Like Flames in the Night - (Cities of Refuge) by Connilyn Cossette (Paperback)

Tirzah is female, smart and a spy during a time when women did nothing more than be wives and mothers! This unusual job only came about because of a dark time in ancient Israel. Arameans have taken over the country, and only a woman can slip into the enemy’s household to learn information that will help the Israelites retake their land. Trouble erupts while Tirzah is doing clandestine work, and it might cause her death. Dangerous Liyam says he is on her side, and can help her. He wants them to follow a risky plan. Is he telling the truth or is it an Armenian trap? There is lots of action, but high drama, too. Liyam harbors an agenda of his own which might be his downfall. This story will sweep you up and keep you till the last page. I loved this book, and you will, too. This clean tale stands alone, but treat yourself and read the entire series. I recommend this 5-star book to those who like well-written stories based on actual events—with romance and exploits that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Bethany House Publishing through NetGalley has provided bookreadingtic with a complimentary copy of, Like Flames in the Night, for the purpose of review.

Like Flames in the Night is the fourth book in the Cities of Refuge series by Connilyn Cossette, published by Bethany House. It ties in all the way to Cossette’s first book; even though her writings have been in different series, reading them in the order they were published creates one grand timeline and several interconnected stories. Barren, widowed, and yet strong, Tirzah wants her independence from societal norms. She doesn’t want to just re-marry and live her life in the Hebrew camps; she feels a deeper sense of purpose for her life, and tries to convince her military brothers to let her assist them as a spy in enemy territory. Set during the time of the Israelites conquering the Promised Land, the backdrop is set for an exciting biblical fiction adventure. I’ve loved Cossette’s novels since her first one! This one did not disappoint. I loved the action/adventure aspect of it, I loved the characters, and I loved the unique plot. While I’d recommend starting from book one, this works well as a stand-alone. Thank you to Bethany House and Net Galley for providing me with an electronic copy of this book to read and review. All opinions are my own and weren’t required to be positive. *Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention/review it on my blog. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion – which I’ve done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.*

Spies, infiltration, covert operations. What could be better? Why, setting it in Ancient Israel, of course! “Like Flames in the Night” is certainly a read that will keep you on your toes and in anticipation of what is to come next! Once I’d begun, I couldn’t put it down until I’d finished! Tirzah is a woman who has known loss, but is not afraid to stand for what she believes in and does not back down or give in until the task she has been assigned has been satisfactorily completed. Liyam is a broken, but fiercely determined warrior on a downward spiral toward vengeance. Together, the two of them must learn to trust in both one another and their God as they fight for the very continuation of their people. I enjoyed this book immensely, delighting in each successive chapter and full of curiosity and anticipation as to what would come the way of our hero and heroine next! This book (and the entire series, in fact!) is a must-read for all fans of Biblical fiction, spy tales or just a good book in genera! Bravo, Ms. Cossette, on another REMARKABLE read!

Like Flames in the Night, the fourth book of the Cities of Refuge series, is one that I can't recommend highly enough! It was a wonderful book from beginning to end! Anyone can pick up this book and be enthralled by it, but after having read the previous books by Cossette, it was especially moving. Throughout the story, the reader was lovingly reminded of the previous characters and story lines, and how they all fit together. And in that, there was a continual theme of God's presence, provision, and direction for His people. This exciting story brings to life the biblical time in which Othniel was the judge of Israel. Those faithful to God were called to rise up against their enemies, and how this played out for Tirzah and Liyam was amazing! I finished reading the main thrust of the book, where the conflict was resolved, and realized that I was only halfway through the story! I was satisfied, but there was so much more yet to come! I highly, highly recommend this book to those who read Biblical fiction. To those who have read Cossette's work before, you won't want to miss this one! Anyone new to Biblical fiction will find out how amazing this genre is, in the hands of a capable author. I received a copy of this book from the publisher, Bethany House, for review purposes. The thoughts expressed here are my own.

