Like Flames in the Night

Written by Connilyn Cossette

Narrated by Rachel Botchan

Strong-willed Tirzah wants to join her people in driving the enemy from the land of Israel and undergoes training for a secret mission inside the stronghold of Shechem. But soon after she has infiltrated the ruthless Aramean commander's kitchen, she makes a reckless decision that puts her and her allies in grave danger. Fresh off the battlefield, Liyam returns home to discover his beloved daughter is dead. After his vow to hunt down her killer leads to months of fruitless pursuit, his last hope is in a family connection that comes with strings attached. Strings that force him to pose as a mercenary and rescue an infuriating woman who refuses to leave her mission uncompleted. When an opportunity to pave a path to a Hebrew victory arises, can Tirzah convince Liyam to fight alongside her in the refuge city of her birth? Or will Liyam's thirst for vengeance outweigh his duty to his people, his God, and the woman he's come to love?

• Language: English
• Publisher: Recorded Books, Inc.
• Release date: Mar 3, 2020
• ISBN: 9781980064398

Connilyn Cossette

Connilyn Cossette (www.connilyncossette.com) is a Christy Award and Carol Award-winning author whose books have been found on ECPA and CBA bestseller lists. When she is not engulfed in the happy chaos of homeschooling two teenagers, devouring books whole, or avoiding housework, she can be found digging into the rich ancient world of the Bible to discover gems of grace that point to Jesus and weaving them into an immersive fiction experience. Although she and her husband have lived all over the country in their twenty-plus years of marriage, they currently call a little town south of Dallas, Texas, their home.

Reviews for Like Flames in the Night

[Isabet Vorster · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

I fell n love with the characters of this series and could not wait to get time to listen again. I am looking forward to more gems from this writer.

[bookslesstravelled · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Disclaimer, I read this one without reading the rest of the series first. This is something I very rarely do, but as my sister has been begging me to read this one, knowing I'd love the MCs I went ahead and read this one first just incase I didn't have time to read the whole series right now. (As I am a notoriously slow reader and Historical Fiction isn't usually one of my genre choices since I have a reading disability and it's one of the genre that always seem to take me longer to finish, regardless of how much I enjoy the book.)

Okay, so with that said, I know this one has spoilers, as it's the last book, and the others in her family are already married off with families of their own with this one. But, with the genre I didn't mind that since from the start that's how it works. It's the how they manage to work things out and find a way to be together that makes the story.

And in that regard, I might admit that I loved this one! It's funny since when I first started reading this one, I knew I wanted to know more about Alana, after hearing Tirzah's mother (Mariyah) talking about their friendship. The more I read this one, the more I realized she'd likely be another favorite of mine! My sister knows me so well though, as I adore these characters and loved this story setup and the flow of the writing is so easy to get swept away with, it flows so smoothly I read this in just a few sittings as I had to know what happened next, even from the start!

After reading this, I look forward to reading the rest of this series and the companion Egypt series if only for the beautiful attention to detail and the lovely descriptions that capture the scenes and emotions so well! This is one of those series that I can almost see myself there with the characters, as if among friends, and can feel their emotions bleeding though the pages as their story unfolds. In a word: unforgettable!

A powerful story of strength and insecurities, pain and forgiveness, rage and redemption. Tirzah's story isn't an easy one, or one filled with happiness, but is a beautiful tale of love and healing through the trials and loss of this life that remind us that Yahweh makes a way for those who love Him and who seek Him.

[estherfilbrun · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

A good conclusion to the seriesI was mildly surprised by Like Flames in the Night, but it ended up being a good read. After reading the first three books in the series, I knew I couldn’t skip it—and I’m glad I picked it up!I think my favorite part of the story is the main character’s occupation: A cook, working as a spy. I’ve always loved reading about spies and codebreaking and secretive stuff like that, so I was thrilled to be able to see that in Biblical fiction, too! The best part was that I didn’t feel like it took away from the setting; it flowed naturally, and felt realistic.Historically speaking, this book felt like it had more supposition than the previous ones. I will be very interested to read through this time period in the Bible, to see what detail is actually there. I do feel like I’ve got a better grasp on the famous characters in this time, though—especially Othniel. If I ever write in that time period, I’d love to write a book about him and his wife. There are little things that have stuck out to me from the Bible since I’ve read this book—things like the altar Joshua built on Mount Ebal, Othniel’s relationship to Caleb, and how dangerous it would have been to take possession of the land in the first place. I found all of that fascinating—and would love to read more about it and/or see where the author got her information. It’s all quite interesting!I think I was slightly disappointed with this story, though, because it almost felt like it ended about the half-way mark. I’m not sure what the reason for that was, but it did make me wonder if the book really had a lot more to build toward yet—and, though in a way it did, it also just didn’t feel quite as put together as some of the other books. But as far as tying up different character arcs, I think the whole thing was important. If you enjoy Biblical fiction that does stick pretty closely to the Bible’s account and the Mosaic law the people were supposed to be following in that time, I’d recommend the story and the whole series. I did feel like several of the books had one or two somewhat sensual scenes, but this book didn’t have as much of that, for which I’m grateful!I requested a free review copy of this book, and this is my honest opinion of it.

