Between the Wild Branches - (The Covenant House) by Connilyn Cossette

Let me just say I adored this book! Lukio and Shoshanna were it for me. I enjoyed how the romance went. I loved the writing. Connilyn Cossette will forever be a favorite and auto-buy author for me honestly. I have enjoyed the Covenant House duology and this conclusion was perfection! Lukio is a beast in the ring. A fighter since a child, he is back doing what Mataro trained him to do. He still harbors pain, hurt and anger towards his sister, Eliora aka Risi, after he walked away from her and the Hebrews. He is sick of the chains his cousin holds over him and so he seeks to be free. He ends becoming close to the seren but in doing so he is plunged into a harsh game of saving lives and seeing his first and only love again. Lukio grew so much in this book! I loved seeing him become vulnerable enough to trust God in all things. He tried so hard to deny the power of God, but as he saw his own people act foolishly he began to realize he was not "normal" among his own. He began to miss his found family among the Hebrews. His reconnection with Risi, Elazar and Yonah -- I was in awe! I just loved seeing him walk away from his old self to become Natan in fullness! Reminded me a bit of the prodigal son when he returned back to the Hebrews. Lukio is simply phenomenal! Shoshana is on a mission despite the danger she faces. Her story was so heart-breaking. All that she suffered at the hands of the Philistines and still suffered was insane. She was a strong woman. She reminded me of Tirzah a bit from Like Flames in the Night. I loved seeing her go to great lengths for her people. The romance was such a perfect second chance romance with the added twists and dangers. I loved seeing them meet again and try to fight their attraction to one another. The sweet, stolen moments together were everything. That end...I squealed for them! Mataro, Lukio's cousin, is a dog! He is a sick and greedy man. The lengths that he goes to get what he wants is insane. Nicaro, the seren, is just as sick as Mataro. He is set on killing all Hebrews, taking their land and finding the Ark. He always annoyed me, but in those last few chapters I wanted to scream. Pure evil! Mariada was just a gem in a pile of rocks and coal. I felt so terrible for her and the people she was around. She was such a pure girl. I loved her heart for Lukio and the friendship she had with Shoshana. I loved seeing her help them both in the end. Parts of me wished she'd had left with them, but I get that she had to stay and play her part. She is definitely a favorite character for me! Zevi and Igo were so sweet! I adored them so much and I'm so glad that they were able to survive to the end and go back with Lukio. Azuvah's son was EVERYTHING!!! I did not see that coming or the connection between that guy and Azuvah. I loved seeing this come full circle. Overall, this was everything! I adored the faith aspects so much. I would highly recommend this book for sure!

Between the Wild Branches is a touching story of love, betrayal, and loss, but it's also an inspiring story of love, redemption, and forgiveness! The first scenes were hard for me to read because of the brutal fight scenes between Lukio and his opponent, but they powerfully illustrate just how far a person can drift from his true self. By sharing these scenes, author Connilyn Cossette shows that redemption is always possible, and forgiveness is a gift that is available to all. This is a story that I won't soon forget, and it proves once again this author's remarkable talent for weaving fiction with Bible scripture and historical facts. We're given a glimpse of Cossette's deep faith and motivated to evaluate our own. I highly recommend Between the Wild Branches to all who enjoy historical Christian fiction. I received a copy of this book from the author and publisher. There was no expectation of a positive review, and I am voluntarily sharing my thoughts

“I have learned to hold not only him, but everything in my life with an open hand, trusting that no matter what, Yahweh is good…” . Connilyn Cossette continues to amaze me with her ability to masterfully weave fictional characters and their lives alongside biblical history. I always learn so much about the culture of the time, and her writing makes me want to dive into my own Bible to learn more about that time period. . This second novel in her latest duology had me on the edge of my seat the entire time. The characters and their struggles were loveable, believable, and relatable. I loved hearing more about Lukio’s story and how God worked in his life and the lives of his family and friends. I highly recommend that you check this book out when it releases! You won’t regret it! . I received a free copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions expressed are my own.

