Book Review: Until the Mountains Fall by Connliyn Cossette

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Title: Until the Mountains Falls

Author: Connilyn Cossette

Series: Cities of Refuge #3

Genre: Biblical Historical

Audience: Adult

ABOUT THE BOOK

Recently widowed, Rivkah refuses to submit to the Torah law compelling her to marry her husband's brother and instead flees Kedesh, hoping to use her talents as a scribe to support herself. Without the protections of her father, Kedesh's head priest, and the safety of the city of refuge, Rivkah soon discovers that the cost of recklessness is her own freedom.

Malakhi has secretly loved Rivkah for years, but he never imagined his older brother's death would mean wedding her himself. After her disappearance, he throws himself into the ongoing fight against the Canaanites instead of dwelling on all he has lost. But with impending war looming over Israel, Rivkah's father comes to Malakhi with an impossible request.

As the enemies that Rivkah and Malakhi face from without and within Israel grow more threatening each day, is it too late for the restoration their wounded souls seek?

~ MY REVIEW ~

**4 stars**

Until the Mountains Fall was a bittersweet continuation to the CITIES OF REFUGE series by Connilyn Cossette. I think it's my favorite book of the series! It was exciting to travel back to these Biblical times and reunite with characters from previous books ... Moriyah, Sofea, and so on. It's so interesting to glimpse what the Israelites' lives might have looked like as Joshua led them to settle in the Promised Land.

Rivkah was a different kind of character. Living in a city of refuge and betrothed to the son of an accidental killer, she is straining against the things that she feels hold her back. I found this whole storyline to be unique from many books with just a little twist in how everything turns out. Rivkah isn't a perfect characters and she certainly isn't always right. Watching her path to redemption was compelling.

Malakhi definitely had some character growth throughout the course of the book, too, and that was great! I really enjoyed these characters and the different dynamics of the story. While this story is set in the Old Testament ... it also is based on a parable from the New Testament! Which was really neat and heartfelt.

There were some emotional moments ... especially the one at the end for one of our dear characters!

Overall, an exciting read. Though I felt like the first two books in the serious were a little too heavily-focused on romance/attraction, this one was better in my personal opinion. And I look forward to reading Like Flames in the Night!

I received a complimentary copy of Until the Mountains Falls from the author/publisher. This review is honest and all my own.

Book Review: Flight of the Raven by Morgan L. Busse

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Title: Flight of the Raven

Author: Morgan L. Busse

Series: The Ravenwood Saga #2

Genre: Fantasy

Audience: Adult

ABOUT THE BOOK

Exiled and on the run, Selene Ravenwood is in search of the real reason her family was given the gift of dreamwalking but first she must adapt to her marriage with the man she was originally assigned to kill. With war impending and a dark being after her gift, she finds herself at a crossroads but time is running out and soon her choice will be made for her.

~ MY REVIEW ~

**5 stars**

How exciting it is to dive back into the adventures of Selene and Damien! Flight of the Raven was one novel I was highly anticipating, and it did not disappoint! In book two of THE RAVENWOOD SAGA, Morgan L. Busse carries on with this epic story, following a would-be-assassin, her sister, and the young lord who is their target. With action, romance, mystery, and a journey of faith, this tale swept me away.

Truly, I'm always looking for new Christian fantasy novels, and this one has caught my attention. Just as with the first book, I loved the world. It is rich, diverse, and fascinating. We're learning a little more about each house, and with every tidbit of information, I get more excited! It's one of those fantasy lands that you could get lost in.

The Christian allegory is unfolding so wondrously! Selene is hunted by the Dark Lady whom she's sure she doesn't want ... and haunted by the Light that always seems out of reach. It was amazing to watch her wrestle within herself and slowly come to believe and trust this Light. The way the author writes this beautiful, intense allegory reminds me of Anne Elisabeth Stengl's TALES OF GOLDSTONE WOOD series. (Oh, how I miss reading from that series! It's good to get a taste of that kind of awesome fantasy in Morgan L. Busse's novels!)

It was interesting to get some of the story from Amara's point of view. I loved seeing some more of little Ophelia. Their mother makes me furious! *feeling all kinds of rage* So many great characters! That's what makes this series glorious!

