A Light on the Hill (Cities of Refuge)

I absolutely LOVED this book! Cossette has once again brought the Bible times to life in vivid color. I really enjoyed how she created a story with the cities of refuge, because the Bible never mentions a story where they are used. I just finnished reading through Joshua before this book came out and I appreciate how the author wove real events into the backdrop. I think one of the reasons I like this author so much is because she makes completely fictional characters as her main characters. Most Biblical fiction tells fictionalized stories about real people. For me I kind of stumble over getting into those stories because I already know what happens, or I can't make it past my mental image from reading the Biblical account. However I enjoy this author because she gives you a fictional character to see the Bible times through new eyes. She has the liberty to write a story without having to match it up with one we already know. I think that is brilliant and that is why I buy her books!
I don't want to give anything away about the story but I will tell you this book is well worth reading. It is full of tension, danger, hope, love, and mercy.
I keep on saying "I love," but I do! I love how the foreshadowing in this story reminds us of our One Refuge, Our Savior.
Highly, highly recommended!

Oh, the heartbreak, the joy, the danger, and the suspense! A Light on the Hill by Connilyn Cossette is the first book of a new series, Cities of Refuge. It continues the story begun in the Out From Egypt series, yet it stands alone well. Cossette expertly takes some brief passages of Scripture and fills in an amazing story line based on those. I was caught by surprise several times at the events unfolding in this story.

The character development was amazing! We met Moriyah in Wings of the Wind, where she was a lively young girl. Circumstances have changed her, and she has been living almost hermetically since her rescue. Under dire situations, she must revisit her time in Jericho, and come out from her shell to save herself and her companions. I was always amazed and thrilled at what she could do as a result of her captivity in Jericho.

Biblical fiction readers, I'm sure you will love this book, like I did. Those who like action, suspense, and romance will enjoy this book, as well.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher, Bethany House, for review purposes. The thoughts expressed here are my own.

Ever since she was captured and taken to Jericho, where she was branded before being rescued, Moriyah has kept her face veiled and stayed close to home, not wanting to bring further shame to her family as those who see her gossip and speculate about what happened to her. When her father tells her he has found a match for her, Moriyah is surprised and nervous, especially since her betrothed, Raviv, does not seem particularly kind and obviously only wants her dowry. Still, she wants to honor her father, but when she tries to prepare a special meal for Raviv and his sons, the unthinkable happens, and Moriyah must flee, heading for a sanctuary city in an attempt to save her life long enough to receive a fair trial. Along her perilous journey, she finds unexpected allies--including the God she thought had abandoned her years before.

I was hooked from the very beginning of this book. I absolutely loved Moriyah's story. She was such a compelling character. The plot was so interesting--it was so fascinating to see what it might have been like for someone who needed to seek refuge in these cities. I absolutely loved seeing Moriyah's developing romance, too. All around great read! I loved it!

I received a copy from the publisher. All opinions are my own

I fell in love with the character Moriyah and her great strength. Her life was affected forever at age 13, when she was branded and falsely accused of being a prostitute. She has worn a veil since. Now older, her mother has died and she is living with her father. Her father spends many hours tending his vineyard. He tries to help by finding her a husband. He offers his vineyard as a dowry. Moriyah just wants to go to the market to get ingredients to cook for her blind friend, Ora. There she Is belittled by younger girls and on the way home is assaulted with rocks by boys. This is the kind,yet persecuted, Moriyah that we are introduced to early in A Light On The Hill. When Moriyah meets the man who has agreed to marry her, Raviv, will they fall in love? Or as a widower with two young sons does he just want her to take care of them and want her for her father’s vineyard? Does she marry Raviv? When tragedy occurs to his sons, Moriyah has to run away to save herself. Was the tragedy her fault? Will Raviv seek revenge? She prays to Yahweh for others and sometimes for herself. As it seems Raviv is closing in on her, she prays and hears fear not ....... there is much more to the story. Sorry it can’t all be covered here. I had never read much Biblical and historical fiction but I am sold on it now. I am now an avid fan Connilyn Cossette. I received a complimentary copy and was not required to give a positive review. The review is my own honest opinion of A Light On The Hill.

A historical romance novel, this book tells of the days of Cities of Refuge...something easy to skim over in the old testament. Painting a picture of how vital these cities could be and how even if innocence is proven these cities could become a sort of prison for those who found refuge in them, this book opens eyes to a culture set up by God Himself.

