I did enjoy this though I think I enjoyed the first book a little better. This one seemed just a tad more contrived and definitely seemed to take a few cues from the story of Atretes, Francine Rivers' eventual hero in The Mark of the Lion series. Still, I enjoyed it and am really looking forward to reading more from Cossette! ( )

I am so glad I was able to read this book right after reading the first one in the series. I didn't have to wait to find out how the story ended. Connilyn weaves such beautiful stories glorifying the Holy One of Israel. The wonderful characters remind you of people you know. Perhaps even yourself. People who embrace Yahweh immediately and those who have to experience many different events before they can fall on the mercy of the God-Who-Sees for their salvation. Every one of us can look back on our lives and see how God has worked to bring us to His heart. ( )

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 book is the second part of the Covenant House duology. The first, To Dwell Among Cedars, shared the tale of two young Philistine children who followed The Ark of the Covenant as it was being returned to the Israelites. Two children, Risi and her younger brother Lukio, who would forever be changed because of a chance to experience life among God's chosen people! Now, in this book, Lukio has been reunited with his childhood sweetheart, Shoshanna, but there are many reasons why they will never be free to share an adult love. Lukio is about to wed Mariada, the King's daughter, and Shoshanna is a servant to that very same daughter!

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. ( )

Between a Rock and….

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. ( )

I couldn’t wait to read this book once I had it on my kindle! I greatly enjoyed To Dwell among Cedars earlier this year, and now to hear Lukio’s side of the story…it was just as gripping, if not more so, than the first book! I felt like I could relate well to Lukio. Underneath the bravado he displayed was a man who really just wanted to belong somewhere. And when he was faced with difficulty, the side of kindness he tried to hide showed itself.

The greatest part about this book, besides the strong redemptive thread, was the history. Cossette does an amazing job bringing you into a place and helping you to see it as it may have been years ago. More than ever before, I got to see just why the Lord told the Hebrews NOT to mix with those around them—the other religions around them were cruel! That wasn’t a major part of this story, but it came through.

This book wasn’t quite as deep as some of Cossette’s others, but I’m glad I got to read it. Recommended.

I was given a review copy of this book, and this is my honest opinion of it. ( )