The Prophetess: A Novel

by Evonne Marzouk

The Prophetess tells a modern story about Rachel, an American teenage girl called to join a secret community of Jewish prophets. The story weaves Jewish tradition, mysticism, modern Jewish American life, and discovery of Israel into a coming-of-age story of a girl discovering her power and purpose in life. The book is targeted at young adults but is also very appropriate for all ages.

Genres: Jewish, Fiction

320 pages, Hardcover

Published October 16, 2019

About the author

Evonne Marzouk grew up in Philadelphia. In 1998, she received a B.A. from the Writing Seminars program at the Johns Hopkins University, with a minor in Religious Studies. She founded and is the former director of Canfei Nesharim, an organization that teaches Jewish wisdom about protecting the environment. In 2008, Evonne was invited to join the ROI Community, an international network of Jewish activists, entrepreneurs and innovators. In 2009, she was selected as one of The New York Jewish Week’s “36 under 36.” She currently works as a communications specialist at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Evonne has published numerous articles and stories in Jewish and secular publications, and is the co-editor of Uplifting People and Planet: Eighteen Essential Lessons on Judaism and the Evironment (2014). She lives in Maryland with her family.

Reviews

[Mary Jackson _TheMaryReader · Rating 4 out of 5]

I don't know much about the Jewish culture so this was a leaning read for me as well as a book to enjoy.
I am not really sure about prophets either. so this book was a learning read all the way around.
It was different for me. But I like change sometimes.
I hope that you will grab a copy and see what you think about it.
I gave this one 3.5.
The Mary Reader received this book from the publisher for review. A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are our own.

[Melissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I first received this book, I will admit that I was skeptical about whether it would be up my alley. I know the author and was told bits and pieces of the premise, but in my head it was a completely different story than what ended up being printed. I told myself that I would give it a try and see how I felt after a few chapters. Well, trying a few chapters turned into not being able to put it down, save for getting back to real life. Usually when I get home from work, I tend to watch TV or check social media. However, this book was so captivating that I pushed all that aside to keep reading!

While the story is about a Jewish girl and a lot of the focus is on Judaism and rituals that go along with it, it's written in such a way that anyone could enjoy it. (There are even footnotes to explain some of the terms and Hebrew phrases.) Even though I am Jewish, I still learned some new things from it. Rachel is a modern high school student and there are parts that talk about her daily life, applying to college, fashion, boys, friendship, music, etc. This is interspersed with her having to keep a really intense secret about some special powers she possesses. These powers (and her mentor) lead her to make different decisions than she might have made without them.

I really liked everything about this novel. There was something so peaceful and comforting about it, like a soothing balm. I don't even know how to begin to describe the feelings I had while reading it, but I became emotional a few times. I loved how Rachel had this group of prophets who became like a family to her. Evonne writes a teenager's voice and perspective really well. The dialogue is strong throughout and the descriptions make everything easy to visualize without taking away from the narrative. I cared a lot about Rachel, Beth, Yonatan, Devorah, and the other characters. I already want a sequel to be written!

The only thing that came into question for me Yonatan's age. I couldn't really place how old he was, even with the descriptions. Hopefully this can be addressed in the final print and it did not detract from my enjoyment of the story. Also, the synopsis could use another paragraph without spoiling the story. I think the synopsis was the reason I was initially hesitant to read it.

A long time ago (back in high school), I read a book called What Happened to Heather Hopkowitz? and it got me interested in Orthodox Judaism (or at least made it seem less overwhelming for me). The Prophetess reminded me of it in some ways. Even though I am more observant now, it reminded me of why I chose this path.

This is a well-written debut and an incredible story that I hope everyone has the chance to pick up and devour when it publishes this fall. Even though it is marketed for a young adult audience, adults will enjoy it too.

**I received an advance copy for review consideration.**

[Toya (thereadingchemist) · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars!

I’ll be honest, when it comes to Judaism, I am pretty ignorant to the intricacies of the religion. That being said, I am fascinated by world religions as long as someone isn’t shoving a platform down my throat.

The Prophetess was a wonderful coming of age story with a touch of magic that appealed to both my historical fiction and fantasy loving heart. I loved that there was so much to learn about the Jewish culture as we got to know Rachel, which also included some very helpful footnotes. The secret society of the Jewish prophets was definitely an interesting twist that I enjoyed.

