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The Reluctant Prophet
There’s none so blind as she who can see . . .
Esther is blessed, and cursed, with a rare gift: the ability to see the fates of those around her. But when she escapes her peasant upbringing to become a priestess of the Order, she begins to realise how valuable her ability is among the power-hungry nobility, and what they are willing to do to possess it.
Haunted by the dark man of her father's warnings, and unable to see her own destiny, Esther is betrayed by those sworn to protect her. With eyes newly open to the harsh realities of her world, she embarks on a path that diverges from the plan the Gods have laid out. Now she must choose between sacrificing her own heart’s blood, and risking a future that will turn the lands against each other in bloody war.
The Reluctant Prophet is the story of one woman who holds the fate of the world in her hands, when all she wishes for is a glimpse of her own happiness.
Esther is blessed, and cursed, with a rare gift: the ability to see the fates of those around her. But when she escapes her peasant upbringing to become a priestess of the Order, she begins to realise how valuable her ability is among the power-hungry nobility, and what they are willing to do to possess it.
Haunted by the dark man of her father's warnings, and unable to see her own destiny, Esther is betrayed by those sworn to protect her. With eyes newly open to the harsh realities of her world, she embarks on a path that diverges from the plan the Gods have laid out. Now she must choose between sacrificing her own heart’s blood, and risking a future that will turn the lands against each other in bloody war.
The Reluctant Prophet is the story of one woman who holds the fate of the world in her hands, when all she wishes for is a glimpse of her own happiness.
- GenresFantasy
414 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 31, 2013
5 people are currently reading
1995 people want to read
About the author
Gillian O'Rourke
4 books45 followersBefore settling down in Ireland with her husband, Gillian O’Rourke lived in Melbourne, Australia. She received her first fantasy book from an English teacher at the age of fourteen and has loved the genre ever since. Although she writes fantasy, she occasionally dabbles in the paranormal. Gillian currently works in the healthcare sector, helping adults with disabilities live as independently as possible.
Find me on TIK TOK @gillywritesauthor
Find me on TIK TOK @gillywritesauthor
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
September 18, 2013
I was pointed in the direction of this book by a friend, and I'm glad I took the time to read it.
Story: this was the story of Esther travelling from young woman to woman. She finds out who she is and gains strength of character. Alongside this is the story of political ramblings and the meddling of deities. There's a strong romantic undercurrent - but it doesn't saturate the novel, which is good.
Characters: Esther is a peasant priestess who is accepted into an order reserved historically for the rich and powerful. Cue problems. Lots of them. Poor Esther is treated like dirt and her gift of prophecy used and abused by those that want to control the realm.
Overall structure: Really good. This is a nicely paced novel that kept the reader guessing and turning the pages. Sometimes first person tense can be a little sludgy to read, but not this, this was constantly engaging the reader in the emotional issues.
Writing: I'm surprised this is Gillian O'Rourke's first novel. She writes beautifully. There is a poetry to the words, and I really felt as though the character Esther was talking to me: I could hear her voice in my head and that is really really hard to do.
Overall: Fantasy for those that love strong characters and fantastic world-building.
Story: this was the story of Esther travelling from young woman to woman. She finds out who she is and gains strength of character. Alongside this is the story of political ramblings and the meddling of deities. There's a strong romantic undercurrent - but it doesn't saturate the novel, which is good.
Characters: Esther is a peasant priestess who is accepted into an order reserved historically for the rich and powerful. Cue problems. Lots of them. Poor Esther is treated like dirt and her gift of prophecy used and abused by those that want to control the realm.
Overall structure: Really good. This is a nicely paced novel that kept the reader guessing and turning the pages. Sometimes first person tense can be a little sludgy to read, but not this, this was constantly engaging the reader in the emotional issues.
Writing: I'm surprised this is Gillian O'Rourke's first novel. She writes beautifully. There is a poetry to the words, and I really felt as though the character Esther was talking to me: I could hear her voice in my head and that is really really hard to do.
Overall: Fantasy for those that love strong characters and fantastic world-building.
February 27, 2014
Well-written with some really tender moments and a few heart-tugs.
I liked that the gods were real, and that there was a theme of free-will vs gods'-will here. And it wasn't an easy one to decide which was better. Free-will had nasty consequences, but the gods were hardly nice... I wanted to spite them. But, those consequences. So, which to choose, which to choose? But, grey areas are what make for truly compelling fiction (IMVHO).
While I wasn't 100% convinced on the fledgling romance at times, when things didn't go smoothly, my heart bled a little... that's a good thing.
There were a few things I would have liked to see delved into more. For instance, one character's despicable behaviour would seem to have been caused by an outside influence (those pesky gods again). Rather than anyone seeking to help, he was still loathed and ostracised. Yes, he did wrong, but it wasn't something he would have done on his own... at least, that was my interpretation. No, you can't take back the wrong, but... I don't know. Maybe I err too far towards mercy?
Generally, though, I think any fan of fantasy-romance with dark undertones will find this an enjoyable read.
I liked that the gods were real, and that there was a theme of free-will vs gods'-will here. And it wasn't an easy one to decide which was better. Free-will had nasty consequences, but the gods were hardly nice... I wanted to spite them. But, those consequences. So, which to choose, which to choose? But, grey areas are what make for truly compelling fiction (IMVHO).
While I wasn't 100% convinced on the fledgling romance at times, when things didn't go smoothly, my heart bled a little... that's a good thing.
There were a few things I would have liked to see delved into more. For instance, one character's despicable behaviour would seem to have been caused by an outside influence (those pesky gods again). Rather than anyone seeking to help, he was still loathed and ostracised. Yes, he did wrong, but it wasn't something he would have done on his own... at least, that was my interpretation. No, you can't take back the wrong, but... I don't know. Maybe I err too far towards mercy?
Generally, though, I think any fan of fantasy-romance with dark undertones will find this an enjoyable read.
February 11, 2014
Let’s be honest, I feel very unqualified to review this book as I don’t read a lot of fantasy. I have no idea if it’s original or how well it matches up to other fantasy books. What I do know is how I felt reading it so I’m just going to go with that. And in three words; I loved it!
First Line of The Reluctant Prophet:
“I had never been able to see my own future, not the way I could see it for others.”
