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The Oneness Cycle #1
Exile
The battle is real. Page-turning, suspenseful Christian fantasy on the border between earth and spirit. When Tyler fishes the girl out of the bay, he thinks she's dead. She wishes she was. For Reese, life ended when the supernatural entity called the Oneness threw her out. For Tyler, dredging Reese out of the water means life is nothing he thought. In a world where the Oneness exists, nothing looks the same. Dead men walk. Demons prowl the air. Old friends peel back their mundane masks and prove as supernatural as angels. The Oneness changes everything. And getting Reese home, making her One again, will change Tyler—and his roommate, Chris, whose connections with the Oneness have been buried most of his life—forever. EXILE is the first book in The Oneness Cycle, an urban fantasy series of spiritual warfare novels. If you love page-turning suspense, heart-pounding plotting, and fiction that unveils truth, this series is for you. The Oneness Cycle will make you think, challenge your perceptions of the world around you, and call you to take your place in the battle of good vs evil. Not for the faint of heart! Life-Changing, Inspirational Christian From the Author Hey, my name is Rachel Starr Thomson. I love Jesus and believe wholeheartedly in the power of fiction to change our lives. While nonfiction may teach us something, fiction allows us to experience it. When we’re experiencing truth, beauty, struggle, and triumph, we find our lives enriched and deepened by what we read. That’s why I write. I want my readers to discover depths of truth about themselves, about the world, and about God that stretch and inspire them. My stories are always clean, but I don’t shy away from hard questions and honest characters. Whoever you are, I believe in you. I believe your life has immeasurable worth. I believe you were personally handcrafted by a loving Creator with a vision and purpose for your life. I believe your struggles, your dreams, and your hurts matter. I believe you walk a path no one else does, one that is intended to benefit the world. I hope you’ll enjoy what you read and come back for more. Most of all, I hope that through my stories, you’ll forge a new depth of connection with the God who truly loves you. Genre-Bending Christian Biblical, Historical, Suspense, Fantasy, Paranormal, Visionary—Always Lyrical, Always Christian, Always Changing the Game Readers would be forgiven for asking what genre exactly Rachel Starr Thomson writes. Her work is described as spiritual, visionary, biblical, fantasy—and literary, poetic, and anchored in the real world. Always a clean read, her books are suitable for teens but have the depth, beauty, and characterization to keep adults riveted. They The Seventh World Trilogy (Worlds Unseen, Burning Light, Coming Day): Classic Christian fantasy in the style of C.S. Lewis. Great for teens & all readers of inspirational fiction. The Prophet Trilogy (Abaddon’s Eve, Comes the Dragon, Beloved): Best described as biblical historical fantasy. Set in a world based on ancient Israel, these books follow four believers in a time when judgment is coming. The Oneness Cycle (Exile, Hive, Attack, Renegade, Rise): Readers call them spiritual warfare fiction. They’re Christian urban fantasy, paranormal, suspense novels—but they’re also real world in their impact.
196 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 6, 2013
239 people are currently reading
362 people want to read
About the author
Rachel Starr Thomson
79 books174 followersRachel Starr Thomson is in love with Jesus and convinced the gospel will change the world.
Rachel is a woman of many talents and even more interests: she’s a writer, editor, indie publisher, singer, speaker, Bible study teacher, and world traveler. The author of the Seventh World Trilogy, The Oneness Cycle, and many other books, she also tours North America and other parts of the world as a speaker and spoken-word artist with 1:11 Ministries.
Adventures in the Kingdom launched in 2015 as a way to bring together Rachel’s explorations, in fiction and nonfiction, of what it means to live all of life in the kingdom of God.
Rachel lives in the beautiful Niagara Region of southern Ontario, just down the river from the Falls. She drinks far too much coffee and tea, daydreams of visiting Florida all winter, and hikes the Bruce Trail when she gets a few minutes. A homeschool graduate from a highly creative and entrepreneurial family, she believes we’d all be much better off if we pitched our television sets out the nearest window.
LIFE AND WORK (BRIEFLY)
Rachel began writing on scrap paper sometime around grade 1. Her stories revolved around jungle animals and sometimes pirates (they were actual rats . . . she doesn’t remember if the pun was intended). Back then she also illustrated her own work, a habit she left behind with the scrap paper.
Rachel’s first novel, a humorous romp called Theodore Pharris Saves the Universe, was written when she was 13, followed within a year by the more serious adventure story Reap the Whirlwind. Around that time, she had a life-changing encounter with God.
The next several years were spent getting to know God, developing a new love for the Scriptures, and discovering a passion for ministry through working with a local ministry with international reach, Sommer Haven Ranch International. Although Rachel was raised in a strong Christian home, where discipleship was as much a part of homeschooling as academics, these years were pivotal in making her faith her own.
At age 17, Rachel started writing again, this time penning the essays that became Letters to a Samuel Generation and Heart to Heart: Meeting With God in the Lord’s Prayer.
In 2001, Rachel returned to fiction, writing what would become her bestselling novel and then a bestselling series–Worlds Unseen, book 1 of The Seventh World Trilogy.
A classic fantasy adventure marked by Rachel’s lyrical style, Worlds Unseen encapsulates much of what makes Rachel’s writing unique: fantasy settings with one foot in the real world; adventure stories that explore depths of spiritual truth; and a knack for opening readers’ eyes anew to the beauty of their own world–and of themselves.
In 2003, Rachel began freelance editing, a side job that soon blossomed into a full-time career. Four years later, in 2007, she co-founded Soli Deo Gloria Ballet with Carolyn Currey, an arts ministry that in 2015 would be renamed as 1:11 Ministries. To a team of dancers and singers, Rachel brought the power of words, writing and delivering original narrations, spoken-word poetry, and songs for over a dozen productions. The team has ministered coast-to-coast in Canada as well as in the United States and internationally.
Rachel began publishing her own work under the auspices of Little Dozen Press in 2007, but it was in 2011, with the e-book revolution in full swing, that writing became a true priority again. Since that time Rachel has published many of her older never-published titles and written two new fiction series, The Oneness Cycle and The Prophet Trilogy.
