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For daring to trust their Creator, Araine and Nikaros are swept from their homes into a foreign land…slaves to their enemies.

Araine Khalome of ToronSea follows the goddess Atea. But Araine secretly questions Atea’s power as a goddess. Wrestling with her spiritual doubts, Araine finds old scrolls containing verses that come alive, beckoning her soul. Within those words, Araine senses the presence of the Infinite, the despised Most Ancient God, enemy to all Ateans, and she’s captivated—secretly risking her life to read the Books of the Infinite.

You are forever in My sight…

Betrayed and condemned, Araine is swept away to the kingdom of Belaal, where she is swiftly apprehended and marked as a slave. Caught up in the lethal political and religious struggles within Balaal, Araine joins forces with another slave, Nikaros, a hostage and exiled son of an Eosyth Lord. As they fight to survive the antagonistic royal court, Nik and Araine soon realize that they must also protect the despotic god-king who has enslaved them.

But the god-king, Bel-Tygeon, has plans of his own.

Child of Dust, are you My servant?

347 pages, Kindle Edition

First published September 29, 2014

30 people are currently reading
591 people want to read

About the author

R.J. Larson

16 books312 followers
R.J. Larson is the author of numerous devotionals featured in publications such as Women's Devotional Bible and Seasons of a Woman's Heart. She lives in Colorado Springs, Colorado, with her husband and their two sons. The Books of the Infinite series marks her debut in the fantasy genre.

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5 stars
148 (56%)
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86 (32%)
3 stars
20 (7%)
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4 (1%)
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3 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
Profile Image for Jaye Knight.
Author 11 books699 followers
July 16, 2015
I'm always in awe after I finish one of R.J. Larson's books. They never disappoint, and I just love how they're inspired by Old Testament stories. :)
Profile Image for Jasmine.
1,294 reviews43 followers
May 18, 2015
Fantasy fans are in for a treat!

I started Exiles last night and it was only with great reluctance, and I couldn't keep my eyes open any longer, that I finally shut my laptop down. As soon as I was up again this morning said laptop was back on and I was back into it, who cares about breakfast after all.
As I finished Exiles I thought about R.J. Larson's amazing talent as an author. She can pull me into the story until all sight and sound outside the book cease to exist. Her books are even more than entertainment, she re-tells the Biblical stories in such a way that they become totally new and exciting.

It's hard to describe the feeling you get as you read R.J. Larson's stories of the Infinite. They make you want something more, to reach deep inside yourself and ask the question “Child of Dust are you My servant.” To examine yourself, questioning would I be willing to do and risk as much as Araine and Nikaros? To long for that closeness with God and to see His wonders, even His word, with the same awe.

Exiles is filled with adventure, excitement, spine-tingling danger, a dash of romance, and R.J. Larson's trademark attention to detail. The lands, peoples, and customs are so well thought out, and those Drekar gave me the shivers.

If you loved Prophet, Judge, and King, you'll be sure to enjoy Exiles. You'll meet some wonderful new characters and reacquaint yourself with some old friends.
R.J. Larson has a real winner in Exiles and I can't wait to read the next book in The Realms Of The Infinite. R.J. Larson's Biblical fantasy is the best!

(I received a copy of this e-book from the author through The Book Club Network in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are entirely my own.)
Profile Image for Jessica.
360 reviews
December 23, 2014
Exiles is another wonderful novel by R. J. Larson in the same world as her novel Prophet. Ela is a contemporary to the main characters in this novel and makes a few guest appearances.

In this novel we meet Nikaros just before he is taken captive due to his clans betrayal of a false god to the true God, Infinite. Soon after Araine is drawn to the Infinite from another false god. Infinite miraculously saves her from death at her own father's hands and places her as a Prophet to Belaal. Both Nikaros and Araine are called by Infinite to serve him as slaves to Belaal's self proclaimed god-king.

