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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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



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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Connilyn Cossette did a marvellous job here.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

A brilliant, gripping tale with stunning accuracy. A definite read for lovers of historical Christian fiction.

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.

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 !!