Like Flames in the Night, by Connilyn Cossette, may be the final novel in the Cities of Refuge series, but even if you have not yet read the first three books, don’t let that deter you from enjoying this book as soon as possible! It certainly performs quite well as a stand-alone story. Though this novel is set thousands of years in the past, the story is truly relevant, full of romance, drama, and suspense. It is a well-researched, remarkably detailed, and immersive story of faith, perseverance, courage, and redemption. Abounding with thoughtful descriptions that provide a fresh perspective on ancient settings and themes, this book is utterly engaging and deeply meaningful. Ms. Cossette possesses an unparalleled talent for writing her novels in the first person point of view. Her skillful use of this narrative style ensures that this book is thoroughly engrossing. Her attention to sensory details makes sights, sounds, smells, tastes, and textures vivid and real. This book offers the reader the opportunity to step into the sandals of the main characters, hear the rustle of leaves in forlorn olive groves, feel the wind blowing past the city walls, and be swiftly transported back into an ancient world of tradition, loss, revenge, love, sacrifice, faith, and adventure. The swiftly moving plot is well-paced, irresistible, and thrilling. As the story unfolds, the main characters find it necessary to undertake dangerous missions that place their lives in peril. These missions not only challenge them physically, culturally, and spiritually, but also provide ample opportunities for self-discovery, healing, and redemption. More than simple actions in service to their nation, these missions are profound and serve to shape their hearts and define their futures. Like Flames in the Night is a stunning work of fiction that finds meaning and purpose in its obvious respect for both history and the Bible. It is epic in its scope as it moves effortlessly from wooded hillsides, to homes full of friends and family, to cities rampant with peril and intrigue. With genuine style and authentic beauty, this novel invites the reader to savor paragraphs, linger over phrases, and delight in words. It is an unforgettably moving novel that captivates and entertains while it also uplifts and inspires. I recommend it wholeheartedly.  *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.

Like Flames in the Night is a fantastic way to wrap up a series that has made me a forever fan of author Connilyn Cossette. In the four books of the Cities of Refuge series she has created an amazing group of characters and the hero and heroine of this book are both wonderful additions. Tirzah is brave and she loves her country and her God; through all of her trials and efforts she continues to show great faith and determination as she becomes a spy and journeys to Shechem to uncover secrets while working in the kitchen of an Aramean commander. Along the way she joins forces with Liyam, a man intent on revenging the death of his beloved daughter. As they work to achieve their individual goals, their grudging admiration for each other turns into something much more. Cossette beautifully describes their increased awareness of each other romantically and she vividly conveys their fears as they realize that their mission could end in tragedy. "As I headed down into the valley, I willed myself to focus on the mission before me, instead of the inexplicable pull I'd begun to feel for the man at my back." "I could not lose her. Not like I had Havah. Not like Nadina. It was becoming clearer by the day that I would not survive if I did." I have learned so much from reading this series and Cossette's extensive research is evident in these fictional stories that include Israel's history. God's chosen people rejected Him, and then, after repenting, they turned back to Him. Like a loving father, He forgave them and this book reminds us of the power of forgiveness. Liyam was able to forgive the man that he blamed for his daughter's death and he finally realized that God offers the gift of forgiveness to all who call on His name. Isn't it wonderful that all of us are beneficiaries of this grace? Like Flames in the Night is an excellent way to conclude this series and I recommend it to all who enjoy biblical fiction. I received a complimentary copy from the author. There was no obligation to post a favorable review and I am voluntarily sharing my honest opinion.