Mark of the Raven definitely built up to the romance we get in Flight of the Raven. I was looking forward to it, and glad to see this couple blossom! *happiness* There were many sweet, tender moments. And some raw, sacrificial moments that made this love story that much more beautiful. Pretty far into the book, there were a few kisses and talk about the marriage and feelings. It was all pretty sweet, though some of the details weren't necessary (in my own opinion). And even though there was nothing explicit, since this book does have a marriage of convenience it felt more "adult" than "young adult".

I smiled, I cried, I was surprised, and my heart sighed within me. Flight of the Raven was an emotional, thrilling journey! I was sad to finish ... realizing I won't be feeling that happy feeling that I get when reading about these characters for awhile. And, whoa, that cliffhanger! (It made me think of the Marvel movies, for some reason. *laughs*) I can hardly wait to see what happens! Next book, please!

I received a complimentary copy of Flight of the Raven from the author and/or Bethany House Publishers. This review is honest and all my own.

Freedom!: The Gutsy Pursuit of Breakthrough and the Life Beyond It by Jennifer Renee Watson

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Title: Freedom!: The Gutsy Pursuit of Breakthrough and the Life Beyond It

Author: Jennifer Renee Watson

Genre: Christian Living/Nonfiction

Audience: Adult

ABOUT THE BOOK

Brokenness has become a buzzword. We wear it like a badge, proudly showing off the shattered pieces of our lives--while still fighting the same desperate battles. But brokenness was never meant to be the destination. Or your identity. It was meant to be the catalyst for breakthrough.

Inspiring, vulnerable, and powerful, this new book from Jennifer Watson helps you take your eyes off the idol of brokenness and experience the God of breakthrough. She shows how breakthrough is really hope moving forward, even when life hurts. And she gives you practical, uncomplicated ways to: 
- stop feeling shame and emptiness
- leave the victim mentality behind 
- experience lasting restoration in your story and your soul
- and more

It's okay to not be okay for a little while. But Jesus has a plan to see your scars become success stories that reflect his glory to the people around you.

~ MY REVIEW ~

**3.75 stars**

I picked up Freedom!: The Gutsy Pursuit of Breakthrough and the Life Beyond It by Jennifer Renee Watson because I'm tired of me telling myself that I'm broken and I can't move beyond it. (And, to be honest, the cover is quite gorgeous!) I enjoyed it, and, overall, feel like it had a truly great message!

God is not the voice in your head shaming you, saying you are not enough. God is telling you that He is enough. That He is the great I AM. Who He is inside of you is more than enough to take care of whatever you are facing today or what you will face in the future. Jesus is not tired of you. Jesus is waiting and unafraid of your questions. (Freedom! pg. 66)

For real, a lot of us Christians ... perhaps especially women ... willingly live in brokenness. We take on the victim mentality and try to survive each day and do the right thing and please all the people. Freedom! is here to tell you that it's time to pursue freedom! In Christ, we can move into deeper freedom than we ever thought possible. We can stop listening to that negative, nagging, dark voice in our head that tells uswe'll never be good enough. This book hit on some important topics and gave me another boost in my journey of freedom & wholeness in Christ.

A couple things. For some reason or another, this book wasn't as easy of a read as some. Some chapters took me awhile to get through. Also, there was just a bit of that You Deserve It!, You're a Strong, Kick-Butt Heroine stuff mixed into the message. And that tends to rub me a little wrong. But it wasn't overpowering, because the biggest thing I got from this book was that I don't have to stay broken, and Jesus Christ is my everything - He will help me break through.

Your safe person is always Jesus. He alone can mend and do what no person or soul sister can do. (Freedom! pg. 96)

Your grateful soul was what motivated you to service. You were too busy pleasing God to concern yourself with pleasing others.(Freedom! pg. 151)

So, Freedom! wasn't a five-star read for me. But it still had some really, really good points in it. Paragraphs and prayers that brought just a little more healing to my heart. God is so good. Thank you, Jennifer Renee Watson, for writing this book. I look forward to growing in freedom and grace together, even though we may never meet. God bless you!

I received a complimentary copy of Freedom! from Bethany House Publishers. This review is honest and completely my own.

