiveness intensify as he doesn't feel worthy of her.

Sofea on the other hand has the guilt of surviving the attack on her village, the injuries suffered by her cousin, and the death of their rescuer. She has shame in the acts of her father and her lack of connection to the faith of Eitan. I mean the poor girl is convinced at the first festival she attends that her and her cousin will be the sacrifice! Having grown up with the father she had (violent) and the gods they worshiped (again violent) she cannot connect to the Hebrew faith. And when she learns that those around her are manslayers? Oh grits and gravy she comes undone! On her island there was no tolerance to live, even though her father killed the most people he did it in the name of their gods. . .right? She had a lot to figure out with letting go of her own guilt and shame in seeking self-forgiveness, and the forgiveness of the Father. Here's the thing though. I know it's true for me as I can't be the only one, how often do we continue to punish ourselves for our past misdeeds? How often do we let the guilt seep back in for things long forgiven? How often do we feel shame over who we once were? How often do we take back our own forgiveness? I know I do. Bells, I'm so great at guilt and shame that I've been known to take on other peoples! Moriyah, Eitan, and Sofea are gentle yet strong reminders that was is forgiven is gone. That guilt and shame serve no positive purpose in our lives. That there is only forward and looking back only causes hurt to ourselves and those we are looking back at. Prezi, on the other hand, is an example of finding faith in the difficult circumstances. Unable to walk, unwilling to live, she finds solace in God, forgiveness in self and others, and knowledge that as she becomes a new person in her new life the guilt and shame of where she came from has no place.

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book by Bethany House, NetGalley. I was not compensated for this review and all thoughts and opinions expressed are my own. I was not required to write a positive review.

If I could give it more stars, I certainly would! I absolutely loved this book, as I have all of Connilyn Cossette's previous works. I feel like I'm a pretty critical reader; there's almost always something I don't like about a book or think could be a little better even with my favorite authors, but that has simply never yet been the case with any of this author's books! I'm actually racking my brain trying to come up with anything I didn't love about this book and coming up completely empty. When reviewing a book they loved, my daughters often say the only negative thing they can think of was that it ended, but I honestly can't even say THAT about this book! The ending was perfect, completely satisfying, and I set it down with a contented sigh.

So here's an incomplete list of what I loved about this book: I loved getting to revisit so many of my favorite characters from previous books. I loved meeting new characters and adding them to my list of best book friends. I loved the descriptions of the different settings and how I felt like I could really see, hear, and even smell each place. I loved that it never once felt preachy and yet it was deeply spiritual. I loved how it made me love Yahweh even more and reminded me how very different He is from other gods in His interaction with people. I loved how it showed His grace and mercy, fully on display in BC years and even to non-Israelites. I loved that the resolution was realistic in that Yahweh worked amazingly on His people's behalf and rescued them and yet it wasn't a perfect resolution - there was a happy "ending" that still left room for growth and restoration just like in real life. I feel like I could go on and on, but this is perhaps enough.

This book is fantastic! I highly recommend it and all of this author's books to any fans of historical fiction, whether Christian or not. I honestly can't imagine anyone who loves a good story not loving this book!

I received a complimentary ARC of this book as part of the author's launch team. All opinions expressed are my own and are actually toned down a bit because you can't see my arms waving around as I try to tell you how much I loved this book! :)

Being the daughter of a high priest, Sofea knows authority, she has seen its power at work. Her life has much been defined by this authority and therefore, while she still has a thread of freedom, Sofea will often find solitude in the immensity of the sea. But when the worst happens, will a faith foundation grown on censure, fear, and pride be enough to strengthen her and her cousin as they walk their ways through a land unknown, trying to understand the weird costumes and language of these people called Hebrews?

