I enjoyed seeing the unfolding of Zevi and Yochana's relationship. He was immediately drawn to Yochana but had to learn how to share pieces of himself with her.

Yochana had to overcome her bias against soldiers and learn to trust him. Both learned to let God direct their lives.

Throughout Shield of the Mighty, Zevi searched for his lost cousin, giving the reader glimpses into Zevi's character and hope that Shalem is alive.

I appreciated the insight Ms. Cossette provided into life after the first king of Israel was chosen. It added depth and color to the story, deepening my understanding of the events during Saul's reign.

Readers of Shield of the Mighty will be reminded to let God be their shields. Instead of trying to do everything on their own, lean on the King of kings.

I received an advanced reader's copy from the publisher through NetGalley; a positive review was not required.

Thank you to Connilyn Cossette, NetGalley, and Bethany House for this #gifted book!*

Synopsis: “What if I stopped holding on to what I thought my life should be and let Adonai determine my path? What would happen if I stopped gripping so tightly to what J held dear and opened up my hands instead?” As a captain in Saul’s army, Zevi is tasked with a mission to complete if he is to grow in his military status. He must travel his region, collect new recruits, and convince skilled artisans to serve in Saul’s court. When he reaches the town that abandoned him, he meets a young widow by the name of Yochana who happens to be a skilled perfumer, one of the best he’s ever encountered. In unconventional ways, Yochana comes to travel with Zevi’s company of soldiers. But when Zevi’s mission is compromised, Yochana and he must overcome their tumultuous pasts and fight for the safety of their future.

Analysis: Connilyn Cossette’s The King’s Men series is one you don’t want to miss! I absolutely loved this second installment of it, possibly even more than the first! But you need to read book one first (there’s a major side plot!). In this book, Yochana and Zevi are both genuine and admirable in their characters as they fight to overcome real-life struggles of their pasts, and the romance is sweet as these two figure out their future. Connilyn creates a beautiful picture with her descriptions of ancient Israel. I love how she makes this story come to life with what it might have been like at the start of Israel’s kingdom. Filled with both beauty and truth, Shield of the Mighty makes the humble beginnings of ancient Israel come alive in a moving story that will draw your heart and eyes to the Creator of it all.

Star Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

*I was given an ARC in exchange for my honest review. All thoughts and opinions ťexpressed in this review are my own.

I quickly read the first book in The King's Men series so I was prepared for Shield of the Mighty. The historical biblical setting of these stories really transported me there and was educational!

I was totally engaged with these characters and worried about their well-being!

Depth of the characters was explored by showing what healthy relationships are and aren't. Characters humbled themselves, admitted weaknesses and sin, repented and followed through on change, maturing.

The romance was the final "happy sigh" of this amazing story. I am happy to see there will be a third book in the series!

I received a copy of this book from Bethany House. Opinions are my own.

Masterful characters kept true to Biblical truths. Battles fought by King Saul's men bring the geography to life. The presence of Yahweh in the battles shows His Might.

I eagerly anticipated Shield of the Mighty, second in Connilyn Cossette's The King's Men series. Having read Voice of the Ancient, first in the series, in May, I was not disappointed. I await the next two in the series releasing August 2025 and 2026.

Releases Aug. 20th. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own

Be transported to 1040 BC and see what the soldiers of Israel have to do to prepare to serve King Saul against the Phillistines. Zevi, one of the cousins from book one, Voice of the Ancient, is tasked with recruiting men for the army as well as artisans to benefit King Saul. Yochana is a perfumer and has lost her young husband to a battle and has disdain for the king.
From mistrust to awakening romance, through adventures and courageous actions, Zevi and Yochana grow in respect for eachother. Zevi has a complicated background and would seek revenge on the enemy for what they did to his hometown. But God has placed him in a loving family with a father who gave sound advice: “Just as a soldier trusts his commander and a commander trusts the king, you must trust the King above all Kings to direct you…the orders are more often whispered than shouted.”
I was captivated by the story and the Bible was brought to life. The descriptions of the perfuming craft and ingredients was very interesting. I loved the loyalty portrayed by Zevi’s family, especially when he was accused of murder.
If you like Biblical fiction, you will not want to miss this engaging tale of adventure.
* A complimentary copy of this book was provided by Bethany House through Interviews and Reviews and via NetGalley. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are mine alone.*

In the world of ancient Israel, where battles are fought with steel and hearts are tested, Connilyn Cossette’s Shield of the Mighty transports readers into a vivid landscape of courage, skills, and faith. This masterful narrative intertwines the paths of Zevi, a warrior molded by hardship, and Yochana, a widow whose delicate touch with perfumes masks a resilient spirit. Their story unfolds like a finely blended fragrance, each layer revealing deeper complexities of love, duty, and divine purpose.