"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." A wild branch, indeed. Now known through-out the streets of Ashod as Demon Eyes, an undefeated Philistine fighter, Lukio's fame and fortune has caught the notice of Nicaro, the king. In fact, Nicaro has made Lukio an offer that he would be a fool to dismiss; the highly coveted position of Master of Games is his for the taking, along with the king's youngest daughter as his bride. However, when Lukio is introduced to his betrothed, it is the lovely young Hebrew woman in the shadows that captures his attention, for "the collision of (their) gazes felt like two ships ramming each other at full speed, and the shimmer of grief in her hazel eyes stripped (him) to the bone". With her distinctly talented writing voice, the author plunges her readers into a world between the walls of a city known for its blatant debauchery, violent behavior, and overt pagan practices. As Lukio and Shoshana warily try to navigate their present circumstances against the backdrop of their past, it becomes abundantly clear that the ending to their story will be tragic, for one of them will eventually be sacrificed for the other. "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." "Please Yahweh. I want to go home." What a lovely testament to the One who is mighty to save.

Between the Wild Branches, by Connilyn Cossette, is the second of two novels in the Covenant House series. Within every sentence and paragraph, Ms. Cossette uses threads of courage, love, redemption, and faith to weave an unforgettable story that is profoundly captivating and meaningful. With a writing style that is thoroughly descriptive and wholly immersive, Ms. Cossette brings a vivid and fresh perspective to ancient settings and cultures. Page after page, this novel offers a richly detailed reading experience, strengthened by characters and themes that are truly memorable and utterly moving. With beautifully written prose, this book beckons the reader to walk with the characters in the corridors of the palace, to listen to the cheers of excited crowds, to touch seashells that glisten with purpose, and to venture back into a world of long ago where power, family, tradition, faith, love, and intrigue wield tremendous influence. Throughout this novel, there are unexpected challenges and surprising situations that force the characters to question their assumptions, their motivations, their goals, and their loyalties. Though they face heartache, loss, and very real dangers, they show determination, perseverance, and true courage. As they struggle with unimaginable choices, they discover new paths of hope, healing, and restoration that impact all that they hold dear. Between the Wild Branches is a remarkable novel that shines with its authentic respect for both history and the Bible. Powerful and touching, it is a book that thoughtfully uses story to affirm God’s gracious and merciful love for all people. Well-written and thought-provoking, it is a stunning novel that is certainly worthy of attention and praise. I recommend it wholeheartedly. *I was given a copy of this book from the publisher/author. A review was not required. The review I have written is voluntary and contains opinions that are entirely my own.

Set during Bible days, Philistine orphan Lukio was taken in by a Hebrew family. That is when he met Shoshana, and although children, they knew they wanted to marry when grown. But then Lukio misinterprets a situation and runs away to his homeland, leaving a heartbroken Shoshana behind. After returning, Lukio became a fighter, rising to the country’s well-loved champion, known as Demon Eyes. It brought him fame and fortune. Just as he becomes betrothed to the king’s daughter, he notices her maid is none other than Shoshana, his childhood love. They find themselves in an impossible situation because they both still love each other, but Shoshana is now a slave, while Lukio is to marry the princess. Lukio throws himself into finding a way to get Shoshana back to her Hebrew home. But if the king finds out Lukio is helping a much-hated Hebrew, they will be killed. An intricate plan is devised to free her. Will Lukio risk his wealth, good name, and luxurious lifestyle for Shoshana--who he will never see again after she leaves? The author paints such a beautiful picture with her words, it is easy to feel transported to the ancient times where this tale takes place. You will be captivated by this predicament, and wonder how it can work out, or does it? Even though this tale stands alone, it would add a lot to the story if you read the first book in the series. This five-star story will appeal to fans of tales of long-ago, as well as, lost loves. Bethany House Publishing has provided Tickmenot with a complimentary copy of, Between the Wild Branches, for the purpose of review.

This follow-up novel to ‘To Dwell among Cedars’ is an absolute MUST-READ! The emotions run deep and the lessons run even deeper for this incredible story about a man who must come to terms with the hurt caused by the perceived rejection of those who claimed to love him and the hurt that he has caused them in return. I cannot begin to explain how deeply I was entrenched in this story and how much I truly loved it. Ms. Cossette never ceases to amaze me with the versatility she employs in making each and every one of her stories completely unique in both character and plot from one another! This author certainly knows how to keep things fresh and yet just as exhilarating and with equivalent depth from one work to the next. I love how authentic the settings of Author Connilyn Cossette’s novels are. They really bring a vitality and vibrancy to an otherwise sometimes difficult to comprehend life in ancient history. It is something I’ve come to count on (and never been disappointed by) in her novels. And I love the big, cozy, warm families that the author never fails to incorporate into her books!

