Prophet

Starred review from April 15, 2012

The Istgard have renounced the Infinite, so he has called on Ela Roeh to become his prophet. She's not the most likely choice for the job, being 17 and unrefined. On top of that, she's female--a first time for a prophet. Still, she accepts the role and tries to bring His message to her war-torn nation. In her new role, she meets an ambassador named Kien, and they form an alliance. Soon, Ela must decide how to keep true to her promise while following her heart. VERDICT Character-driven and suspenseful, this outstanding YA speculative fiction launch does a great job of world building. Bethany House is marketing it heavily to fans of The Hunger Games trilogy, so demand should be high.

Copyright 2012 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

April 15, 2012
First-time inspirational-fantasy author Larson brings a mythical new world to life. Unassuming teen Ela Roeh bravely accepts the Infinite's call to become His new prophet. Never before in the history of Parne has a girl been a prophet, but that doesn't stop Ela from taking her duties seriously as she and her sister Tzana leave Parne and set out for a new life beyond Ela's imagination. Ela is gripped by visions from the Infinite that direct her steps into unfriendly lands, where she is compelled to deliver news of His judgment. Meanwhile, Tracelander Kien Lantec is working to avenge his people. He and Ela are soon brought together in an unlikely pairing. They begin to care for one another, but both fear what Ela's commitment to being the Infinite's prophet means for their future. Larson blends traditional fantasy-adventure elementsstrange creatures, epic battles, and mysterious realmswith the Old Testament's saga of God against evil without leaning too heavily in either direction. This balance keeps readers riveted, and they'll be eager for more from this promising new writer.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2012, American Library Association.)