Zevi, captured by the Philistines as a boy, emerges as a formidable captain in King Saul’s army, tasked with the grave mission of recruiting soldiers and artisans for the king’s court. His journey back to Maresha, a town steeped in painful memories, is more than a military campaign—it’s a personal pilgrimage fraught with the ghosts of his past. Cossette’s portrayal of Zevi’s internal struggle is both palpable and poignant, capturing the essence of a warrior whose heart is as battle-scarred as his body.

Enter Yochana, a skilled perfumer whose shop is a sanctuary of scents and solace. Her life, marked by loss, is thrown into turmoil when Zevi walks through her door. What begins as a clash of wills soon becomes a melding of souls, as Yochana’s anger and grief transform into a fiery resolve to protect her town and her heart. Cossette deftly balances Yochana’s strength and vulnerability, making her a character who is both relatable and inspiring.

The interplay between Zevi and Yochana is dynamic, their chemistry a heady mix of tension and tenderness. Their journey together is a testament to the power of faith and forgiveness, each step forward marked by moments of introspection and revelation. Cossette’s ability to weave biblical truths into the fabric of their story is seamless, enhancing the narrative without overshadowing it.

The rich historical context of Shield of the Mighty is a character in itself. Cossette’s meticulous attention to detail brings the Iron Age of Israel to life, from the bustling markets of Maresha to the fierce battlegrounds where Zevi and his men fight for their lives. The author’s love for the land and its people shines through, creating an immersive experience that is both educational and enchanting.

Shield of the Mighty explores the theme of divine justice and sovereignty. Zevi’s journey is about finding redemption for himself, and about understanding that true justice belongs to Yahweh alone. This powerful message is woven throughout the narrative, reminding readers that faith in God’s plan is paramount, even when the path is shrouded in uncertainty and injustice.

In Shield of the Mighty, Cossette has crafted a story that is as fragrant as Yochana’s perfumes and as fierce as Zevi’s sword. It’s a tale of love and loss, faith and forgiveness, brought to life with superb writing and a deep reverence for Scripture. This book is so much more than just a good read – it is an experience—a journey into the heart of biblical fiction that leaves a lasting impression on both the mind and the soul.

For those seeking a story that blends historical accuracy with compelling characters and a profound faith message, Shield of the Mighty is a must-read. Connilyn Cossette has once again proven her mastery of the genre, delivering a novel that is as powerful as it is poignant. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to biblical fiction, this book will captivate your heart and spirit, leaving you eagerly awaiting the next installment in the King’s Men series.

I received a digital ARC of Shield of the Mighty from Bethany House Publishers and NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review in any way or for any reason. My honest and unbiased opinions expressed in this book review are my own. My review focuses on the story’s content ensuring transparency and reliability.

I haven’t read all of Connilyn Cossette’s books but I’ve read most of them. Shield of the Mighty ranks very high among them. Stellar historical context. Heart-gripping romance. And a beautifully believable story. Cossette places her readers squarely in the center of King Saul’s early reign and the mounting dissension among Israel’s tribes.
Cossette gives a wink to faithful fans who have followed her since her debut by adeptly feathering in past characters with those in Shield of the Mighty, From her debut to this book, she's taken readers from Israel’s Egyptian captivity through Exodus, Judges, and now into 1 Samuel. All through a single family's fictional lineage.
That level of imagination and writing skill is truly remarkable.
Shield of the Mighty took me a few chapters to get into. It might have simply been my life circumstances, schedule, or bad pizza from the night before. I buy every Connilyn Cossette book for my ninety-four-year-old mama (she loves the romance!). I'm certain she’ll enjoy Yochana and Zevi’s story as much as the others! A must read for all Connilyn Cossette fans!

Shield of the Mighty is a continuation of the story in Voice of the Ancient seen from the perspective of Zevi, one of four young men who sneak away to join Saul’s army.