This novel was a joy to read. It clearly is a Christian novel and alludes to several Old Testament Biblical events fit to this world. The world is very real, the characters are flawed and utterly believable and Infinite's love for the lost is palpable. I will definitely be anxiously awaiting the next novel. :) This book is nicely wrapped up but there is more to this story.
Profile Image for Audrey.
1,767 reviews81 followers
June 23, 2018
Araine is the new prophet of Belaal and slave of Bel-Tygeon, the mighty god-king. Based loosely on the Biblical book of Daniel this is an interesting fantasy of what might have been. Nikaros, a fellow slave, is determined to protect the king despite his fear of losing Araine whom he secretly loves. It is dangerous for them to live in the palace but the Infinite is faithful and protects them from evil.
Profile Image for Sarah Vanscoyoc.
344 reviews
November 9, 2015
Surprised - in a good way
Exiles is the first book in R. J. Larson’s new series, Realms of the Infinite. It connects with her first trilogy, Books of the Infinite. This is the first book I’ve read by her and only my second foray into the Fantasy genre and I have to say I was pleasantly surprised. I wasn’t sure what to expect, but I enjoyed it very much and will definitely be looking forward to the next book by Ms. Larson!
Araine Khalome is one of the main characters and I quickly fell in love with her! She has been raised to worship a goddess, but desires more than the deity gives. She wants to know she is heard, that she matters. So when she discovers some scrolls of a god known as the Infinite, she is quickly drawn in. This God says He loves her, that she is precious and beautiful. His words call to her and even though she knows it is punishable by death, she can’t help but love the Infinite. I really enjoyed getting to know Araine and follow her through her story. Her path isn’t an easy one by any means, but she still decides to follow her Lord. Araine is very realistic in her reactions and how she deals with everything that goes on around her. When she decides to follow the Infinite and obey Him, she counts the cost before taking that step. It is not a blind leap of faith, but she can’t imagine going through life without Him. I was able to easily relate to her questions and uncertainty. I must confess to being a bit jealous of her, because I wish my “Infinite” spoke as openly and clearly to me.
Nikaros of Eosyth is another main character that I really enjoyed getting to know. He is a slave, a captive of the king Bel-Tygeon. He struggles to accept his lowered status as a slave and adjust to palace life. He is strong, a warrior, and it shows in much of what he does. He is also trained as a scribe and that also shows in his careful words and self control. He truly cares for many of the people he encounters and does his best to do right in the Infinite’s sight.
This story is very loosely based on the book of Daniel and in several ways I can see the comparisons. In others, Ms. Larson made it her own and took it places I would not have guessed or imagined. Followers of her books will enjoy seeing Ela and Kien again, as well as finding out more of what happens to them. Ela is something of a mentor to Araine for a short time and she helps her to understand more of what it means to follow the Infinite.
As someone who has read little fantasy, there were a couple things that confused me a bit at first and I’m sure would have made more sense has I read Ms. Larson’s previous books. I would recommend them solely based on this story and plan to read them myself once I have the time.
One thing that did bother me a bit was the descriptions. While Ms. Larson does bring the main “stages” to life, such as the palace, gardens, and in the beginning, ToronSea, we know little of the rest of the Realm. This bothered me as it made the world seem somewhat flat. I wasn’t as drawn in as I would have liked. Also, we are often told what characters are wearing and the details there became rather repetitive after a while. I’m hopeful that as the series proceeds Ms. Larson will show us more of the kingdom and the world she’s created.
Whether you’re looking for a new genre to try, or are already a fantasy lover, I highly recommend this book! It will challenge your faith and leave you wondering what comes next for Araine and Nikaros.
I received a complementary copy of this book through The Book Club Network for my honest review, which I have given. I was not required to write a positive review and have not been compensated for it in any way. All opinions expressed are my own.
Profile Image for Christian Fiction Addiction.
689 reviews333 followers
October 7, 2015
I absolutely loved R.J. Larson's fantasy fiction debut series, "Books of the Infinite" and so when I saw that there was a new book that is loosely connected to the first, I was eager to get my hands on a copy! "Exiles" definitely lived up to my hopes, as once again readers are transported to an exotic land where danger and mystery abounds. I loved watching both Araine and Nikaros grow as characters over the course of the story, as they come to accept the calling that the Infinite has placed on their lives, and as the Infinite takes desperate, seemingly hopeless situations and brings good out of them. Readers who know their Bible well will see many wonderful parallels in this story to the truth of scripture, and also to the Biblical characters of Daniel and King Nebuchadnezzar. I love how the author borrows these themes and weaves them into "Exiles". The characters are wonderfully developed, and the book is full of action that kept me turning through the pages as fast as I could. But best of all, the scenes where the characters interact with the Infinite are so compelling that I found myself praying in a similar manner to God and listening for his voice! Like Araine and Nikaros, may we all have such relationships with God where we listen for his voice and his guidance and seek to obey no matter the cost. If we did, surely we'd all have lives filled with adventure, much like they do (though hopefully we would find ourselves in less perilous situations!).