Moriyah is well into the marrying age and yet hides herself in her house due to the terrible scar that renders her face and her emotions raw any time it is exposed.

Discovering she we to wed the son of a seasoned warrior she determines to make the best of it due to her father's wishes. Discovering the man's son is one who can look beyond a scar gives her hope until she realizes she met the wrong son.

A poorly timed accident determines the end of her future husband's twin sons and seals her death if the man catches her. Traveling to a city of refuge is her only hope. A hope that holds almost as much danger as facing the man who wishes to slay her.

Book provided for my review.

I haven’t read much Biblical fiction, but I’d heard so many good things about Connilyn Cossette’s books that I decided to give them a try. I was overwhelmed with the emotions I felt while reading A Light on the Hill. The author is a master at bringing Biblical fiction to life. From the descriptions of the settings to the realistic and vividly drawn characters and suspenseful situations, she crafts a tale that is riveting and memorable. The emotionally-charged, multi-layered storyline kept me turning pages far into the night. Cossette’s perfect pitch author voice gave the story authenticity, and her obviously deep research into her subject matter whetted my appetite to learn more about this time period. I’m looking forward to more books in her City of Refuge series.
A Light on the Hill is filled with suspense, intrigue, danger, and romance, with threads of mercy, hope, and faith seamlessly woven in to make this an unforgettable story.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy from the author/Bethany House. All opinions are my own.

This was a fascinating theme for me, the thought that God would allow cities of refuge for people who have been accused of murder and need a fair trial. I had previously known of this concept in the Bible, but I have never red a fiction story where an author attempted to include it. I enjoyed reading a new plot! I hope that Cossette will continue this theme in her future fiction stories.

The idea sparked ideas of what grace and mercy really are. The main character is harshly accused of murder and the relative is demanding her life. She did the act and therefor, is literally a "murderer" but the intention was not to harm the victims, it was accidental. The thoughts stirred questions of forgiveness and a remembrance of Jesus' sacrifice for our sins.

I would recommend this book to a friend. I was given a copy for my review.

Ok, ladies, if you love historical biblical books, this is a must read. Connilyn Cossette expertly weaves in history from the bible along with the lives of Moriyah and her family and the people she lives with. This is really one book that I will be re reading, it is so good and captivating. Moriyah's life is full of fear and self doubt. But how she overcomes those are truly fascinating and will hold you captive. I learned a lot about how I am to approach our God on High. I have seen the maps in my bible about cities of Refuge, but not really known about them. This book will explain so much about them. I really appreciated the map in the front and in the back and the questions for conversations.

No where in Scripture are there stories of those who utilized the cities of refuge we read about in the law of Moses. This is the story of one such woman, who found refuge in one such city, and ultimately, the Lord himself. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and couldn't believe how quickly I blazed through it's pages. Life felt breathed into the Old Testament law through this story in a fresh way for me. I'm grateful for the way Connilyn Cossete uses her imagination to make Scripture feel accessible and relevant, as she tells stories based on what we find in Scripture. A for me. 

*I received a complimentary copy of this book. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commissions 16 CFR, Part 255

I fell in love with Cossette's first trilogy, Out of Egypt. I love reading about descriptive details that are in the Bible. Cossette gives me more insight on how one of the people from the Old Testament lived, allowing me more depth to knowing what goes on inside those pages that we only read about, but never got to experience.

Cities of Refuge book 1, I'd been itching to read since I found out that it was going to be up for sale soon. Once I started, I couldn't stop. Moryiah's character depicted courageous personality when it came to finding out just how much our scars tell a story, regardless of both good and bad. I didn't want it to end. Already I'm thirsting for Book 2.

I absolutely LOVED this book! Cossette has once again brought the Bible times to life in vivid color. I really enjoyed how she created a story with the cities of refuge, because the Bible never mentions a story where they are used. I just finnished reading through Joshua before this book came out and I appreciate how the author wove real events into the backdrop. I think one of the reasons I like this author so much is because she makes completely fictional characters as her main characters. Most Biblical fiction tells fictionalized stories about real people. For me I kind of stumble over getting into those stories because I already know what happens, or I can't make it past my mental image from reading the Biblical account. However I enjoy this author because she gives you a fictional character to see the Bible times through new eyes. She has the liberty to write a story without having to match it up with one we already know. I think that is brilliant and that is why I buy her books!
I don't want to give anything away about the story but I will tell you this book is well worth reading. It is full of tension, danger, hope, love, and mercy.
I keep on saying "I love," but I do! I love how the foreshadowing in this story reminds us of our One Refuge, Our Savior.
Highly, highly recommended!

