Author: Connilyn Cossette
Series: Cities of Refuge #1
Age: Adult
Genres: Biblical Fiction
Publication Date: February 6, 2018
Publisher: Bethany House Publishers
Source: Paperback
Purchase: Hardcover | Paperback | Kindle | Audible | B&N | ChristianBook | LifeWay
Synopsis:
Seven years ago, Moriyah was taken captive in Jericho and branded with the mark of the Canaanite gods. Now the Israelites are experiencing peace in their new land, but Moriyah has yet to find her own peace. Because of the shameful mark on her face, she hides behind her veil at all times and the disdain of the townspeople keeps her from socializing. And marriage prospects were out of the question . . . until now.
Her father has found someone to marry her, and she hopes to use her love of cooking to impress the man and his motherless sons. But when things go horribly wrong, Moriyah is forced to flee. Seeking safety at one of the newly-established Levitical cities of refuge, she is wildly unprepared for the dangers she will face, and the enemies--and unexpected allies--she will encounter on her way.My Rating:
Moriyah is the protagonist heroine of this story and she has had some hardships of shame to deal with. At 13 years old she was taken from her people and bought to Jericho to be a temple prostitute. By grace she never got the chance to become one, but she was marked with the mark of the Canaanite gods on her face. The story picks up with her dealing with shame and judgement for something she 1) had no control over and 2) never committed. Moriyah had a major struggle with shame that was so relatable. She appeared to be a weak and timid girl, but she was so much more than that. Her growth throughout this story was absolutely amazing. She was definitely a great example of a person that takes responsibility for their wrongs. She bore so many fruits of the spirit: one specifically being that of love. One thing I truly adored about her the most was her faith...she had walk on water faith. Her willingness to let God love was just as profound.
Darek was the love interest in the story. He is apart of the scouts for Joshua. He was such a phenomenal guy. From the first time he was introduced in the story I loved him. He was kind and sweet. Never rude or harsh. Darek had his own moments of growth that I loved. He had personal and family problems to overcome. I loved his strength and his determination.
The romance was absolutely beautiful. I loved how it was a slow burn between Darek and Moriyah. You could tell there was going to be a beautiful romance between them, but then there was a monkey wrench thrown into the mix. I loved how there was a pure attraction between them. It was perfect!
Yuval was such an amazing man. Considering that he was a servant he could have broken ties and ran away. His willingness to help Moriyah was amazing. He played ayeds the role of a loving, protective brother. I am so happy he was considered family and I not just a servant. His love for Moriyah and her father was amazing. I loved the end of the story for him. It was all too beautiful!!!
Eitan was so darn adorable. I didn't like how people treated him, especially his uncle. I love that he looked to Moriyah and her father as his parents. He was a sweet boy. What he did shocked me but at the same time I had a feeling it was his doing. I can't wait to read his story in the sequel!
Ora was the most intelligent and sound woman ever. I adores how Moriyah looked to her as a friend and mother. Ora was always giving amazing advice. She didn't allow her misfortune to stop her from living. She pushed on despite the odds. I loved this lady!!!
Raviv was the betrothed to Moriyah and brother of Darek. His reason behind marrying her was annoying. It was more of a business transaction than anything else. I didn't like how he spoke to her and demanded things before they even married. His kids were a hot mess and rude. His anger, bitterness and grief clouded his judgement and turned him into an evil man set on revenge. I did not care for him, but he served an excellent part in the whole plot of the story.
The plot itself was mind-boggling. I wanted to cry when Moriyah had to run for her life. Finding out the truth alone was insane! I didn't expect that kind of plot twist. I do like how the elders weren't quick to kill anyone. The outcome was upsetting and beautiful at the same time.
The biblical aspects of this book were strong. The few that stood out were to extend grace and mercy to those who hurt you; look beyond the physical of a person to their heart and finally the topic of shame. Moriyah had dealt with a lot of shame concerning the mark of the Canaanite gods. She allowed her shame to lead her to fear, cause her to hide her true self, to distort her perception of God's love for her and to cause setbacks where blessings should have been. I loved each lesson this provided!
Overall, this was such a beautifully written and researched story that shed light on the laws and times of Joshua. For the first in a series it gave me everything I needed. I am truly excited to read the sequel and see the appearance of a few of these characters.
Highly recommend this! Go grab a copy!
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