My Thoughts on The Reluctant Prophet:
I was sceptical picking up this book as fantasy is a little outside of my reading comfort zone. However I was a bit intrigued by the synopsis and decided to give it a go. And for the first 10 to 15 pages, I still wasn’t sure. There were so many people and place names mentioned that I got confused and I was fully prepared to give myself permission to DNF if necessary.
But then I suddenly got hooked. I became a part of Esther’s world and found myself intrigued by what I found there. Esther is such a sincere, honest, humble but powerful person in this world that I was excited to know what was going to happen next. So excited that I read this book over 24 hours as I couldn’t put it down.
The prophesying was one of my favourite bits, I was gripped by them. However the extent to which the people around Esther used her skills for their own gains made me so mad on her behalf. At first I thought this world seemed great as the women priestesses seemed to demand respect but then I was let down with a bang as just like in all worlds, there is corruption in every corner. And I felt as angry on Esther’s part as if she were a friend of mine, she felt that real to me.
There is a forbidden romance which is slow to start and all the more believable for that. It steadily grows into a love that is deep and meaningful and adds a sense of purpose to Esther’s journey. And her journey is a tough one, my heart was ripped apart by some of what she went through. However she is a character that made me want to cheer her on as she is so brave and resourceful while remaining true to herself at all times.
I did come across a few typos, not too many, less than a handful but as always I find it a bit distracting when I do find them. I do get that it is harder for an Indie book to be proof perfect though.
Overall this book captured my imagination and made my mind wander in an exciting and fulfilling way. With strong world-building and rock solid characters The Reluctant Prophet made a great impression on me and it makes me want to read more fantasy.
Who should read The Reluctant Prophet?
I’d recommend this book to those who enjoy fantasy books with a strong female character lead and to those who enjoy creative world building. And if you are a newbie fantasy reader like me, you might find this a good one to start with to see if this genre is for you or not.
Thanks to the author for giving me a copy of this book in exchange for an honest, unbiased review.
First Line of The Reluctant Prophet:
“I had never been able to see my own future, not the way I could see it for others.”
My Thoughts on The Reluctant Prophet:
I was sceptical picking up this book as fantasy is a little outside of my reading comfort zone. However I was a bit intrigued by the synopsis and decided to give it a go. And for the first 10 to 15 pages, I still wasn’t sure. There were so many people and place names mentioned that I got confused and I was fully prepared to give myself permission to DNF if necessary.
But then I suddenly got hooked. I became a part of Esther’s world and found myself intrigued by what I found there. Esther is such a sincere, honest, humble but powerful person in this world that I was excited to know what was going to happen next. So excited that I read this book over 24 hours as I couldn’t put it down.
The prophesying was one of my favourite bits, I was gripped by them. However the extent to which the people around Esther used her skills for their own gains made me so mad on her behalf. At first I thought this world seemed great as the women priestesses seemed to demand respect but then I was let down with a bang as just like in all worlds, there is corruption in every corner. And I felt as angry on Esther’s part as if she were a friend of mine, she felt that real to me.
There is a forbidden romance which is slow to start and all the more believable for that. It steadily grows into a love that is deep and meaningful and adds a sense of purpose to Esther’s journey. And her journey is a tough one, my heart was ripped apart by some of what she went through. However she is a character that made me want to cheer her on as she is so brave and resourceful while remaining true to herself at all times.
I did come across a few typos, not too many, less than a handful but as always I find it a bit distracting when I do find them. I do get that it is harder for an Indie book to be proof perfect though.
Overall this book captured my imagination and made my mind wander in an exciting and fulfilling way. With strong world-building and rock solid characters The Reluctant Prophet made a great impression on me and it makes me want to read more fantasy.
Who should read The Reluctant Prophet?
I’d recommend this book to those who enjoy fantasy books with a strong female character lead and to those who enjoy creative world building. And if you are a newbie fantasy reader like me, you might find this a good one to start with to see if this genre is for you or not.
Thanks to the author for giving me a copy of this book in exchange for an honest, unbiased review.
October 24, 2013
I was absolutely delighted to pick up O' Rourke's breakout novel, The Reluctant Prophet. I have the privilege of being lightly acquainted with this author, and while it's not often taken into consideration when scouring the bookshelves, for me anyway, knowing the woman behind the words, even if only a little, made the reading experience all the more stellar.
I enjoy first person narrative because of its inherent grounding capability. Any book which allows you to share the mind of another human being, intimately, also grants you, the reader, the opportunity to relate or not relate. In the case of Esther, a low-born citizen and priestess in training, with a "gift" foisted on her, I related. Quite well, actually. I could see much of myself in her character, both strengths and weaknesses.
The Reluctant Prophet falls under the genre Fantasy, but I would venture to say there is an element of Coming Of Age written within the pages. We meet Esther and understand fairly quickly that, although there are a few paternal skeletons in her closet, she feels extremely fortunate for the honor bestowed upon her. She looks around and sees much of her world through rose-colored lenses. Esther is hopeful about her future, determined to Good with the ability she's been entrusted.
It's not very long, however, before we meet a motley cast of characters, some genuine companions and cohorts, and others who would wish to exploit this grace of hers, use it for their own devices. As we journey forth with Esther, we watch as this resilient child-become-woman is left to contend with her integrity and devotion to doing what's right and what's expected, and also dealing with grayer matters such as the heart. In the end, it is up to Esther to determine the kind of woman she is meant to be and where that inevitably leaves her in regards to her moral responsibilities.
A well-written fantasy tale, read through the eyes of a stalwart heroine!
I enjoy first person narrative because of its inherent grounding capability. Any book which allows you to share the mind of another human being, intimately, also grants you, the reader, the opportunity to relate or not relate. In the case of Esther, a low-born citizen and priestess in training, with a "gift" foisted on her, I related. Quite well, actually. I could see much of myself in her character, both strengths and weaknesses.
The Reluctant Prophet falls under the genre Fantasy, but I would venture to say there is an element of Coming Of Age written within the pages. We meet Esther and understand fairly quickly that, although there are a few paternal skeletons in her closet, she feels extremely fortunate for the honor bestowed upon her. She looks around and sees much of her world through rose-colored lenses. Esther is hopeful about her future, determined to Good with the ability she's been entrusted.