This week’s featured book is Connilyn Cossette‘s A Light on the Hill.  It’s the first book in a new biblical fiction series by the author of the Out from Egypt series. Moriyah has a complicated history.  She was a captive and was branded a temple prostitute.  After her escape, she returns to her home but keeps her face covered in shame.  Her father finds a man who promises to marry her anyway, and Moriyah is determined to honor her father.
Darek catches Moriyah’s eyes from behind her veil the night before she is to meet her betrothed and is captivated.  He wants to win her heart but feels betrayed when he discovers who she is betrothed to.  Will they be able to overcome the odds stacked against them, find justice and mercy, and love each other?
While this wasn’t quite as stunning of a series-starter as Counted with the Stars was, it was still an excellent read.  The Old Testament themes tied in with the overriding message of salvation, redemption, and freedom well.  The setting and timeline was a little hard to follow due to its ancient history, but I found a map at the back of the book that was helpful.  I loved the characters and how they related to each other, pursuing what was right.  It also tied in characters from the Out of Egypt series, which was neat to have a little update on them.
I would definitely recommend this book to lovers of ancient history, the Bible, and biblical fiction!
Thank you to Bethany House publishers for providing me with a copy of this book to read and review.  All opinions are my own and were not 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.*

Oh, the heartbreak, the joy, the danger, and the suspense! A Light on the Hill by Connilyn Cossette is the first book of a new series, Cities of Refuge. It continues the story begun in the Out From Egypt series, yet it stands alone well. Cossette expertly takes some brief passages of Scripture and fills in an amazing story line based on those. I was caught by surprise several times at the events unfolding in this story.

The character development was amazing! We met Moriyah in Wings of the Wind, where she was a lively young girl. Circumstances have changed her, and she has been living almost hermetically since her rescue. Under dire situations, she must revisit her time in Jericho, and come out from her shell to save herself and her companions. I was always amazed and thrilled at what she could do as a result of her captivity in Jericho.

Biblical fiction readers, I'm sure you will love this book, like I did. Those who like action, suspense, and romance will enjoy this book, as well.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher, Bethany House, for review purposes. The thoughts expressed here are my own.

Ever since she was captured and taken to Jericho, where she was branded before being rescued, Moriyah has kept her face veiled and stayed close to home, not wanting to bring further shame to her family as those who see her gossip and speculate about what happened to her. When her father tells her he has found a match for her, Moriyah is surprised and nervous, especially since her betrothed, Raviv, does not seem particularly kind and obviously only wants her dowry. Still, she wants to honor her father, but when she tries to prepare a special meal for Raviv and his sons, the unthinkable happens, and Moriyah must flee, heading for a sanctuary city in an attempt to save her life long enough to receive a fair trial. Along her perilous journey, she finds unexpected allies--including the God she thought had abandoned her years before.

I was hooked from the very beginning of this book. I absolutely loved Moriyah's story. She was such a compelling character. The plot was so interesting--it was so fascinating to see what it might have been like for someone who needed to seek refuge in these cities. I absolutely loved seeing Moriyah's developing romance, too. All around great read! I loved it!

I received a copy from the publisher. All opinions are my own

I've already enjoyed two of Connilyn Cossette's novels: Shadow of the Storm and Wings of the Wind, both based on Biblical history, and both introducing characters that play a part in the novel after it. A Light on a Hill begins a new series (Cities of Refuge), but the main character, Moriyah, has grown from the young girl she was in the previous book into a beautiful young woman. All her siblings have married, and she has remained with her father. 

As the above blurb states, something does go horribly wrong, though I don't want to even say what it is for fear of spoiling anything for readers! I can tell you that she winds up forced to travel into Canaanite territory across the Jordan River, and outwit some very powerful people within the walls of Megiddo. The story is full of suspense, drawing you back in time to immerse yourself in this story taking place in ancient Israel, and wishing you could interact with some of the characters. 