Thank you to Suzy Approved Book Tours for the tour invite and Bancroft Press for my review copy. This did not influence my review. All opinions are my own.

[Suzy Michael · Rating 5 out of 5]

Starting this book I had really no idea what was going to come at me, but to be truthful, I didn't have high hopes after reading the premise, but I thought I'd give it a shot. And I'm so glad I did! The Prophetess by Evonne Marz is a unique coming-of-age fantasy that centers around an American teen- Rachel- who's into all the regular things teenage girls are- boys, school, friends etc. Except there is something quite unique about Rachel, something that she doesn't even know about, but soon learns after being asked to join a secret society of Jewish prophets.
I loved loved loved this book! I've truly never read anything quite like it! It centers around Judaism and the mystical side of it, which I've always found interesting. But it was not "preachy" at all and even had a slight underlying feminist theme to it. The journey the reader takes with Rachel, emotionally and physically is unlike anything I've experienced! The characters were well developed and the accurate portrayal of Judaism really set the story on a solid foundation! I highly recommend this original, spiritual- like fantasy to any and everyone!

[Molly Jaber (Audiobooks And Sweet Tea) · Rating 4 out of 5]

I always enjoy discovering new authors, and I was exciting to give this author a try. The book, honestly, is something outside of what I would normally read. However, that said, I enjoyed it! This new-to-me author has a talent that really hooks the reader and keeps them going til the last page is reached.

The story line and characters are beautifully woven together. Rachel’s character was chiseled wonderfully and I felt myself becoming a part of her story. Marzouk created her and the story in a way that made me feel as if I had known Rachel forever. Seeing Rachel learn of her powers as a Prophetess, and learning more about the Jewish religion was a different experience for me, but one I would love to experience again!

I stepped outside of my comfort realm with this one, and found that I truly enjoyed it! It’s page turning, the characters are gripping and the plot line is unique and makes the reader want more. Marzouk has a beautiful talent and it’s one that shouldn’t be missed! I am looking forward to reading another novel by this talented author. Four stars and recommended to all who love a good young adult read.

*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Publisher and was under no obligation to post a review, positive or negative.*

[Carey · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Prophetess, the debut book by Evonne Marzouk, features the Jewish faith, mysticism, and fantasy.

Rachel, a young Jewish girl lives in Baltimore. After her orthodox grandfather dies, she is suddenly drawn to Yonatan, a wise older man in their synagogue. She gains a wealth of information about the Jewish faith, prayer, and meditation from him. When Rachel begins to have visions involving people in danger, she seeks ways to help them. During the story, she learns about herself, her gifts and callings, and the direction she chooses for her life.

The book is written with footnotes that explain the Hebrew terms Evonne uses throughout the book. I thoroughly enjoyed learning more about their faith.

While The Prophetess is about people of the Jewish religion, the lessons woven throughout are relatable to people of all faiths. The further I got into the book, the stronger I was drawn into the story.

NUGGETS I GAINED:
Learn/know your gifts & ways to use them to make the world a better place for you and the people you know.

Thank you Bancroft Press, Evonne Marzouk, and Suzy Approved Book Tours for this ARC in exchange for my review.

[Lisa Bernstein · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rachel is a typical assimilated Jewish American high school senior. Her grandfather was religious, but her family is not. After her grandfather dies, she learns that she is a prophet and is drawn to learn about and explore traditional Jewish traditions. The story demonstrates the reality of a Jewish American teenager, exploring what Jewish identity means and what parts of her heritage she wants to incorporate into her life. The story also includes a quasi-magical realism with regard to prophecy in the modern age, which Judaism considers to have ended thousands of years ago. Rachel has to deal with pressures of grades, friends, college applications, boyfriends, and mourning her grandfather...and helps other characters cope with prejudice, an eating disorder, and withdrawal from drug use...all while figuring out how to be a prophet! The visions Rachel sees are confusing for the reader, as they are for Rachel. As she figures out what they mean, they become clear for the reader, too, so the reader is on the journey with her. I like that both secular Judaism and Orthodox Judaism were drawn in positive lights. Israel, too, was shown through a positive lens, as opposed to a place of conflict and terrorism. With all this positivity, there was plenty of conflict to keep the plot very engaging! The Hebrew and Yiddish terms are defined both at the end of each chapter and in a glossary at the end of the book, which would be helpful for a reader not familiar with these Jewish references. I highly recommend it.