Those readers who enjoyed Larson's "Books of the Infinite" series will definitely enjoy "Exiles". But if you weren't able to enjoy that series, don't let that stop you. "Exiles" is not just good fantasy fiction, but just good fiction, period. I highly recommend this book and award it 4.5 out of of 5 stars.


Access to an ebook of "Exiles" was provided for the purposes of this unbiased review.
Profile Image for Debora Wilder.
562 reviews2 followers
September 7, 2015
An incredibly well crafted fantasy novel!

Though this is book 1 of this particular series it is my belief that to receive the maximum enjoyment from this story you should read all 3 books in the previous series, “Books of the Infinite,” before this one.

From the very beginning my heart was aching for the plight that Nikaros and his friends were caught in. I wanted so badly to see them free from their captors. Yet shortly after their captivity starts I suddenly found myself transported to ToronSea and the home of a wealthy family.

At first I was confused by the dramatic shift but it didn’t take long to start feeling a connection to Araine. I found myself wanting to see her realize the love of the Infinite in the midst of what seemed to me to be a cold, unfeeling family.

As soon as Araine arrives in Belaal the intrigue in the royal court picks up. With it there is plenty of action and excitement.

Since I have read the entire Bible I am fascinated by the marvelous way that R. J. Larson takes wonderful stories from the Old Testament and retells them within the fantasy land that she has developed for these fantastic books.

I received a free eBook copy of this novel through The Book Club Network in exchange for my honest opinion.
Profile Image for Carol.
1,642 reviews67 followers
November 28, 2015
Nikaros, the son of an Eosyth Lord is held slave due to clan’s
belief in the Infinite. The King of Belaal holds him in exchange
for his family’s safety.
Araine Khalome of ToronSea is rescued by the Infinite when her
father tries to kill her. First, she is held as a slave of the King of
Belaal until she becomes the Prophet to Belaal.
The characters were vivid and well developed. There
were interesting dynamics between various characters. The two
main characters had undeniable chemistry between them.
The vivid descriptions put the reader right into the story.
Intriguing, well plotted book with drama, suspense,
biblical facts, humor, edge and a touch of romance.
The story inspires the reader with the constant faith.
Thank you to book fun.org for this Book. My opinion is my own.
Profile Image for Angie Shoemaker.
368 reviews2 followers
June 8, 2021
It was good for a quick read. The characters seemed too flat and one-dimensional and the plots seemed contrived (probably because the author was constrained by her goal to retell a biblical tale in a fantasy setting). Even the fantasy world itself seemed forced. The biggest clue it was a fantasy was the strange names of the characters. I did appreciate that the author allowed for miraculous signs other than just the ones recorded in the Bible. That helped the book seem at least mildly interesting.
44 reviews1 follower
May 27, 2017
please,give this book a try.