I fell in love with the character Moriyah and her great strength. Her life was affected forever at age 13, when she was branded and falsely accused of being a prostitute. She has worn a veil since. Now older, her mother has died and she is living with her father. Her father spends many hours tending his vineyard. He tries to help by finding her a husband. He offers his vineyard as a dowry. Moriyah just wants to go to the market to get ingredients to cook for her blind friend, Ora. There she Is belittled by younger girls and on the way home is assaulted with rocks by boys. This is the kind,yet persecuted, Moriyah that we are introduced to early in A Light On The Hill. When Moriyah meets the man who has agreed to marry her, Raviv, will they fall in love? Or as a widower with two young sons does he just want her to take care of them and want her for her father’s vineyard? Does she marry Raviv? When tragedy occurs to his sons, Moriyah has to run away to save herself. Was the tragedy her fault? Will Raviv seek revenge? She prays to Yahweh for others and sometimes for herself. As it seems Raviv is closing in on her, she prays and hears fear not ....... there is much more to the story. Sorry it can’t all be covered here. I had never read much Biblical and historical fiction but I am sold on it now. I am now an avid fan Connilyn Cossette. I received a complimentary copy and was not required to give a positive review. The review is my own honest opinion of A Light On The Hill.

A historical romance novel, this book tells of the days of Cities of Refuge...something easy to skim over in the old testament. Painting a picture of how vital these cities could be and how even if innocence is proven these cities could become a sort of prison for those who found refuge in them, this book opens eyes to a culture set up by God Himself.

Moriyah is well into the marrying age and yet hides herself in her house due to the terrible scar that renders her face and her emotions raw any time it is exposed.

Discovering she we to wed the son of a seasoned warrior she determines to make the best of it due to her father's wishes. Discovering the man's son is one who can look beyond a scar gives her hope until she realizes she met the wrong son.

A poorly timed accident determines the end of her future husband's twin sons and seals her death if the man catches her. Traveling to a city of refuge is her only hope. A hope that holds almost as much danger as facing the man who wishes to slay her.

Book provided for my review.

Connilyn Cossette has done it again with an awesome biblical fiction and characters with great progression, pivoting around the concept of the cities of refuge and the balance of God’s mercy and justice.

The Israelis had just moved into the promised land from 40 years of living in the desert. The author shows the transition to taking care of vineyards and battling remaining Canaanite stronghold cities.

A spy and a murderess running for cities of refuge don’t sound like a straight shot for romance. Especially when the spy is the Uncle of the deceased. Fleeing the wrath of her intended while keeping her loyal family slave alive from a lion attack are just a few things on her mind. That… and the hazel eyes and curly hair of a certain spy.

I won A Light on the Hill in a multiple author giveaway. But this review is my honest one on a great new release from Bethany House. Enjoy!

I haven’t read much Biblical fiction, but I’d heard so many good things about Connilyn Cossette’s books that I decided to give them a try. I was overwhelmed with the emotions I felt while reading A Light on the Hill. The author is a master at bringing Biblical fiction to life. From the descriptions of the settings to the realistic and vividly drawn characters and suspenseful situations, she crafts a tale that is riveting and memorable. The emotionally-charged, multi-layered storyline kept me turning pages far into the night. Cossette’s perfect pitch author voice gave the story authenticity, and her obviously deep research into her subject matter whetted my appetite to learn more about this time period. I’m looking forward to more books in her City of Refuge series.
A Light on the Hill is filled with suspense, intrigue, danger, and romance, with threads of mercy, hope, and faith seamlessly woven in to make this an unforgettable story.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy from the author/Bethany House. All opinions are my own.

Connilyn Cossette continues the stories she started in her previous series, “Out from Egypt”, with a brand new one: “Cities of Refuge”. Since reading her books, I’ve become a huge fan of Cossette’s Biblical adventures, and was excited to get the first book of her latest series, A Light on a Hill.

I’m not going to go in-depth on the plot. I think that’s been gone over numerous times on here, so you have a sense of what’s going on in the book. So instead, I’ll go over the things I loved with this story.

As with Cossette’s previous books, the character development is excellent. You truly feel for Moriyah who has lived her life apart from the public, and is so afraid of the judgment of others that even though she hides behind a veil, she still quakes in fear any time an eye so much as focuses on her. Her dreams to have a family of her own have long since crumbled into dust. The mark on her flesh is also etched in her heart, and she wonders why Yahweh seems to no longer be with her. Her little happiness is gained in burying herself in cooking and helping others.