Over 30 of Rachel’s novels, short stories, and nonfiction works are now available in digital editions. Many are available in paperback as well, with more released regularly.
The God she fell in love with as a teenager has remained the focus of Rachel’s life, work, and speaking.
Rachel is a woman of many talents and even more interests: she’s a writer, editor, indie publisher, singer, speaker, Bible study teacher, and world traveler. The author of the Seventh World Trilogy, The Oneness Cycle, and many other books, she also tours North America and other parts of the world as a speaker and spoken-word artist with 1:11 Ministries.
Adventures in the Kingdom launched in 2015 as a way to bring together Rachel’s explorations, in fiction and nonfiction, of what it means to live all of life in the kingdom of God.
Rachel lives in the beautiful Niagara Region of southern Ontario, just down the river from the Falls. She drinks far too much coffee and tea, daydreams of visiting Florida all winter, and hikes the Bruce Trail when she gets a few minutes. A homeschool graduate from a highly creative and entrepreneurial family, she believes we’d all be much better off if we pitched our television sets out the nearest window.
LIFE AND WORK (BRIEFLY)
Rachel began writing on scrap paper sometime around grade 1. Her stories revolved around jungle animals and sometimes pirates (they were actual rats . . . she doesn’t remember if the pun was intended). Back then she also illustrated her own work, a habit she left behind with the scrap paper.
Rachel’s first novel, a humorous romp called Theodore Pharris Saves the Universe, was written when she was 13, followed within a year by the more serious adventure story Reap the Whirlwind. Around that time, she had a life-changing encounter with God.
The next several years were spent getting to know God, developing a new love for the Scriptures, and discovering a passion for ministry through working with a local ministry with international reach, Sommer Haven Ranch International. Although Rachel was raised in a strong Christian home, where discipleship was as much a part of homeschooling as academics, these years were pivotal in making her faith her own.
At age 17, Rachel started writing again, this time penning the essays that became Letters to a Samuel Generation and Heart to Heart: Meeting With God in the Lord’s Prayer.
In 2001, Rachel returned to fiction, writing what would become her bestselling novel and then a bestselling series–Worlds Unseen, book 1 of The Seventh World Trilogy.
A classic fantasy adventure marked by Rachel’s lyrical style, Worlds Unseen encapsulates much of what makes Rachel’s writing unique: fantasy settings with one foot in the real world; adventure stories that explore depths of spiritual truth; and a knack for opening readers’ eyes anew to the beauty of their own world–and of themselves.
In 2003, Rachel began freelance editing, a side job that soon blossomed into a full-time career. Four years later, in 2007, she co-founded Soli Deo Gloria Ballet with Carolyn Currey, an arts ministry that in 2015 would be renamed as 1:11 Ministries. To a team of dancers and singers, Rachel brought the power of words, writing and delivering original narrations, spoken-word poetry, and songs for over a dozen productions. The team has ministered coast-to-coast in Canada as well as in the United States and internationally.
Rachel began publishing her own work under the auspices of Little Dozen Press in 2007, but it was in 2011, with the e-book revolution in full swing, that writing became a true priority again. Since that time Rachel has published many of her older never-published titles and written two new fiction series, The Oneness Cycle and The Prophet Trilogy.
Over 30 of Rachel’s novels, short stories, and nonfiction works are now available in digital editions. Many are available in paperback as well, with more released regularly.
The God she fell in love with as a teenager has remained the focus of Rachel’s life, work, and speaking.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 68 reviews
April 18, 2022
An interesting start; wonder how things progress from here?
April 3, 2016
3.5/5
I was a bit unsure in starting this book. It's not really the type of book I typically read. But I'm really glad I did. It was very well written and kept me interested the whole way through.
The main premise of the story, with the Oneness and the powers they had was really intriguing. I liked Reese and her struggles were very real. The boys were also great characters. I did like Chris a little more, but both he and Tyler had great development. I'm interested to see how they continue to change through the series.
The overall story was compelling. Like I said before, I kept reading every chance I got because I really wanted to know how everything would work out. This story is just one chapter in what promises to be a fast paced fight of good vs. evil.
My rating might be a little low. It was a good book, but not one of my favorites. I'll finish the series at some point. My only "problem" with it, is you have the concept of the Oneness and the Spirit, but no mention of God by name at all, except a few times in an exclamation. It's just something that stood out to me, but not a big deal at all.
I'd recommend it to readers who enjoy urban fantasy and stories of redemption and faith.
I was a bit unsure in starting this book. It's not really the type of book I typically read. But I'm really glad I did. It was very well written and kept me interested the whole way through.
The main premise of the story, with the Oneness and the powers they had was really intriguing. I liked Reese and her struggles were very real. The boys were also great characters. I did like Chris a little more, but both he and Tyler had great development. I'm interested to see how they continue to change through the series.
The overall story was compelling. Like I said before, I kept reading every chance I got because I really wanted to know how everything would work out. This story is just one chapter in what promises to be a fast paced fight of good vs. evil.
My rating might be a little low. It was a good book, but not one of my favorites. I'll finish the series at some point. My only "problem" with it, is you have the concept of the Oneness and the Spirit, but no mention of God by name at all, except a few times in an exclamation. It's just something that stood out to me, but not a big deal at all.
I'd recommend it to readers who enjoy urban fantasy and stories of redemption and faith.
July 22, 2014
Thomson, an excellent writer, presents a solid angels v demons saga but with a slightly different slant - this story concerns the Oneness, a 3rd party (human in nature) who play a prominent role in the spiritual battles that serve (and don't overwhelm) a nicely drawn character- and story-driven plot. Written with a similar Christian worldview as This Present Darkness (the Peretti classic that basically launched this genre of Christian fiction), Exile has its own storyline, setting, and dilemma that Thomson teases out until it reaches a confident climax and (fulfilling for this novel) resolution. This first book in the Oneness Cycle is complete, but definitely leaves the reader wanting and expecting more. If the next two novels are as well done, which I have no reason to doubt, the complete saga will more than satisfy the reader who enjoys these kinds of spiritual thrillers.