Book Review: Far Side of the Sea by Kate Breslin

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Title: Far Side of the Sea

Author: Kate Breslin

Series: Standalone

Genre: Historical Romance

Audience: Adult

ABOUT THE BOOK

In spring 1918, Lieutenant Colin Mabry, a British soldier working with MI8 after suffering injuries on the front, receives a message by carrier pigeon. It is from Jewel Reyer, the woman he once loved and who saved his life--a woman he believed to be dead. Traveling to France to answer her urgent summons, he desperately hopes this mission will ease his guilt and restore the courage he lost on the battlefield.

Colin is stunned, however, to discover the message came from Jewel's half sister, Johanna. Johanna, who works at a dovecote for French Army Intelligence, found Jewel's diary and believes her sister is alive in the custody of a German agent. With spies everywhere, Colin is skeptical of Johanna, but as they travel across France and Spain, a tentative trust begins to grow between them.

When their pursuit leads them straight into the midst of a treacherous plot, danger and deception turn their search for answers into a battle for their lives

~ MY REVIEW ~

**3 stars**

Fans of World War I historical fiction, you're going to want to check out Far Side of the Sea by Kate Breslin! With much attention given to historical detail, this book is full of intrigue, suspense, action, and a lively dash of romance.

This fourth novel of Kate Breslin's focuses on a side character from Not By Sight, and a plucky young woman with a shadowy past. Together, the forge through danger and drama amidst the war to find family, faith, and love.

I have really enjoyed some of this author's other books, but Far Side of the Sea didn't make the favorites list for me, personally. The beginning was quite promising ... but after a time, for some reason or another, I started to lose interest. I still finished this novel, and enjoyed it overall! But I felt there could have been more depth to the characters and the faith theme. And some of the historical detail was a bit overwhelming for me.

I think some readers will really love this book! It simply wasn't  exactly my cup of tea.

Thanks to Bethany House Publishers for providing me with a complimentary copy of Far Side of the Sea. These are my personal, honest thoughts.

Book Review: Between Two Shores by Jocelyn Green

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Title: Between Two Shores

Author: Jocelyn Green

Series: Standalone

Genre: Historical

Audience: Adult

ABOUT THE BOOK

The daughter of a Mohawk mother and French father in 1759 Montreal, Catherine Duval finds it is easier to remain neutral in a world that is tearing itself apart. Content to trade with both the French and the British, Catherine is pulled into the fray against her wishes when her British ex-fiance, Samuel Crane, is taken prisoner by her father. Samuel asks her to help him escape, claiming he has information that could help end the war.

Peace appeals to Catherine, but helping the man who broke her heart does not. She delays ... until attempts on Samuel's life convince her he's in mortal danger. Against her better judgment she helps him flee by river, using knowledge of the landscape to creep ever closer to freedom. Their time together rekindles feelings she thought long buried, and danger seems to hound their every mile. She's risked becoming a traitor by choosing a side, but will the decision cost her even more than she anticipated?

~ MY REVIEW ~

**4 stars**

Between Two Shores was a very unexpected but very beautifully-crafted story. Set during the 1750s, it follows the life of Catherine Duval ... daughter of a Frenchman and Mohawk woman. After losing her mother, Catherine leaves the Mohawk village to join her father in his trading business. And life is anything but easy as she struggles to find her true identity. Though this book had some shocking twists and turns that I'm not sure I was ready for, Jocelyn Green is quickly becoming one of my newest favorite authors!

I love the historical depth and authenticity of Jocelyn Green's books. Exploring 1700s Montreal, the French and Indian War, and native American tribes was fascinating, if not heartbreaking. There was lots of adventure and emotion. Catherine and all the other characters were wonderful. Untangling the lives and emotions of Catherine Stands-Apart, her brother and sister - Joseph and Bright Star, Samuel, Thankful, and all the others was a worthwhile journey. Oh, how dear many of them became to me!

The unexpected twist ... still not exactly sure how I feel about how that played out. But I appreciate Jocelyn Green spotlighting themes of singleness, healing from heartbreak, godly friendship, and finding one's identity in Christ! Truly powerful.
To fall in love, and have your heart denied, is a very damaging thing. My heart aches for certain characters. But thank the Lord, there is healing even from tragic events. And this book showed that. Even though some of the characters could have possibly made different - better - choices, there was healing, hope, honor, and forgiveness. Which is quite beautiful.