I could really empathize with Moriyah there. I think there are many of us who, because of fear or despair, isolate ourselves from almost everyone and bury ourselves in our own little world. Yes we may be lonely, but we feel safe. And that is how Moriyah is in the story.

Being accused of murder nearly undoes her. Never has she wanted to hurt anyone else, but now people are dead because of her. Even as she flees to a city of refuge to escape the avenger of blood in hopes of having a fair trial, she is torn with just letting herself be killed. Because she doesn’t believe herself worth saving anymore.

Moriyah’s journey is one of heartache and healing, as she learns to let go of the fear that has bound her and accept God’s grace. To learn that it wasn’t God who had left her, but she who had shut out His voice from her heart. And with that realization, she hears from Him once more and becomes the light He always meant for her to be.

And yes, the romance is good. ;) For those of you who’ve been reading my reviews, you know I’m a huge fan of a good romance, and this story will definitely please those who love that.

Darek (the male lead) is thankfully not one of those hardheaded numbskulls who believe rumors instead of seeing a person’s heart for themselves. In spite of being related to the ones Moriyah has murdered, he still treats her with respect and honor, and by watching her actions in the face of danger, sees Moriyah for the wonderful person she is.

You definitely get it all with A Light on the Hill: action, suspense, romance, and a powerful story of God’s grace to us even when we don’t deserve it.

Verdict: Buy this book at once!

(I received a free copy of the book from the publisher and author in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.)

A Light on the Hill by Connilyn Cossette takes place right after the third book in the Out of Egypt series, Wings of the Wind. I loved the Out of Egypt series and was looking forward to the next series. I love that she continued the characters in the companion series.
Cossette’s writing immediately encaptures you into the stories and time period. You feel for the character and what she's going through. Right for chapter one you are thrown into the head first and it doesn’t stop. I read this book within two day, it was that good!
I also love that Cossette’s books are historically and Biblically accurate. As I was reading I could see how much research she put into this. Being the history nerd I am, I love to know that the historical fiction novels I read are historically accurate. I loved getting to know the culture and the cities of refuge more.
The complexity in this story is amazing! As more events start to unfold and layers of the story surface it's hard to put down. You just want to keep reading and reading, until before you know it, you’re finished.
I hated to see this book end. I loved Moriyah and Darek’s story and how there seemed no solution in the end. And at times I was questioning whether or not her story would end well. I loved this book to the very end and am greatly looking forward to reading the next one in the series.
I received this book form Bethany House for my honest opinion.

I received this book in exchange for my honest review... here goes...

WOW! What a great read! Each chapter left me wondering, "What will happen next?" or "This is how society used to be thousands of years ago?!?" Both things are not easy to accomplish with me since I am an avid read of history and mystery novels. That being said, the plot was well written, and expertly executed. 

The characterization in this novel is actually dynamic.  The characters all have motives (good or bad) for the things they are doing and it is not easy to side completely with one character or another, because they all have faults, flaws and foibles.  Still, the characters are endearing and I am curious to find out what will become of some of them if the author continues the series. 

The setting of the novel is in ancient Israel, just after the death of Moses and the rise of the Joshua and then the Judges.  While other authors who have tried to write about this era come off as preachy or religious, Connilyn Cossette expertly sets her characters in a fully fleshed ancient world. 

All in all a lovely read! 

I just couldn't put this story down! Connilyn Cossette writes some of the best inspirational biblical fiction that I have ever read. I absolutely loved her "Out from Egypt" books, so I am ecstatic that she is writing a new series!

Page by page, Connilyn Cossette weaves Moriyah's story of trauma, shame, guilt, and fears into a beautiful narrative that makes you feel as if you are transported right into the middle of the book. Moriyah becomes your closest friend. The characters in the story are so personable and real that I could see them in my mind's eye.

Every one of Connilyn Cossette's books will do more than take you on a journey. Her books blossom in me a joy and wonder for the Creator's unending and unfailing love. The history, geography, and culture of the Old Testament comes alive in every story she tells. "A Light on the Hill" will transport you to another time and place…you won't want it to end!

*I received an advance copy from the publisher; the opinions in this review are my own.

Connilyn Cossette has done it again with an awesome biblical fiction and characters with great progression, pivoting around the concept of the cities of refuge and the balance of God’s mercy and justice.

The Israelis had just moved into the promised land from 40 years of living in the desert. The author shows the transition to taking care of vineyards and battling remaining Canaanite stronghold cities.

