Between the Wild Branches

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.