I absolutely love Zevi’s character. He’s brave, tough, and carries burdens he’s unwilling to share, yet he is loyal, and tender with Yochana. His journey is one from a desire for revenge to hearing the voice of God.

Yochana is kidnapped by a warrior who confuses her in so many ways. She’s a captive, yet he cares for her needs, protects her, and stirs feeling she has no desire to follow. She blames Saul for the death of her husband, and this overshadows her faith.

Does the God who sees them both have a plan greater than they could imagine? How much will it take for them to fully trust Him?

Filled with betrayal, doubt, faith, family, and love it has everything I desire in Christian fiction and more. This is a wonderful book I highly recommend.

I was given a copy courtesy of Bethany House. This is my honest opinion of the book.

I received a copy for review purposes; all opinions are honest and mine alone.

Told in alternating POV’s and chapters, SHIELD OF THE MIGHTY, by Connilyn Cossette, is engrossing Biblical Fiction. The story begins with a prologue, 3 years prior to the start of the main story. Main character, Zevi, is with his younger cousins, observing King Saul being anointed by the prophet Samuel. They are watching the soldiers in attendance and dreaming about the future when they will all be able to serve.

Chapter 1 finds Zevi commanding his own squad in Saul’s army. He’s done very well, achieving the rank of captain. His commander has sent him out on a special assignment: recruit 100 new men to fight and bring to court extraordinary artisans that will build Israel into an highly respected nation. This part of the mission is how we meet Yochana, the lead female character, a perfumer with extraordinary abilities.

Once these two meet, the story is nonstop action and filling in a lot of blanks; intentional blanks. Cossette has a great ability to put readers into the lives and times of her stories. It’s not something I typically do when reading the Old Testament. I’m usually looking for a theme or signs pointing to Messiah rather than imagining what it was like to live then, in times of kings, prophets, miracles, law, swift justice, tribes and rules; so. many. rules. Her writing has the ability to bring scripture to life in a meaningful way, especially for someone like me who’s prone to facts rather than possibles.

Character development takes a long time with important details being held until late in the story. I found it frustrating, especially when motivation or actions of the main couple didn’t seem to make sense. That aside, Cossette has honest characters you will care about. It was nice to read a book that feels big but has a tight cast; no scorecard needed.

Elements of mystery, romance, warfare and of course, Biblical History, provide a framework for this well written novel. This is not a book to snuggle up with or lazy day about with. You’ll have action, energy, intrigue, subterfuge and love; love between the two MC’s, love for family, for town & country and SHIELD OF THE MIGHTY📚

Read & Reviewed from a NetGalley eARC, with thanks

I recently listened to the audiobook of Voice of the Ancient, which is the first book in The King’s Men series. I loved it and knew I was going to be captivated by the next installment in the series, Shield of the Mighty. This series is perfect for fans of biblical fiction, historical fiction, and clean romance. The chapters alternate perspectives between the two main characters so I really felt like I got to know Zevi and Yochana as their story progressed. The author thoughtfully conveys the tensions, struggles, and battles during the reign of King Saul. If you’ve never read biblical fiction and are interested to see what it’s like this series is a great one to start. I highly recommend it!

Thank you to the author and publisher for a gifted copy of the book! All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.

I’ve been waiting a year to read “Shield of the Mighty” by Connilyn Cossette and to say it was well worth the wait would be an understatement 😍

I LOVED Voice of the Ancient; the connection among these young cousins who grew into young men was unparalleled. But then came Zevi and Yochana!!! The depth to their own grief, the safety they found in each other, the way they fought for the other even before they admitted their feelings?? So so beautiful.

The chemistry was great, but the Christian message and insight into the time period of King Saul? That’s what makes this book 5⭐️ Both characters came to an understanding of the Divine protection and safety in the Almighty, but, without giving too much away, it was clearly a journey fraught with plot twists and turns.

