Recently widowed, Rivkah refuses to submit to the Torah law compelling her to marry her husband’s brother and instead flees Kedesh, hoping to use her talents as a scribe to support herself. Without the protections of her father, Kedesh’s head priest, and the safety of the city of refuge, Rivkah soon discovers that the cost of recklessness is her own freedom.Malakhi has secretly loved Rivkah for … Rivkah for years, but he never imagined his older brother’s death would mean wedding her himself. After her disappearance, he throws himself into the ongoing fight against the Canaanites instead of dwelling on all he has lost. But with impending war looming over Israel, Rivkah’s father comes to Malakhi with an impossible request.
As the enemies that Rivkah and Malakhi face from without and within Israel grow more threatening each day, is it too late for the restoration their wounded souls seek?
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What a love story! Connilyn Cossette’s story about Rivkah and Malakhi taught me about Levitical marriage, Israelite battles, and of course love. But not just romantic love – fatherly love, Godly love, and love that grows from forgiveness and grace. Connilyn intertwined Old Testament history with the New Testament story of the Prodigal Son with vision that is uniquely hers.
WHY I CHOOSE THIS BOOK
Connilyn Cossette is my only 100% auto-buy author – except I’ve never had to auto-buy her books because I’ve gotten to be on the review team for each and every one of her books. Y’all, I can’t tell you how honored I am to be able to say that! Seriously, every time I’ve been chosen to review one of her books I do an internal, external, and internet happy dance.
Miss Connilyn is my very favorite Biblical Fiction author – and I don’t say that lightly.
As I always do with this author’s books, I went into the story completely blind – meaning, the first time I’ve read the back cover blurb was just now, as I’m writing this review. This can be a bit sketchy with a new-to-me author, but I trust Miss Connilyn’s writing so much that not knowing what I’m getting myself into is exceedingly interesting.
WHAT I THOUGHT ABOUT THIS BOOK
Let’s get real: When I first opened the pages of this book and started reading I felt a bit of a sinking feeling. I was concerned that it was going to be one of those trite, overly romanticized, mail-order brides type of books. (Remember, I hadn’t read the blurb.) But never fear! We’re talking about Miss Connilyn here – she writes amazing Biblical fiction, not cheesy Hallmark flicks. *cue sigh of relief*
As the story progressed there were twists and turns I did not expect, keeping me reading far into the night even though I was in the midst of a busy work week. I kept waiting for a slow chapter to arrive so I could convince myself to set the book down and sleep but finally had to compromise and put it away when there was a scene/point of view shift.
I’ve only read a few books with an unreliable narrator, and those books are fairly mindblowing to me. Rivkah, the main female character in this story, isn’t exactly an unreliable narrator, but she is to the point where I had vastly different opinions of her depending on who was narrating. It takes advanced skills as an author to pull that character voice off so well.
Malakhi, the main male character, had far more depth than I first expected him to have. I wasn’t anticipating liking him – especially not after the first part of the book, but as his story went on I found myself cheering for him. He was thoroughly written and felt extremely real. He wasn’t perfect by any means, which of course is the mark of a good character. His character development was intense at times and was well-paced.
There were a host of side characters who captured my attention and at times my heart. Seeing their story, watching the way they weren’t simply put there to progress the main character’s stories, but having an arc of their own reminded me of what a skilled author Miss Connilyn is.
The plot itself wasn’t what I was expecting at all. I think I figured it would follow some of the same guidelines as the first two books in the series, but instead, this one had a few new elements.
One thing that generally bothers me in books, but in this case ended up working out well, was a time jump. There’s about a five-year gap between the first part and second part of the book. I’m not a fan of this plot device, yet in Until the Mountains Fall Miss Connilyn pulls it off exceedingly well. The characters are the same but have changed as much as you’d expect during such a time period. The world is different, yet I didn’t feel jarred or like I’d missed out on life due to the missing years. The jump did exactly what it was supposed to – it made us totally skip a boring, listless middle-of-the-book-filler section – and kept the plot moving.
