R. J. Larson

I lead a Faith And Fiction Bible study/bookclub at my church and am always on the lookout for Christian fiction that will compliment what we are studying. As part of a survey of Old Testament prophets, I chose Prophet, a fantasy by R. J. Larson. The author took her inspiration for main character Ela Roeh from Jeremiah 1 and Ezekiel 2, so I knew it would be a great addition to discussion. What I didn’t know, but soon found out, was that Prophet is an engaging read that appeals to all ages. I loved the unique, yet familiar, world that Larson has created in this first book in the Books of The Infinite series. If you like fantasy with a Christian influence, this one is for you.

The world in which Ela Roeh of Parne inhabits is filled with unusual and often deadly beasts, people with their own agendas, and the ever present voice of the Infinite. Ela is not only young, but the first girl the Infinite has chosen to speak for Him. His message is repent and return, which she dutifully shares. Yet Ela struggles with doubts, insecurities, and grief over an unresponding audience. Larson made me view OT prophets in a new way through Ela’s character. I looked beyond their stern warnings and pronouncements to the heart that they had for God and His people. The story is one adventure after another, but flows with the purpose given by the Infinite. There is plenty of action for those who like battles and intrigue, yet there is a sense of lightness and humor that help keep this one from being too heavy. I liked the subtle references to the Bible that Larson includes. You can hear the voice of God in the messages of the Infinite. There are a few hidden touches as well. I didn’t realize until deeper into my study of the Biblical record that Ela’s last name is inspired by the Hebrew word for vision. Pretty cool!

Prophet is a well-written fantasy, yet I believe has a wider appeal. Its themes also make it a great book for book clubs. It is also just the first book for Ela and other characters I came to love. I look forward to visiting Ela’s world again.

Recommended.

Great for Book Clubs.

Audience: YA and adults.

(I purchased this book from Amazon. All opinions expressed are mine alone.)… (mere)

A very good Christian fantasy novel that has a little bit of an historical feel. It draws you in and holds you. “Ela Roeh of Parne doesn’t understand why her beloved Creator, the Infinite, wants her to become His prophet. She’s undignified, bad tempered, and only seventeen–not to mention that no prophet of Parne has ever been a girl. Worst of all, as the elders often warn, if she agrees to become the Infinite’s prophet, Ela knows she will die young.” The characters feel real, the mystery feels real, and the danger mounts yet you never question that there is a greater plan behind it all. You don’t often find such a moving believable book in Christian fantasy. There are two more books in the series and Im looking forward to them.… (mere)