It's not very long, however, before we meet a motley cast of characters, some genuine companions and cohorts, and others who would wish to exploit this grace of hers, use it for their own devices. As we journey forth with Esther, we watch as this resilient child-become-woman is left to contend with her integrity and devotion to doing what's right and what's expected, and also dealing with grayer matters such as the heart. In the end, it is up to Esther to determine the kind of woman she is meant to be and where that inevitably leaves her in regards to her moral responsibilities.
A well-written fantasy tale, read through the eyes of a stalwart heroine!
April 11, 2014
A Beautiful Story
Powerful imagery and unforgettable characters drive Gillian O’Rourke’s The Reluctant Prophet, a romantic fantasy about a priestess with the ability to see the future. Her name is Esther and she’s a young peasant woman manipulated by a largely corrupt religious order and wronged by certain members of the noble class, all of whom wish to use Esther and her gifts in one way or the other. Esther’s faith in the gods is tested increasingly as the novel progresses, and she eventually wrestles with her long-held beliefs of what is kind and what is cruel until finally she sees through the veneer of deception to discover her true destiny. Along the way, O’Rourke takes us on a journey across a fictitious but beautifully drawn landscape with our heroine Esther, who is unable to see her own future, struggling against her weakening faith as well as wickedly selfish adversaries. She finds friends along the way, though; one of whom eventually serves as a satisfying love interest for the reader. The novel is not so much a book to fly through as it is a story to relish for the emotional highs and lows it induces and the characters and images that are painted so vividly they spring from the pages. I highly recommend The Reluctant Prophet for lovers of literature and romantic fantasy.
Powerful imagery and unforgettable characters drive Gillian O’Rourke’s The Reluctant Prophet, a romantic fantasy about a priestess with the ability to see the future. Her name is Esther and she’s a young peasant woman manipulated by a largely corrupt religious order and wronged by certain members of the noble class, all of whom wish to use Esther and her gifts in one way or the other. Esther’s faith in the gods is tested increasingly as the novel progresses, and she eventually wrestles with her long-held beliefs of what is kind and what is cruel until finally she sees through the veneer of deception to discover her true destiny. Along the way, O’Rourke takes us on a journey across a fictitious but beautifully drawn landscape with our heroine Esther, who is unable to see her own future, struggling against her weakening faith as well as wickedly selfish adversaries. She finds friends along the way, though; one of whom eventually serves as a satisfying love interest for the reader. The novel is not so much a book to fly through as it is a story to relish for the emotional highs and lows it induces and the characters and images that are painted so vividly they spring from the pages. I highly recommend The Reluctant Prophet for lovers of literature and romantic fantasy.
September 2, 2013
I don’t think I’ve ever felt for a character as much as I felt for Esther; whose whole life has been plagued by violence, oppression and grim visions of the future. She becomes a priestess in hopes of doing something good for her harsh world, though it has treated her badly because of her peasant background. But instead of crushing her, it has made her stronger.
Her special gift as a seer is both a blessing and a curse; and there are those who would use it for their own benefits, benefits that threaten to break young Esther’s spirit. She is faced with difficult choices and struggles to keep true to her vows while the world around her shows its true face, and through her ordeals she finds that faith can turn friends into monsters, and twist the minds of the believer.
It can be dangerous to stray from a path paved by cantankerous Gods.
Her special gift as a seer is both a blessing and a curse; and there are those who would use it for their own benefits, benefits that threaten to break young Esther’s spirit. She is faced with difficult choices and struggles to keep true to her vows while the world around her shows its true face, and through her ordeals she finds that faith can turn friends into monsters, and twist the minds of the believer.
It can be dangerous to stray from a path paved by cantankerous Gods.
September 30, 2025
Gillian O'Rourke has truly outdone herself with The Reluctant Prophet. Esther is a heroine who will stick with me. She’s layered, conflicted, and full of raw emotion, making her journey impossible to put down. Watching her struggle with the weight of her powers kept me hooked.
My favorite moment: Esther must choose between saving someone she loves and sacrificing herself for the greater good. The emotional toll is gut-wrenching, and O'Rourke nails the internal struggle. It’s a choice that changes everything, with consequences that ripple through the rest of the book.
The world-building, including the magic system, politics, and social structure, is seamless. I could step into this world, and it would come alive.
Magic is central to the story, not just as a power Esther holds, but as a force that shapes everything from relationships to the future of the realm. Esther's power influences her connections with others and ultimately drives the realm’s fate.
The mentor figure guiding Esther through her powers is wise and mysterious, with a fascinating link to her past. The romantic tension between Esther and her love interest adds a complex layer to the story.
The political intrigue, shifting loyalties, and personal stakes are intense. Esther navigates a world that’s constantly changing, and I was on the edge of my seat the entire time.
The Reluctant Prophet is beautifully written, pulling me into its world and making me care about its characters. If you love intricate world-building, complex characters, and emotional stakes, this book is a must-read. Highly recommend!
My favorite moment: Esther must choose between saving someone she loves and sacrificing herself for the greater good. The emotional toll is gut-wrenching, and O'Rourke nails the internal struggle. It’s a choice that changes everything, with consequences that ripple through the rest of the book.
The world-building, including the magic system, politics, and social structure, is seamless. I could step into this world, and it would come alive.
Magic is central to the story, not just as a power Esther holds, but as a force that shapes everything from relationships to the future of the realm. Esther's power influences her connections with others and ultimately drives the realm’s fate.
The mentor figure guiding Esther through her powers is wise and mysterious, with a fascinating link to her past. The romantic tension between Esther and her love interest adds a complex layer to the story.
The political intrigue, shifting loyalties, and personal stakes are intense. Esther navigates a world that’s constantly changing, and I was on the edge of my seat the entire time.
The Reluctant Prophet is beautifully written, pulling me into its world and making me care about its characters. If you love intricate world-building, complex characters, and emotional stakes, this book is a must-read. Highly recommend!
May 5, 2020
How can people hide such cruelty behind a mask of goodness?
Esther is a young woman who is about to become a Priestess, having fled her home many years prior - her faith is strengthened by her innate ability to foresee other people's futures, which also allows her to be in direct contact with the Gods (or rather, Goddesses) that rule her world. Her life hasn't been easy, and when she finally enters the Order, she believes she's finally found her place: she can work, help others, and be around like-minded people. But reality hits her hard when she realizes that she's surrounded by ruthless bastards who only care about their comfort and social standing, and who judge her for her poor upbringing. Esther, through faith, determination and hard work, does her best to navigate the new world she finds herself in, but protecting herself from it proves terribly difficult when she realizes how many forces are trying to use her for their own benefit.