A spy and a murderess running for cities of refuge don’t sound like a straight shot for romance. Especially when the spy is the Uncle of the deceased. Fleeing the wrath of her intended while keeping her loyal family slave alive from a lion attack are just a few things on her mind. That… and the hazel eyes and curly hair of a certain spy.

I won A Light on the Hill in a multiple author giveaway. But this review is my honest one on a great new release from Bethany House. Enjoy!

From the prologue of this first book in Connilyn Cossette's new series "Cities of Refuge"I was totally enthralled. I felt every emotion of the main character, Moriyah. The pace of the story was steadily moving and kept me eagerly wanting to continue reading to know "what's next?".
Marked for life presenting her as someone she never was, Moriyah faces false accusations, hate that was undeserved, then fleeing for her life to finally experience the sweet triumph of mercy and grace. In all of her trials God provided faithful friends and family, safety and in the end the "A Light on the Hill" where truth prevailed.
I was encouraged as the author made very clear that circumstances are never too difficult for God to solve or His love to win.
I have read all of Connilyn's books and each one has been exceptional! I received a complimentary copy of the book from the publisher and all opinions are my own.

I don’t typically read historical fiction but when I had the chance to receive an ARC of Conni’s new book, I jumped on the opportunity. This is my second book of hers to read and now I want to go back and read the others. So...for the book. This was fantastic! It was a page turner, emotional, and the language was beautiful. I loved how Darek, the hero, pushed Moriyah to become her true self. The most beautiful moment of the book was when Darek had an “emotional breakdown.” (Don’t want to give away the details!) This is a book you will read again and pass down to your children. Moriyah’s journey is one we have all faced.

I love this book. Every sentence is so well written that it made reading it aloud a pleasure. We lived in the mountains of Ethiopia for 18 years and this book has the ring of authenticity to it. She has captured the feel of nomadic life on the simplest level and has created a fascinating adventure out of it. And then she has wrapped it in the spiritual customs of the Hebrews in a way that makes you feel that you understand God better when you finish. It is a remarkable story and it was hard to lay down. I eagerly wait for the next book in the series.

This was another wonderful book from Connilyn Cossette! Her stories have a way of bringing long ago times to life, and giving us a glimpse at what things may have been like back then. I love the way it also brings details of Biblical times to light that I might have normally overlooked. And was this book ever action packed! The story took many surprising turns, and had me staying up late trying to finish reading it. I would highly recommend this book to anyone!

I received this book free from Bethany House Publishers for my honest review. The opinions are my own.

I just finished Connilyn's first book of her "Cities of Refuge" series and I have to say that I am hooked! Being a lover of Jesus and the Old and New Testaments, this book enhanced those loves. God's mercy and forgiveness is a thread through this story and additionally, the transforming of a heart that's only possible with God. As the writer weaves in the truth of the "cities of refuge" from the OT into the story, it's a clear reminder of how Christ provides safety for all who come to Him for refuge from sin and its punishment.

Read it, it's a beautiful story!

An absolutely fantastic read! I have read all of Cossette's books, and I adore the way she brings the characters to life on the page. Her dynamic voice, gripping plot twists, and SIMMERING ROMANTIC TENSION are just a few of the reasons why I'll return to this author again and again. She's breathed new life into biblical fiction and I'm totally and completely hooked on her stories!
I know I shouldn't have favorites, but A Light on the Hill kept me awake many a night. It's a truly brilliant read. I loved it, and I know you will love it, too. I HIGHLY recommend.

Excellent book. I cannot wait for book #2 in Cities of Refuge. I have read all her books with fury, not being able to pit them down until completion. One of my absolute favorite authors. Highly recommend all her books. You will not be disappointed. Please rush the next books in this series out. Thank you.

I became a huge, forever fan of Connilyn Cossette when I discovered (and subsequently devoured) her "Out From Egypt" series. So needless to say, I didn't hesitate to snag a copy of A Light On the Hill. Also needless to say, it was SO GOOD. From the fast-paced plot, to the wonderfully authentic characters, to shedding light on Cities of Refuge and their purpose in the Old Testament...the whole book was incredible, from start to finish. I loved every word.

Another fantastic book by Cossette. After reading her first three books, I couldn't wait to read this book. This book captured my attention from the first page to the last. A Light on the Hill gave me a new understanding of some of the Old Testament scriptures and how God wants the church to be a city of refuge.