The Setting Set in a time when God’s Chosen People had surrendered to idol worship, and subsequent oppression under Aramean rule, Like Flames in the Night follows two spies whose mission is to infiltrate the house of the commander who controls the Aramean army. These Arameans had enslaved and killed many of the Hebrews in their own land, but it’s up to the main characters to sew the seeds of faith once more, encourage the people to rise up in faith, overthrow the enemy, and retake the inheritance promised them by Yahweh. The Characters We sympathize with the hero and heroine from the beginning due to their painful pasts. Liyam, a redheaded, half-Canaanite, half-Hebrew warrior sets out for revenge against the Moabite trader who killed his daughter. Tirzah, daughter of the fiercest trainer of spies in Israel’s army, is now widowed and grieving miscarried pregnancies, searching for self-worth in her quest to turn the tide in the fight for her nation’s survival. Connilyn seamlessly weaves in characters from previous books as well, updating the reader on different families introduced throughout the series. I loved getting to see these old friends and their continued commitment to the growth they experienced in their own stories. The Plot The first plot point hinges on a controversial, and admittedly disturbing step for Liyam’s character, one he defends while still entrenched in his flaws, but which never seems to incur serious consequences. Otherwise, I enjoyed the twists and turns of this story. I love when a book surprises me with plot twists. Some developments I saw coming. Others, I didn’t. And that made me smile, because I know this is a difficult thing authors work hard for, and Connilyn makes it look so easy and smooth. With each new switchback, my heart pounded in hopes the characters would overcome, or at least survive, the challenge. I tend to bite my lip when the stakes are high in a book I'm reading and...let’s just say after reading this book, I don’t think I’ll need a lip exfoliator for a long time. :) The Romance Though Liyam and Tirzah’s first meeting is not without its challenges, these two skilled spies are well matched, both hearts brimming with courage while running from deeply buried pain. Their flaws hinder their mission and their growing relationship as he clings to his need for revenge and she to her need to prove her worth. On the other hand, Liyam challenges Tirzah to have faith and make wise choices while she encourages him to smile again, to live in light of the blessings God has given him. The Spiritual Thread Above the gripping plots, unique characterization, sweet love stories, and complex character webs, the spiritual content of Connilyn’s books is what draws me back time and again. I found myself connecting to both Liyam and Tirzah in their faith-journeys from revenge to forgiveness, from insecurity to identity, from latent unbelief to fearless, conquering faith. I loved the through-line of challenging God’s people to rise up in faith and live out what they claim to believe, throwing off complacency, fear, and idolatry to engage in the spiritual fight under the banner of the Almighty. *The publisher provided me with a complimentary copy of this title, and I have stated my honest opinion.

The final book in Cities of Refuge Series. So sad because it’s been a wonderful journey. When I read about the Cities of Refuge in the Bible I often wondered how the people fared and if they ever got to see their loved ones. Well these books have given me insight of how it was for these people. Now this book in itself was so captivating. I loved that Tirzah was a spy and that she wanted to help keep her lands safe. Women make such great spies and she was passionate about it enough to train. I love this quote from the book. “I may be a woman, but I am ready and willing to stand for Yahweh.” The characters are strong in this story as well as the other books and that includes our hero Liyam. He had a passion and wanted revenge so much. Will he give it to God? The spiritual thread you might expect from Biblical Fiction was there but oh my, the lessons we can learn from it is amazing. It can convict a person and make us want to do better and dig into the Word of God even more. That’s one thing I love about Christian Fiction. If you’ve not read any of this series just jump in. I haven’t read the first one and need to go back and read it. Also if you like Biblical Fiction this is it, at its finest. You don’t want to miss this whole series. I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House Publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.

Like Flames in the Night is Connilyn Cossette's fourth and final book in the Cities of Refuge series. It is an amazing and remarkable conclusion to the series. Biblical fiction is one of my favorite genres to read, and this book (and the whole series!) went way above my expectations. Cossette is an expert storyteller and has woven a magnificent story of the Hebrews' fight to free themselves from the tyranny of Aramaean occupation and the struggle to maintain their way of life under the Torah and to survive as a nation. The characters have depth and reality, and their emotions and strengths and failures resonate well with readers. Tirzah, a childless Hebrew widow, boldly insists on being involved in the fight for freedom, despite the danger and threat of capture or even death. Liyam, a stoic, deeply wounded man, is a man on a mission of vengeance. Odeleya, a sweet child, is caught up in the ugliness of captivity and war. How the author weaves their stories together is almost magical and certainly captured my heart. The descriptive scenes take readers right back to the ancient days and places and put them right into the story. Cossette skillfully wields her pen into the creation of beautiful imagery--"a nightingale warbled farewell to the stars from the heights of a nearby cedar, the mournful sound dissolving into the icy breeze that lashed a few brown leaves across my path". As the story moves at a fast pace toward an exciting climax, there is suspense and action, deception and death, and, on the softer side, family and friendships, loyalty and love, and faith. It is the kind of faith that allows one to reach out to God in the darkest moments of life and find overflowing mercy. Don't miss this marvelous book, it will hold you spellbound until the end and then leave you wanting more. I received a copy of the book from the publisher, Bethany House. A favorable review was not required. The opinions are my own.

