Lukio returned to Philistia 10 years ago, abandoning his sister, his adoptive family and the girl he loved. Having become the best fighter in the city, Lukio has the chance to work for the king and complete his rise to the top. The only thing in his way is Shoshana, the Hebrew girl from his past, now a slave in the palace and still holding his heart.

I was excited for this book. I had struggled a bit with To Dwell Among Cedars, but I really wanted to know what happened to Lukio. I was not disappointed. I loved watching Lukio and Shoshana reunite. It was bittersweet from where their positions were before and now, especially as both of them try to fight their feelings.

I wanted some more about Mariada who was wonderful. And what happened to Shoshana's brothers?

Overall it was great!

This was yet another beautifully written story by the author. I loved getting to know more about Lukio and what had become of him.
From the start, the story pulls you in. I wanted to know what happens next.
Both Lukio and Shoshana have been through so much in their young lives and it keeps getting more interesting.
The growth process throughout the story especially Lukio's journey to maturity from the angry young man to a steadfast, honest and reliable person despite all he has been through. His love for Shoshana unrivaled and her response to the challenges she has been through despite everything, she's strong.
This story pulls you in and you never know what would come up next. From friendships.to betrayal and every other thing in between the twists and turns make it all the more interesting but also beautiful. Making it difficult to say goodbye in the end.

Between the Wild Branches is the second book in Cossette's Covenant House duology. I somehow missed To Dwell Among Cedars when it released last year, but I didn't feel like I was missing anything when I dove into Between the Wild Branches. (I do, however, want to go back and read the first book, as the glimpses I got of it in this book's pages made it sound fascinating!)

This novel tells the story of Lukio, the great fighter of Ashod known as "Demon Eyes," and Shoshana, the Hebrew woman he loved as a child. Their story is one of heartache, danger, and ultimately redemption, and I found it so engaging that I read the whole thing in two afternoons. Strong themes of forgiveness, familial love, and care for the less fortunate are woven throughout the novel, helping to make a story set in 1052 BC still be relevant today.

Fans of biblical fiction (and even semi-fans like me) will find much to love in Between the Wild Branches. Highly recommended!

Will he run toward forgiveness or to destruction?

I started Between Wild Branches with a bit of trepidation. On the one hand, Connilyn Cossette is one of my absolute favorite Biblical fiction authors. On the other hand, after reading the first The Covenant House book I just didn't really care for Lukio. However, Connilyn Cossette's splendid writing and impeccable historical research soon outclassed my annoyance with the Judges era kid who could only be described as a punk. And then there was Shoshannah, who completely won me over with her sweetness and bravery despite the unthinkable circumstances she has survived.

Between The Wild Branches was a very emotionally moving story. It tugged at the heart as only the best in Biblical fiction novels can do. Readers go alongside them as the characters are taken through the depths of despair to the heights of greatest joy.

If there's one lesson that I gleaned from Between The Wild Branches, it's how people will so often think they are choosing freedom, freedom from those silly religious rules that steal everyone's fun away, but in reality they are choosing a much darker form of entrapment and slavery than they could have ever imagined. Because of that Connilyn Cossette's second The Covenant House novel isn't always the easiest to read. In fact, it's downright harsh in places and quite heartbreaking. However, that darkness only makes the light of God's pure love and forgiveness that much brighter and the journey back to a loving family that much more beautiful. Anyone who has ever wandered from the truth and slowly made their way back will find special meaning within these pages.

Whether you are a longtime fan of Biblical fiction or have been on the fence about trying it I highly recommend checking out Connilyn Cossette's well written The Covenant House duology. For the best reading experience you do need to read To Dwell Among Cedars before Between The Wild Branches, but, I promise you, it's well worth the time spent reading...

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

Connilyn Cossette completes her Covenant House series with what may be her best novel yet.

It’s been over a decade since Lukio left the Hebrew family who adopted him and his sister and returned to the land of his birth. His ruthless cousin has turned him into a money-making icon; a man who fights for sport. Lukio now has almost everything he wants, even if he does occasionally miss the sibling he left behind. Between the Wild Branches opens with one of his fights, which might put off some readers from continuing further than the first page. But to walk away from this book would be a mistake.

