Biblical Fiction Book Review: To Dwell Among Cedars

About the Book

Title: To Dwell Among Cedars 

Series: The Covenant House, Book 1 

Author: Connilyn Cossette 

Genre: Biblical Fiction 

Publisher: Bethany House Publishers 

Release Date: December 1, 2020 

Click here to purchase a copy of this book. 

Publisher's Book Description

“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.”

 

My Review

To Dwell Among Cedars, by Connilyn Cossette, is the first of two novels in the Covenant House series. Set thousands of years in the past, this book is excellent historical fiction! Beautifully written and richly detailed, this book is a well-researched, utterly immersive story of faith, perseverance, courage, and hope. Page after page, this novel captivates with its thoughtful descriptions, gripping prose, ancient settings, engaging characters, and relevant themes.  
 

With undeniable skill, Ms. Cossette successfully uses the first-person point of view to draw the reader more fully into the story. Her purposeful use of this narrative style ensures that this story is very relatable. Her careful attention to sensory details makes the story vivid and real. This book welcomes the reader to breath alongside the main characters, hear the rustle of leaves in timeworn oak trees, feel the warmth of the sun shining on hilltop gardens, and slip back into a bygone world of loss, love, family, tradition, faith, and intrigue. 
 

As the story develops, the characters face situations that challenge their assumptions and test their loyalties. Though they may struggle with understanding God’s specific purposes for their lives, they demonstrate determination, perseverance, and courage as they endeavor to make the right choices for themselves, their families, and their communities. When the characters encounter various opportunities, choices, and trials, they find themselves on a journey of self-discovery, healing, and redemption that shapes their hearts and defines their futures. 
 

To Dwell Among Cedars is an unforgettable novel that is strengthened and enriched by its genuine respect for both history and the Bible. Throughout this book, Ms. Cossette shows how challenging it can be for those who long for true belonging and acceptance. Yet, for those who desire to be known and wanted, no better place can be found than in the welcoming embrace of God’s goodness and grace. From beginning to end, To Dwell Among Cedars is a powerful novel that illuminates the truth about the restorative and redemptive nature of God’s love for all people. Truly meaningful and deeply moving, it is a book that entertains, uplifts, and inspires. I recommend it most sincerely. 
 

*I was given a copy of this book from the publisher. A review was not required. The review I have written is voluntary and contains opinions that are entirely my own.

 

About the Author: Connilyn Cossette

“Connilyn Cossette is a Christy Award and Carol Award winning author whose books have been found on both ECPA and CBA bestseller lists. When she is not engulfed in the happy chaos of homeschooling two teenagers, devouring books whole, or avoiding housework, she can be found digging into the rich ancient world of the Bible to discover gems of grace that point to Jesus and weaving them into an immersive fiction experience. Although she and her husband have lived all over the country in their twenty-plus years of marriage, they currently call a little town south of Dallas, Texas their home.” --Biography from Connilyn Cossette’s author page on Amazon.com

Click here to visit Connilyn Cossette's website.