Connilyn Cossette has done it again!! She has mad me step back into the Bible times and brought to life the book of Joshua. She is a very talented writer that paints the story’s picture so well that you feel that you are there! This was a phenomenal read and I cannot wait for the next book!!

Tragedy and things that happen in response to tragedy. Do we shut ourselves off or move on? Or perhaps both? A wonderful read with lots of intrigue, truth, love, family, and lots of hope filled with God’s Light throughout! I could not put this book down and cannot wait to share it with family and friends!

My first time to read biblical fiction and my first book by author Connilyn Cossette. I couldn't put it down! I love when an author pulls me into the story and I loose track of time. I'd recommend this book to anyone who takes an interest in the time period. Cindy

This week’s featured book is Connilyn Cossette‘s A Light on the Hill.  It’s the first book in a new biblical fiction series by the author of the Out from Egypt series. Moriyah has a complicated history.  She was a captive and was branded a temple prostitute.  After her escape, she returns to her home but keeps her face covered in shame.  Her father finds a man who promises to marry her anyway, and Moriyah is determined to honor her father.
Darek catches Moriyah’s eyes from behind her veil the night before she is to meet her betrothed and is captivated.  He wants to win her heart but feels betrayed when he discovers who she is betrothed to.  Will they be able to overcome the odds stacked against them, find justice and mercy, and love each other?
While this wasn’t quite as stunning of a series-starter as Counted with the Stars was, it was still an excellent read.  The Old Testament themes tied in with the overriding message of salvation, redemption, and freedom well.  The setting and timeline was a little hard to follow due to its ancient history, but I found a map at the back of the book that was helpful.  I loved the characters and how they related to each other, pursuing what was right.  It also tied in characters from the Out of Egypt series, which was neat to have a little update on them.
I would definitely recommend this book to lovers of ancient history, the Bible, and biblical fiction!
Thank you to Bethany House publishers for providing me with a copy of this book to read and review.  All opinions are my own and were not 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.*

Connilyn Cossette continues the stories she started in her previous series, “Out from Egypt”, with a brand new one: “Cities of Refuge”. Since reading her books, I’ve become a huge fan of Cossette’s Biblical adventures, and was excited to get the first book of her latest series, A Light on a Hill.

I’m not going to go in-depth on the plot. I think that’s been gone over numerous times on here, so you have a sense of what’s going on in the book. So instead, I’ll go over the things I loved with this story.

As with Cossette’s previous books, the character development is excellent. You truly feel for Moriyah who has lived her life apart from the public, and is so afraid of the judgment of others that even though she hides behind a veil, she still quakes in fear any time an eye so much as focuses on her. Her dreams to have a family of her own have long since crumbled into dust. The mark on her flesh is also etched in her heart, and she wonders why Yahweh seems to no longer be with her. Her little happiness is gained in burying herself in cooking and helping others.

I could really empathize with Moriyah there. I think there are many of us who, because of fear or despair, isolate ourselves from almost everyone and bury ourselves in our own little world. Yes we may be lonely, but we feel safe. And that is how Moriyah is in the story.

Being accused of murder nearly undoes her. Never has she wanted to hurt anyone else, but now people are dead because of her. Even as she flees to a city of refuge to escape the avenger of blood in hopes of having a fair trial, she is torn with just letting herself be killed. Because she doesn’t believe herself worth saving anymore.

Moriyah’s journey is one of heartache and healing, as she learns to let go of the fear that has bound her and accept God’s grace. To learn that it wasn’t God who had left her, but she who had shut out His voice from her heart. And with that realization, she hears from Him once more and becomes the light He always meant for her to be.

And yes, the romance is good. ;) For those of you who’ve been reading my reviews, you know I’m a huge fan of a good romance, and this story will definitely please those who love that.

Darek (the male lead) is thankfully not one of those hardheaded numbskulls who believe rumors instead of seeing a person’s heart for themselves. In spite of being related to the ones Moriyah has murdered, he still treats her with respect and honor, and by watching her actions in the face of danger, sees Moriyah for the wonderful person she is.

You definitely get it all with A Light on the Hill: action, suspense, romance, and a powerful story of God’s grace to us even when we don’t deserve it.

Verdict: Buy this book at once!

(I received a free copy of the book from the publisher and author in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.)