I believe there was an authentic journey throughout this story. The characters were not flawless, but their struggles, blunder, and questions made this story more heartfelt and approachable. Be it Eitan's strong temper or Sofea's faulty foundation, all these made the space for a proven and genuine faith to grow and flourish. And oh my heart when it did <3

I also loved the credibility given to community. The author gently pointed out how giving testimony can be more mundane and day-to-day rooted than we might think. Though done quiet, the praise brought out when fruits start to show are anything but such. And, as a reader and also an explorer in the topic of authentic faith, my heart couldn't help but be encouraged and lifted up. What a powerful tool fiction can be, but even more, what an all-encompassing and compassionate God we serve, who provides shelter for healing and nourishment to occur.

Connilyn at her finest tugging on my heart strings ❤️

I have to confess, there were moments that I doubted if this was going to be a five star. Let me explain. In the beginning I thought there was to much focus on the romance. And sure thing this author knows how to make you swoon, much she’s known for much more than that.
I thought things were going too smoothly, specially for the Sofea’s faith journey. And there were things that’s didn’t sit right.
That’s when I smacked myself on the head and knew she had something good coming.

And oh my stars the moment the characters became authentic in their faith and personality... took my breath away and gave the story and completely fresh air.
I loved the community woven through the pages, Sofea’s connection with the sea, and the truth between a loving God that is not afraid of meeting us where we are, providing shelter so we can heal from our mistakes and traumas. A true treasure!

I’m very much looking forward to what Conni has next in store.

This was an intriguing story set long ago before the times of Christians but a time when there are villages devoted to serving a 'god' of their choosing. Sofea was brought up in such a way that her father was a bit of a 'god' himself, and while she thought he was a terrible person she just accepted that sacrifices and violence was okay as long as it was for her father's purposes. When a tragedy strikes her village Sofea and her cousin soon find themselves on a new land with new customs and a language she did not understand.

While this is book two of a series, I did not read book one and is not necessary to enjoy this story. In fact, it wasn't until others had started talking about this book did I realize it was part of a planned trilogy. This novel continues with Eitan and Moriyah's family and now it includes Sofea and Prezi for this installment. Eitan is smitten with the wild haired Sofea but she has seen the evil ways of man and trusts no one. It takes time and patience to trust; since this is told as a historical romance we learn a lot of the history behind the customs of the earlier generations of Yahweh believers.

Love, patience, service, forgiveness are just a few of the themes covered in this story. I most appreciated the way Sofea was wary at first of the new (to her) God of Israel and rightly asked questions first before letting herself jump in blindly. The spiritual growth was wonderful to watch yet it is not told in that preachy way that turns more secular readers off. The other fantastic part was the way the historical context was presented; I could easily imagine the settings that were portrayed. There was even a plot to kill the high priest underfoot as part of the scandalous intrigue! I am definitely looking forward to reading more from Connilyn Cossette. Another great historical and inspirational novel from Bethany House.

I can't say enough good things about this author! Once again she has brought to light intriguing bits of history that a lot of people don't know about. While it is all very connected to Christianity and the Bible, you don't have to be a Christian to enjoy this book. It's fascinating to read about the different peoples during this time period and understand the way they interacted. There is also a significant language barrier between the two main characters, and that created another facet to this story that was both inspiring and humbling. The courage and tenacity of all involved makes for a read that will be enjoyed for a long time.

During a time of piracy and hedonism, Eitan remains isolated from it all within Kedesh, the City of Refuge. Hidden away with his adoptive parents, he yearns to be outside the walls and serve as a soldier for the city. But with his mother convicted of murder and forced to stay within the walls for her protection, Eitan has no choice but to stay with her. And when his father brings home two girls who speak another language and are badly injured, his mission changes course to allow for the entrance of a new emotion - romantic love. Sofea is suspicious of these people, who act so kind towards her and her cousin for seemingly no reason besides genuine concern. At first believing them to be slaves, she soon finds herself a member of the household and drawn to the eldest son, who looks at her with gentleness in his eyes. A journey full of patience and betrayal await them, and it is only with the faith in Yahweh that they will get through it whole.