Love had two sides. Its beautiful face was the happiest feeling life could procure: sweetness and the pure thrill of promise. Its dark face was pain and emptiness.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, and was very surprised to see how few people have read it. This was a very quick, engaging read with a surprising amount of depth to it; it explored quite a few dark themes, and I reckon it did so quite tactfully. The romance was incredibly cute, if a little instalove-y, but you know what? It was really freaking adorable and I shipped the main character with her love interest even before he was revealed to be, so the author must have done something right. I really liked Esther as a main character, for her resilience and determination to do what's right even in the most trying of times; her goodness was a choice, the one choice that was never taken from her. Fyi, I cried.
"There's something I need to do."
"Anything," he vowed.
"Even when it involves going against the will of the Gods?"
"Especially then." He grinned.
Themes! Empathy, especially considering that this novel is filled to the brim with cruel, self-serving characters - they're not absolved of their wrongdoings, but they aren't presented as beacons of pure evil, either; they're pitied by the narrative, but never truly forgiven, and have to live with the consequences of their actions. Faith is definitely also a major theme, one I surprisingly enjoyed (I'll admit that it's usually not my cup of tea) - it is presented as a force that can sustain you and carry you through difficult times, but that can also influence you negatively. The importance of choice and following your truth even when all the odds are stacked against you and you are stripped of agency, and the hopelessness when faced with things that you cannot change for reasons beyond your control. Friendship and the support of the people you love.
+ there's some LGBT+ rep, not a lot, but it's definitely confirmed in the story, so you know what? We can have a little rep, as a treat
Trigger warnings:
Trials are what make us, aren't they?
October 17, 2025
A walk through hardship, love, loss, finding one's self, while untangling faith that does more harm then good. I didn't know what to expect from the Reluctant prophet, but was swept away into a world both rich in feelings as in detail. I loved that this story took me in directions I didn't anticipate, and spoke of traumas and pain in a respectful and real manner. I felt aspects of the handmaid's tail in this journey which I loved. I'm looking forward to learning more of this world in book two!
June 6, 2025
Well what can I say. I've just finished this beautiful dark fantasy. It was a wild emotional journey with Esther and the other characters.
I found myself not wanting to have to put it down.
It's heartbreaking and raw. You are constantly surprised by where it goes and how deeply emotional it reads. Highly recommended 👌
It will leave you feeling sad, happy, disgusted and happy again. Before turning you on your head back to sad.
I found myself not wanting to have to put it down.
It's heartbreaking and raw. You are constantly surprised by where it goes and how deeply emotional it reads. Highly recommended 👌
It will leave you feeling sad, happy, disgusted and happy again. Before turning you on your head back to sad.
August 6, 2014
Gillian O'Rourke's debut novel follows the story of Esther, who runs away from home at the age of twelve to follow her religious calling and to escape from her drunken, abusive father. She becomes a Priestess of the Order, a follower of the three Gods, and she hopes she can use her rare talent as a seer to help people, enduring trial after trial in the name of her faith. But the Gods are capricious, and cruel. They have their own plans for Esther, who is betrayed by both the seniors in her order, and by her inability to see her own fate.
Esther lives in a harsh world, and it seems the world and its malevolent gods are out to get her. Her gift is both a blessing and a curse, especially when it shows her divergent futures, and reveals that the future of the world hinges on the terrible choices she must make. Gillian O'Rourke's gift is that she really makes us feel for Esther, swamped beneath a relentless barrage of suffering, unable to escape her god-dictated fate no matter how she twists and turns. Yet still she remains strong in spirit and good of heart, under punishments that would have broken many characters, and the reader is rooting for her on every step of her difficult journey.
The book deals with some serious themes; religious oppression, class conflict, and the corruption brought about by the all-consuming desire for power, in the form of cold-hearted Superior Mirren and her guardian, the bully Placida, who look down on Esther as a peasant and seek to use her unique gifts to further both their own ambitions and those of the callous trio of Goddesses. How Esther rises about their machinations to find some sort of peace and freedom, even at the cost of a great sacrifice she must make, is to be celebrated. Much of the theme deals with the conflicts brought about by having both free will, and the ability to see where that free will can lead - in this case to war and heartbreak if Esther doesn't make the most difficult choice of her life.
It's a masterful piece of thought-provoking writing. Recommended.
Esther lives in a harsh world, and it seems the world and its malevolent gods are out to get her. Her gift is both a blessing and a curse, especially when it shows her divergent futures, and reveals that the future of the world hinges on the terrible choices she must make. Gillian O'Rourke's gift is that she really makes us feel for Esther, swamped beneath a relentless barrage of suffering, unable to escape her god-dictated fate no matter how she twists and turns. Yet still she remains strong in spirit and good of heart, under punishments that would have broken many characters, and the reader is rooting for her on every step of her difficult journey.
The book deals with some serious themes; religious oppression, class conflict, and the corruption brought about by the all-consuming desire for power, in the form of cold-hearted Superior Mirren and her guardian, the bully Placida, who look down on Esther as a peasant and seek to use her unique gifts to further both their own ambitions and those of the callous trio of Goddesses. How Esther rises about their machinations to find some sort of peace and freedom, even at the cost of a great sacrifice she must make, is to be celebrated. Much of the theme deals with the conflicts brought about by having both free will, and the ability to see where that free will can lead - in this case to war and heartbreak if Esther doesn't make the most difficult choice of her life.
It's a masterful piece of thought-provoking writing. Recommended.
March 7, 2014
Gillian O’Rourke’s The Reluctant Prophet (TRP) is a debut novel that is sure to instigate quite a following for this new author. The fantasy genre has a vast readership and TRP taps into some important elements that make these novels so popular; a simpler (medieval) time where deeds and relationships are the currency of both poor and rich, and special talents that elevate the characters in the eyes of those around them.