CONCLUSION (WITH VAGUE SPOILERS)
There is some content in this book that isn’t suitable for young teens – war, violence, mention of some of the evil practices of pagan worship, mentions of inappropriate behavior, characters who are taken advantage of, etc… Everything was written in a vague way and is probably less graphic than if you’re reading some sections of the Old Testament, but still, I’d recommend parental guidance for probably anyone under 15.
I came away from this book with the feeling that Miss Connilyn did it again – wrote another winner and once again made the time period of the Bible leap into life for me. I can hardly wait to read her next book!
This summer I moved out of state and wasn’t able to bring most of my books with me. That means I’ve never seen all three books together, but I can’t wait until I have them all with me. The covers are amazing together, right?
*Note: This is the third book in a series. They can be easily read in any order, but you’ll get to know the supporting characters and surroundings a lot better, and avoid spoilers if you read them in order.
RATING
I’m giving Until the Mountains Fall 4 out of 5 stars. I’ve already loaned the book out to a friend, and am planning on requesting it for my library. Y’all should do the same.
One of the things I most appreciate about this series is just how much care and research Connilyn puts into crafting these beautiful stories. Especially considering that there are only a very few verses about the Cities of Refuge in the Bible.
*possible spoilers*
I’ll admit that I wasn’t a big fan of Rivkah at the beginning of this book… or for a good ways into the story. The way she behaved so selfishly and self-centeredly early on was frankly a bit frustrating. However, I appreciate a heroine who isn’t perfect and has room for [a great deal of] growth throughout the story. Malakhi, however, was completely lovable from the start and it was so wonderful to see the man he grew into since the previous book in this series (where he was still a kid).
I could not put this book down and absolutely love how Connilyn crafted it from start to finish. I can’t wait to read Like Flames in the Night when it releases!
I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
Wow. Just…wow. I could NOT put this book down! I’ve just been devouring it, hanging on every word. Seriously! Every time I would closed the book to do something else, I found myself turning to whoever was nearest me and exclaiming over how much I was loving this novel! ( I had to stop this practice when I found myself repeating the sentiment over and over to the same people, who put upon themselves to assure me that I’d made as much abundantly clear the first fifteen times I’d related such to them! )
Really, though! I knew, when first picking up a copy of “A Light on the Hill”, that I was going to enjoy this series. I just didn’t realize to what extent! It had passed my expectations SO FAR and I am so THRILLED and ELATED to have discovered and had the privilege of reading these amazing stories! I did not expect it, but these books have risen to my “favorites” shelf quite swiftly!
I loved “Until the Mountains Fall” SO much! It was definitely one of my favorites by this author and I can’t wait until the next title in this series releases! Bravo, Ms. Cossette!
I have loved every one of this author’s novels, and this one was no exception!
“Until the Mountains Fall” is a beautiful story representing the parable of the Prodigal Son.
I will be honest, I didn’t like main character Rivkah in the beginning. She was selfish and rough, and rude. I was worried her character would alter little, and she’d still be one of those “so strong woman who doesn’t need any man at all ever. end of story.” But her story…her character arc was amazing. Truly, she grew and changed so much, it was beautiful and humbling. And happened so naturally. I’m not saying her character needed to change, but her attitude did, and wow. The result was well done.
Malakhi – he was amazing. A bit gruff for a while there but he did have reason to be. His personal journey was fantastic too, and how this whole story wove together was lovely. The redemption…the sacrifice…the love. Rivkah’s father was one of my favorite characters of this story. His devotion to his daughter was just astounding, and there was a scene at the end that had me crying. It was a truly beautiful representation of Jesus welcoming us back, accepting us, forgiving us, loving us.
The faith wasn’t so much spoken as it was shown in the undertones ~ the allegorical message to it was the heart of it.
This book spanned over several years and covered a lot. It was all done so well. And my heart was so involved. Another captivating read by the author!
I was provided a copy of this book by the publisher. All opinions in this review are my own.