August 28, 2022
This is going to be a DNF for me. 30% into it and I just don’t understand where the author is going with it. Im not enjoying it, just seems all over the place to me and the characters aren’t really developed well so I keep getting confused. Won’t give up on the author, maybe I’ll try another of her books but this series just isn’t enjoyable at the moment.
July 2, 2016
It was … interesting. It kind of creeped me out, but not too badly. The whole concept of demon-possession is scary. I know it’s a thing, but … I don’t really want to think about it. The Oneness is a cool idea, though.
Despite that, it was a relatively good book. The plot and characters unfolded and flowed naturally. Good balance of events vs. dialogue vs. description. Overall, the message was good.
Read my complete review here.
~Kellyn Roth
Despite that, it was a relatively good book. The plot and characters unfolded and flowed naturally. Good balance of events vs. dialogue vs. description. Overall, the message was good.
Read my complete review here.
~Kellyn Roth
June 29, 2019
3 Stars.
Oh book, you make it so hard to rate you.
Unfortunately I am going to start off with the things that I didn't like about the book first.
First off, when I started this book I was immediately thinking I would end up rating it one star, maybe two at the most. The story was not bad at all, but the writing wasn't that great. In the beginning it was mostly telling and no showing. It was difficult for me to see some of the scenes clearly because of a lack of well developed descriptive writing, and also the fact that it was a little unrealistic. The first page opens up with these two boys fishing, and they find this girl caught in their net. When they haul her on board their little boat, not only is she completely fine aside from being wet, she's not even unconscious or anything, but the boys don't seem to react that oddly to her being completely unharmed. They pull her out of the water, it doesn't even mention disentangling her from the net by the way, and just ask her why she was in the water. She sits up, perfectly fine, and says she jumped off of a far off and high standing cliff.
. . .
She jumped off of a tall cliff into deep stormy waters, gets entangled in a fishing net, and is in cold water for who knows how long and is perfectly okay? That doesn't even make sense. Also, as I said before, the scene was also confusing because Rachel Starr Thomson barely even described the scene. Not how she looked being dragged from the water, not how they had to wrestle the net off of her, or how she could have been half dead or at least badly injured. Nothing. Absolutely nothing. I just found myself twitching to re-write that whole first scene, not because I am a better writer than miss Thomson because, lets face it, I probably am not a better writer in the slightest; but I wanted to do it because I could see how I wanted it in my head, and because the way it was actually written was so lacking.
Secondly, I felt that the POV changed hands too many times and it was kind of confusing to bounce back and forth in. It changed so often and between so many people that it made it difficult to gain any deep attachment to any of the characters. There just wasn't enough time spent on each individual character to build a relationship with them. It became a little easier as the book went on, but I still didn't develop a deep love for the characters. I liked them and I enjoyed getting to know them when I could, but there was still so much bouncing around that it made it hard to truly get connected to the characters, at least not until the very end which is kind of almost missing the point.
On the other hand, the story itself was amazing, and is ripe for so much spell binding potential! The concept was really cool and I found myself intrigued as I continued reading. I did enjoy this aspect of the book and I hope that Rachel Starr Thomson executes the idea in more creative depth and detail as the story goes on. I finished the book quickly, though at first it was just to get through it because I have a hard time not finishing a book once I've started, but then that feeling of wanting to get it over with quickly changed into a genuine curiosity as I continued on.
The beginning of this book was a rough ride for sure, but I was really glad that I stuck it through to the end. Thus this awful confliction where I don't know how to rate this. On the one hand, some of the aspects of this book were kind of terrible, but on the other there were many places where I thoroughly enjoyed the book.
So take from this review what you will! I would say it's worth reading and sticking it out to the end, but be forewarned the beginning is a hard ride.
There was nothing inappropriate in this book, and the phrase "damn it" was only used one time. Other than that there was no other swearing and the story was completely clean. A little violence and mentions of suicide and deep rooted grief, but nothing too graphic.
If you pick up this book I hope you enjoy it but... well... good luck!!
P.S. I really respect Rachel Starr Thomson and this review was in no way intended to put her book down or her writing, it was written with kindness and the intent of helpful criticism.
Happy reading!!
Oh book, you make it so hard to rate you.
Unfortunately I am going to start off with the things that I didn't like about the book first.
First off, when I started this book I was immediately thinking I would end up rating it one star, maybe two at the most. The story was not bad at all, but the writing wasn't that great. In the beginning it was mostly telling and no showing. It was difficult for me to see some of the scenes clearly because of a lack of well developed descriptive writing, and also the fact that it was a little unrealistic. The first page opens up with these two boys fishing, and they find this girl caught in their net. When they haul her on board their little boat, not only is she completely fine aside from being wet, she's not even unconscious or anything, but the boys don't seem to react that oddly to her being completely unharmed. They pull her out of the water, it doesn't even mention disentangling her from the net by the way, and just ask her why she was in the water. She sits up, perfectly fine, and says she jumped off of a far off and high standing cliff.
. . .
She jumped off of a tall cliff into deep stormy waters, gets entangled in a fishing net, and is in cold water for who knows how long and is perfectly okay? That doesn't even make sense. Also, as I said before, the scene was also confusing because Rachel Starr Thomson barely even described the scene. Not how she looked being dragged from the water, not how they had to wrestle the net off of her, or how she could have been half dead or at least badly injured. Nothing. Absolutely nothing. I just found myself twitching to re-write that whole first scene, not because I am a better writer than miss Thomson because, lets face it, I probably am not a better writer in the slightest; but I wanted to do it because I could see how I wanted it in my head, and because the way it was actually written was so lacking.
Secondly, I felt that the POV changed hands too many times and it was kind of confusing to bounce back and forth in. It changed so often and between so many people that it made it difficult to gain any deep attachment to any of the characters. There just wasn't enough time spent on each individual character to build a relationship with them. It became a little easier as the book went on, but I still didn't develop a deep love for the characters. I liked them and I enjoyed getting to know them when I could, but there was still so much bouncing around that it made it hard to truly get connected to the characters, at least not until the very end which is kind of almost missing the point.