I can't put this story away. . Talk about binge reading.... Definitely read the first series. This will make much more scene. I feel like one of the family. You will enjoy the constant flow of the story. The nails biting drama. The subtle romance.. The best story in a very long time.
Profile Image for Addison S.
131 reviews16 followers
December 24, 2019
I cannot express how happy I am that I read this book! I've read other books by R. J. Larson and they were awesome! I've seen this book several places but didn't realize it was written by the same author (I am a blonde😏). When it finally clicked I got the book and read it and loved it. Or as some famous person once said, "I bought, I read, I loved." (Paraphrased slightly) If you have read the Books of the Infinite series then you will love this book. It ties in with this series in places I would have never guessed. The only thing I disliked about this book was the fact that there were some grammatical mistakes. Periods missing, commas lost, and the first letter of a word absent. However, I still gave the book five stars cause I loved it way to much to give it anything less.
Profile Image for Mamie Lou.
10 reviews
May 25, 2021
I read Prophet a few years ago and had to have the series. When I found out Larson had more books written in this style I couldn't wait to read them. This book does not disappoint. Larson has a way of using the Bible in these stories and makes the words come alive in a new way.
This story is about another female prophet and I love the way that the first few chapters are a different version of the Ela of Parne stories.
These are books that I think should be on every christians (and nonchristians too) to read list
Profile Image for angeline dawson.
14 reviews
January 22, 2019
Awesome book💕

Her writing’s are so close to the Bible, I would recommend this book to everyone who loves the Bible and the Word of my Lord-and Savior Christ Jesus. Just to know that the Word of God loves thru others gives me hope. “Jeremiah 29:11” For I knows the thoughts I have towards you.....
760 reviews5 followers
February 1, 2017
Excellent. Another one of Larson's that makes me appreciate the life of Old Testament prophets. And more in this one than in Prophet, Exiles gives a glimpse of the agony of God when His creatures turn from him, and His great love for them. Also, the love of His word is truly displayed in Araine.
305 reviews1 follower
January 17, 2018
Can we communicate with the Creator the Infinite?

It is surely possible to commune with the Infinate, Araine is almost murdered by one who was seeking to marry her and finds true love, in the will of the Creator.
Profile Image for Kim .
1,156 reviews20 followers
November 11, 2018
It's been awhile since I read this series, but I remember that it was exceptionally good and I couldn't wait to get to the next story in the series. Definitely recommend this clean series.
538 reviews2 followers
February 11, 2019
Just excellent!!! I love how she bases so much on scripture. The characters are so real. I can't say enough good about this author.
Profile Image for Glenn.
1,736 reviews8 followers
March 11, 2019
A very enjoyable story, based on stories from the old testament... Looking forward to reading book two now...
77 reviews1 follower
April 3, 2020
Excellent as always from larson
Profile Image for Candi.
97 reviews
March 3, 2025
I finally read it!
I did enjoy this book, though not as much as the main series.
Good characters, I loved watching their journeys throughout the book.
Profile Image for Carrie Gould.
157 reviews2 followers
January 24, 2015
RJ Larson has created a beautiful story. Araine has been chosen by the Infinite to be a prophet in the land of Belaal. She is tasked with trying to convince the King that he is not deity as he believes. Nikaros has been imprisoned by the king of Belaal in exchange for the safety of his father's kingdom. Both Nikaros and Araine ultimately serve the Infinite above all else, even though this requires them to bow to the king and follow his proud demands.

I love the detailed descriptions of the different kingdoms and peoples. Even if you are not a fan of the fantasy genre, I believe you can still enjoy this book and its hints of Biblical events. RJ Larson has effectively created a story that draws you in. The scenes each unfolded with realistic clarity. There was romance, intrigue, and conspiracy. The author is a great storyteller. I felt drawn to Araine and her conflict. I wanted Nikaros to be successful in his desire to protect his father. I wanted the king to ultimately do right. The ending, though surprising, was effective and just right.

I received a copy of this book from The Book Club Network and the publishers in exchange for my honest review which I have given.
Profile Image for Cindy .
265 reviews9 followers
March 12, 2015
I am so glad that I started reading some Christian fantasy books. If not, I never would have found books written by R.J. Larson which would have been a terrible shame. I had previously read her series, Books of the Infinite, and was missing all of the characters. Then I found where she was starting a new series, Realms of the Infinite, with a whole new set of outstanding characters. Ela of Parne does make a couple of appearances which was great as we don't have to totally do without her.

The new prophet called by the Infinite is Araine. She struggles with her calling whether to accept the Infinite or not. Much as we have to make a choice to follow God or not. She is called as prophet to the land of Belaal whose king, Bel-Tygeon, believes that he is a god. You also have Nikaros, Lije, and Josais as believers who have been taken as slaves to Belaal.