[hes7 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

I am in love with this book—and Connilyn Cossette’s entire Cities of Refuge series. Like Flames in the Night is the perfect way to conclude the saga that began with Moriyah and Darek.Caught in a period of turmoil for Israel, Moriyah’s youngest daughter Tirzah determines to help her people as a spy and heads into the Aramean stronghold of Shechem. Meanwhile, grieving father Liyam seeks only vengeance, but his quest also leads him to Shechem—and Tirzah. The story surrounding them then proves to be an epic one as they face countless dangers, thwart their enemies (externally and internally), and even confront the feelings that scare them the most.Like Flames in the Night is a pleasure to read. Not only is the story between Tirzah and Liyam entertaining, but it also delivers uplifting biblical truths of who God has always been. I cannot recommend it enough. Read this book (and this series) from Connilyn Cossette.I received a complimentary copy of this book and the opportunity to provide an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review, and all the opinions I have expressed are my own.

[fcplcataloger · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Like Flames in the Night is a fantastic way to wrap up a series that has made me a forever fan of author Connilyn Cossette. In the four books of the Cities of Refuge series she has created an amazing group of characters and the hero and heroine of this book are both wonderful additions. Tirzah is brave and she loves her country and her God; through all of her trials and efforts she continues to show great faith and determination as she becomes a spy and journeys to Shechem to uncover secrets while working in the kitchen of an Aramean commander. Along the way she joins forces with Liyam, a man intent on revenging the death of his beloved daughter. As they work to achieve their individual goals, their grudging admiration for each other turns into something much more. Cossette beautifully describes their increased awareness of each other romantically and she vividly conveys their fears as they realize that their mission could end in tragedy."As I headed down into the valley, I willed myself to focus on the mission before me, instead of the inexplicable pull I'd begun to feel for the man at my back." "I could not lose her. Not like I had Havah. Not like Nadina. It was becoming clearer by the day that I would not survive if I did." I have learned so much from reading this series and Cossette's extensive research is evident in these fictional stories that include Israel's history. God's chosen people rejected Him, and then, after repenting, they turned back to Him. Like a loving father, He forgave them and this book reminds us of the power of forgiveness. Liyam was able to forgive the man that he blamed for his daughter's death and he finally realized that God offers the gift of forgiveness to all who call on His name. Isn't it wonderful that all of us are beneficiaries of this grace?Like Flames in the Night is an excellent way to conclude this series and I recommend it to all who enjoy biblical fiction. I received a complimentary copy from the author. There was no obligation to post a favorable review and I am voluntarily sharing my honest opinion.

[virginia51-1 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

This was the last book in this series and it was fantastic. I did not want to put this book down but I will also really miss this family. I love how Connilyn Cossette can give these characters such a life. I love how she can take an idea from the Bible and give us a family and their reactions. This book has many twists and turns and some battles. I received a copy of this book from the author for a fair and honest opinion that I gave of my own free will.