On the other hand, the story itself was amazing, and is ripe for so much spell binding potential! The concept was really cool and I found myself intrigued as I continued reading. I did enjoy this aspect of the book and I hope that Rachel Starr Thomson executes the idea in more creative depth and detail as the story goes on. I finished the book quickly, though at first it was just to get through it because I have a hard time not finishing a book once I've started, but then that feeling of wanting to get it over with quickly changed into a genuine curiosity as I continued on.
The beginning of this book was a rough ride for sure, but I was really glad that I stuck it through to the end. Thus this awful confliction where I don't know how to rate this. On the one hand, some of the aspects of this book were kind of terrible, but on the other there were many places where I thoroughly enjoyed the book.
So take from this review what you will! I would say it's worth reading and sticking it out to the end, but be forewarned the beginning is a hard ride.
There was nothing inappropriate in this book, and the phrase "damn it" was only used one time. Other than that there was no other swearing and the story was completely clean. A little violence and mentions of suicide and deep rooted grief, but nothing too graphic.
If you pick up this book I hope you enjoy it but... well... good luck!!
P.S. I really respect Rachel Starr Thomson and this review was in no way intended to put her book down or her writing, it was written with kindness and the intent of helpful criticism.
Happy reading!!
December 1, 2016
This review has been hard for me to write because I really wanted to like this book and think the author has such a good heart and good intentions writing it that I want to support Christian writers but I just didn’t think this book was good.
Plot: A young girl is fished out of the water by two young men and then the three (plus some other minor characters) embark on journey that is both physical and spiritual. They encounter deception and healing, intense situations and introspective reflection. Dealing with emotional hurts seems to be a big theme. This book is continued in a series so not a lot of “conclusion” at the end but there is an “epic battle” of sorts where we see the heros at least temporarily on top.
Didn’t like:
I felt the characters were very underdeveloped. I kept getting the two main characters, Tyler and Chris, mixed up in my mind as I was reading. Books that do a good job of developing characters help me make a picture in my mind’s eye so that even if there are many characters who aren’t in every scene, I know who is being talked about when they do come back on the scene. This book flips back and forth between perspective and when it would go to the next perspective and say Tyler, I had to really think, wait, which one is this? That’s not good.
I’m a believer in spiritual warfare, believer in writing from personal perspective of the author, believer in writing a book with Christian insights, morals, lessons etc. as long as it doesn’t feel forced or that the book is really a sermon and not a story. Not quite like an allegory where you are trying to figure out symbolism and such it just felt like it was trying too hard to force an allegory. I found myself asking, “Ok, what is this supposed to represent or symbolize” and certain things didn’t seem to fit quite right. It should be a story first and foremost that one could allegorize, not an allegory that we made into a story to make it more exciting. I realize this book is a fantasy, but it seemed like it was trying hard to communicate spiritual truths but taking liberties with that truth. For example, the Oneness seemed to be able to "sense" when another was near but if the Oneness was supposed to represent Christians, that isn't really true. We can't know for certain if another's heart is changed, and especially if we've never actually met them. It's not something we can just "sense". It was multiple things like that where perhaps if I had read it strictly as a fantasy and not something trying to communicate spiritual truths I would have at least not had that criticism, but it didn't seem like the author's intent was to write fantasy.
Did Like:
I did like that it gave me things to think about regarding spiritual warfare and that it got me to think a little deeper about that subject. Morally, it was very clean and about 50% of the way through I started to have more interest and wondered how it was going to end, but honestly I forced myself to read the first 50% because I really didn’t like the writing style and the content really hadn’t “hooked” me.
I initially read this book because the promotion stated it was like Lewis, McDonald and Dekker. I love all three of those author's writings and again, I’m sorry, but this writing is not even close to being as polished and good as those three authors. I can see a comparison to Peretti though. Perhaps things get better with each of the books, this is the first after all, but sadly the first book left me with no desire to read the others, even free!
I hate to be negative to Christian authors working hard to be successful but I had to be honest.
Plot: A young girl is fished out of the water by two young men and then the three (plus some other minor characters) embark on journey that is both physical and spiritual. They encounter deception and healing, intense situations and introspective reflection. Dealing with emotional hurts seems to be a big theme. This book is continued in a series so not a lot of “conclusion” at the end but there is an “epic battle” of sorts where we see the heros at least temporarily on top.
Didn’t like:
I felt the characters were very underdeveloped. I kept getting the two main characters, Tyler and Chris, mixed up in my mind as I was reading. Books that do a good job of developing characters help me make a picture in my mind’s eye so that even if there are many characters who aren’t in every scene, I know who is being talked about when they do come back on the scene. This book flips back and forth between perspective and when it would go to the next perspective and say Tyler, I had to really think, wait, which one is this? That’s not good.
I’m a believer in spiritual warfare, believer in writing from personal perspective of the author, believer in writing a book with Christian insights, morals, lessons etc. as long as it doesn’t feel forced or that the book is really a sermon and not a story. Not quite like an allegory where you are trying to figure out symbolism and such it just felt like it was trying too hard to force an allegory. I found myself asking, “Ok, what is this supposed to represent or symbolize” and certain things didn’t seem to fit quite right. It should be a story first and foremost that one could allegorize, not an allegory that we made into a story to make it more exciting. I realize this book is a fantasy, but it seemed like it was trying hard to communicate spiritual truths but taking liberties with that truth. For example, the Oneness seemed to be able to "sense" when another was near but if the Oneness was supposed to represent Christians, that isn't really true. We can't know for certain if another's heart is changed, and especially if we've never actually met them. It's not something we can just "sense". It was multiple things like that where perhaps if I had read it strictly as a fantasy and not something trying to communicate spiritual truths I would have at least not had that criticism, but it didn't seem like the author's intent was to write fantasy.
Did Like:
I did like that it gave me things to think about regarding spiritual warfare and that it got me to think a little deeper about that subject. Morally, it was very clean and about 50% of the way through I started to have more interest and wondered how it was going to end, but honestly I forced myself to read the first 50% because I really didn’t like the writing style and the content really hadn’t “hooked” me.
I initially read this book because the promotion stated it was like Lewis, McDonald and Dekker. I love all three of those author's writings and again, I’m sorry, but this writing is not even close to being as polished and good as those three authors. I can see a comparison to Peretti though. Perhaps things get better with each of the books, this is the first after all, but sadly the first book left me with no desire to read the others, even free!