Treasure in Your Own Backyard! In a short time period, Rivkah was married, widowed and is now supposed to marry her deceased husband’s brother. That is, if she does what her father wants, and what the Torah law decrees. But Rivkah is tired of feeling like she never measures up, and not having the freedom to pick what she does with her life. Angry about the situation Rivkah finds herself in, she jumps at the chance to make a hasty decision. Little does she know, that one choice will change the course of her life, as well as, that of others around her—and it will not be for the better.
Rivkah has to deal with the consequences she set in motion. Her life turns around completely, and she learns what it is really like lose her freedom. Although she misses her old life, there is no going back—or is there?
Who hasn’t made a quick decision, and then lived to regret it? Rivkah understands that very well. Can she forgive herself; can others forgive her? Is it too late for her to make any changes?
This is a great story set in ancient Israel that contains twists and turns, surprises, and unexpected results. Until the Mountains Fall is a standalone 5-star story in the Cities of Refuge series, and is a clean tale. This will appeal to those who like things set in earlier times, light thrillers, or romance. NetGalley has provided bookreadingtic with a complimentary review copy.
Just finished this delightful read and I’m wondering if anyone noticed the theme here? It’s in one of Jesus’ parables and one of my favorites of all of His stories!!
I was really happy to return to Kedesh with all of my friends again!! It seems forever in between books!!
Forgiveness is also the theme here.
Forgiveness is a very important part of our lives even in Biblical times.
I love Connilyns’ stories!! I love how she makes the characters come to life from the Bible. It’s amazing that you can feel their feelings coming through the pages of time from her pen
I love how Conni continues the story from the Book of Joshua.
I liked how the book was action packed from the very beginning and you definitely wanted to see what happened to Rivkah and Malahki.
My mom always told me that some boys have trouble with their feelings about telling a girl he liked so he picked on her. Of course I thought Mom was full of it. But later on in life I found that she was right.
Usually moms are. Dads too.
These authors that write stories like this are truly gifted.
Well done Connylin!! Will Amit have his story to tell? I’m hoping so!!
Oh and twins rum on my husband’s side of the family too!! More on the Fox side though. Thank goodness!!
Well, anyway I enjoyed this story very much and I eagerly await the next story from Conni!!
Amazing, amazing, amazing. I just finished Until the Mountains Fall and it was wonderful. One of those books that you simply can’t put down and when it’s done you want more. This is one outstanding read. The story tells of two lives, Rivkah and Malakhi, that have been intertwined since they were children, yet neither fully understands the other until they are adults that have faced adversity throughout their lives. The author also describes and helps her readers more fully understand the cities of refuge in the Bible throughout this series. I have found that throughout Ms. Cossette’s stories she also enlightens readers on the cultures, living and ways of those that lived during the times her books are written. This is a wonderful story. My only problem is that the next book in the series is not yet ready. Definitely a worthwhile and wonderful read.
I am an avid reader and devour books whenever I get the chance. I can honestly say that Connilyn Cossette has NEVER failed to intrigue and surprise me. Cossette always gives the reader dynamic characters, gripping plotlines, and a message that resonates in your soul. “Until the Mountains Fall” delivered all of that and more.
It is because of the precious reminders of God’s goodness and grace that I keep turning pages. I never know what is coming next because the storylines and characters are so good!
You will get lost in Rivkah and Malakhi’s story; I was swept away by the first sentence of “Until the Mountains Fall.” You won’t want to put this book down, and I promise you will love it!!!
Book number four cannot get here soon enough!
I was provided a copy of this book by the publisher. All opinions in this review are my own.
In Until the Mountains Fall, Connilyn Cossette gives us a fresh look at the account of the prodigal son, only in her book, the prodigal is a woman.
We journey with Rivkah as she discovers a world outside the one that chafed her as a young woman and follow Malakhi as he matures from an impetuous teen and betrothed groom into a wise, battle-scarred warrior. Their love story is beautiful, Malakhi’s heart for her an example of Christ’s love for us, but just as beautiful is the love Rivkah’s father carries for her as he never gives up hope that she will return to him.
