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Shadow of the Storm by Connilyn Cossette {Book Review}

Hey Gems!!!

Today I'll be reviewing the second book to the Out From Egypt trilogy by Connilyn Cossette. If you haven't seen my review of the first book, go read it before you get into this one!
This book confirmed my initial thoughts on Shira. With this sequel I see her in a different light -- I definitely preferred her in Counted with the Stars.

However, can we talk about this cover!!! Gorgeous model and beautiful colors!

Title: Shadow of the Storm

Author: Connilyn Cossette

Series: Out from Egypt #2

Age: Adult

Genres: Biblical Fiction, Christian Fiction, Historical Fiction

Publication Date: October 18, 2016

Publisher: Bethany House Publishing

Source: Paperback

Purchase: Hardcover (Intl Large Print) | Paperback | Kindle | Audible | Christian Book

Synopsis:
In the Depth of the Storm's Shadow, Only Truth Can Light Her Way  
Having escaped Egypt with the other Hebrews during the Exodus, Shira is now living in freedom at the foot of Mt. Sinai, upon which rests the fiery glowing Cloud containing the shekinah glory of God. When the people disobey Yahweh and build a golden idol, the ensuing chaos gives Shira an unexpected opportunity to learn the arts of midwifery. Although her mother wishes for her to continue in the family weaving trade, Shira's gifts shine brightest when she assists with deliveries. In defiance of her mother, Shira pursues her heart's calling to become an apprentice midwife. 
When a delivery goes horribly wrong, Shira finds herself bound to a man who betrayed her, the caretaker of three young children, and the target of a vengeful woman whose husband was killed by Shira's people, the Levites. As contention between the Hebrew tribes and the foreigners fans the flames of another dangerous rebellion, Shira will come face-to-face with the heartbreak of her past that she has kept hidden for so long. How can she let go of all that has defined her to accept the love she's denied herself and embrace who she truly is?
My Rating:
I truly enjoy Connilyn's writing as usual. Her writing shows the amount of research and study of the Word she has done to create such fictional characters in biblical settings. She seamlessly blends fictional characters and biblical figures together without flaw. PERFECTION!

I have been interested in knowing more about Shira since Counted With the Stars. I thought she was always a timid character from how she interacted with others in book one and I was correct. Shira is a tiny warrior with a courageous heart, however she's very timid. Shira has had some hardships for a while due to terrible circumstances. My heart broke for her when her past came to light. I did love seeing her work towards freedom. She irked me at times with how she shrunk back from good things. Her thoughts and insecurities were holding her back so much. Shira was definitely a relate-able character for sure.

Seeing Shira have a passion for midwifery was amazing. She had such a spirit about her that could help any woman or animal give birth. Her hands were made to bring that which she couldn't herself bear. She also had such a sweet voice that calmed the hearts of many.

Ayal was such a man! He made his mistakes -- almost like David -- and he had such a rough time with his first marriage, but he still pulled through. He is a man after God's own heart. He was strong, loving, protective and full of strength. I loved his heart and how he didn't allow his past to build a wall around him or hardened his heart.

The romance was absolutely amazing! I loved how they both just had an instant connection. You could tell they both were fond of one another. That plot-twist was INSANE! I was not expecting that whatsoever, but it made for such a good story line. I loved the children Dov, Ari and Taliah and the way they depended on Shira. I loved seeing Ayal declare his love despite his flaws and those of Shira. Their love was just so amazing.

Reva was such an impactful character for Shira. She gave so much knowledge. I found myself marking and anontating everything she spoke to Shira because it was so full of wisdom. I loved seeing Miriam in this book along with Moses and Aaron.

Dvorah was a wicked woman, but I still enjoyed her character. She definitely had a hardened heart for God and needed to overcome many things in her life and past. I felt bad for her, but was happy with the ending.

Kiya and Eben are just PERFECT! I still love them sooo much! Jumo cracked me up! He may be older than Kiya, but he has this childish behavior about him that warms the soul of others. I love him! Zerah, Shira's mother, was a bit cold in this book. Granted she thought she was protecting Shira, but she went about things completely wrong. I loved that she eventually gave in and encouraged Shira.

Seeing Exodus 32 come to life was AMAZING. It really brought the Bible to life for me seeing the Levites kill off those who fell off and then watching them build the temple and become consecrated. It was beautiful!

Overall, I enjoyed this story so much. It really taught me how to embrace the wilderness and depend on God to get through the rough times. Storms will arise in life, but I need to weather those storms and know that God is with me in the midst of the storm preparing me for greater and better.

Such a good sequel. Excited to dive into Wings of the Wind next!

Blessings,

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