So yes. Different, but good. There were at least two powerful scenes that squeezed my heart and brought out all the emotion. I applaud Jocelyn Green for penning a tale that isn't what we expected (or perhaps initially hoped). *bittersweet smile*

I received a copy of Between Two Shores from Bethany House Publishers, and this is my honest opinion.

Book Review: Mark of the Raven by Morgan L. Busse

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Title: Mark of the Raven

Author: Morgan L. Busse

Series: The Ravenwood Saga

Genre: Fantasy

Audience: Adult / Young Adult

ABOUT THE BOOK

Lady Selene is the heir to the Great House of Ravenwood and the secret family gift of dreamwalking. As a dreamwalker, she can enter a person's dreams and manipulate their greatest fears or desires. For the last hundred years, the Ravenwood women have used their gift of dreaming for hire to gather information or to assassinate.

As she discovers her family's dark secret, Selene is torn between upholding her family's legacy - a legacy that supports her people - or seeking the true reason behind her family's gift.

Her dilemma comes to a head when she is tasked with assassinating the one man who can bring peace to the nations, but who will also bring about the downfall of her own house.

One path holds glory and power, and will solidify her position as Lady of Ravenwood. The other path holds shame and execution. Which will she choose? And is she willing to pay the price for the path chosen?

~ MY REVIEW ~

**5 stars**

Fantasy readers, be of good cheer! Another phenomenal fantasy novel has hit the Christian fiction market! Mark of the Raven by Morgan L. Busse was an engrossing read that kept me turning pages. I've been captured by this world and these characters, and am dying to see how this intriguing story continues! Book Two in THE RAVENWOOD SAGA can't come soon enough.

Morgan L. Busse does an exceptional job with world-building in this new series of hers. I was fascinated by all the different Houses and their histories. Their gifts, cultures, and landscapes. The House with a "How to Train Your Dragon" flavor was especially epic! *grins* And so many great characters! Despite the dark destiny of dreamwalking that calls her, I definitely loved Lady Selene and was rooting for her throughout this intense, exciting book. I also really enjoyed Damien's character. And so many others! Each one lends wonderfully to the story.

Mark of the Raven is a dark, tangled tale of kingdoms clashing, danger, drama, and secrets. But it is also sprinkled through with hope and heroic characters who exude kindness, courage, and goodwill. It was interesting learning of each of the House's gifts, and heart-wrenching watching Selene living out her own "gift". This battle between light and darkness is breathtaking. Though hard, I loved Damien's story and Selene's journey. I loved how this book ended. I'm absolutely hooked. Give me more of this strong, faithful hero and wounded, ice-cold, sword-wielding lady. I can't wait to see how the light illuminates their souls and changes their kingdom.

I received a copy of Mark of the Raven from the author/Bethany House Publishers in exchange for my honest review.

Book Review: Shelter of the Most High by Connilyn Cossette

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Title: Shelter of the Most High

Author: Connilyn Cossette

Series: Shelter of the Most High #2

Genre: Biblical Historical

Audience: Adult

ABOUT THE BOOK

The daughter of a pagan high priest, Sofea finds solace from her troubles in the freedom of the ocean. But when marauders attack her village on the island of Sicily, she and her cousin are taken across the sea to the shores of Canaan.

Eitan has lived in Kedesh, a City of Refuge, for the last eleven years, haunted by a tragedy in his childhood and chafing at the boundaries placed on him. He is immediately captivated by Sofea, but revealing his most guarded secret could mean drawing her into the danger of his past.

As threats from outside the walls loom and traitors are uncovered within, Sofea and Eitan are plunged into the midst of a murder plot. Will they break free from the shackles of the past in time to uncover the betrayal and save their lives and the lives of those they love?

~ MY REVIEW ~

**4 stars**

Connilyn Cossette pens another exciting Biblical Historical novel! Book Two in the CITIES OF REFUGE series, I enjoyed diving into Shelter of the Most High and reconnecting with Moriyah and her lovely family.

This book focuses specifically on her adopted son, Eitan. As well as a wounded and guarded maiden, Sofea, from the island of Sicily. Back in the city of Kedesh, we learn more about cities of refuge and the accidental killers that flee and find safety there. I find this such a heavy, but fascinating topic. And I just love being with the children of Israel. Connilyn Cossette brings to life Old Testament times and people with such authenticity and grace.