I hate to be negative to Christian authors working hard to be successful but I had to be honest.
October 21, 2014
Full review at http://thebookshelfgargoyle.wordpress...
I received a copy of this title from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Ten Second Synopsis:
Reese is an exile from the Oneness. Tyler and Chris have just found themselves in the middle of a supernatural ambush. It's going to take more than cooperation to avert this threat.
Exile is an action-packed paranormal romp that also features elements of spirituality and mystery. This book was pitched as a “Christian paranormal fantasy” novel, but while there are undoubtedly elements that could be interpreted from a Christian context, they certainly needn’t be in order to understand the story. Those looking for the Christian flavour will certainly find it, but there is no explicit mention of Christian religion in the text, so those just hoping to enjoy a paranormal action-adventure shouldn’t be put off by any fear of overt spiritual preachiness or anything of that nature.
The plot rolls along quickly and while I struggled a little in the beginning pinning down some of the paranormal elements (as indeed, did some of the characters), the whole concept of the Oneness and how it works is explained well over the course of the book. The characters are reasonably well-developed, with identifiable flaws, and as we discover more about the back stories of certain individuals we are given hints as to how the mystery might play out, before an action-filled climax.
I was happily engaged with this tale after the learning curve of the first few chapters and I appreciated the balance that the author has achieved between character development and relationships between characters, and demon-slaying, sword-swinging action. There’s also a mystery to solve involving Reese and her original cell that adds a nice bit of intrigue and depth to the last few chapters of the book. The ending is a bit of a cliffhanger, but as the other four books in the cycle have already been released, those who get sucked in to the story will be able to satisfy their curiosity without a long wait.
I’d certainly recommend this to lovers of YA paranormal who are looking for something a bit out of the ordinary in the genre.
I received a copy of this title from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Ten Second Synopsis:
Reese is an exile from the Oneness. Tyler and Chris have just found themselves in the middle of a supernatural ambush. It's going to take more than cooperation to avert this threat.
Exile is an action-packed paranormal romp that also features elements of spirituality and mystery. This book was pitched as a “Christian paranormal fantasy” novel, but while there are undoubtedly elements that could be interpreted from a Christian context, they certainly needn’t be in order to understand the story. Those looking for the Christian flavour will certainly find it, but there is no explicit mention of Christian religion in the text, so those just hoping to enjoy a paranormal action-adventure shouldn’t be put off by any fear of overt spiritual preachiness or anything of that nature.
The plot rolls along quickly and while I struggled a little in the beginning pinning down some of the paranormal elements (as indeed, did some of the characters), the whole concept of the Oneness and how it works is explained well over the course of the book. The characters are reasonably well-developed, with identifiable flaws, and as we discover more about the back stories of certain individuals we are given hints as to how the mystery might play out, before an action-filled climax.
I was happily engaged with this tale after the learning curve of the first few chapters and I appreciated the balance that the author has achieved between character development and relationships between characters, and demon-slaying, sword-swinging action. There’s also a mystery to solve involving Reese and her original cell that adds a nice bit of intrigue and depth to the last few chapters of the book. The ending is a bit of a cliffhanger, but as the other four books in the cycle have already been released, those who get sucked in to the story will be able to satisfy their curiosity without a long wait.
I’d certainly recommend this to lovers of YA paranormal who are looking for something a bit out of the ordinary in the genre.
July 22, 2016
I was at first rather apprehensive when I picked up this book (the first I've read by this author). First of all, the cover is mysteriously foreboding (though I must admit that I kinda like it). And then, it has demons. While I do believe that they exist in real life, the way they break windows, etc. in the first few chapters, made me a bit apprehensive since demons do not attack born-again believers in that way. But the book quickly redeemed itself to me. While it does take place in "our world" it focuses more on the "fifth" dimension (the spiritual world) in a fantasy-type way. It's an allegory in-sorts about warfare. "For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against... rulers of the darkness of this world." This book helped me review how I've been doing in my battle as a Christian. As the book points out in several instances, if we're not on our guard, we're going to lose. However, due to the missing fact that often our greatest enemy is not evil spiritual beings but our own old nature. Also, it seemed like the Spirit was out of the picture most of the time. When in reality, if we are not in the Spirit we are nothing whatsoever. To accomplish anything, we must abide in Christ (constantly in fellowship. John 15:4). This is a minor thing, but But that's not the way it works. We must be ready. Because of Ephesians 6:13-17, I am assuming that the sword symbolizes the word of God, in which case, one must have that Word readily accessible at all times (e.g. memorized).
Thompson's wonderful word choices communicated so well, and the plot moved forward at a clear pace that kept me in suspense (I could hardly put it down). Overall, I definitely enjoyed this meaningful fiction novel (though not meaningful to the point of obvious). I would recommend it (so long as you have a overly-vivid imagination and alone at home at night :P) and I look forward to reading more by this author. Thank-you Miss Thompson!
Thompson's wonderful word choices communicated so well, and the plot moved forward at a clear pace that kept me in suspense (I could hardly put it down). Overall, I definitely enjoyed this meaningful fiction novel (though not meaningful to the point of obvious). I would recommend it (so long as you have a overly-vivid imagination and alone at home at night :P) and I look forward to reading more by this author. Thank-you Miss Thompson!
December 5, 2016
A mysterious girl. A dark night. A frantic rescue attempt. When Tyler and Chris are out fishing one night, little did they expect to rescue a girl from drowning. They expected even less that this girl would have such a huge impact on their lives.
Reese has a story. A sadness so great it consumes her. Little did she expect to find the truth about it.
A story filled with good and bad, light and dark, battling each other in a most real way.
I thought this was a fascinating book. It was nothing like I expected. I got it because a friend recommended it and it was free through Kindle.
I am not sure how theologically sound it was, but it was a fascinating portrayal of spiritual warfare, and I loved how they portrayed Christianity as Oneness. I thought it was a beautiful explanation of irrevocably becoming one with other believers.
