"Voice of the Ancient" by Connilyn Cossette

On the day Samuel anointed Saul king of Israel, four young men sneaked to the top of the ridge to watch the proceedings. One year later, when Saul calls his first troops to assemble, the same four youths leave their homes, eager for battle. Avidan knows he goes without his Levite family's permission. He is not supposed to be near the fighting, but he longs for adventure.

Keziah knows her father will soon seek a husband for her, but she never guessed it would be to a man who is so loathsome. Will she even be safe in his household? A daring flight sets her free but leaves her on the run.

When Avidan, fresh from the battle but seeking what was lost, stumbles upon Keziah, the two join together for the remainder of their journey. Will they each find what they are looking for?

I've enjoyed most of Connilyn Cossette's books, and have eagerly waited for this one, which was delayed while Conni was fighting (and beating!) breast cancer. But the story didn't grab me. It has a very slow start, and the main characters don't meet until the 45% mark of the story. Things definitely pick up from there, and the interaction between Avidan and Keziah is the strongest part of the story. I also liked how Avidan came to embrace his true calling, and both characters come to know and rely on God in deeper ways.

I think the setting of this series, during the years of King Saul, will prove interesting. Looking forward to the next book!

I received my copy of the book from the publisher. All thoughts in this review are my own.