The characterization is jaw-dropping, and the prose so poetic, the reader can’t help but be transported with each page. There are many twists and turns in the plot, each one ratcheting up the stakes and keeping the story tension above the boiling point.
This is the book I’d been waiting for all year. It’s been a while since a story took me so far and demanded so much of me, leaving my perspectives changed–or at least giving me a broader perspective on things I already believed to be true. I’m going to have a hard time doing the book justice with this review. Having started at the beginning of the series, re-reading the first and second titles straight through to the newest, there are no words for some of the emotions provoked by this story.
Thrilled to revisit familiar characters from previous books, I’m amazed at just how interconnected these characters really are, going all the way back into the Out From Egypt Series. (Is there a chart of family trees, please!) It’s been some time since I’ve enjoyed a series as much as I have these books.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and have stated my honest opinion in this voluntary review.
I do know that when I read one of Connilyn’s books that I will love it – this was so true with Until the Mountains Fall! Taking place in Israel after the Exodus, this book shows how quickly the Israelites fell away from following God and how there isn’t really anything new under the sun – just different ways of packaging it.
Although I have read the author’s previous books and this is the 3rd in the City of Refuge series, it is from the viewpoint of different characters, Rivkah and Malakhi, so knowing the previous stories is nice (‘cause you’ll want to have read them!), it is not necessary. But what I loved about the story is it’s about prodigals – those who foolishly squander what they have for what they think might be better. Yet their parents will move heaven and earth to restore their relationship – until the mountains fall, they will not give up on their children.
What a great story of love – between parents and children and man and woman. I highly recommend this book! I received a copy of this book from the publisher. I am freely writing a review – all thoughts and opinions are my own.
The notes of her laughter twirled through the air like butterflies alight on the breeze. (Page 54) I could just hear this laughter as I read.
I loved the way Malakhi could see the beauty of Rivkah’s laughter and his undying love for her even though she didn’t like him and treated him bad. The characters were complex, well developed and strong. I love Biblical stories because I learn so much history. I can tell the research has been done because it made me feel as if I were there in that place and time.
The Cities of Refuge that God told His leaders to put in place always fascinated me. I thought of the people that would need a place of refuge and if they would just stay in that place of safety. God does that for us too. Only in Him are we safe. This author brought this story to life for me and showed love, forgiveness and redemption in ways that certainly will stick with you.
I do want to mention I really liked Rivkah’s father Amitai. He always seemed so humble and prayed and consulted God on what to do about situations.
I don’t think I will ever forget the story of Rivkah and Malakhi. If you like Biblical Fiction try this author. It’s a little different than just a Bible story and you don’t want to miss it.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher/author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Today I want to tell you about this wonderful story, the newest release by Connilyn Cossette.
I’ve been a huge fan of her biblical fiction since I read her very first one! This book is the third in her Cities of Refuge series. And, as each book prior, it’s my new favorite!!
(I’ve actually had this book laying here, on top of my reading pile…waiting to be read…but because life has been crazy recently, and then there were other books demanding to be read, I kinda kept putting this one to the side. 🙁 )
Now, this week I decided I just HAD to read it, and once I started, I didn’t want to stop!!
Ms. Cossette’s writing has a way of drawing me right into those long-ago days, makes me feel as if I’m there.
I had a love/hate relationship with Rivkah. She’s a great main character, because she’s so complex. I say love/hate…well, because. I’ll see if I can put it into words. You’ll just have to read the book though, to really get it.
I loved her because…well, she’s so great. She’s just gorgeous (I mean, look at that cover!). She’s smart, one of the very few women scribes in her day, she’s a strong woman.
I hated her because…well, she was a jerk. Her actions brought much sadness to her family, and all of those closest to her.
Her husband Gidal dies only a few short months after they were wed. Then her father expects her to marry his brother, Malachi, in tradition with their Levite law. Malachi, though he’s been her friend ever since those early childhood days, is not acceptable as a husband in Rivkah’s eyes. In short, she considers him only but a boy. So she does everything she can to make him hate her, in hopes that he will break their betrothal. When this doesn’t work, she runs away.