As far as clean goes, it was about as clean as you get. There were maybe two minor curse words, but that was it other than the intensity of the topic.
My complaint is what I normally say - I wish it had been longer! I would have loved to get to know each of the characters more and watch them interact. I felt like it needed to be flushed out more than it was.
*Spoiler Alert*
I expected Tyler to be the love interest, which I think would have been cute, but I am excited to see where Chris and Reese go.
Reese has a story. A sadness so great it consumes her. Little did she expect to find the truth about it.
A story filled with good and bad, light and dark, battling each other in a most real way.
I thought this was a fascinating book. It was nothing like I expected. I got it because a friend recommended it and it was free through Kindle.
I am not sure how theologically sound it was, but it was a fascinating portrayal of spiritual warfare, and I loved how they portrayed Christianity as Oneness. I thought it was a beautiful explanation of irrevocably becoming one with other believers.
As far as clean goes, it was about as clean as you get. There were maybe two minor curse words, but that was it other than the intensity of the topic.
My complaint is what I normally say - I wish it had been longer! I would have loved to get to know each of the characters more and watch them interact. I felt like it needed to be flushed out more than it was.
*Spoiler Alert*
I expected Tyler to be the love interest, which I think would have been cute, but I am excited to see where Chris and Reese go.
August 31, 2017
this is a book difficult to impossible to put down. This is first of eight novels in The Oneness Cycle.
Chris is the son of a reluctant Oneness member, Diane; and Tyler, his best friend, had in most respects been adopted by her. Chris and Tyler do everything together--fishing, fighting, and rescuing a drowning girl.
Reese is that girl. She had deliberately jumped off that cliff, but apparently the One wasn't done with her yet. Her cell leader had exiled her--which was impossible. One couldn't be exiled from the Oneness.
She's different--apparently a warrior, because when a demon attacks her a sword appears in her hand. An exile shouldn't be able to do that, but she feels so ... so alone. Not at one with the rest of her cell anymore. She can't feel them.
Chris and Tyler don't believe in the existence such a thing as demons, at least until they see them. Diane does. So do Mary, the leader of the local cell, along with Richard and April. But April has disappeared, and they can't find her.
Warning--if you read this novel (and I hope you will), you could be hooked. The ebook version of Exile is free, but numbers two through eight aren't. Available at Amazon and Barnes and Nobel.
Chris is the son of a reluctant Oneness member, Diane; and Tyler, his best friend, had in most respects been adopted by her. Chris and Tyler do everything together--fishing, fighting, and rescuing a drowning girl.
Reese is that girl. She had deliberately jumped off that cliff, but apparently the One wasn't done with her yet. Her cell leader had exiled her--which was impossible. One couldn't be exiled from the Oneness.
She's different--apparently a warrior, because when a demon attacks her a sword appears in her hand. An exile shouldn't be able to do that, but she feels so ... so alone. Not at one with the rest of her cell anymore. She can't feel them.
Chris and Tyler don't believe in the existence such a thing as demons, at least until they see them. Diane does. So do Mary, the leader of the local cell, along with Richard and April. But April has disappeared, and they can't find her.
Warning--if you read this novel (and I hope you will), you could be hooked. The ebook version of Exile is free, but numbers two through eight aren't. Available at Amazon and Barnes and Nobel.
September 21, 2016
Two fishermen, Chris and Tyler, rescue a girl from the sea on a stormy night. It turns out that she had jumped from the cliff. But why? Reese has been kicked out of the supernatural group called the Oneness. Chris has ties to the Oneness, but it’s been buried his whole life. The Oneness is analogous to Christians in that one must make the decision to become part of it. Members protect the towns they live in from the demonic. As Reese is attacked several times, by demons, Tyler and Chris come to believe the supernatural is real.
It turns out that Chris’ dad was protecting members of the Oneness and was killed for it. His mother then wanted nothing to do with them, and raised her son unknowing about them. But she is one of them …. Will she join the fight or continue to stay aloof?
Reese isn’t sure that she should have been kicked out and is tormented by self-doubt. Meanwhile, a local member of the Oneness is kidnapped. Is there a tie?
It’s certainly not as gripping as Ted Dekker or Frank Peretti, but is a good read nonetheless. The ending wasn’t predictable. I also liked the emphasis on prayer and how effective it is. Looking forward to reading the next book.
It turns out that Chris’ dad was protecting members of the Oneness and was killed for it. His mother then wanted nothing to do with them, and raised her son unknowing about them. But she is one of them …. Will she join the fight or continue to stay aloof?
Reese isn’t sure that she should have been kicked out and is tormented by self-doubt. Meanwhile, a local member of the Oneness is kidnapped. Is there a tie?
It’s certainly not as gripping as Ted Dekker or Frank Peretti, but is a good read nonetheless. The ending wasn’t predictable. I also liked the emphasis on prayer and how effective it is. Looking forward to reading the next book.
September 13, 2015
The Oneness is a band of humans that demons hate and angels serve. It is not meant to be broken. Just as a body needs each body part, The Oneness needs each member and each member needs The Oneness. When two young men catch a girl in their fishing nets, they do not immediately realize they have accidentally rescued a member of The Oneness. They know only that a young woman suffering from extreme loss has come to their care, and they are determined to help. No one realizes just how difficult it will be to learn what to do with a member severed from what ought to be an unbreakable band.
As with most of Rachel Starr Thomson's books, Exile is unique. An allegory, it blends the world as we know it into a speculative novel exploring the unity, strength, importance, and fallen humanity that comprises the body of Christ. This is not a story for those not willing to "suspend disbelief" in order to enjoy "weird" fiction, but for lovers of speculative fiction (especially readers looking for clean, Christian worldview) Exile will not disappoint.
As with most of Rachel Starr Thomson's books, Exile is unique. An allegory, it blends the world as we know it into a speculative novel exploring the unity, strength, importance, and fallen humanity that comprises the body of Christ. This is not a story for those not willing to "suspend disbelief" in order to enjoy "weird" fiction, but for lovers of speculative fiction (especially readers looking for clean, Christian worldview) Exile will not disappoint.