How many hidden and untold stories are between the pages of the Bible stories? How many beautiful lives that never got the spotlight, only seen as one collective people, actually have their own unrevealed narrative? There must be thousands, maybe even millions. In this story, Biblical fiction writer Connilyn Cossette tells us Moriyah’s tale. She brings to life the account that could have been, one that is surly similar to many true narratives. Biblical fiction brings out in us a desire to truly know the backstory of the stories we have read and heard hundreds of times. It sparks our interest in the Bible in a new and different way. It makes us think that maybe we aren’t too different than those who were present for some of the biggest events in history, and surly the biggest in our faith’s history.
One of the greatest things reading this novel did in me was crave the Bible in a way I never had before. As a result of reading this book, I also went through Joshua. In between the pages of Connilyn’s first book in her “Cities of Refuge” series, I felt a spark of interest in the old testament that I had never experienced before. I love how detailed her historical research was. Every reference made me crave to learn exactly where I could find more about it in the Word. You will not regret digging into this story of love, loss, and redemption. You will no doubt relate to Moriyah’s battle with feeling as if God has walked away from her because of the events in her life, as well as her struggle against guilt and longing for love and true acceptance. It is ultimately a story of the Father’s redemption that will bring out in you so many different and even foreign emotions. For any lover of historical, biblical, or romance fiction, this book is for you. For any lover of the Bible stories, the Israelites rich history, or the old testament, this is for you. This book truly has it all and I can’t think of a person who would not eat away at every single word. I received a copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers for the purpose of this review.

This book is simply amazing. It's Biblical fiction at it's best. The story of Moriyah is heartwrenching and beautiful. There is never a dull moment as this book grabs you from page 1.

It is told in first person and she tells her own tale and her feelings as she experiences things she never expected and has never dealt with. Her faith through all of it is powerful and deep.

As I read this book, I felt as though I was truly experiencing everything right along with her.

You will love this book. I couldn't put it down, couldn't wait to see what happened next, and at the same time, didn't want it to end.

I received a copy of this book from the author. All thoughts all my own.

The 'Out From Egypt' series was my first introduction to Mrs. Cossette and Biblical fiction. I was hesitant to read them since it's not my preferred genre, but after hearing numerous accolades about them I decided to give them a try and I'm SOOOOOO glad I did. Mrs. Cossette's writing is fantastic! She seamlessly weaves her storytelling and research together that it's as if you are fleeing with Moriyah and can taste, feel, and see everything in this new and strange land that the Children of Israel are living in and still conquering. And if you think Biblical romance doesn't pack the same punch as contemporary you obviously haven't met Darek....**sigh**... I highly recommend this book to anyone wants to be captivated by a truly riveting story that leads to the ultimate Refuge in our Savior.

I've already enjoyed two of Connilyn Cossette's novels: Shadow of the Storm and Wings of the Wind, both based on Biblical history, and both introducing characters that play a part in the novel after it. A Light on a Hill begins a new series (Cities of Refuge), but the main character, Moriyah, has grown from the young girl she was in the previous book into a beautiful young woman. All her siblings have married, and she has remained with her father. 

As the above blurb states, something does go horribly wrong, though I don't want to even say what it is for fear of spoiling anything for readers! I can tell you that she winds up forced to travel into Canaanite territory across the Jordan River, and outwit some very powerful people within the walls of Megiddo. The story is full of suspense, drawing you back in time to immerse yourself in this story taking place in ancient Israel, and wishing you could interact with some of the characters. 

A beautiful and inspiring story, Light on a Hill by Connilyn Cossette is an excellent start to a new series and will be sure to capture the heart of all biblical fiction fans! Cossette is an excellent storyteller, bringing to life stirring and enchanting stories from the bible. This story strongly focuses on having the faith to accept the purpose and importance of God’s plan and self-worth. Once readers pick up this book, they will absolutely not want to put down Cossette’s stunning tale until they turn they reach the last page. Even then they will want more! Readers that adore biblical fiction will be sure to fall in love with this author and her stories.

Series: Light of Refuge
Genre: historical, biblical fiction, Christian
Publisher: Bethany House
Publication date: February 6, 2018
Number of pages: 352

Other books in the series:
2-Shelter of the Most High (October 2018)
3-Until the Mountains Fall (July 2019)

A review copy of this book was provided by the publisher via the author’s launch team. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are my own.