" . . the woman standing before me now, . . . .was no cowering shadow. She was magnificent." Tirzah was determined to make a difference. Convincing her older brother Malakhi to train her as a soldier spy, she left home equipped with the necessary skills to infiltrate the stronghold of Shechem, prepared to become a conduit of information; confident that she could glean enemy secrets tossed out among careless conversations around the commander's table, where she would serve as a dutiful servant. Heartbroken after a careless mistake, Tirzah finds herself alone in the city and at the mercy of a Moabite mercenary, whose fierce appearance and hostile attitude is equal to his strong grip and barbaric plans for the use of his coveted "prize". Liyam never expected to play the role of a cruel, ruthless soldier, but when Tirzah's brothers convince him to rescue their sister in exchange for vital information, Liyam finds himself squarely within the crosshairs of Barsoum himself. Convincing the Aramean of his false credentials was one thing; convincing the vibrant beauty, stoically standing before him, of his true identity was quite another, for " . . . courage was written on every line of her intriguing face". Tirzah and Liyam's unlikely alliance barely begins to scratch the surface of this moving, and eventually utterly romantic story; riddled through-out with numerous accounts of courage and bravery against all odds, these characters personally demonstrate that the light of eternal truth can only shine "like flames in the night" when God's people humble themselves and pray, willingly ridding themselves of idolatrous cowardice, while simultaneously offering themselves up as a living sacrifice to "The One Who Sees" and "The One Who Hears". What an outstanding conclusion to one of the best series that I have ever read. I received a copy of this book from the author and publisher. The opinions stated above are entirely my own.

"Justice without mercy was tyranny, and mercy without justice was lawlessness. Yahweh had created both to work together, for his glory and for our good." This book's powerful words will remain with you long after its last words have been read. The soul-stirring journey of Liyam's heart will have you weeping, rejoicing, and cheering as he's gently led to understand God's justice, mercy, and forgiveness. The two first-person point of view from Tirzah and Liyam flows seamlessly to create a masterpiece that melds biblical account, historical account, and brilliantly creative fiction during the time of Aramean occupancy of the Promised Land and Othniel's uprising against the Arameans. The author has a gift of bringing the biblical period to life in full color and her characters, with their tangible emotional burdens, will grab your heart from page one. The author balances the responsibility and commitment of the Israelites as a community through Tirzah's life with the personal responsibility and commitment of a single follower of Yahweh through Liyam's life to create an incredible picture of what a righteous generation looks like. The cities of refuge, where this four-book series takes place, offer justice and mercy to those who need them the most, and Liyam has to engage in physical and emotional battle all over the Promised Land to finally comprehend God's perfect justice and mercy. I love that this book ties in the author's book Wings of the Wind from the previous series Out of Egypt with this series. Though this book is the final book of this current series, it can be read as a stand-alone, especially because the author provides timely recaps of the secondary characters' stories without slowing down the plot. If you have been following the series, you will love the glimpses of Moriyah and Darek's clan and delight in how Eitan and Malakhi grow up to be respected leaders of their people. There is plenty of action, suspense, and intrigue as Tirzah and Liyam cloak themselves in the world of espionage to further the cause of obtaining their people's freedom. Liyam and Tirzah are unforgettable, two of my favorite book characters of all time. If you enjoy biblical fiction, this book (and the series) is a must read. The impeccable research, well-crafted plot, memorable characters, and trustworthy faith lessons found in this book will make you a fan of Connilyn Cossette, too, if you aren't already. I received a copy of the book from Bethany House Publishers and was under no obligation to post a positive review. All comments and opinions are solely my own.