I don’t want to say more about this story, because I don’t want to give any spoilers.
It’s a lovely, lovely story. Full of depth, layered characters, all placed in a setting that’s so well written you can see it.
I loved seeing the characters developing as the story progresses. And the many truths that this author wove seamlessly into this hauntingly beautiful tale. This is a story that will linger long after you finish the last page.
After reading this newest installment, Connilyn Cossette remains on my list of must-read authors! (probably the only biblical fiction author on my list, if that tells you anything! 🙂 )
Another thing I wanted to add…This book also got one of my daughters hooked. She saw the cover, but hadn’t read any biblical fiction before…then she picked it up and started reading…and absolutely loved it! 🙂 Now she also wants to read all the rest!
Disclaimer: I receive complimentary books from various sources, including, publishers, publicists, authors, and/or NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review, and have not received any compensation. The opinions shared here are my own entirely. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255
Until the Mountains Fall is a beautiful addition to the Cities of Refuge series. The setting, characters, and story are so fully realized that I was hard pressed to put the book down. Rivkah is not the easiest character to love, however, her growth throughout the story is a thing of beauty. Nursing some deep hurts, she makes a selfish decision that ultimately alters the very course of her life. Time passes, and we see her again, a much more careful and guilt-laden woman.
Malakhi has loved Rivkah for years but determined to set aside his feelings for her once she was betrothed to his brother. After his brother’s death, he is to marry her. Both ecstatic and guilty over this, he determines to win her over. Years later, he’s been abandoned, and has thrown himself into pursuits of war and fighting. Their meeting after some time has passed is fraught with tension and realistic emotions for both characters. It’s an appropriate amount of feeling that accurately brings across the conflict and hurt they experience. It’s messy, complicated, and oh so compelling. I just adored their growth as people and the tremendous journey that they undergo.
The story of the prodigal son definitely comes to mind, though in this case, it is Rivkah, the prodigal daughter. I was moved to tears by certain scenes in this novel; this story of forgiveness is beautiful and one I won’t soon forget. I was enthralled by the details of the settings; history is truly brought to life! Compelling characters and a heart-tugging story makes Until the Mountains Fall one of my favorite books of 2019. While this novel could be enjoyed as a standalone, I would recommend starting at the beginning of the series, as books one and two are wonderful stories as well. Plus, it’s fun to see characters that you’ve “met” in the previous books.
I received an advanced copy of this novel from the publisher. This review is my honest opinion.
This series has been incredible and gotten more so with each book! I absolutely loved this storyline. I have struggled with reading the Old Testament, but the author brings this time period to life in a way that makes me want to dive into it more than ever!
Following along with the previous books, we pick up with the same family in Malakhi being given his brother’s wife in a betrothal after Gildal dies. Unfortunately, Rivkah is mourning not only the loss of her husband of a few months, but also still the lingering loss of her mother years before. Her displeasure of the betrothal turns into a betrayal of not only her family, but Malakhi’s as well.
This is an amazing story of redemption that parallels scripture in a beautiful way. God sees and hears our faults. He is pained by our choices, but He loves us in a way we can never truly understand. There’s also an example of the prodigal son seen through the stories of the characters.
The writing brings the time of the Cities of Refuge alive. It’s easy to picture how people are living their lives as you read each page. As the characters spend time in different locations, your heart grieves as you see how far the Israelites have fallen away from God by disobeying His laws and turning to idols as well as other unholy living. As scenes unfold I wanted to shake characters as well as hug them at the same time. lol
Honestly, it’s hard to put into words how amazing this story is. Can I say how sad I am that I read it so quickly. I’m already missing the characters! I can’t wait for book 4 to come out!