O’Rourke’s style has a smooth and measured literary quality that doesn’t suffer from being flowery or verbose. The reader feels the calmness one would expect from a priestess (or the Dalai Lama for that matter), and even though Esther, the protagonist, is barely more than a noviciate she exhibits the attributes of one having been forced into adulthood at an early age. Being able to see the future doesn’t help much, either.
O’Rourke’s fantasy world has nicely-visualized villages, palaces, temples and badlands. The supporting characters are fleshed out well, and the first-person point of view lends itself to Esther’s inner turmoil as she sees the fates of both friend and foe. The young priestess also has an interesting relationship with the primary gods in the tale.
My nitpicks are few and minor, as follows. While O’Rourke’s dialogue is natural it often covers the same ground as the inner monologue of the heroine, and since there are only a few true action scenes this redundancy tends to slow the overall pace. In its place I would have liked more detail into what motivated the more nefarious antagonists in the story. Then again, I read and write thrillers so my view may be slanted, there.
Overall, though, I quite enjoyed The Reluctant Prophet and have no doubt that Gillian O’Rourke has launched the first of what promises to be a popular series. Highly recommended.
O’Rourke’s style has a smooth and measured literary quality that doesn’t suffer from being flowery or verbose. The reader feels the calmness one would expect from a priestess (or the Dalai Lama for that matter), and even though Esther, the protagonist, is barely more than a noviciate she exhibits the attributes of one having been forced into adulthood at an early age. Being able to see the future doesn’t help much, either.
O’Rourke’s fantasy world has nicely-visualized villages, palaces, temples and badlands. The supporting characters are fleshed out well, and the first-person point of view lends itself to Esther’s inner turmoil as she sees the fates of both friend and foe. The young priestess also has an interesting relationship with the primary gods in the tale.
My nitpicks are few and minor, as follows. While O’Rourke’s dialogue is natural it often covers the same ground as the inner monologue of the heroine, and since there are only a few true action scenes this redundancy tends to slow the overall pace. In its place I would have liked more detail into what motivated the more nefarious antagonists in the story. Then again, I read and write thrillers so my view may be slanted, there.
Overall, though, I quite enjoyed The Reluctant Prophet and have no doubt that Gillian O’Rourke has launched the first of what promises to be a popular series. Highly recommended.
September 10, 2014
To say this is a great book is an understatement. The characters drive it and kept me coming back, and the story was really well planned out and felt amazingly natural for such a supernatural tale!
The story tells of Esther, a girl with the power of foresight and how this power is used and abused by those in authority around her. Indeed, her own attempts to use her visions often prove less than ideal. The story is very much about power and the abuse thereof. Very few authority figures are presented positively - even the gods become horrifying and detestable!
There is a romance flowing through much of it and it seemed the only part of the book I didn't really buy. Hadrian, the man in question, creeped me out from day one. I was expecting him to be revealed as a dastardly manipulative figure seeking to use Esther for his own ends. I suppose he was, but his ends were more his own romantic fulfilment rather than anything obviously sinister.
Pretty much all of the characters are superb, though. A cavalcade of strong, complex and brilliantly crafted female leads who all guide the story along. This was, I think, the best aspect. Despite being a world apparently doomed by fate and destiny, the characters choices DO make a difference and are incredibly important. How someone acts in response to a vision of the future can and will change that future. This was fantastically well painted out over the course of the novel, rather than being thrown in your face.
O'Rourke has a towering talent and a bright future ahead, and I'm sure Esther would agree.
The story tells of Esther, a girl with the power of foresight and how this power is used and abused by those in authority around her. Indeed, her own attempts to use her visions often prove less than ideal. The story is very much about power and the abuse thereof. Very few authority figures are presented positively - even the gods become horrifying and detestable!
There is a romance flowing through much of it and it seemed the only part of the book I didn't really buy. Hadrian, the man in question, creeped me out from day one. I was expecting him to be revealed as a dastardly manipulative figure seeking to use Esther for his own ends. I suppose he was, but his ends were more his own romantic fulfilment rather than anything obviously sinister.
Pretty much all of the characters are superb, though. A cavalcade of strong, complex and brilliantly crafted female leads who all guide the story along. This was, I think, the best aspect. Despite being a world apparently doomed by fate and destiny, the characters choices DO make a difference and are incredibly important. How someone acts in response to a vision of the future can and will change that future. This was fantastically well painted out over the course of the novel, rather than being thrown in your face.
O'Rourke has a towering talent and a bright future ahead, and I'm sure Esther would agree.
December 29, 2013
The Reluctant Prophet is a really emotionally charged book. You will feel sadness, anger, and joy along with the main character, Ester. Ester is a very strong and gifted person. She can see into the future and see how others are effected. The only problem with her powers is that she doesn't see what will happen to herself.
She at first loves and is happy with becoming a priestess, but then events occur, she is forever changed and scarred. Ester is such a nice person all you want is for her to find happiness throughout the book.
I enjoyed reading this book. The imagery was very good and I felt like I was there watching Ester. The theme, as I found it, is that: you are stronger than what you realize.
The only negative thing I found about this book is that at some points I found it predictable, other than that the book was very well written.
I got this book for free by winning it through Goodreads First Reads.
Thank you Gillian O'Rourke for kindly wrapping and signing the book!! :)
She at first loves and is happy with becoming a priestess, but then events occur, she is forever changed and scarred. Ester is such a nice person all you want is for her to find happiness throughout the book.
I enjoyed reading this book. The imagery was very good and I felt like I was there watching Ester. The theme, as I found it, is that: you are stronger than what you realize.
The only negative thing I found about this book is that at some points I found it predictable, other than that the book was very well written.
I got this book for free by winning it through Goodreads First Reads.
Thank you Gillian O'Rourke for kindly wrapping and signing the book!! :)
August 19, 2015
The Reluctant Prophet is an emotional, hard-hitting and brilliant story. I really felt for Esther and her journey, and her struggle with her faith and her choices after the events she lives through. It's a story that has stayed in my head after I finished; it's a page-turner and a book that is absolutely amazing!
February 15, 2016
Handles serious issues with a great understanding, the plot is so original and unique, and as the main character Esther developed I was just astounded. Everything was just...fantastic. One of my all times favourites and one I will be recommending to everyone!
November 21, 2021
This story transported me into a different time with a really interesting set of characters that kept surprising me at every turn. It’s so nice to find a theme that can be so interesting and unexpected throughout the story. Really do recommend making it your next book to read!
