Shield of the Mighty - (The King's Men) by Connilyn Cossette

This book proves what I've already discovered, that Connilyn Cossette excels in writing biblical and historical fiction! In this mesmerizing story, Shield of the Mighty, she continues the saga of four cousins living in Israel during the reign of King Saul. I've read most of Cossette's books and I admire her efforts to weave in-depth research with the truth of God's Word. I loved seeing Yochana's skills in making healing perfumes and I enjoyed the many insights into the culture of life during Old Testament times. Engaging characters and swoon-worthy romance between Yochana and Zevi are strong elements in this riveting tale that includes battles fought, consuming revenge, and intense mistrust, but the overriding themes are forgiveness and trust. Forgiving oneself, forgiving others, and trusting that God is with you and that you are being shielded by the Mighty! If you're looking for biblical fiction that keeps you turning the pages, grab a copy of Shield of the Mighty, I can't wait to see what's next in The King's Men series! I received a copy of this book from the author and publisher. These are my honest thoughts.

There is nothing better than reading a book that pulls you in from the very beginning! "Shield of the Mighty" by Connilyn Cossette does exactly that. Synopsis - Captred by the Philistines as a young boy Zevi has grown into a formidable warrior. He is on a mission as captain in King Sauls army to recruit soldiers, and find talented artisans for the king court. He returns to the town that sent him away after his parent died. The town decided not to sign up to fight for Saul. Yochana is a widow who is very skilled at making perfume and healing medicine. She is mesmerized by a stranger who walks into her shop. That is till she realized he's there to recruit men to go to war. She lost her husband to war! Thoughts - I have to say that I love the way this author intertwined the story with the biblical time of Sauls reign. You see how Zevi is trying to overcome the pains of his past and protect a town that will not support the war. Then there is Yochana and her pain of losing her husband. Will Zevi and Yochana be able to overcome their past and look to the future. This a great love story! Disclaimer - I received this complementary copy from the publisher through netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are mine and mine alone.

Shield of the Mighty is yet another beautiful story of faith, Biblical truth and love set in the Old Testament backdrop. Connilyn Cossette’s ability to craft a romantic love story full of adventure and suspense is unrivaled. I’ve loved every one of her books, and I can’t get enough. I’ve loved Zevi’s character ever since he was introduced in Between the Wild Branches, and was so excited to learn that we’d get to see his story play out in Shield of the Mighty. No longer a young boy, Zevi’s grown into a strong soldier on a special mission for King Saul. His first meeting with Yochana made me smile. I loved seeing their chemistry right from the start! I also loved Yochana’s journey throughout the book (I won’t say more than that – you just need to read it for yourself!) And that ending was everything! I have to say, every time I pick up a Connilyn Cossette book, I know I’m in for twists and turns, and sweet romance, as well as lessons of God’s faithfulness, power and might woven throughout the story. Absolutely recommend Shield of the Mighty, as well as all of Connilyn Cossette’s books! Intimacy: Sweet Kisses only I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and author. All opinions are my own!

Zevi and Yochana both managed to steal my heart immediately (in fact, there seemed to be a lot of stealing going on with this story…but I’ll say no more on that score, lol.) From the onset, I was drawn, just as surely as Zevi was, to Yochana’s fragrances and healings. I loved getting to learn about her craft! Zevi was fierce and loyal, Yochana courageous and compassionate. Both were worthy of rooting for. I loved them! The adventure, mixed together with a journey that was filled with dangers and betrayal, made for an exciting read! Author Connilyn Cossette has a talent for making the world of the Bible come to life in an extraordinary way! I was very excited to continue the adventures of the four cousins in The King’s Men series and, after having read Shield of the Mighty, I’m just as excited to continue doing so with whatever the author has in store next!

Yochana is a perfumer who knows the healing properties of herbs and plants, while Zevi is a captain in King Saul’s army. When Zevi is told to bring men willing to fight from the towns and also skilled artisans, he’s determined to prove himself. So much so, that he’ll do anything to make sure Yochana comes along, bringing her impressive skills to the court. But Yochana is not happy with the one who sat on the throne, blaming him for her husband’s death. And though drawn to Zevi from the first moment he stepped into her shop, she’s just as stubbornly determined not to go with him. Theirs is a journey of slow-build irresistible romance, as they learn to respect one another, and also forgive the pain in each of their pasts. I ached for what each had to endure, and their struggle to face a brighter more beautiful future. I really enjoyed this book, and I never knew what to expect next. I connected with the characters, both main and others who entered the story throughout. This is probably my favorite of the series so far. Zevi was admirable in his treatment of Yochana, even while struggling with his desire for her; he wanted to do the right thing, and then as he recognized the wrong paths he had taken, he strove to right those wrongs. I loved the family dynamic, and how their love, support, and wisdom factored into Zevi’s life and ultimately his direction. Yochana was a good fit for him, as she grew to admire his character, and met him where he was without judgement and with encouragement and grace. The research and knowledge of this ancient time, society, customs, and history felt true, and I especially appreciated that. But, that said, there are a lot of references to not just the previous book, but also to the duology that comes just before this. Read those before you read this one! I was a little disappointed by just how many, and extensive, spoilers there were to these books. I think that could have been avoided, while still sharing the absolute necessary bits as they applied to Zevi. This was my reason for a slightly lower rating than I would have otherwise given. I was given this book and all thoughts and opinions are my own.