The fighting, which reminded me of mixed martial arts and the commercial UFC product, is described more than once. Violence is one example of the depravity of the Philistines, along with a ritual which takes place at a funeral, and the bloodlust of the king. Lukio and Shoshana use these experiences to compare their lives before and after their arrival in Ashdod. Their conversations often refer to events in Cossette’s novel, To Dwell Among Cedars, so I recommend reading the first title in the Covenant House duology before starting Between the Wild Branches.

The plot stays interesting throughout, and I had difficulty putting it down. The tension built because I knew something HAD to happen, and so I was waiting for the proverbial other shoe to drop. When it comes, you may find yourself wondering (as I did) if there really can be a Happily Ever After…

Disclaimer: Although I received a copy of this book from the publisher, the opinions above are my own.

This well written work of Biblical fiction was filled with the type of storytelling that draws you in, right from the first page. The Old Testament setting was brought to life for me as I spent time alongside opposing groups of Philistines and Hebrews. I found it fascinating to learn about how each group lived, worshipped and made choices. I learned about what gave them the will to live and what was worth dying for.

I cared deeply for many of the characters. I loved how the themes of adoption and unconditional love were skillfully woven throughout this story.

This was also an exciting read. There were moments of risk and danger, plotting of escapes and moments of true sadness. There was also much hope and many examples of true, sacrificial love.

Reading this story will definitely tug at your emotions and may even cause you to shed a few tears. The ending was very satisfying and so, so good. Lukio and Shoshana’s story will stay with me for a long time, and that is a very good thing!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House Publishing through NetGalley, along with a paperback copy. Opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.

Once again, Connilyn Cossette delivers a story that enthralls, uplifts and teaches the reader the importance of redemption and forgiveness from a biblical perspective. I love her books!

This second book in The Covenant House series focuses on Lukio. He has run away from his adoptive Jewish family back to Philistine territory and made a name for himself, and become quite wealthy. Meanwhile, his childhood sweetheart, Shoshanna, has been held in slavery in the same city for years. When he meets her again, he realizes how much he still loves her, and that begins a series of events that make this book hard to put down.

The author has woven such an intricate tale of love, redemption and forgiveness that this story will stay with the reader for a very long time. I highly recommend it!

This book was provided courtesy of Bethany House through NetGalley.

You are a wild branch, young man. Do not despise the root to which you've been joined, for it is from this mountain, in the shadow of cedars, that your own deep roots will take their nourishment. And the branches who spring from you will spread wide to shade the helpless and reach heights you cannot imagine. So, do not fear the iron fetters that carry you to the sea, young man, only the ones you bind upon yourself.

With rich context and deep spiritual meaning, the Old Testament is seen thru the main characters
of Lukio and Shoshana. They grew up together in turbulent times of Israel's history. Being chased by their enemies with the intend of destroying the Ark of the Covenant. Both Shoshana and Lukio had to overcome a childhood of abuse and rejection. The beginning of the book laid the foundation of their relationship and how that they were separated for 10 years until they meet again at the King's palace. Both at different stations in life. One is a servant and one is a famed for their entertainment.

The spiritual lesson is slavery and the forms it comes in. For each of them it is battle and a battle that they both fight for. It takes courage and Lukio and Shoshana courage was rooted in love. It was a slow revelation that kept me at the edge of my seat for many different reasons. One being, we are all in this battle and we all need courage. Their story is not preachy but in the same way Jesus taught in parables, it reveals truth that our hearts can accept and we reason the outcomes. You are drawn to the Lord without even being aware of it. So good and I highly recommend.

A special thank you to Bethany House Publishers and Netgalley for the ARC and the opportunity to post an honest review.

I couldn’t wait to read this book once I had it on my kindle! I greatly enjoyed To Dwell among Cedars earlier this year, and now to hear Lukio’s side of the story…it was just as gripping, if not more so, than the first book! I felt like I could relate well to Lukio. Underneath the bravado he displayed was a man who really just wanted to belong somewhere. And when he was faced with difficulty, the side of kindness he tried to hide showed itself.

The greatest part about this book, besides the strong redemptive thread, was the history. Cossette does an amazing job bringing you into a place and helping you to see it as it may have been years ago. More than ever before, I got to see just why the Lord told the Hebrews NOT to mix with those around them—the other religions around them were cruel! That wasn’t a major part of this story, but it came through.

This book wasn’t quite as deep as some of Cossette’s others, but I’m glad I got to read it. Recommended.

I was given a review copy of this book, and this is my honest opinion of it.