February 22, 2016
I received this book through a Goodreads First Reads Giveaway. And I am very happy for it. It is a great story, wonderfully written, with strong characters.
The story: Set in a medieval-like fantasy world, the story presents a young girl, Esther, freshly ordained a priestess, with the gift of seeing the future. Except for her own future. At first, things seem to go well for little Esther, until she gets caught in the twisted plans of the nobility. From there on, her gift becomes a curse, and she is used and abused by the power hungry nobles.
The characters: The characters are very well written, each with a different personality, and motivation. I found Esther a strong female character, even if sometimes she is carried forward by the events, without being able to stop them. Being low-born between the nobles would explain that. But she does fight for what she believes is right, even when it is against the will of the gods. She eventually finds the peace and happiness she wished for, but not without a price. The other characters are described through Esther's eyes, which might be the reason why they seem either very good or very bad. It's just as easy to get attached to the characters Esther loves, as it is easy to hate those that are mean to the girl.
The love story: Considering that it is made clear from the beginning, that priestesses take a vow of celibacy I wasn't expecting any love story in the book. I was wrong. The love interest appeared, love happened, and everything the gods have planned out for Esther was overruled. Which led to another plan, worse than the initial one, which made the love even more intense, leading to plans being overruled again, leading to new plans from the gods. Thinking about it, the book might have been centered around the love story. Anyway, the love story wasn't overwhelming, it was completely believable, and touching.
The writing: The first person narrative brought Esther, the characters and the events much closer to me. The writing was simple, easy to read, the whole story flowing without a stop to the inevitable conclusion. There are many twists and turns in the story, and many are to be expected (Esther has visions of the future, after all), but there still were a few that caught me unprepared. And shocked or amazed me. And even if I knew something would happen (from a vision - Esther's, not mine), the way it happened usually made it interesting. And just to have it mentioned somewhere, the book cover is beautiful, it fits the story perfectly.
Recommendation: I'm sure this book might be read in one long and exciting reading session (if someone is lucky enough to have the time for it). It took me several days, but at least I could think on what will happen next. I would recommend it to those who look for a good fantasy story, or just a stronger-than-usual main female character. It might be enjoyed even by those in search for a different love story (as in not an usual cheesy love story).
Edit: I started the review giving the book four stars. I have changed it to five because I remembered the most important thing that I enjoyed about this book. It's a stand-alone book, not a series. Thank you, Gillian O'Rourke for that.
The story: Set in a medieval-like fantasy world, the story presents a young girl, Esther, freshly ordained a priestess, with the gift of seeing the future. Except for her own future. At first, things seem to go well for little Esther, until she gets caught in the twisted plans of the nobility. From there on, her gift becomes a curse, and she is used and abused by the power hungry nobles.
The characters: The characters are very well written, each with a different personality, and motivation. I found Esther a strong female character, even if sometimes she is carried forward by the events, without being able to stop them. Being low-born between the nobles would explain that. But she does fight for what she believes is right, even when it is against the will of the gods. She eventually finds the peace and happiness she wished for, but not without a price. The other characters are described through Esther's eyes, which might be the reason why they seem either very good or very bad. It's just as easy to get attached to the characters Esther loves, as it is easy to hate those that are mean to the girl.
The love story: Considering that it is made clear from the beginning, that priestesses take a vow of celibacy I wasn't expecting any love story in the book. I was wrong. The love interest appeared, love happened, and everything the gods have planned out for Esther was overruled. Which led to another plan, worse than the initial one, which made the love even more intense, leading to plans being overruled again, leading to new plans from the gods. Thinking about it, the book might have been centered around the love story. Anyway, the love story wasn't overwhelming, it was completely believable, and touching.
The writing: The first person narrative brought Esther, the characters and the events much closer to me. The writing was simple, easy to read, the whole story flowing without a stop to the inevitable conclusion. There are many twists and turns in the story, and many are to be expected (Esther has visions of the future, after all), but there still were a few that caught me unprepared. And shocked or amazed me. And even if I knew something would happen (from a vision - Esther's, not mine), the way it happened usually made it interesting. And just to have it mentioned somewhere, the book cover is beautiful, it fits the story perfectly.
Recommendation: I'm sure this book might be read in one long and exciting reading session (if someone is lucky enough to have the time for it). It took me several days, but at least I could think on what will happen next. I would recommend it to those who look for a good fantasy story, or just a stronger-than-usual main female character. It might be enjoyed even by those in search for a different love story (as in not an usual cheesy love story).
Edit: I started the review giving the book four stars. I have changed it to five because I remembered the most important thing that I enjoyed about this book. It's a stand-alone book, not a series. Thank you, Gillian O'Rourke for that.
November 10, 2014
The Reluctant Prophet is an interesting journey of emotion and intensity. Esther's journey is one the reader can't help but invest in. She is nice, generous and caring, but get's caught up in a savage world as a result of her 'gift' to see the future. Her experiences create so much sympathy for her that as a reader you want to know if there is any ray of sunshine in her own future. This emotional attachment to Esther is definitely the stories greatest strength. As always I'll briefly cover a few technical aspects of the story in an attempt to give a good overview of the story.
Pace- The Reluctant Prophet is paced well and easy to read. There are parts that give detailed accounts of Esther's emotions and reactions to her circumstance that may feel slow to some people, but these are important for the emotional attachment that develops between the reader and Esther.
World Building- The world is certainly detailed enough to be believable. It's clear there could have been a lot more detail, but the balance of just enough detail was important for this story as too much would have suffocated Esther's story. We see the world as Esther sees it, on her journey, and this is important. The places, events, reactions and social structure were all portrayed well.
Characters- Esther is a very normal character in her personality, acting and reacting the way most good people would in her position. However, it is the extraordinary events that surround her that make her interesting, and the pains she goes through are what make the reader care for her. This is done very well. I really did care for her.
A few of the other characters are interesting, but as this is Esther's story, and from her point of view, I didn't really become too attached, or feel invested, in any of the other characters.
Originality- This story did have a few parts that felt original. I think the way the story is all put together is very well done and there is plenty in it to make it feel fresh and new.