R.J. Larson does a great job of bringing in stories from the Old Testament that we are familiar with and weaving them into the story. In this instance, she uses the story of Daniel. She also does a great job with telling the reader how much God loves each of us and desires us to come to him.

If you have never tried Christian fantasy, I highly recommend starting with Ms. Larson's books, either series.
Profile Image for Vicki.
324 reviews7 followers
January 28, 2015
Exile was my first adventure into the mystical realm and I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It was a compelling story of good versus evil. Many of the scenes reminded me of stories straight out of the book of Daniel. There were a lot of spiritual truths that could be captured from this book.

I loved following one main character named Araine. She was a young girl who was having doubts about the family god Atea. When she read discovered ancient scrolls, she sensed the presence of the Infinite, the despised most ancient God. My favorite quote in the book was when the most Infinite asked Araine “Child of Dust, are you My servant?” Sounds like a question that should be asked to all of us who proclaim to be Christians.

No spoilers in this review. I would just say Exile is worth reading and will appeal to even those who don’t normally read this genre. I received a copy of Exile in exchange for my honest review.
1,170 reviews16 followers
January 12, 2015
This isn't my usual genre but I enjoyed reading Exiles. There was a Biblical thread through out the book with the female Prophet being transported from the minute before being put to death, into another kingdom. She was saved to teach about the Infinite and also protect the people's King. We see little glimpses of hope that the King is leaning toward the Infinite and then evil rushes in and the story gets exciting and the action begins again. I didn't know what to expect with this book but I found it an interesting story of good and evil and how their faith could do wondrous things. If you like a good clean fantasy, you'll enjoy Exiles.
I was given a copy for my honest opinion from The Book Club Network (bookfun.org)
407 reviews7 followers
March 5, 2015
I just finished reading this book. I found it very well written and the story kept my interest. My problem is that this is not my preferred genre. There were things I was not comfortable with, but I am sure that it was because of the genre and my preferred reading material. I noticed a lot of plays on things found in the Bible. At least it seemed that way to me. I did enjoy the book, even though I was uncomfortable with things like Infinite speaking directly to them. I am sure that if fantasy is your genre of choice, you will totally enjoy this book. I received this book in exchange for my honest review.
Profile Image for Sharee.
Author 69 books370 followers
March 4, 2015
Exiles is the first book in the Realms of the Infinite series. Although I’m not a huge fan of fantasy books, the writing is very well done. I loved the character Nikaros and his determination to protect his family, even while being held captive by the enemy. The storyline is intense and a little hard to connect with since I had not read any of the other books. It was also interesting to see the characters’ point of view of the Infinite One. Overall, it’s a well done book.

I received this book from the Book Club Network in exchange for my honest opinion.
Author 36 books16 followers
December 6, 2014
R. J. Larson has become my favorite fantasy author. In the past, I would never have chosen to read this genre of fiction, but with Prophet, Judge, King, and now Exiles, I'm hooked on her particular brand of Christian fantasy. I especially appreciate how intricately and well R. J. weaves biblical truths into a an engaging novel full of interesting characters and exciting adventures. I'm looking forward to reading Queen when it comes out.
Profile Image for Joan Arning.
1,769 reviews29 followers
April 20, 2015
Exiles keeps you wondering what is going to happen next! Although fantasy is not my usual reading, I did enjoy the story line. The characters seemed real and were well developed. I prefer to call God “God” rather than Infinite. I gave the book a 4 rating because it is well written although I did not care for it. I’m sure fantasy readers will love this book.

I received this e-book from www.bookfun.org in exchange for my honest opinion.
Profile Image for Delightful Katie.
5 reviews16 followers
December 22, 2014
Another wonderful read from Larson

I followed Ella of Parne and now find myself delighted to follow Araine. Such wonderful stories of these female prophets in their work to serve the Infinite. I loved the Daniel in the lion's den similarities in this book. Such wonderful examples for women of all ages to fix our eyes and heart on the Lord.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews

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