I really enjoyed this book. I thought this was a great Biblical fiction. I loved how both books in the series connected. I loved seeing how people grew and changed. I liked seeing Lukio discovery what is most important and to choose his real family. I liked seeing how the Lord worked in his life to bring him home to the people who really cared for him. This book was very well done.

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

Another amazing story by an amazing author!

Connilyn Cossette is one of my favorite author. Her stories have a way of grabbing the readers attention and not letting go. She has incredible talent and bring biblical times to life in an unique and very special way.

This sequel about Lukio and Shoshana didn't disappoint. I always love catching with characters introduced in previous books and learning more about "what happened afterwards".

In the book, we fing Lukio back in Ashdod after he fled Hebrew territory. He is now a renowned fighter, but what he doesn't know is that his childhood love interest also finds herself in Ashdod under much different circumstances. If you want to know what happens to the characters and how their reunion unfolds, I recommend you pick up a copy of this book.

Between the Wild Branches is the second in a Biblical fiction duology, and the first series I've read by the author. And I loved it and barely wanted to put it down once I started reading!

I'd been hesitant to really dig into Biblical fiction because it felt like a genre that could sour quickly if someone misinterpreted (whether knowingly or unknowingly) the Word of God. But after just a few pages of the first in the series, I felt like I could trust this author to give insight into Biblical times. And while I really enjoyed To Dwell Among Cedars, Between the Wild Branches was such a page-turner that I was wholly enthralled with the story of Lukio and Shoshana!

The romantic tension is strong yet respectful and appropriate. Learning more about the lifestyle of the Philistines and the brutal atrocities they were involved in made my heart hurt. But that was certainly necessary to be accurate.

This novel made me cheer and hope and want to study more in the Old Testament about the struggle between the Philistines and the Israelites. And ultimately it reminded me of the unmatched power of the One True God. I'll certainly be reading more by Connilyn Cossette too!

*I received an e-copy of the book from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.*

I have been looking forward to the continuation of Lukio's story. By the end of the last book, his life to him seemed to have fallen apart. So he leaves and goes back to his Philistine cousin and to that lifestyle, which is not how his adoptive family raised him.

I will tell you one thing, author Cossette does not go easy with her characters or the reader's feelings. Wow. Lukio and Shoshana have been through a lot. Especially Shoshana. Her bravery and her love for her children was outstanding. Poor Lukio, he has always loved her. And my heart broke when he found out about her past and what happened to her. He was not there to protect her. He ran away.

But as Lukio learns, he can not run from the teachings of the one true God that his adoptive Hebrew family instilled in him. And no matter what he has done, he cannot ever do more then God's mercy and forgiveness can cover. He is a God of second chances.

I enjoyed this series as we get the contrast of what life looked like in an Israel countryside and a very busy Philistine city full of all manner of evil and vices. The rescue work of those working undercover to save Israel's most vulnerable is relevant even today. This author's stories have taught me so much about Biblical times and what living through that time might have looked like.

I was provided a copy of this novel from the publisher. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions are my own.

In reading the conclusion to this duology, I was transported to another place and time where I could not only see the vibrant colors and textures in the pictures the author had painted for me, I could taste things like salty olives and honeyed milk on my tongue, and smell the lavender and jasmine as if I were walking through the lush garden settings myself. I could hear the crowds cheering for the champion in the fighting ring, and likewise, witness the Hebrews' struggle and pain.

There is a purity in the romantic arc of this story that I feel is unmatched in its intensity. And the chemistry of the characters was so cleverly woven throughout, that the pages turned while the plot thickened, and sometimes it was all I could do to pace myself in order to absorb every word in my eagerness to see how it all unfolded.

Lukio and Shoshana's story is one of lost loves and second chances, filled with inspiration and intrigue. Between the Wild Branches just might be one of my favorites of Cossette's so far, the ending bittersweet only in that I was reluctant to leave the world she'd so eloquently brought to life.

Connilyn Cossette is truly the master of biblical fiction! This book was off the charts good. Mind you I have not read the first one but this one can be read as a stand alone as I as was not lost in reading, on the contrary, I was completely submerged and enthralled with this story I could not read it fast enough. That being said I am not saying don't read the first one! As soon as I am all settled with our move cross country I will be purchasing the first book so that I can enjoy it and know more of the characters I was introduced in this one.