[becky_l-1 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Connilynn Cossette consistently brings us novels of Biblical times that draw the readers in and make us believe that we are part of the ancient world she has flung open like a door. Like Flames in the Night is a tale of the nation of Israel as it is terrorized by the cruel Arameans, with Othniel leading the resistance. More specifically, we meet brave, bold Tirzah, who yearns to do her part to free the Hebrew people. Liyam is a warrior who loses his faith when he loses his dearest possessions. Somehow these two are key players in Israel’s struggle to be free. Tirzah is a highly relatable character because she has several brothers and is very comfortable competing against them. Many female readers will either relate to the idea of competing with brothers or just wanting their contributions to be as valued as men's. Some may say that women leaders were unheard of in Israeli history, but we can easily recall names of heroines such as Miriam, Deborah the judge, or Esther. I love how Tirzah slowly recognizes that Yahweh Himself has spoken through her outspoken personality. God uses us as we are. Ah, Liyam. Heartthrob, spy, blood-avenger. He looks so good in his protective role, one might actually think he can let go of his blood-lust. What a tension this creates as Tirzah’s family tells their own history, and multiple friends urge the angry Hebrew to pursue life, not death. But is that even possible for Liyam? I almost forgot Odeleya. She will worm her way into your heart and find a permanent spot. If you like Biblical fiction, you need to add this last book in Cities of Refuge series to your collection. You could read this book as a stand-alone, but the series is too great. You will want to read all four books in Connilynn Cossette’s series. So many “notable quotables.” I will keep them to just a few. "Has Yahweh disappeared? Or has the power that split the sea diminished since the Arameans took control? Or have we simply forgotten who we are?” "What they cannot understand is that the words of Yahweh, along with the renewed spirits of our people, are more dangerous than any weapon they might have taken from our hands.” "...where the black shadow of Har Ebal stood, and at its peak, the altar of Yehoshua. “A fire will burn there again soon. And when it does, be assured that it was your iron strike against our flint hearts that created the first spark.” "But it is our duty as men consecrated by Adonai Most High to speak truth. We have hidden too long in our homes, cowering, keeping His Words locked in our hearts instead of on our tongues.” "If the people of Yahweh rise up and remember who they are, nothing will stop our armies from being victorious over the Arameans this time. Nothing.” "Who was I to speak to the mind of the Eternal One? Or to turn my face away from the gifts he’d given me? Perhaps even the trials I had endured were gifts in a way, making me stronger, wiser, more prepared to accomplish his purposes.” “By the time I was empty of prayers... there was just me and the God Who created me.” “Justice without mercy was tyranny, and mercy without justice was lawlessness.” I received a complimentary copy of this book from Waterbrook-Multnomah and the author. This in no way influenced my opinions, which I am voluntarily leaving. I am solely responsible for these opinions.

[anne_rightler-1 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Like Flames in the Night is Connilyn Cossette's fourth and final book in the Cities of Refuge series. It is an amazing and remarkable conclusion to the series. Biblical fiction is one of my favorite genres to read, and this book (and the whole series!) went way above my expectations. Cossette is an expert storyteller and has woven a magnificent story of the Hebrews' fight to free themselves from the tyranny of Aramaean occupation and the struggle to maintain their way of life under the Torah and to survive as a nation. The characters have depth and reality, and their emotions and strengths and failures resonate well with readers. Tirzah, a childless Hebrew widow, boldly insists on being involved in the fight for freedom, despite the danger and threat of capture or even death. Liyam, a stoic, deeply wounded man, is a man on a mission of vengeance. Odeleya, a sweet child, is caught up in the ugliness of captivity and war. How the author weaves their stories together is almost magical and certainly captured my heart. The descriptive scenes take readers right back to the ancient days and places and put them right into the story. Cossette skillfully wields her pen into the creation of beautiful imagery--"a nightingale warbled farewell to the stars from the heights of a nearby cedar, the mournful sound dissolving into the icy breeze that lashed a few brown leaves across my path". As the story moves at a fast pace toward an exciting climax, there is suspense and action, deception and death, and, on the softer side, family and friendships, loyalty and love, and faith. It is the kind of faith that allows one to reach out to God in the darkest moments of life and find overflowing mercy. Don't miss this marvelous book, it will hold you spellbound until the end and then leave you wanting more.I received a copy of the book from the publisher, Bethany House. A favorable review was not required. The opinions are my own.

[sbmc-1 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

"Justice without mercy was tyranny, and mercy without justice was lawlessness. Yahweh had created both to work together, for his glory and for our good."This book's powerful words will remain with you long after its last words have been read. The soul-stirring journey of Liyam's heart will have you weeping, rejoicing, and cheering as he's gently led to understand God's justice, mercy, and forgiveness. The two first-person point of view from Tirzah and Liyam flows seamlessly to create a masterpiece that melds biblical account, historical account, and brilliantly creative fiction during the time of Aramean occupancy of the Promised Land and Othniel's uprising against the Arameans. The author has a gift of bringing the biblical period to life in full color and her characters, with their tangible emotional burdens, will grab your heart from page one. The author balances the responsibility and commitment of the Israelites as a community through Tirzah's life with the personal responsibility and commitment of a single follower of Yahweh through Liyam's life to create an incredible picture of what a righteous generation looks like. The cities of refuge, where this four-book series takes place, offer justice and mercy to those who need them the most, and Liyam has to engage in physical and emotional battle all over the Promised Land to finally comprehend God's perfect justice and mercy.I love that this book ties in the author's book Wings of the Wind from the previous series Out of Egypt with this series. Though this book is the final book of this current series, it can be read as a stand-alone, especially because the author provides timely recaps of the secondary characters' stories without slowing down the plot. If you have been following the series, you will love the glimpses of Moriyah and Darek's clan and delight in how Eitan and Malakhi grow up to be respected leaders of their people. There is plenty of action, suspense, and intrigue as Tirzah and Liyam cloak themselves in the world of espionage to further the cause of obtaining their people's freedom. Liyam and Tirzah are unforgettable, two of my favorite book characters of all time.If you enjoy biblical fiction, this book (and the series) is a must read. The impeccable research, well-crafted plot, memorable characters, and trustworthy faith lessons found in this book will make you a fan of Connilyn Cossette, too, if you aren't already.I received a copy of the book from Bethany House Publishers and was under no obligation to post a positive review. All comments and opinions are solely my own.