Book Review of "Like Flames in the Night" by Connilyn Cossette Cities of Refuge Series--Book 4 First of all I must say that this is the fastest I have ever read a book, and it is not because this book was short because it wasn't, nor was it because I just skimmed through it, no...it was because this book was so very riveting I just could not stop reading it! I have read other books that have been page turners, as the others in this Cities of Refuge have been, but none quite captivated me as much as this book did. Where one adventure ended, another began and it seemed I was gripped with excitement on every page. It was not a book where you could guess what would happen next, or predict the ending, no, this book kept you on edge until the very last page. "Like Flames in the Night" is the fourth and concluding book in Connilyn Cossette's "Cities of Refuge Series." If you have been blessed to read the first three books in this series you will find this book most pleasurable as you follow Tirzah, Darek and Moriyah's youngest daughter, on several breath-taking secret adventures as a spy in Aramean enemy territory. Plus, you will also be following Liyam, son of Moriyah's best friend, Alanah, who is a warrior out for vengence in the death of his young daughter. When Tirzah and Liyam meet in Shiloh, will they be able to work together to accomplish the mission they have both been sent to do? This is a question you will ask yourself as both of them are strong-willed and have their own agendas to deal with as well as the mission at hand. This book tells a parcially imaginative story of how, because of Israel's disobedience to the Lord and their following other gods, they fell into captivity for eight years to Cushan-Rishathaim, king of Aram Naharaim and how the people suffered under the cruel treatment of the governing commanders and soldiers, how their cities were taken over and destroyed, and how the true believers were no longer able to worship Yahweh freely. However, as scripture tells us, because of the faithful prayer and cries of the true believers, the Lord did rise up a Deliverer who was Othniel, son of Kenaz, Caleb's younger brother, who led Israel to fight and overtake their enemies and regain their cities and freedom once again. Though there are not many factual accounts of this time, in this book Connilyn Cossette takes us through how that time of deliverance may well have happened and introduces us to consider how many people, men and women and children, stayed strong in their faith in the face of adversity, and how their bravery and trust in the Lord brought eventual victory for Israel as the people turned back to the One True God and repented. This book shows us the terrible results of apostacy and how people suffer when they turn away from God and follow idols and false religions, letting their minds be influenced by the world instead of the truth of God's word, they fall into complacency and eventually captivity that leads to their destruction. This is evident in our world today, just as it was back then so many years ago, and it is good that this book brings that to light. This book not only was entertaining, it was historical, biblical, inspiring, romantic and full of faith and truth. I recommend it highly. I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All comments are my own. --Leona J. Atkinson

Superior Biblical Fiction by a master storyteller. This is book four and the conclusion to The Cities of Refuge series and in my opinion it is stellar. From the beautiful cover to the weaving of a tapestry with words you will be swept away to Biblical times and cities. The descriptive images of the countryside to the sights and smells of the cities including foods and delicacies will have you stepping into the time and place. This is a story of hope for a people who want to serve Yahweh against merciless aggressors. It has a truth for present times if we would all take our small flame and combine it with others to create a blaze that will defeat the darkness. It reminds me of the song we learn as children, This Little Light of Mine. I loved the healing that takes place in Tirzah and Liyam hearts when they fully surrender to Yahweh. Visiting previous characters we loved and meeting new ones all combined to tug at your heartstrings and make you saying no please don’t end. I highly recommend this whole series as it brings life to scripture. I was truly blessed in reading this as it is thought provoking. I received a complimentary copy from the author/publisher. The honest review and opinions are my own and were not required.

One lone flame does little to push back the darkness, but many little flames will soon create a blaze that will defeat the darkness. Wow! What an incredible finish to the Cities of Refuge series. There is suspense, spying, mercy, forgiveness and unconditional love - Yahweh for His people, Tirzah for Odeleya and the many who die to redeem their land. Tirzah is a young widow who is skillful, dedicated and a fast learner. She wants to help in the fight against the Aramean occupation of Judah’s cities and lands. Sending a woman as a spy was just not done but with much convincing and a great deal of training she was allowed to go to Shechem as a cook. Here she worked, listened and passed information back to her brother who was the leader of the fighting forces. As the remnant rises up, her faith is renewed and she remembers that the Lord will fight for her, she needs only to be still. Liyam has lost his wife in childbirth and his daughter to a trader’s lack of ability to control his team and wagon. Seeking only revenge, he sets out to find that one-eyed Moabite. It was lovely to read how Yahweh brings him back to the place where forgiveness is possible, as he helps in the mission to oust the Arameans from the land. One lone flame made all the difference! A good reminder for all of us to let our light shine wherever we are. I received this book through NetGalley, Bethany House Publishers and the Baker Publishing Group. All impressions and comments are my own and were in no way solicited.