This story has it all! Suspense, intrigue, and romance but done in such a beautiful way. You can't help but turn the pages and want to know more on secrets and conspiracies happening in the story and within the characters. I was intrigued by the storyline of Lukio who is after all just looking for acceptance. He has lived amongst the Jews although by birth he is technically a Philistine. To me he seemed like a lost sheep trying to find the right home. Soshana is Lukio's childhood sweetheart and has been taken as a slave in the kings palace. The circumstances on how she is taken were hard to read. I mean even though this may be partly fiction you know that these things were actually happening during this time period and it really makes you think and ponder about God's people and how they were mistreated. Sadly not too different from today's world.

Lukio and Soshana's romance story was impeccable. The way he basically becomes weak kneed every time he sees her is just amazing to me. His love for her was unconditional and ever flowing. It never stopped. I don't want to give anything away but you will see as you read this that his love for her never went away. She was always in his heart.

Although their love story was beautiful one of my favorite things in this story is the way that Lukio realizes who he is in God. He didn't need human approval but only God's. He needed to see himself the way God saw him and that part of this story made this book for me. I really can't say enough great things about this book! I look forward to reading whatever Mrs. Cossette pens next and I hope you do too!

I received a copy of this book from the author for review. I was not required to post a positive review. All views expressed are only my honest review.

Wow. Where do I even begin?? After enjoying the first book in the duology, but not LOVING it at the same level I had Connilyn’s previous books, I had really high hopes for book two. And let me tell you, Connilyn managed to surpass all of them! Between the Wild Branches just might rank in my top three fave books of hers so far, and it will certainly be a fave read of 2021!

My heart really went out to Lukio in book one, and I loved the threads of his and Shosanna’s relationship that were interwoven there. The ending of book one totally broke my heart and I’ve been dying to know what happened to Lukio after the final chapter. At first, I was upset by the fact that this book picks up TEN YEARS after those heartbreaking events, but once I started reading this book, I realized how perfect of a story choice this was. By the time we see Lukio and Shosanna again, they are very different people, no longer children, but adults who have been through many trials, horrors, and life-changes. This made them even better characters and my heart went out to them even more. Ugh! 😩 I wanted to just wrap them in a big, comforting hug! Especially Lukio!!! ❤️He’s just the BEST sort of fictional hero!! Strong and tough and a bit rough around the edges, but a total teddy bear on the inside, full of compassion and fierce passion for those he loves and those in need.

As you can probably tell, this book gave me ALL the feels!!! Conni certainly kept me on the edge of my seat from the first chapter until the very last. Never was there a moment when I felt even slightly bored or like the story had fallen into a lull. Conni truly put her poor characters in quite the pickle of a situation and I had no idea how she was going to get them out of it. Everytime I thought I knew how things could be resolved, she pulled the story in a different direction and kept me guessing. She even nearly gave me a panic attack a couple times! Internally, I was breathing frantically into a paper bag! LOL 😂🙈

The beauty and depth of the message of the story, which fit so perfectly and naturally with the characters’ stories, touched my heart. This is one of those books that you never want to end, but by the time you reach that inevitable conclusion, you feel so full inside.

There’s so much else I could probably say about this book, but I’ll end with a few random comments that don’t seem to fit anywhere else:

1.) The scene with the forest mural!!!!! 😭😭😭❤️❤️❤️ Quite possibly my favorite moment in the book!

2.) “We’re bringing him home.” 😭❤️ Another favorite moment that hit me right in the feels, and like the one mentioned above, you’ll just have the book to understand what I mean.

3.) Igo!!! I loved Lukio’s dog, especially since he reminded me of my own “gentle giant” Rambo, who is scared of his own shadow but is fiercely protective and loyal.

And lastly…

4.) I think Lukio and Shoshanna are my new favorite couple out of Conni’s books! Their love story is just SO SWEET and it feels so real and raw. You can’t help but root for them every step of the way.

As you’ve probably surmised, this is a solid 5/5 Stars for me–I would give it more than 5 if there were such a thing. If you’re a fan of Biblical fiction, or considering giving it a try, do yourself a favor and read this book–but make sure to read book one first, because it would totally ruin everything if you don’t!

**I received a copy of this book from the publisher for review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.**

Between The Wild Branches by Connilyn Cossette
Connilyn has done it again with "Between The Wild Branches". I was mesmerized by such a wonderfully written book by Connilyn Cassette. " Between The Wild Branches " is the second book in The Covenant House series. I have to recommend reading "To Dwell Among Cedars" first. I loved returning to the lives of Lukio and Shoshana. It is a book that made me cry in one section and laugh in another.