Last thoughts- I really enjoyed the perspective of prophecy and the way the future was seen. It was simple and to the point. Often Prophecy is over complicated in stories, but it was easy to understand how it worked in the Reluctant Prophet. It is a great skill to turn something that is complex and make it easy to understand. This was done very well.
Overall this is a great story that is easy to follow, very interesting and certainly pulls at the heart strings.
Pace- The Reluctant Prophet is paced well and easy to read. There are parts that give detailed accounts of Esther's emotions and reactions to her circumstance that may feel slow to some people, but these are important for the emotional attachment that develops between the reader and Esther.
World Building- The world is certainly detailed enough to be believable. It's clear there could have been a lot more detail, but the balance of just enough detail was important for this story as too much would have suffocated Esther's story. We see the world as Esther sees it, on her journey, and this is important. The places, events, reactions and social structure were all portrayed well.
Characters- Esther is a very normal character in her personality, acting and reacting the way most good people would in her position. However, it is the extraordinary events that surround her that make her interesting, and the pains she goes through are what make the reader care for her. This is done very well. I really did care for her.
A few of the other characters are interesting, but as this is Esther's story, and from her point of view, I didn't really become too attached, or feel invested, in any of the other characters.
Originality- This story did have a few parts that felt original. I think the way the story is all put together is very well done and there is plenty in it to make it feel fresh and new.
Last thoughts- I really enjoyed the perspective of prophecy and the way the future was seen. It was simple and to the point. Often Prophecy is over complicated in stories, but it was easy to understand how it worked in the Reluctant Prophet. It is a great skill to turn something that is complex and make it easy to understand. This was done very well.
Overall this is a great story that is easy to follow, very interesting and certainly pulls at the heart strings.
September 22, 2015
Gillian O'Rourke's The Reluctant Prophet is a tough, unflinching examination of prophecies, visions, and the lengths to which people will go to ensure that they come to pass.
Novice Esther, newly accepted in an order devoted to the trinity of gods Lo, Era and Tyrus, also possesses the gift of foresight. But while that gift could benefit the entire kingdom, her superiors have their own, more personal plans. And though Esther cannot foretell her own future, others in her order can. The gods work in mysterious and inhuman ways...
Avoiding spoilers, Esther's journey is not an easy or a pleasant one to follow. There isn't a lot of light relief, and that is compounded by the single viewpoint in first person. That limitation slows the pace too, but when the plot really takes off and Esther's superiors make an unconscionable decision, O'Rourke's viewpoint choice places the reader right at the heart of Esther's struggle, and that choice pays off.
At its heart, despite the violence, The Reluctant Prophet is a romance as well as a pinning down of gods and prophecies. Poor Esther doesn't dare dream of this sort of future in the first half of the book, but in the second half it's almost the only thing that gives her any kind of hope. Her own faith is as much a weapon to be used against her as it is a crutch; O'Rourke plays out the heartfelt struggle deftly and gives the story a good two-fingers-to-the-gods conclusion that sits well with Esther's physical and emotional wounds.
If any one thing could have been done better, I'd have wished for a few different word choices in places, but the story is definitely told in Esther's voice. A quick note for the cover art too - Evelinn Enoksen's portrait of Esther is a wonderful stand-out. A grim fantasy that doesn't rely on brawn and battles but instead places women at the heart of the intrigue, The Reluctant Prophet is a promise of greater things still to come from Gillian O'Rourke.
Novice Esther, newly accepted in an order devoted to the trinity of gods Lo, Era and Tyrus, also possesses the gift of foresight. But while that gift could benefit the entire kingdom, her superiors have their own, more personal plans. And though Esther cannot foretell her own future, others in her order can. The gods work in mysterious and inhuman ways...
Avoiding spoilers, Esther's journey is not an easy or a pleasant one to follow. There isn't a lot of light relief, and that is compounded by the single viewpoint in first person. That limitation slows the pace too, but when the plot really takes off and Esther's superiors make an unconscionable decision, O'Rourke's viewpoint choice places the reader right at the heart of Esther's struggle, and that choice pays off.
At its heart, despite the violence, The Reluctant Prophet is a romance as well as a pinning down of gods and prophecies. Poor Esther doesn't dare dream of this sort of future in the first half of the book, but in the second half it's almost the only thing that gives her any kind of hope. Her own faith is as much a weapon to be used against her as it is a crutch; O'Rourke plays out the heartfelt struggle deftly and gives the story a good two-fingers-to-the-gods conclusion that sits well with Esther's physical and emotional wounds.
If any one thing could have been done better, I'd have wished for a few different word choices in places, but the story is definitely told in Esther's voice. A quick note for the cover art too - Evelinn Enoksen's portrait of Esther is a wonderful stand-out. A grim fantasy that doesn't rely on brawn and battles but instead places women at the heart of the intrigue, The Reluctant Prophet is a promise of greater things still to come from Gillian O'Rourke.
September 30, 2014
I received this book in a goodreads first read competition. This is not your typical fantasy novel, there no clashing of swords, no fantastical creatures, this novel is pretty much all about emotions, good and bad. It is beautifully written, the language really bringing the story to life. For the first third of the book, I took every chance I got get to read it, even if it was just a few pages, the writing and story had me hooked. The second third and the will they, won't they romance part of the novel slowed things down a little. Like I said, the book is about emotions and love being one of the most powerful and it does play a major part of the story, it's just that I found the start of the romance involving the two characters in this section a little dull but i think this is down more to me and what i enjoy in a book more than the writting. The last third picks up the pace again and as usual with a good book, I was both happy and sad to finish it. It is a powerful novel with a main characters that suffers so much as does the reader since Esther is a character that is easy to feel for. Overall I really enjoyed the book, I have already picked which friend I will buy a copy for, something I do for all books that I get from goodreads giveaways that I like. I think she will enjoy the romance parts more than me. I am surprised this is a first novel, the writting seems so accomplished and look forward to hopefully reading more from Gillian O' Rourke in the future.
May 9, 2014
I picked this book up yesterday evening and didn't stop until I had finished. It was very late/early. There was a point when I was weeping. This is how deeply immersed in the story I was.
The story starts with Ester, a prophet, about to undergo and endurance test to see if she has the right qualities to become a priestess. This procedure, seen through Ester's eyes, seems fair at the time. It is only later one questions if the test is not merely a device to get rid of the candidates already deemed un-useful? Ester is accepted, the only peasant to get this accolade. It is notable her three fellow successes are all of high birth. Ester is full of hope for her future, particularly when she learns she is to go to the capital city temple. Here is another example of great layering as the joy unravels when the scales are removed from her eyes.