So good!! 😍 #biblicalfiction #christianfiction #bookstagram #shieldofthemighty

CONNILYN COSSETTE is an incredible writer of biblical fiction, and her love for the Lord, His holy land Israel and His chosen people, shines right through all she writes. Not only is it interesting to learn about what life was like in 1043 BC, but her character analysis is brilliant. Whilst SHIELD OF THE MIGHTY is the second novel in the King’s Men series and there are characters from preceding books, Shield of the Mighty can stand alone.
Zevi ben Natan, a captain in Saul’s army is sent by his commanding officer into Yehudite territory to enlist men into the king’s army, to gather tribute, and to find outstanding artisans to enhance King Saul’s court. The Yehudites are not happy about a Benjamite being king of Israel and there is a plot in Maresha, Zevi’s place of birth and one that hold unhappy memories for him, to replace Saul with Yehudite king. It is in Maresha that he meets the beautiful perfumer, Yochana………
I am not going to tell you any more for fear of spoiling things for you.
There is loyalty to king and country, courage, betrayal, unconditional love, and there are fierce battles…….
I cannot recommend this beatiful novel highly enough.
I was given a free copy of the book by NetGalley from Bethany House Publishers. The opinions in this review are completely my own.

Shield of the Mighty is a masterfully written work of art! Connilyn Cossette will makes the turbulent times of King Saul in 1 Samuel come alive!

Zevi is magnificent as a captain in Saul's army charged with gathering more soldiers to fight, and also various craftsman to complete Saul's court. Yochana is a widowed perfumer skilled in perfumes and various types of medicinal ointments. These two characters take readers on an incredible journey, both exciting and dangerous. Their chemistry literally leaps off the page.

I loved revisiting Zevi's hometown and family with so many characters we know and love. Eliora's garden plays a major role and ties into Yochana's passion for flowers and herbs so well.

Cossette's story has everything I look for in a well-crafted story, a great adventure with incredible touching scenes but ultimately a story true to the biblical narrative. The King's Men is one fantastic series! I can't wait to read Gavi's story and then find Shalem.

My favorite Cossette book has always been the first one I read, A Light on the Hill, but Shield of the Mighty ties the love I have for that one and is going on my favorite books of 2024 list.

I find it nothing less than miraculous Shield of the Mighty was written during a time of great personal hardship for Connilyn Cossette. Her "battlefield" experiences prepared Cossette for "some of the rockiest terrain" of her life, but she emerges triumphant to her calling as an author. My thanks to Baker Publishing Group for providing an early copy of Shield of the Mighty for review. It was an honor to read it and all thoughts and opinions are my very own.

Once again, Connilyn Cossette writes a moving, heartfelt story that will transport you into the Bible, giving the reader an immersive experience of Old Testament times.

Each scene is vividly rendered and filled with wonderfully detailed observations, from the descriptions of plant life and their uses to fierce battles fought with the Philistines. Cossette has created another captivating story I found hard to put down.

Zevi’s depictions of gripping guilt are relatable to anyone who has done something (either intentionally or not) and lived with regret. I loved how the author shows the love and power of God in getting Zevi to a place where he can learn to forgive himself.

Yochana was the perfect match for him, even though she fought him tooth and nail. I loved her compassion for others and animals and how that compassion helped open her eyes to letting God be in charge.

I was very moved by the author’s comments at the end of the novel. Connilyn has been through a lot and to write such a book while going through such trauma is a testament to her faith in God and His gift of writing to her. I highly recommend this series and I look forward to the next book!

I received a complimentary copy courtesy of Bethany House through NetGalley for my honest review.

Reminders I loved:

💜Sometimes God asks us to revisit something/somewhere and we don’t feel it’s necessary. God sees the big picture and it’s to strengthen our faith or for us to learn a lesson. When Zevi is assigned to Maresha, he finds what God has planned for him. Imagine if he’d refused!
💜The necessity of offering our talents to the King. Imagine if Yochana had refused!
💜Use our talents to become an asset instead of a rebellious outlier.
💜There’s a purpose to our seemingly unbearable load of responsibility
💜 “You can go forward…or you can go back. There is no room for in-between.”
💜I cannot control what others think of me, only my own actions
💜There is no satisfaction in revenge
💜There’s beauty in complementing and strengthening our bonds with our helpmate. Allow God to work on the rough edges.
💜Trusting God’s guidance. Zevi learned to trust his commander and his commander learned to trust the King. Imagine what God could do for us if we allowed the King of Kings full reign!

I was thoroughly impressed and completely immersed in this Iron Age of Isreal and beautifully written coming of age account highlighting the early years of Isreal’s new monarchy as well as Romans 8:28 and Deuteronomy 33:29. I was educated on biblical history, reminded about the culture of the countries and the era, entertained, and enchanted by a fantastic ensemble of characters. This was a perfect balance of history, adventure, faith and love.