Sofea and Eitan were fantastically well written characters! I loved learning about another tribe of people within this time period, and incorporating their lives into this biblical story was amazing. Sofea was headstrong, protective of her cousin, and prone to suspicion after her people were betrayed and killed. She had no reason to trust the Hebrews who saved her, and yet with their patient guidance, she gradually learned to love them all. Eitan was a sweet character, one who is known from the previous book in the series as partially deaf. His loyalty to his family was strong, and his protective instincts extended to Sofea as well. It was heartbreaking when he realized how his prison might become hers as well, if they were to grow closer. He had a lot of difficult decisions to make, and my heart broke for them both along the journey. The secondary characters in the story were also humbling, particularly the High Priest who treats Sofea with such kindness. I enjoyed every second of their story.

Connilyn Cossette is a superb author whose breathtaking stories will capture your heart. Her books are so inspiring and should be commended for bringing so much history to the minds of her readers. I can't wait to see what she writes next!

If you have never read a Connilyn Cossette book, you need too! This is my favorite story so far! From page one, I was hooked. So many emotions from me and the characters. There was also an I did no see that coming, very rare for me as I can usually call it before it happens.

Shelter of the Most High by Connilyn Cossette is the second in her series Cities of Refuge and is my favorite book I have read in a good while.  Not only was the historical time frame of this book excellent, unique, and Biblically accurate and respectful, but the character development from the previous book in this series to this sequel was also skillful, enjoyable, and very thoughtful.  Ms. Cossette's first book in this series A Light on the Hill  was my first experience of Ms. Cossette's exceptional writing.  From the very first pages I was drawn in by the historical setting, the unique characters, and the personal connection with the main characters. Ms. Cossette's works are masterpieces, in my personal opinion, and I would gladly read any of her works.

The setting of this book (actually of the whole series) focuses on the cities of refuge that God established in Israel when the Israelites came into the promised land, specifically the northernmost city of Kadesh  The purpose of these six cities shows God's great mercy and justice as the cities of refuge were for anyone who was a "manslayer", someone who killed another without any intent to harm, without malice or premeditation.  God provided a way that the blood of the innocent would not be shed, a way to allow for any doubt of guilt to be assuaged.

Eitan a familiar face from the first book in the series A Light on the Hill is the male protagonist in this book. Without giving spoilers, I loved the change from Eitan as a child in the first book to him now as an adult, some eleven years later.  Eitan has endured much tragedy in his life and now he meets an intriguing young woman, Sofea, after she and her cousin Prezi are rescued and brought to the city of Kadesh.  Sofea and Prezi are thrown into a strange culture, unknown language, and different city when they are rescued from a terrible tragedy where all of their relatives, friends, and everyone they know (besides each other) is killed. Their entire homeland is destroyed and they end up in a foreign land.  Sofea is drawn to the tall, strong, and kind Eitan, but will she overcome her homesickness and love of the ocean and make Kadesh her permanent home? 

The main characters in this book, Sofea and Eitan, (absolutely love the names, by the way) were outsandingly human with their flaws, struggles, appearances, and emotions.  I greatly appreciated how easily Ms. Cossette conveyed the depth of each character's struggles, both internal and external, without seeming to make them too inhumanly perfect or too broken down.

I have to say that this was my favorite book that I have read in the recent years.  It was an outstanding tale of faith under severe trials, family of blood and of choice, betrayal, grief, terror, and amazing courage and strength during difficult times. I would highly recommend this book and hope that you have a chance to read it!

Eitan has spent eleven years in a Kedesh, a City of Refuge, and more and more, he wants to be able to leave, to be able to protect his family and his people and to do more than just make weapons as a blacksmith. When Sofea and Prezi, the sole survivors of a raid on their Sicilian village, are brought to Kedesh, Eitan is immediately drawn to Sofea, even though they don't speak the same language. Eitan is determined to be patient as Sofea learns about his language and his religion and hopes that once she does, she will care for him in return, even when he tells her about the secrets of his past.