Though we didn't spend much time in Sicily, it was intriguing to explore Sofea's seaside home just a little. The emotional and spiritual journey Sofea and her cousin went on was profound. I enjoyed meeting all of Darek and Moriyah's children ... and other characters! And the unexpected twists - I found myself quite shocked at times! It was a well-done story that explored Moriyah's predicament more, while unfolding Eitan and Sofea's story. There were some truly heart-touching moments of faith, forgiveness, and redemption.

I didn't love the romance in Shelter of the Most High as much as I loved some in this author's other books. It pretty heavily focused on physical attraction. Which is a good thing, but cannot be the foundation of a marriage. While it didn't say that it was, there just seemed to be more emphasis on physical attraction than friendship and such.

That all being said, I really enjoyed this book and can hardly wait to read Book Three, Until the Mountains Fall! We got glimpses of the girl who is to be the main character in this next book, and I am so intrigued!

I received a copy of Shelter of the Most High from Bethany House Publishers in exchange for my honest review.

Book Review: King's War by Jill Williamson

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Title: King's War

Author: Jill Williamson

Series: The Kinsman Chronicles #3

Genre: Fantasy

Audience: Adult

ABOUT THE BOOK

One battle is over, but the war has just begun. They escaped the Five Realms and have found a home, but peace is much harder to find. The aftermath of the Battle of Sarikar should have been a time to mourn those lost in the slaughter. The enemies of Armania are many, however, and when one steps back to regroup, another surges forward in attack.

While the remnant must take responsibility for the evil they brought to Er'Rets, it would seem that something just as dark already existed in this new world. The growing struggle between Armania and Barthel Rogedoth is but a pale reflection of a far more dangerous battle for the souls of humanity.

And so begins this awe-inspiring conclusion to Jill Williamson's Kinsman Chronicles. The Hadar family and their allies prepare to make one final stand in the name of Arman. There shall be war - in Er'Rets and in the Veil - to vanquish evil or be ruled by darkness.

~ MY REVIEW ~

**not rated**

King's War is the third and final installment to Jill Williamson's THE KINSMAN CHRONICLES. Although I loved the first two books, I'm unsure of how I feel about the conclusion to the epic fantasy series.

Jill Williamson did an awesome job of worldbuilding, crafting these characters, and plotting out a massive and intricate storyline. But King's War was a slow read for me. For the most part, it was enjoyable, as it didn't take me too terribly long to finish all 672 pages; but it felt like nothing new and exciting happened. Granted, there were some big and intense going-ons ... yet it wasn't quite the conclusion I'd expected.

Nevertheless, it was good to be reunited with Trevn, Mielle, and the rest of the large cast of characters. Well, there were a few nasty ones I wasn't particularly overjoyed to see, but ... yes. (ha.)

I found the spiritual realm/faith allegory to be interesting and thought-provoking. In some ways, King's War is just very fantastical, but in other ways I think it can give us an idea of what goes on in the spiritual realm. Our enemy isn't flesh and blood! The characters in this story had to realize that, and I found it to be a compelling part of this journey.

The ending was both sobering and nice, and it was cool to think of how years later Achan (from THE BLOOD OF KINGS series) would come along and a whole new epic journey would begin.

Overall, I don't know what to rate this book, but I'm glad I read it and finished the series!

I received a copy of King's War from the author and/or Bethany House Publishers in exchange for my honest review.

Book Review: A Chance at Forever by Melissa Jagears

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Title: A Chance at Forever

Author: Melissa Jagears

Series: Teaville Moral Society #3

Genre: Historical

Audience: Adult

ABOUT THE BOOK

Mercy McClain joined the school board to protect the children of Teaville, Kansas, from the bullying she experienced as a child. When the worst offender from her school days applies for a teaching position, she is dead set against it. Yet Aaron Firebrook claims to be a changed man. Can he earn Mercy's trust - and her support for the challenges to come?

~ MY REVIEW ~

**4.5 stars**

A Chance at Forever is a worthwhile read! Even if it took me awhile to start enjoying the story, I ended up loving this book. I'm definitely a fan of author Melissa Jagears with her wide variety of characters and deeply meaningful messages.