Between the Wild Branches is the second book of the Covenant House duology, but it reads well as a stand-alone. Having read its predecessor, I found this book especially heart-wrenching because of the decisions Lukio had made. Upon further reading, I was astounded by all the positive choices he had made - as a businessman, home owner, and master of his household. Shoshana's life had been one filled with heartbreak, but she remained strong, yet kind and loyal. This was a great story. Details about the time and place were thoroughly fleshed out. The characters were believable. And in the midst of an evil civilization, there was still hope. Author Connilyn Cossette has penned an unforgettable story that readers of Biblical fiction, historical fiction, and Christian fiction will enjoy. I received a copy of this book from the publisher, Bethany House, for review purposes. The thoughts expressed here are my own.

This is historical fiction written around real Biblical history – specifically the Ark of the Covenant. There continues to be much mystery surrounding it to this day! The author has woven a story of strength and love in a way that brings you in. It is also a story of enduring love, promise and hope. The characters do not disappoint the reader at all. And be prepared for dangerous secrets too! I enjoyed this book for the intriguing characters and how the plot so ingeniously puts the characters in just the right places for the story to work. It is obvious that a lot of background study was done to create this story around the most important piece of Old Testament relics and make it believable! Yes, it is a fictional story with fictional characters, but the plan of God is evident for his people. I do recommend this book to other readers of Christian Historical fiction. The scenes will pop with incredible visions of the good and the bad in people, triumph and failure, love, and hate. You’ll have to read the book to find out about Demon Eyes!

Ok can I gush now....Epic! Marvelous! Couldn’t stop Reading! Outdid herself! Moves up to #1 on my top ten books this year. Between the Wild Branches is book two in The Covenant House series and I highly recommend you read To Dwell Among Cedars first so you have the background of Lukio and Shoshana. This book takes place a decade later and we find out how decisions dictate destiny but God and prayers can intervene. I found it heartbreaking at times and needed tissues but had to read every free moment I had. I didn’t want it to end but devoured it to see what happened. I was never a big fan of Biblical Fiction until I discovered this author and in my opinion she brings her expertise to light for others in an interesting and entertaining way that also educates and opens my eyes to the visual through the written word. That is a gift that is anointed and leaves you stunned when finished. I loved these characters and the theme of redemption and forgiveness. Family isn’t always blood relatives but involves being grafted into the vine. The words between the pages are as beautiful as the cover. I plan to reread this series to glean every morsel I can. I highly recommend this book and this author as each of her books leaves you thinking of her characters for a long time as they become a part of you. I was blessed to receive a complimentary copy from the publisher/author. The honest review and opinions are my own and were not required.

A riveting story of redemption, family and unconditional love. Lukio has returned to his birthplace in Ashdod, kicking and punching his way to the top as a renown fighter for the last ten years, leaving much of his Hebrew upbringing buried in Kiryat-Yearim. I knew I would love Lukio's story ever since reading Eliora's story in To Dwell Among Cedars where I was first introduced to the tenderhearted, courageous, and at times rebellious Lukio. But this book blew past all my expectations and may be one of my favorites by this author, obviously the biggest reason for that is its hero. I think what made me like him so much was being able to see him grow up from a stubborn young boy and rebellious teen; how it all shaped him into a courageous man. I liked that he was honest with himself, and I admired how his love for Shoshanna matured throughout the story. I loved getting to know Shoshanna more from the mere glimpses we got of her in the previous book, she is a kind and compassionate woman, brave with a gift for comforting others. This is a gripping read, it grabbed me up quickly and I didn't want to put it down. It is a well plotted read filled with danger, high stakes, and many beautiful friendships. I loved how the pieces fell into place for some excellent twists that had me crowing with glee. Excellent plotting and pacing, well balanced character development and filled with adventure. But probably my favorite parts of this book are the friendships, unlikely and unexpected at times, between people of different stations in life and cultures, a wonderful example of how God can use us and others in each other's lives. The perfect second half of a fantastic duology, highly recommend to fans of Biblical fiction and ancient historical fiction! I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Between the Wild Branches is another fascinating Biblical fiction book from an excellent storyteller, Connilyn Cossette. It is second in The Covenant House series and could be read as a stand-alone story but reading the first book (To Dwell Among Cedars) will give a richer, more full understanding of the characters and circumstances. Cossette's books are captivating stories, rich with detail that take readers right into the scenes of ancient history. Readers will love this fictional account of Lukio, a Philistine, and Shoshana, a young Hebrew woman enslaved by the Philistines. The characters have depth and reality as they deal with intense situations. The character development, especially that seen in Lukio, and the emotions, strengths, and weaknesses portrayed in the personalities, resonate well with readers. The historical lessons about the ancient struggles between the Philistines and the Hebrews are brought expertly to life. With some edge-of-the-seat scenarios and tension-filled moments, Between the Wild Branches held my attention from beginning to end. The author weaves faith in Yahweh into the story, reminding readers what God has done in the past circumstance He can do once again in the present. I liked how one character states, "I have learned to hold...everything in my life with an open hand, trusting that no matter what, Yahweh is good". I anxiously await any new offerings from this author, and readers who love a good romance mixed with Biblical fiction will not want to miss The Covenant House series. I received a complimentary copy of the book from Bethany House Publishers. I was not required to write a favorable review, and the opinions are my own.