Ester is devote and determined to stand by her vows to her gods. Indeed, she has an early indication of what will happen to her if she does not. A chilling warning. She is also strong in spirit, so when the unravelling starts, it holds her together. There are choices to make in her future. They will bring heartbreak, and yet she only has an incomplete picture as her own fate it is never revealed to her.
A very powerful read. Highly recommended.
The story starts with Ester, a prophet, about to undergo and endurance test to see if she has the right qualities to become a priestess. This procedure, seen through Ester's eyes, seems fair at the time. It is only later one questions if the test is not merely a device to get rid of the candidates already deemed un-useful? Ester is accepted, the only peasant to get this accolade. It is notable her three fellow successes are all of high birth. Ester is full of hope for her future, particularly when she learns she is to go to the capital city temple. Here is another example of great layering as the joy unravels when the scales are removed from her eyes.
Ester is devote and determined to stand by her vows to her gods. Indeed, she has an early indication of what will happen to her if she does not. A chilling warning. She is also strong in spirit, so when the unravelling starts, it holds her together. There are choices to make in her future. They will bring heartbreak, and yet she only has an incomplete picture as her own fate it is never revealed to her.
A very powerful read. Highly recommended.
August 11, 2025
The Reluctant Prophet is a stunning and gripping tale that blends dark fantasy with deep emotional complexity. From the very first page, I was completely immersed in the haunting world of capricious gods and ruthless nobles, where power is everything and trust is a dangerous gamble.
Esther’s journey is heartbreaking. I found myself trapped in her story with contradictory emotions. She is gifted with the rare and terrifying ability to see the fates of those around her, yet tragically blind to her own future. Her transformation from a humble peasant to a priestess caught in a deadly political game is portrayed with such nuance and strength. The tension between destiny and free will pulses throughout the story, making every choice she faces feel weighty and real.
What I loved most is how Esther fights to follow her heart, amidst betrayal and looming war. It feels both epic and deeply personal. Also, that letter Hadrian wrote to Esther is breathtaking, reminds me of the letters my grandpa wrote to my grandma when they met. The writing beautifully captures the darkness of the world, but also the fragile hope that drives Esther forward.
This book is perfect for readers who crave a richly built world, complex characters, and a story where fate is never certain.
Highly recommended for fans of dark fantasy and powerful female protagonists.
Esther’s journey is heartbreaking. I found myself trapped in her story with contradictory emotions. She is gifted with the rare and terrifying ability to see the fates of those around her, yet tragically blind to her own future. Her transformation from a humble peasant to a priestess caught in a deadly political game is portrayed with such nuance and strength. The tension between destiny and free will pulses throughout the story, making every choice she faces feel weighty and real.
What I loved most is how Esther fights to follow her heart, amidst betrayal and looming war. It feels both epic and deeply personal. Also, that letter Hadrian wrote to Esther is breathtaking, reminds me of the letters my grandpa wrote to my grandma when they met. The writing beautifully captures the darkness of the world, but also the fragile hope that drives Esther forward.
This book is perfect for readers who crave a richly built world, complex characters, and a story where fate is never certain.
Highly recommended for fans of dark fantasy and powerful female protagonists.
July 1, 2025
The Reluctant Prophet is an incredible 5 star read.
In this book we meet Esther, a young peasant woman who becomes a priestess.
She takes her vows very seriously and she strives to live her life helping those in need, and following the laws pertaining to her vocation.
But through a series of events, not of her making, the course of her happy life changes.
Esther has a rare gift, one that allows her to see others' future. But this gift from the gods gets exploited by those in positions of power.
There's a beautiful romance story that develops in this book, and it tests Esther's faith. But what truly pushes Esther to the brink of her faith is the evil forced on her by those she trusted, by those she can't disobey.
There are many themes running through this book: greed, selfish gain, powerful people forcing their will upon others.
What I truly loved about this story is the deep emotional struggles Esther goes through, between her vows, her love, trying to deal with the cruelty forced on her, and slowly losing her faith.
By the end of the story, the woman Esther has become is so different from the young, innocent woman she was in the beginning.
The cruelties she'd witnessed and endured changed her completely.
This book is a deep emotional ride that deals with the dark side of greed, power and selfishness.
Please check trigger warnings as this book deals with dark themes.
The ending of this story was amazing. It's one of those endings that make you think. Reflect.
The Reluctant Prophet is one of my top reads of 2025.
Gillian O'Rourke has quickly become one of my favourite authors.
In this book we meet Esther, a young peasant woman who becomes a priestess.
She takes her vows very seriously and she strives to live her life helping those in need, and following the laws pertaining to her vocation.
But through a series of events, not of her making, the course of her happy life changes.
Esther has a rare gift, one that allows her to see others' future. But this gift from the gods gets exploited by those in positions of power.
There's a beautiful romance story that develops in this book, and it tests Esther's faith. But what truly pushes Esther to the brink of her faith is the evil forced on her by those she trusted, by those she can't disobey.
There are many themes running through this book: greed, selfish gain, powerful people forcing their will upon others.
What I truly loved about this story is the deep emotional struggles Esther goes through, between her vows, her love, trying to deal with the cruelty forced on her, and slowly losing her faith.
By the end of the story, the woman Esther has become is so different from the young, innocent woman she was in the beginning.
The cruelties she'd witnessed and endured changed her completely.
This book is a deep emotional ride that deals with the dark side of greed, power and selfishness.
Please check trigger warnings as this book deals with dark themes.
The ending of this story was amazing. It's one of those endings that make you think. Reflect.
The Reluctant Prophet is one of my top reads of 2025.
Gillian O'Rourke has quickly become one of my favourite authors.
October 3, 2025
One of the most beautiful, heartbreaking, interesting stories I've ever read. I would give it more than 5 stars if I could. Esther is the kind of female main character that you want to win so badly. My heart ached for her so often. The depth of every character in this book was so well done. Everyone had their own internal struggle, which is one of the biggest factors that draws me into a story. The writing is beautiful and immersive, and I couldn't put it down. Cannot recommend highly enough.
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