What a page turner, adventurous story. Connilyn knows how to pull you into the storyline from the very beginning draws you back in time.

I would highly recommend this book anyone who loves a great story!

I received this complimentary copy from the publisher and author for a honest review. All thoughts and opinions are mine and mine alone.

Between Wild Branches was the second book in the series. I wanted to read the book because I like the author. I was pleased to find that I didn’t feel like I was missing pieces not having read the first book. The action and intrigue start from the very first page. So I was hooked immediately which always makes me happy. The love story took a little longer to unfold. Adoption and slavery were themes that were developed n this story as well. I appreciated how Cossette dealt with the complexities of adoption. Being adopted myself, I understood Lukio’s hesitation when it came to his adopted family. I appreciated seeing the unconditional love shown for Lukio by so many and how he is finally able to come to terms with this by the end of the story. Sacrifice is another theme that runs through this book in some surprising ways. The love that Lukio and Shoshanna share is so sweet, but the way they sacrifice for each other can teach the reader a lesson.

Once again the Bible comes alive and I will go back and read the first book in this series with joy.

My thanks to Netgalley and Bethany House Publishers for the e-copy of this book in exchange for my review.

Between the Wild Branches has sat on the tip top of my Most Anticipated Books list since I finished reading the first book in the Covenant House series (To Dwell Among Cedars) back in January. And my oh my… it was certainly worth the wait! In fact, I’m now adding it to my 2021 Favorites list, and I consider the series one of my favorite Biblical Fiction books series of all time. Yes. I loved it that much.

May I also gush over the cover art? I’m a professed cover lover, after all. Wow. It is so gorgeous that I pronounce it with two syllables. Gor-geous! And if you place both books in the series side-by-side they present a beautiful panoramic masterpiece, showcasing both Philistine siblings. Sigh. Okay, I’ll try to contain my gushing from here on out.

Though this is a work of fiction, it incorporates Biblical events, customs, and atmosphere. It is evident that Ms. Cossette dedicates ample time in researching the Bible and biblical history. Wow. She is a gifted storyteller, one of my favorites, who creates tangible characters out of thin air. They are so real. So lovable. So unforgettable.

Okay, I’ve failed at holding back my gushing enthusiasm. It’s an impossible feat. I’ve literally fallen in love with the characters in this book. Lukio and Shoshana, along with the others are pivotal characters throughout both books and are so well developed and memorable. Their journeys are breathtaking and unpredictable. Despite trying to slow down to make the story last longer, I turned the pages at lightning speed.

This can be read as a standalone book, but it would be a shame to miss out on both stories as a whole. I promise, both books will bless you. Why not take a double portion?

#2021Favorites #BiblicalFiction #TheCovenantHouse #MustRead #CoverLove

Dɪsᴄʟᴏsᴜʀᴇ: I ʀᴇᴄᴇɪᴠᴇᴅ ᴀ ᴄᴏᴍᴘʟɪᴍᴇɴᴛᴀʀʏ ᴄᴏᴘʏ ᴏғ ᴛʜɪs ʙᴏᴏᴋ. Mʏ ʀᴇᴠɪᴇᴡ ᴡᴀs ɴᴏᴛ ɪɴғʟᴜᴇɴᴄᴇᴅ.

***4.5 stars***

Every once in a while I come across a book that blows me away with the depth and scope of the plot and characters. Between the Wild Branches was that kind of a book for me.

This is the second book in The Covenant House series. I have not read the first, but it didn't impact my understanding of this novel. This book was excellent, so I will be reading the first at a later date.

Lukio and Shoshana have been through some difficult and demoralizing trials. If I were to put myself into Shoshana's shoes, I would have probably given up. Her strength is inspirational. This book is about faith in the face of adversity.

It was refreshing to read a story set during the time of Samuel the Prophet. The conflict between the Hebrew and the Philistine adds tension to the story. The book contains political intrigue, secrets, and rediscovering faith.

By the end of the book, I was anxiously turning the pages. I wanted to know if Lukio and Shoshana could find a happily-ever-after. It was easy to root for them and hope that the King of Ashdod would be defeated. I lost a couple of hours of sleep because I couldn't put it down.

This is a Christian fiction that contains non-graphic violence. I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.