[beautyinthebinding · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

Like Flames in the Night by Connilyn Cossette engaged my attention immediately with Tirzah who easily claimed the spot as my favorite character. As a leader, she’s strong and brave. As a spy, she’s skilled and confident. As a human being, she’s imperfect, yet tenacious. In short, she’s the kind of woman I aspire to be! I loved that Liyam respects and affirms her as a valued, gifted warrior-leader.With romantic tension, constant danger, and hard issues, the storyline of Like Flames in the Night moves steadily. I enjoyed the characters’ personal development as the story progressed. Liyam, like Raviv from the first novel in the series, is a Blood Avenger. Liyam’s pain, struggle, and duty dictate many of his actions, but the last chapter is a potent masterpiece displaying the novel’s themes and Liyam’s character development. I wanted to cry and cheer.Like Flames in the Night by Connilyn Cossette stands as the fourth and final installment in the Cities of Refuge series. While this novel can be read as a stand-alone, I recommend reading the novels in order as nearly all the characters from previous novels in the series, plus, some from Wings of the Wind, reappear in Like Flames in the Night. Truly, the epilogue created a satisfying conclusion to both this novel and the series as a whole. I will likely read the series in its entirety again in the future.Disclosure of Material Connection: I was provided a copy of this book by the publisher. All opinions in this review are my own.

[coverloverbookreview · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

I always have mixed feelings when I come to the close of a fabulous book series. I love the interconnected stories coming full circle, yet I know I’ll miss spending time with the characters. (That is, until I revisit them when I reread the books at a later date.)Like Flames in the Night is a captivating story that centers on Tirzah and Liyam. (Tirzah is a familiar character in the series, while Liyam is new.) Tirzah is fearless and daring, journeying into an unfamiliar territory of danger, especially for a woman during that time. I would’ve had a difficult time stepping into her place, still I put myself there through her story and saw the world and the era’s obstacles through her eyes. Liyam seeks revenge for a tragedy that left his life forever changed. I was surprised at how much his search moved me. I love how these two lives were placed together.Connilyn Cossette is a master storyteller, second to none in gathering historical details and using them to create believable Biblical scenes, stories, and settings with a lovely blend of fiction and authenticity. The four-book Cities of Refuge series is wonderfully creative, edifying, and inspiring. I can’t wait to read The Covenant House series!I am in awe of this stunning cover art. The cover is usually what first pulls me into a book, although in this particular instance the fact that Ms. Cossette was the author created the initial pull. I view books as works of art, from the cover to the closing page, and this one is a masterpiece.#flamesinthenight #connilyncossette #bethanyhouse #coverloveI received a complimentary copy of this book.

[eamace · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

One lone flame does little to push back the darkness, but many little flames will soon create a blaze that will defeat the darkness.Wow! What an incredible finish to the Cities of Refuge series. There is suspense, spying, mercy, forgiveness and unconditional love - Yahweh for His people, Tirzah for Odeleya and the many who die to redeem their land. Tirzah is a young widow who is skillful, dedicated and a fast learner. She wants to help in the fight against the Aramean occupation of Judah’s cities and lands. Sending a woman as a spy was just not done but with much convincing and a great deal of training she was allowed to go to Shechem as a cook. Here she worked, listened and passed information back to her brother who was the leader of the fighting forces. As the remnant rises up, her faith is renewed and she remembers that the Lord will fight for her, she needs only to be still.Liyam has lost his wife in childbirth and his daughter to a trader’s lack of ability to control his team and wagon. Seeking only revenge, he sets out to find that one-eyed Moabite. It was lovely to read how Yahweh brings him back to the place where forgiveness is possible, as he helps in the mission to oust the Arameans from the land. One lone flame made all the difference! A good reminder for all of us to let our light shine wherever we are.I received this book through NetGalley, Bethany House Publishers and the Baker Publishing Group. All impressions and comments are my own and were in no way solicited.