I can’t wait to read the next installment!

Cossette has accomplished her goal in hoping her readers feel like they’ve “Walked a mile in the sandals” of those who witnessed the events of the Bible firsthand. I don’t think I’ll ever look at another lupine again without thinking of this story.

I was gifted this copy by Baker Publishing Group and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.

Another great read from Connilyn Cossette.
Good story, good characters.
I've read the Covenant House books so it has been enjoyable reading this series and seeing some of the characters!

I really enjoyed the second instalment of Connilyn Cossette's King's Men series. Shield of the Mighty brought me deep into the world of King Saul, the prophet Samuel, and the bond of the four cousins. It really heightened my understanding of the social dynamics in the time of Saul's rule, and the tension that held Israel both together and apart.

In the first book, the storyline of Shalem began, and it continued beautifully in this both. Zevi was a deeply likeable character, and my heart hurt for him and his experiences. Without spoilers, a certain plot twist broke my heart about 2/3 of the way through the novel, with that loveable character who was wise beyond their years. I loved Yochana too, and was curious how her relationship with Zevi would turn out.

I love how Cossette includes the little tidbits from her previous stories in her new books. I liked the nod to Sofia, and I hopped up and down when I realized who the women talking were.

All in all, I loved the story and can't wait for more!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.

Shield of the Mighty by Connilyn Cossette is the second book in the King's Men series, which is the next generation of The Covenant House series. Connilyn Cossette is one of my best Biblical fiction writers and her books keep getting better. Zevi's story is just so engrossing. The character development (from Between The Wild Branches) was great to read. The writing is so vibrant that I almost felt I was right there in the battlefield with the Israelites and the Philistines. The romance was great and thrilling. A great read with important lessons.
Thank you, Netgalley, Baker Publishing Group | Bethany House Publishers for the ARC of this book. The opinions provided are honest and completely my own.

"I let go. I realized that my understanding of Yahweh was far too small and that I had no right to demand he bend to my will."

It's another enthralling journey through King Saul's early days of kingship as Israel attempts to become a united nation from a loose group of scattered and fractious tribes. Zevi's road to becoming a trusted captain in Saul's army is fraught with hard work, sacrifice, and guilt. I loved his loyal and steadfast heart, trained soldier's bearing and instinct, and his dedication to Yahweh and his family. His encounter with Yochana starts with good intentions but terrible execution of plan makes them enemies. I really enjoyed their banter and fire-laced conversations. When earth-shattering betrayal blindsides Zevi, it's Yochana's compassionate, kind heart and capable healing hands that Zevi ends up leaning on. The climax of the war is found in 1 Samuel 14 where the author's imagination and God's Word combine to bring forth a vivid, palpable battle scene. There are plenty of twists and turns in the plot that will have you clutching the edge of your seat. Reconnecting with Natan and Shoshanna's family is the icing on the cake.

This is a must-read if you enjoy Biblical fiction. I can't wait to read about the other two cousins Gavi and Shay soon. Connilyn Cossette has a gift for weaving beautiful, tangible, relatable threads into the Old Testament stories to bring them to life in full color. Her stories are unforgettable and never disappoint. I received a complimentary copy courtesy of Bethany House via Interviews and Reviews and was under no obligation to post a positive comment. All opinions are my own.

"But just as a soldier trusts his commander and a commander trusts his king, you must trust the King above all Kings to direct you."

I love Biblical fiction and Ms. Cosette's books make me feel as if I'm there living and experiencing life with the fictional characters. It's as if I'm part of the book!That is quite the feat for an author I think.
Biblical fiction can't be easy to write. I picture many many hours of study and research that would go into a book like this one. The story is set during the reign of King Saul. The hero is a tough soldier named Zevi who has a score to settle with the Philistines! While also looking and keeping an eye out for his missing cousin Shay. The heroine is a young and beautiful widow named Yochana who is a perfumer. She is very knowledgeable about plants and making specialty ointments and balms for healing. She also makes beautiful and fragrant smelling perfume. Which, in part has poor Zevi smitten by her

Both Zevi and Yochana are tough and gentle and flawed. There is page turning action, romance and Biblically inspired affirmations throughout. All the ingredients that make this book 5 stars in my opinion.
*I was given a copy of this book by the publisher, and this is my honest opinion.