“I had run away like a spoiled child all the way to Ashdod, wounded by my perceptions…I’d run away instead of standing strong and acting like the man I’d insisted I was back then.” What an incredible Biblical fiction novel Connilyn Cossette brings to us in Between the Wild Branches, #2, The Covenant House. Lukio, who scorned the love of his adopted Israeli family has returned to his native Philistia. There, he rises to prominence as “Demon Eyes,” and “The Champion of Ashdod,” a pugilist who is wealthy, popular, and can have any woman he desires. Unfortunately, he wants the one, Shoshana, he cannot have. Lukio attracts the notice of Ashdod’s power-hungry king, Nicaro. The action ramps up from here and never lets up. First things first: read book one, To Dwell Among Cedars, before reading Between the Wild Branches. The novel will be enhanced greatly. Just as the covers fit together into one picture, so the novels fit seamlessly together and one is not complete without the other. Cossette is a fabulous storyteller, researcher, suspense artist, and Biblical scholar. I couldn’t bear to put this book down. I felt like I had opened a treasure chest when I opened this book. So many truth nuggets burst forth. A clean romance builds as it winds through the tale, achingly beautiful as Cossette feeds us only snippets of the past interwoven sporadically with the present. Biblical times customs and culture of both Israel and Philistia are explored, and the reader’s eyes are opened to what life in those countries was truly like. Strategy, intrigue, and suspense will keep either male or female readers flipping through pages as fast as their fingers and eyes can move. I cannot recommend this book highly enough. My thanks to the author and publisher for a copy of this book. No positive review was required. All thoughts are my own, voluntarily submitted.

This is the conclusion to the Covenant House duology and it was amazing! Lukio and Shoshana’s story was one of heartache, facing the impossible, learning forgiveness and experiencing God’s redemption! This book can be read as a standalone, but I definitely recommend to read it after “To Dwell Among the Cedars”, where the story starts when Lukio and Risi were two orphaned children in Ashdod, Philistia. Now, Lucio is a grown man, ten years after he fleed from his childhood sweetheart and his sister and adopting family after Shoshana told him he was marrying another. This heart-wrenching story was so beautifully crafted and written that it touched me deeply in the heart, it was very thought provoking and inspiring. I felt I was in 1052 BC in Philistia, I could see the city, the landscape, smell their scents, everything became so alive because of her description and accurately researched storytelling. The human sin, opposing God’s grace, not so very different as of our days. Abuse, hedonism, human slavery. But God’s Love prevails! She must have studied so much in order to write this book! The historical circumstances surrounding the period in which Samuel was a judge and his influence in the people of his era were so detailed and realistic, even if the main characters and their story was purely fictional. The plot was so captivating and full of action that I found myself I didn’t want to part with the book when I had to sleep or work, and I wanted to steal moments just to know what would happen next. So many beautiful dialogues. There’s intrigue, danger and deception, two cultures that clash and oppose: the pagans and the Only God’s people, and a Godly Love that knows no bounds as well as a human love that can imitate God’s Unconditional Love and be a light to others. Lukio’s journey to redemption and forgiveness, was humbling, and it was heart-tugging too. He was loyal, compassionate and merciful in spite of his brutal profession. He was willing to risk his life in order to what he felt was right. I felt as if he allowed me into his heart, his hurts, his deepest desires, his need of grace and love. Shoshana was an admirable woman, and my heart went for her too. She has suffered in a different way from Lukio, but her pain was acute all the same. To love him when she knows their love can’t ever be was so painful, yet she was so willing to sacrifice. And so willing to put others above herself. She was an inspiration to Lukio, and the vessel can ultimately lead him to a true and plentiful life, if only so many dark forces will finally let them. The romance between Lukio and Shoshana is one of the sweetest and more heart-tugging I’ve read! Oh my! And the message of this book is so touching and inspiring that it will leave you wanting to be a better person and to trust God with your life. This is one of the best Biblical fiction stories that I’ve read to be sure! I can’t recommend it highly enough! Now that this duology has concluded in such a beautiful way, I can’t wait to see what Ms. Cossette has in store for us next. She’s an auto-buy author to me!