Book Three in the TEAVILLE MORAL SOCIETY series centers on Mercy McClain, who we've meet in previous books. Still hurt by rude remarks made about her missing hand, Mercy is horrified when the boy who bullied her the most returns to Teaville.
But Aaron Firebrook has had to deal with his own wounds and deeply dark injustice done toward him. Now he returns to the town he grew up in hoping to make amends and help children.

As I said, this book took me awhile to get into for some reason or another. I was perhaps on page sixty-six when I decided I just needed to finish it. So I began reading again, rather quickly became wrapped up in the story, started loving it, and finished it the next day! The message / themes of redemption / backstories completely caught my attention and my heart. It was heartrending and beautiful. It was refreshing to see how Melissa Jagears calls out the arrogant, selfish, and "holier-than-thou" people. Her stories of men and women with a passion to help prostitutes, orphans, and the lowly are amazing. When we all want to make it about rules and "are you good enough?" and revenge, the truth is that God sees the heart. He gives grace to the humble, but opposes the proud (1 Peter 5:5). I feel Melissa Jagears brings that across wonderfully in her novels.

Also, I came to appreciate the big cast of characters in A Chance at Forever. Mercy, Aaron, Nicholas, Lydia, Caroline, Henri, Jimmy, Owen, Sadie, Charlie, the sweet little babies, etc., etc. Though they might not get a lot of screen time, each character has their purpose. The villains were well-done too, which means they really, really upset me! There were some sweet secondary stories as well ... and A Chance at Forever really wrapped everything up in a satisfying and hopeful way.

I almost cried from the agony. I gasped in anger. I smiled because of the sweetness. I truly love how Mercy and Aaron's story turned out. The TEAVILLE MORAL SOCIETY series is one I'm glad to have read, and recommend to fellow historical fiction fans!

I received a copy of A Chance at Forever from Bethany House Publishers in exchange for my honest review.

Book Review: A Light on the Hill by Connilyn Cossette

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Title: A Light on the Hill

Author: Connilyn Cossette

Series: Cities of Refuge #1

Genre: Historical/Biblical Retelling

Audience: Adult

ABOUT THE BOOK

After being branded during the battle of Jericho, Moriyah has had no prospects for marriage - until now. She hopes to please the man, but things go horribly wrong and she is forced to flee for her life. Seeking safety at one of the Levitical cities of refuge, she is unprepared for the dangers she faces, and the enemies - and allies - she encounters on her way.

~ MY REVIEW ~

**4 stars**

A Light on the Hill by Connilyn Cossette is a unique and beautiful read! It is the first book to a new series called CITIES OF REFUGE, but it does connect to the debut series by this author. In fact, we meet the main character of this book, Moriyah, in Wings of the Wind!

Connilyn Cossette does a masterful job with writing fiction set in Biblical times! She brings history to life, and we get a glimpse of heroic historical figures such as Moses, Miriam, and Joshua. Plus, her fictional characters are always so authentic and likable. I was so excited to get to read further about Moriyah! Though she is much older than when I last "saw" her, it was wonderful to see more of her story. It was hard, but worthwhile. And fun, at times. Moriyah has to work through a lot, but she has a sweet and spirited personality. And Darek! Oh, I quite liked him. *smiles* There were a lot of characters I really enjoyed in A Light on the Hill.

For a good portion of this book, I was reading eagerly (sometimes late into the night.) Loving going on this journey with Moriyah. Watching her fall in love. Seeing the manliness, and brute skill and strength of Darek, but also the tenderness and sense of humor. Cannanites, lions, cities of refuge, travel ... excitement, tragedy, danger, mercy. Though sometimes my heart constricted at the seemingly injustice and harshness of the law, A Light on the Hill was ultimately such a beautifully and tenderly redemptive story. It was intriguing learning more about this time in history - particularly concerning the Jews' culture - and I was ultimately satisfied with how things ended.

The end-ish of the book got a little heavy on the romance aspect. I would have rather it didn't focus on that so much, and I didn't approve of/appreciate some of the unmarried couple's actions toward each other, though ultimately Moriyah (view spoiler)

Overall, Connilyn Cossette delivers another fabulous and heartfelt story. I can't wait to read more by her!

I received a copy of A Light on the Hill from Bethany House Publishers in exchange for my honest review.