December 18, 2016
While Exile is about spiritual warfare, it's not a Frank Peretti rip-off. To me, it was kind of an allegory. What we know as "Christians" are part of the "Oneness." And they have spiritual gifts to fight demonic powers. Without going into too many details, let's just let me say there are plenty of spiritual bad boys for the Oneness to battle.
But, on a spiritual level, Exile encouraged me. It reminded me of the power of prayer. It reminded me that each Christian has a role to play in fighting spiritual darkness. And it reminded me of how we are equipped to do battle. When you get stuck in day-to-day living, it's so easy to get hung up on paying the bills and just trying to get by. It's easy to forget that there's a battle at hand - and there's more to life than what we see with our eyes.
But, on a spiritual level, Exile encouraged me. It reminded me of the power of prayer. It reminded me that each Christian has a role to play in fighting spiritual darkness. And it reminded me of how we are equipped to do battle. When you get stuck in day-to-day living, it's so easy to get hung up on paying the bills and just trying to get by. It's easy to forget that there's a battle at hand - and there's more to life than what we see with our eyes.
July 6, 2017
I'm still not sure how many stars to give this book. I read this author's The Seventh World Trilogy several years ago. I really enjoyed it and preferred that writing style to this book. I don't like it when a sentence is interrupted in the middle to give the person's thoughts on something before the sentence is finished. That's distracting to me. It had a lot of action so I liked that.
I read all the reviews and can understand the 2 stars to the 5 stars. most everyone had good reasons for their likes or dislikes. I think the theology problem wouldn't have bothered people so much had it been set in a different time period or on a different planet. It is fiction but I hope it wouldn't lead people astray or think wrong about what Christianity is.
Overall I enjoyed the book so 4 stars.
I read all the reviews and can understand the 2 stars to the 5 stars. most everyone had good reasons for their likes or dislikes. I think the theology problem wouldn't have bothered people so much had it been set in a different time period or on a different planet. It is fiction but I hope it wouldn't lead people astray or think wrong about what Christianity is.
Overall I enjoyed the book so 4 stars.
November 2, 2018
I am a huge fan of Frank Peretti books and found this book to be comparable. There were a few parts that drug out a bit, but overall the story and characters were engaging and the message that applies to all believers that we can never be truly exiled is powerful.
Rated 4.5 stars and rounded up to 5
Rated 4.5 stars and rounded up to 5
March 16, 2017
This book had me from page 1. I'm now starting the 5th book "Rise" and this series has not been a disappointment. One of my favorite series and authors. I can't wait to read more from Rachel Starr Thomson.
September 23, 2016
I finally finished Exile! I took a long time to read it, but at no fault of the book. I was in a major reading slump after finishing an amazing book!
July 19, 2022
Years ago I read a book by Frank Peretti that really inspired my faith and my commitment to the power of prayer. It was an incredible book written about a group of believers from the standpoint of demons and angels - and wow, did it ever make me realize how powerful and important prayer is as a weapon.
This book inspired the same thing in me, just probably more so. The 'Oneness Cycle' is amazing - and it's a true story. There are a lot of beings in this world... angels, demons, and the Oneness. The Oneness is what holds everything together. It is what makes sure the world does not fall into the pit of evil. But who are they? They are us.... believers in Christ Jesus. We are one body - created to serve the Lord and to be used in the capacity he created us for. Never in my life have I understood this so well than after I finished reading this book. Simply incredible - and inspired.
Now, if you are wondering if this is simply a devotional.... No. It is an nail biting adventure that will have everyone, even your reluctant non-reading teenager, refusing to put it down. An incredible story and one that will put a boost on your faith and light your excitement for who you are in the body of Christ....and make you crave the next book. Suitable for ages about 12 to 112.
This book inspired the same thing in me, just probably more so. The 'Oneness Cycle' is amazing - and it's a true story. There are a lot of beings in this world... angels, demons, and the Oneness. The Oneness is what holds everything together. It is what makes sure the world does not fall into the pit of evil. But who are they? They are us.... believers in Christ Jesus. We are one body - created to serve the Lord and to be used in the capacity he created us for. Never in my life have I understood this so well than after I finished reading this book. Simply incredible - and inspired.
Now, if you are wondering if this is simply a devotional.... No. It is an nail biting adventure that will have everyone, even your reluctant non-reading teenager, refusing to put it down. An incredible story and one that will put a boost on your faith and light your excitement for who you are in the body of Christ....and make you crave the next book. Suitable for ages about 12 to 112.
February 14, 2018
Jesus was not in those book
For a Christian writer I was very surprised and disappointed that Jesus was not ever mentioned in this book. She talked about heaven, talked about angels and it talked about demons but never once did it talk about Jesus. There are many opportunities for this author share with the reader how to become part of the Oneness through salvation in the death burial and risen Christ, but never once did she mention it. What she did say was that it was difficult and obscure to find your way to Oneness with the spirit of God. I was extremely disappointed and will not be reading the rest of the series.
For a Christian writer I was very surprised and disappointed that Jesus was not ever mentioned in this book. She talked about heaven, talked about angels and it talked about demons but never once did it talk about Jesus. There are many opportunities for this author share with the reader how to become part of the Oneness through salvation in the death burial and risen Christ, but never once did she mention it. What she did say was that it was difficult and obscure to find your way to Oneness with the spirit of God. I was extremely disappointed and will not be reading the rest of the series.
June 15, 2023
Different
I wasn't sure that I would like this story, but it called to me. Faith is a funny thing. You either have it or you don't. When someone maliciously lies about a very faithful servant, the only thing that happens is that the person is shattered. Reese thought she was exiled from the oneness. She had no idea that she was a victim of lies and deception. Chris and Tyler found her after she jumped off a cliff to end her suffering. But nothing is as it seems.
Its an interesting story.
Read on my friends.
I wasn't sure that I would like this story, but it called to me. Faith is a funny thing. You either have it or you don't. When someone maliciously lies about a very faithful servant, the only thing that happens is that the person is shattered. Reese thought she was exiled from the oneness. She had no idea that she was a victim of lies and deception. Chris and Tyler found her after she jumped off a cliff to end her suffering. But nothing is as it seems.
Its an interesting story.