Between the Wild Branches is a sequel to To Dwell Among Cedars, a continuation of two Philistine orphans, Arisa and her brother, Lukio. At the end of Cedars, Lukio has left his Hebrew “family” to return to an abusive Philistine relative thinking he is true family. We readers have been excited for this sequel to learn of what happened to Lukio, now in the land of his birth. In Branches Lukio has emerged as the Philistine champion called “Demon Eyes” (because each of his eyes is a different color). He is unbeatable. Lukio has partaken of all that pagan society has to offer him. He’s now an extremely wealthy man who has found great favor with the King. In fact, the King offers his most favored daughter to Lukio as a wife. They become betrothed. This is where the story begins its twisting and turning, keeping the reader on the edge of her seat. Shoshana, Lukio’s childhood friend and the love of his heart, turns out to be his betrothed’s slave. SHOCK! As the story unfolds, Lukio’s eyes are opened to the atrocities being done to the captured Hebrews. Shoshanna’s life has been one of pain and suffering, and Lukio’s heart is enraged at all that has been done to her. He can no longer turn a blind eye. As he becomes an advocate for the enslaved Hebrews (especially Shoshana), he meets others within the palace who are helping free the slaves. He enters a world of deceipt and extreme danger, where his life may be required of him if he is found out. Throughout these last chapters, as Lukio’s heart opens up to pain of others, his eyes begin to open and he slams right into the One Who Sees, who sheds truth into his heart and mind and leads him to Truth. There is much heartache and joy as the pages turn. I admit, I shed tears in several spots. The ending, of course, leaves the reader satisfied and full of joy. Cossette is a writer who develops her characters at a deep level. I felt I was a personal friend of Lukio and Shoshana by the end of this series. Characters from Cedars are in Branches, which enriches the sequel. Cossette does her research before embarking on a series. She transports the reader back in time. I felt the pain of the vicious dog fights, the abuse done to the Hebrew slaves, the brutal human fight scenes in the arena, and the nauseating hedonistic pagan festivals. However, Cossette sprinkles bits of Yahweh truth throughout the book, ending the book with a huge gust of His truth that sets the protagonist free. My heart was overjoyed with the ending. If you are looking for a summer read that will draw you into another world from several thousand years ago, THIS IS THE BOOK! You will not be disappointed! I would, however, recommend you read To Dwell Among Cedars first as it will give you a deeper enjoyment of Between the Wild Branches. Happy reading! From, a VERY satisfied reader of Connilyn Cossette books.

I could hardly wait to get my hands on a copy of this novel, and I certainly was not disappointed. Once again, talented Biblical fiction author Connilyn Cossette has surpassed my high expectations! Between the Wild Branches, the second book in the “Covenant House” series, is a beautifully written story of grace, mercy, and redemption that picks up in 1052 BC, ten years from when To Dwell Among Cedars left us. As this book begins, the despondent, rebellious boy Lukio is now a wealthy, popular man known as “Demon Eyes,” a highly regarded prize fighter in the Philistine world. Even so, he is still lonely, lost, and seeking the fulfillment that has always alluded him. Having gained the favor of the king, he believes he has finally “made it.” It is then that his true love, Shoshana, reappears in his life, and his world and priorities realign in a heartbeat! Cossette is a genius at both character development and pacing, and the depth of her historical research is readily evident on every page she writes. I do not want to give away too much. Suffice it to say this highly suspenseful story kept me up well into the night, as I could not leave these beloved characters in such danger, turmoil, and uncertainty! Between the Wild Branches could easily be read as a stand-alone novel, but I would recommend reading the first book in advance for background knowledge. I highly recommend this novel, as well as all of Cossette’s other books, to anyone who enjoys historical fiction set in Bible times. I received an advance copy from the publisher through NetGalley but was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are entirely my own.

