It isn’t needlessly included – it holds purpose. I know I said it doesn’t sound preachy and that what I just wrote makes it seem so, but the plot and writing grip you so tight you don’t even notice – and it all plays a part in the development of the characters and the plot. The theme of ‘false gods’ is continued throughout this trilogy, and each situation was delivered in a different way and heeded different results. The story begins with Ela, a seventeen year old girl from a small city called Parne, being called by her Creator, the Infinite (God), to be His Prophet and bring His word to a nation that has not only turned their backs on Him but has begun worshipping false gods. I didn’t find it preachy, I found the plot and characters to be well crafted and the world to be well researched.

What I mean by that is I personally think even those who aren’t Christians will find enjoyment from this book (and the series). Yes it is classed as a Christian story, but it reads just like a high fantasy and to be completely honest I’ve seen similar ‘spiritual’ elements in many other popular YA fantasies. When I came upon Prophet I had no idea it would become one of my favorite books, not only of the year, but of all time. As someone who has been a Christian all my life and thoroughly enjoys an intricate plot, this is somewhat of a bother. I find it’s very preachy and the plots are often weak.

I’ve never been a big fan of Christian fiction – especially in YA. As they form an unlikely partnership, Ela battles how to balance the leading of her heart with the leading of the Infinite. There she meets a young ambassador determined to bring his own justice for his oppressed people. Determined to hear the Infinite’s voice, Ela accepts the sacred vinewood branch and is sent to bring the Infinite’s word to a nation torn apart by war.

Yet she can’t imagine living without Him. Worst of all, as Parne’s elders often warn, if she agrees to become the Infinite’s prophet, Ela knows she will die young. In addition, no prophet of Parne has ever been a girl. She’s undignified and bad-tempered, and at age seventeen she’s much too young. Stick around til’ the end because I’m giving away TWO copies of Prophet! (Giveaway CLOSED)Įla Roeh of Parne doesn’t understand why her beloved Creator, the Infinite, wants her to become His prophet. Genre: Young Adult, Christian, Fantasy, Historical, Slow Burn RomanceĪdditional Notes: Marketed as ‘ Fantasy meets Old Testament‘. Setting: Fantasy World – Pre-Christian Era

Prophet by R.J. Larson