Sofea is the daughter of a pagan priest, so she initially wants nothing to do with the Hebrew God; she knows He must be just another blood-thirsty god to whom priests offer human sacrifices; in fact, she's afraid she and Prezi will be the next sacrifices. However, as she spends more time with Eitan's family, she comes to see that Yahweh is vastly different--and that with Him and with Eitan, perhaps she can find peace like she never has before. Before she can truly find out, though, Sofea and Eitan are betrayed and their very lives are threatened.

I love how Connilyn Cossette can take a little bit from the Bible (the refuge cities) that I've never given a second thought and make it completely fascinating. It's so fascinating to see how she portrayed life in one of those cities--and the desire to be able to escape. I also loved seeing, through Sofea, the contrast between the pagan gods and Yahweh and His love; it was sweet (but not at all sappy) seeing Sofea's realizations about Yahweh and her own worth and seeing both her and Prezi heal. The plotline was really interesting--twists and turns and excellent pacing--and I loved the characters. This book was just beautiful; I really loved it.

Although you probably don't have to read the first book in the series before you read this one, you totally should because it's a fantastic book as well.
5 stars. One of my picks for best of 2018.
I read an ARC via #NetGalley. All opinions are my own.

Shelter Of The Most High is the second book in the Cities of Refuge series. It can be read as a stand alone, but the first book in the series is so enjoyable I recommend you read it. Connilyn Cossette has quickly become one of my"must-read" authors, I've read all of her books and have loved each and every one. The cover is beautiful and captures Sophea's adventurous spirit and her love of the sea. The story is written in a split first person narrative from the perspective of both main characters. I generally don't enjoy first person point of view, but Connilyn's writing is lyrical and I didn't even notice the "first person-ness" until part way through. The story is set during a period between the Conquest and the Judges, when the Israelites were settling into the Promised Land and begins with such chilling drama you will be captured from the first page. Shelter of the Most High continues to follow Moriyah and Derek's family (from book 1) as they live in Kedesh, the city of refuge. The plot was engaging and had many twists and turns and an element of mystery to keep the story interesting. I think the major theme of the novel was letting go of guilt and accepting the free gift of grace that Jesus offers. Connilyn Cossette is not done with Moriyah's family yet. The third book in this series, Until the Mountains Fall, will tell the story of Malakhi and Rivkah, the girl he loves to tease.

Shelter Of The Most High will be available for purchase from your local or online book retailer October 2, 2018.

Thank you Bethany House and Net Galley for the free copy of Shelter Of The Most High. The opinions expressed here are my own.

I have really enjoyed all the books I've read by Connilyn Cossette. Her new series about the cities of refuge in the Old Testament are excellent. Shelter of the Most High is the second book in this series, and I loved it. The characters are strong and likeable. There's lots of action and twists in the plot. I also really enjoyed catching up with characters from the previous book. You definitely want to start with the first book, A Light on the Hill. Highly recommended if you enjoy Biblical fiction or historical romance.
I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley for the purpose of review.

This is a second book in the series Cities of Refuge. Though I didn't read the first one, I didn't feel lost in anyway. It can be a stand alone book, though after reading this one I want to go back and read the first. I enjoyed this book a lot. It was well written, had an interesting plot and characters. I also enjoyed the time period and setting as there aren't many books set during the time of when Israel was just getting settled in Canaan. I would recommend this book if you enjoy historical fiction, light romance, and a little bit of mystery.