Read on my friends.
February 27, 2018
Good story
I really liked the story and the characters, but I felt the writing could have flowed better. The author also does not give a lot of details, so I had to work a little more to visualize the story in my mind. It was very choppy at first, but I stuck with it because the idea of the oneness intrigued me. I will read the second book in the series and see if the writing is better.
I really liked the story and the characters, but I felt the writing could have flowed better. The author also does not give a lot of details, so I had to work a little more to visualize the story in my mind. It was very choppy at first, but I stuck with it because the idea of the oneness intrigued me. I will read the second book in the series and see if the writing is better.
December 19, 2018
Three and a half stars for this Christian fantasy. Interesting analogous interpretation of what it means to be part of the family of God in the Oneness, although there is no explicit mention of God in the book. But I think that's very much the author's intention.
I have been wavering between three and four stars throughout reading, so settled on the half star. It was enjoyable, but not so gripping that I'm rushing to buy the remaining two books in the trilogy.
I have been wavering between three and four stars throughout reading, so settled on the half star. It was enjoyable, but not so gripping that I'm rushing to buy the remaining two books in the trilogy.
March 19, 2019
On a stormy sea, fishing buddies Tyler and Chris discover a young woman in their net. As if that’s not startling enough, once she’s dry and recovering in their cottage, they hear a window break and rush to find her holding a sword and claiming to have killed a demon. On the floor lies a dead bat, but Chris is sure he saw something larger before it shrank.
So opens Exile, book 1 in The Oneness Cycle. The young woman, Reese, has been exiled from her group of believers. That shouldn’t be possible, but it happened and the grief is almost more than she can handle. The sword shouldn’t be possible for an exile, but it appeared in her hand when needed.
The Oneness is “one of three spiritual forces” (Kindle location 167) in the world, with the other two being angels and demons. Members of the Oneness look like ordinary people, but they are variously-gifted spiritual warriors holding the world together.
Exile is a gripping urban fantasy novel of spiritual warfare suitable for adults and young adults. As well as enjoying the read, I was encouraged by Reese’s and April’s challenge to persevere in the darkness instead of giving in to despair. That’s an example I can bring into real- life situations.
Favourite line:
Exile is free in ebook format from major retailers. Rachel Starr Thomson writes Christian fantasy novels and has also recently released the writing memoir, Left Turn to the Promised Land. For more about the author and her (many) books, visit rachelstarrthomson.com.
[Review copy from my personal library.]
So opens Exile, book 1 in The Oneness Cycle. The young woman, Reese, has been exiled from her group of believers. That shouldn’t be possible, but it happened and the grief is almost more than she can handle. The sword shouldn’t be possible for an exile, but it appeared in her hand when needed.
The Oneness is “one of three spiritual forces” (Kindle location 167) in the world, with the other two being angels and demons. Members of the Oneness look like ordinary people, but they are variously-gifted spiritual warriors holding the world together.
Exile is a gripping urban fantasy novel of spiritual warfare suitable for adults and young adults. As well as enjoying the read, I was encouraged by Reese’s and April’s challenge to persevere in the darkness instead of giving in to despair. That’s an example I can bring into real- life situations.
Favourite line:
"I don’t pray to get around the plan; I pray to be part of it." ~Richard, a prayer warrior. [Kindle location 1175]
Exile is free in ebook format from major retailers. Rachel Starr Thomson writes Christian fantasy novels and has also recently released the writing memoir, Left Turn to the Promised Land. For more about the author and her (many) books, visit rachelstarrthomson.com.
[Review copy from my personal library.]
March 15, 2022
I thoroughly enjoyed this! I am a visual person and I could envision everything. It was very Allegorical in a good way where it made aspects of the Christian faith very understandable, particularly prayer and being a prayer warrior. My best friend "does warfare" in the Spirit all the time and I have gained a deeper understanding of it through her. I think that is why I enjoyed the character of Richard and the concept of prayer illustrated in his life so much! This may sound odd but while I say I liked the way Rachel interjected the aspects of the Christian faith in book, the story was so riveting you may not know it if you weren't a believer. I have found sometimes Christian books tend to be too perfect and have characters and situations that make the books unrealistic and boring, but that was not the case with this book. It was a page turner from start to finish! I enjoyed it very much and look forward to reading the next book in the series!
November 2, 2022
Couldn't put it down
The right amount of everything: character descriptions, setting, suspense, mystery, light and dark, internal conflict, being wrongfully accused, and the fast pacing of Thomson's storytelling. I enjoyed the battles with grief and anger, and the concept of the Oneness, echoing Jesus' prayer to his Father in John 17:21 that we all be one.
The right amount of everything: character descriptions, setting, suspense, mystery, light and dark, internal conflict, being wrongfully accused, and the fast pacing of Thomson's storytelling. I enjoyed the battles with grief and anger, and the concept of the Oneness, echoing Jesus' prayer to his Father in John 17:21 that we all be one.
July 8, 2017
I enjoyed this book
This is definitely a science fiction/fantasy story. I liked the characters and thought the book was well-written. I don't know if I would continue this series but I would recommend it for those who are fans of a science fiction or fantasy book.
This is definitely a science fiction/fantasy story. I liked the characters and thought the book was well-written. I don't know if I would continue this series but I would recommend it for those who are fans of a science fiction or fantasy book.
January 7, 2018
I loved this book, actually I love the series. It has great characters and the supernatural edge is fantastic. It is just the right amount of truth and fantasy!!! Best Series I have read in a long time.
June 12, 2019
Enjoyable
Once again an enjoyable read. Sometimes it was a little confusing especially at the beginning. I needed a little more background to piece it all together. In all it pushed me to want to read the next
Once again an enjoyable read. Sometimes it was a little confusing especially at the beginning. I needed a little more background to piece it all together. In all it pushed me to want to read the next
June 20, 2023
Awesome
This is an exciting tale that kept me riveted until the end, actually past the end because I have to read the next one. I highly recommend it to anyone who likes fantasy or even dystopia
This is an exciting tale that kept me riveted until the end, actually past the end because I have to read the next one. I highly recommend it to anyone who likes fantasy or even dystopia
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