Until the Mountains Fall by Connilyn Cossette is the third book in her Cities of Refuge series. This story centers around the refuge cities of Kadesh and Edrei. Rivkah is a recent widow and according to Torah law she must marry her husband’s brother, Malakhi. Still grieving for her husband, she flees Kadesh and becomes a scribe for a wealthy man in Edrei. Malakhi has loved Rivkah since he was a young boy. He is heartbroken when she runs away. His family tries to get him to find someone else but nobody measures up to her. Will they ever find a common ground? This story started out very slowly. To me both Rivkah and Malakhi were too self-centered and childish. You wanted to reach out and shake some sense into them and tell them to grow up. About half-way through it started picking up and by the end I couldn’t put it down. Rivkah owned up to her sins and was willing to pay the consequences for her actions. Thankfully she had a forgiving heavenly Father and earthly father as well. What a story of forgiveness and reconciliation!
I received this book from the author in exchange for my honest review.
From the first page, author Connilyn Cossette draws readers into her beautiful, powerful, and captivating story Until the Mountains Fall. This fascinating and delicately written story is one that will touch the heart of readers through the turn of every page. Filled with characters that make mistakes, receive God’s grace, and receive forgiveness from loved ones, this story has all the feels. And the romance element in this well-crafted story will entice readers as well. Readers will also notice a theme in the book with the similarities to the parable that Jesus told of the Prodigal Son. It’s one that readers will absolutely love and will not soon forget.
Series: Cities of Refuge
Genre: historical, romance, biblical fiction, Christian
Publisher: Bethany House
Publication date: July 2, 2016
Number of pages: 352
Other books in the series:
1-A Light on the Hill
2-Shelter of the Most High
4-Like Flames in the Night (coming March 2020)
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.
I must admit that my knowledge of the Old Testament is limited but Connilyn Cossette is rectifying that in spades. This is top-notch historical fiction, highly researched with characters that you grow to care about.
Throughout this book, you’ll be experiencing customs and rituals that are foreign. For instance, Torah law states that a widow must marry her husband’s brother which is what our main character, Rivkah, faces. Does she obey the tradition of her faith or rebel against it?
The author includes a map of the areas that are introduced in this book as well as an informative Author’s Note at the end of the book. Readers will want to be sure to catch those as they help digest the wealth of historical info found in Until the Mountains Fall.
You can’t help but root for each of the characters as they face some overwhelming odds. As always, the writing is exceptional, drawing you into the past.
I received an Advance Review of this book. All opinions are my own.
[email protected] Connilyn Cossette
Recently widowed Rivkah rebels against the Levitical marriage arranged by her father to her late husband’s younger brother, Malakhi. Malakhi teased her tirelessly when they were children, and she cannot imagine a marriage to him, so she flees with her newfound friend away from Kedesh.
Malakhi has loved Rivkah since they were children, teasing her to get her attention, but when a marriage was arranged between her and his brother, Gidal, he stepped back. Malakhi is please to be betrothed to Rivkah, and hopes that she can see the man he has become, but when she runs away, and he is injured in battle not long after, he wonders if he should give up on the woman he had hoped to call his own.
Rivkah is headstrong and hurting, rash and quick tempered, a series of choices leave her shamed and destitute. At first I struggled to like her, but as she matured and the story progressed it was clear that she had become a courageous woman, willing to sacrifice everything for her family.
Malakhi is no longer a boy, playing childish games to get Rivkah’s attention. He never stopped caring for her, despite her marriage to his brother. So when he gets the chance to honor his brother and marry the woman he loves, he accepts. He tries patiently to win her love, growing into a natural leader of men, carpenter and warrior. I admired his steadfast patience, throughout the entire story he is honorable and loves fiercely.
A powerful tale of forgiveness and unconditional love, set the days after the Israelites took possession of the Promised Land. I loved revisiting Kedesh and Moriyah’s family. Connilyn Cossette expertly weaves a poignant prodigal love story against a realistic Biblical setting. She does an excellent job of showing the struggles that the Hebrews likely faced living among pagan neighbors in the Promised Land. A riveting read, with verdant descriptions, and lush adjectives. You won’t want to miss this memorable story of love and God’s grace.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
A great book. I was happy to read this third book in the Cities Of Refuge Series. It was obvious that the author, Connilyn Cossette has done a lot of research. The story takes place in Israel between the arrival after the Exodus to the beginning of the Judges. I recommend it to people who like Biblical fiction.