What an amazing book this was. I had been waiting for this book since finishing book 1, To Dwell Among Cedars. I could hardly wait to read it and it was as good as I had hoped and expected from this wonderful author. This was Lukio's story as his past comes back into his life and finds the woman he cared so much for in his youth. But so much has happened since they were torn apart from the wishes of her father. So many changes and things to complicate their lives. There is a very interesting storyline and a story of repentance and striving for the good as opposed to the evil. Both books of this set are excellent and make for good biblical period fiction. I love historical things and the lifestyle and events are always very interesting to read about. I love this author's work and can't wait to see what her next book will be about. I am sure it will be amazing! I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. All thoughts are my own.

“I nodded and pulled out of his hold, instantly feeling chilled at the loss of his nearness and my throat aching from the urge to weep. But I forced myself to walk away, leaving him alone on the terrace with a broken shell and all my futile longings for what might have been.” You won't be disappointed with this book and will also be unlikely to put it down until it's finished. Connilyn continues to gift us with incredible stories that allow us these fascinating glimpses into Biblical history. I am forever a fan of the beautiful characters, settings and stories that she comes up with that draw us in between the lines of the Bible. I remember being frustrated with Lukio in the first book of this duology, To Dwell Among Cedars. I thought he was selfish, harsh, and stubborn. Honestly, I wasn't sure I'd really even be into this story as it is about him, but true to her signature writing, Connilyn drew me in right away and had my full attention to the very end. I absolutely loved the story of Lukio and Shoshana!! I felt the growth and shift in Lukio pretty immediately into the story, but I loved seeing more of his character show through as we hear more about him and how he has lived the last ten years since we've seen him last. The character development was extraordinary, believable and captivating. Shoshana exudes this quiet strength and grace that you can't help but admire and be drawn to throughout the book. "Lukio was no longer the boy he’d been, but neither was I the same girl, so it did no good to wish away the chasm between us. It was just as immovable as the mountain I’d grown up on and as deep as the valley I’d walked since he’d left Kiryat-Yearim."

Loved this one even more than the first. While reading the last half of the book, I couldn't wait to put it down. I appreciated seeing the differences in culture between the Hebrews and the Philistines that Connilyn Cossette researched. Her writing makes you feel like you are in the story and among the characters. I love Lukio's story of redemption and the way that so many of the characters are woken together. Even though some of the story is hard to read at times due to the many injustices that the characters face, the injustices make the characters more real and the story that much more beautiful. Highly recommend this book, especially to lovers of historical fiction. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own

This is Biblical fiction at its finest. Connilyn Cossette knocks it out of the park yet again. The author truly has a gift of making the Bible come alive in full color and in 4-D where you can see, taste, touch, smell, and hear what it may have been like during the time periods she writes about. In this second book of the Covenant House series, we are transported to the city of Philistine's Ashdod during 1052BC while Samuel is rising in power as the judge in Israel. I can't imagine the amount of research it must have taken for the author to create such an incredible backdrop so that the average modern reader like myself can understand the culture that prevailed back then. Threaded within this setting is the utterly heart-breaking and heart-wrenching tale of a boy and a girl, separated and torn apart by bigotry, anger, hatred, war, misguided loyalty, insecurity, and so much regret. Though this book can be read as a stand-alone, I'd highly recommend reading the series in order so that you can fully appreciate Lukio's maturation into a man of honor and compassion. Shoshana and Lukio are one of my favorite fictional couples whom I've had the pleasure to meet this year. Shoshana is strong, resourceful, and faithful even though she's been through so much pain and suffering in her short life. Lukio is steadfast, reliable, compassionate, and merciful even though he makes a living as a fighter. Tragedies of war and human sin are on full display throughout the story but the hope, grace, and forgiveness found in the One True God surpass all the ugliness. Beautiful pictures of spiritual and physical adoption are woven into the characters' lives. The themes of belonging, unconditional love, and true acceptance are so exquisitely drawn into the plot. It also has intrigue in the subplot which adds suspense and excitement. There are unexpected and tender friendships as well as betrayal. The secondary characters are so lovely and lovable that I wish the author would write more sequels to tell their stories. This book gave me goosebumps from how real everything felt, the raw emotions, and the surprising twists and turns. Be prepared to shed lots of tears - Lukio and Shoshana will bring you from the edge of despair to the mountaintop of purpose and unfailing love. One of my top 2021 reads! I received the book from Bethany House Publishers and was under no obligation to post a positive comment. All opinions are solely my own.