SHELTER OF THE MOST HIGH is the second book in the CITIES OF REFUGE series by CONNILYN COSSETTE. Although it can be read as a stand alone, I would recommend that you read the first book, A LIGHT ON THE HILL, as well, as it is a really worthwhile read.
The story starts in Sicily in 1388 with Sofea, the daughter of a pagan high priest, and her cousin Prezi, being attacked and captured, ending up in Kedesh, one of the Hebrew cities of refuge.
It is a truly beautiful book, with an exciting plot, a lot of suspense, and a really excellent Biblical message. In fact, the author brings a feeling of peace in spite of the very real danger in which the characters find themselves; truly the peace that comes from being in the shelter of the Most High!
I like the way Moriyah, Darek and Eitan, treat the young foreign girls, showing them Yahweh's love, mercy and acceptance, which contrasts strongly with the treatment they received from Sofea's wicked and ungodly father.
This period of history is so interesting, as it is about twenty years since the Israelites came out of Egypt into the Promised Land. We see some results of their disobedience in not keeping separate from the Canaanites and their pagan beliefs.
I particularly like the descriptions of Shiloh, the Jewish festivals, and the High Priest, Eleazar. This is a must read for everyone who has a love for the Jewish people and who worships Yahweh, the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob.
I was given a free copy of the book by Bethany House Publishers from NetGalley. The opinions in this review are completely my own.

I'm not a big fan of Biblical fiction but someone recommended that I read Connilyn Cossette's novels. At first, I was kind of like I don't want to read a dry repeat of the Biblical stories I'm familiar with, but after reading her novel Counting with the Stars, I don't feel that way about Cossette's writing anymore.

She writes with such authority about the time period and the ability to bring the world of B.C. during the Biblical era to life that I have find myself forgetting I'm reading a novel that occurred a long time ago with normal amenities. Like I've mentioned before, I can't imagine all the research that goes into writing a Biblical fiction novel. The author has to be true to the setting and the era without taking the reader out of the story. Cossette does a wonderful job at this.

I really enjoyed Shelter of the Most High. The plot started with a huge climactic moment, and Cossette kept tightening the noose on Sofea and Prezi as they were taken away from everything familiar to them. The novel moves pretty quickly and kept my attention. I finished the book in one day, having a hard time putting the novel down.

The romance between Sofea and Eitan didn't move fast; it appeared just right for me. Their feelings grew as they learned more about each other. It was cheesy or cheap. They didn't do anything to harm their reputation or ruin their perspective of each other.

I really liked the idea of sacrificing yourself for someone you loved throughout the entire novel. It struck a chord with me. Reminded me of Jesus who paid the ultimate sacrifice for all of us. Thank you, Cossette. It was my favorite part of the novel.

Overall, Shelter of the Most High by Connilyn Cossette is a fabulous novel taking place in the Biblical era, but I had a hard time remembering that I was reading a novel taken place during that time period. I loved the characters and the idea of sacrificing oneself for another.

I received a complimentary copy of Shelter of the Most High by Connilyn Cossette from Bethany House Publishers, and the opinion stated are all my own.

Connilyn Cossette’s books fire my imagination and take me to another time and place. I felt as though I was in the City of Refuge where everything was taking place. Her storytelling is superb, and I think this is my favorite book of all the ones she’s written. (Do I always say that? Maybe, but I really mean it with this one!). This book will stir your heart. There’s so many different themes that run in and out of this captivating story: betrayal; forgiveness; compassion; love; second chances; mercy; and grace. But most importantly, there’s a strong emphasis on God’s love and care for each of His children, and how He shelters His own.

The characters of Moriyah, Darek, and Eitan return in this book. Eitan is now an adult, and seeking to come to terms with the circumstances that brought him to live in this City of Refuge. Moriyah and Darek are still compassionate, caring people who reach out to others through God’s grace. Because of tragic circumstances, Sofea and Prezi come to live in their home. Eithan and Sofea are drawn to each other, but danger, betrayal, and heartache must be overcome before they can begin their lives together. You’ll be holding your breath as I was through the final chapters of this book to the suspenseful conclusion.

Connilyn Cossette’s meticulous research into Biblical history brings this time in history to life. This book is well deserving of a five star rating.

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