[Susan Elkodsi · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thought this book was both complex and accessible. As someone old enough to be the main character's grandmother, I enjoyed the glimpse into her life and the struggles shen faced, which are universal. As a rabbi, I know both teens and adults who struggle to understand their purpose in life, and Ms Marzouk handles this very sensitively. An enjoyable and thought-provoking read.

[Susan · Rating 5 out of 5]

In this remarkable book, a high-school student, Rachel, finds her life turned upside down after her beloved grandfather dies. Seemingly at random, she meets a man who introduces himself as Yonatan. But there is nothing at all random about this not by chance encounter.

According to the Tao-Tse Tung, “When the student is ready, the teacher appears . . . When the student is truly ready, the teacher will surely disappear.” And so it is with Rachel and Yonatan. He invites her to learn with him, and during the course of their studies together, he eventually reveals to her that she is called to be a prophetess, helps her learn to use her gifts, and, with his guidance, come into her own as a prophetess, eventfully fulfilling her destiny. The book goes into detail of how Rachel’s destiny plays out, but to say more enters spoiler territory.

Although Judaism teaches that the prophetic era ended with the death of the prophet Malachi (around 312 BCE), this book invites the reader to suspend disbelief and accept that there are prophets and prophetesses among us today, working unseen healings through prayer and helping to keep the world in balance. And Ms. Marzouk does a brilliant job of helping us believe that is possible.

Evonne Marzouk is a gifted storyteller. Her characters resonate with true human feelings and the way she portrays the journey of Rachel from “twice a year” Jew to one so observant and possessed of a divine connection to God is genius.

While the book appears to be marketed towards a YA audience, it’s clearly for adult readers as well.

I received The Prophetess as an advance reader’s copy from the author, who I know from shared interests in Judaism and the environment. In the acknowledgments, she notes that it took twenty years to write this book. I would add that she wrote it while raising her family, organizing and running Canfei Nesharim, an Orthodox Jewish environmental organization, and working part time for the EPA. I hope the second one doesn’t take that long.

[Cy Dank · Rating 4 out of 5]

What if you were an ordinary, 17 year old girl growing up in Baltimore, and you were given a gift at birth, but you didn't know about it? Only 2 people in your life knew; your mother and grandfather, and neither of them told you. Not only that, but it wasn't exactly the sort of gift you would have chosen yourself.

Rachel is that girl. She's a senior in high school, with all the normal challenges of friends, boys, and making a decision on where to go to University next year. She starts experiencing flashes of light and then visions. She thinks maybe it's related to migraines she once had. But the truth is much more disturbing to her experience of life than that. She is a budding prophetess! While there were many, many prophets back in the times of the Bible, and even schools which trained prophets, but in our times? Who would guess? Evonne Marzouk has crafted a great storyline which takes us through the life of Rachel, how she grows into her gift and is able to accept challenges which are difficult for a non-religious Jewish girl to navigate. She comes through with a depth of maturity, compassion, independence and strength which we could not have predicted when we meet her at the start of the book.

I found it a great read. In fact, the first time I couldn't put it down and it was just as good the second time around. It has elements of 'real' life and components of a spiritual reality which spices up the story as you try and guess what is going to happen next and to whom. In addition, any Jewish mystical words which the reader may not be familiar with are defined at the bottom of the page, which I think makes for a more easy use than having to look at the end of a chapter or book. I would recommend it for YA audiences, people who like out of the box books as well as people who are more spiritually inclined.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher, Bancroft Press, and I’m reviewing it voluntarily.

CY Dank

[Linda Zagon · Rating 4 out of 5]

Evonne Marzouk, author of "The Prophetess" has written a unique and intriguing novel. Quoting from the Bibliography, "The Prophetess is a fictional account of what it might be like if Jewish prophets existed today." The Genres for this book are Fiction. Young Adult and Jewish Mysticism. This is a coming of age book and certainly is for adults as well as young adults. The story takes place in the United States and Israel. The timeline for this story is the present and goes to the past, with glimpses of the future when it pertains to the characters or events. The author describes the characters as complex and complicated.

Rachel is a 17-year-old teenager when her Orthodox Grandfather dies. Rachel is a typical teenager, with a crush on a neighbor, and lots of friends. Her immediate family is not as observant as her grandfather was, but on certain Jewish Holidays, they do go to an Orthodox temple. Rachel has been getting what she thinks is migraines, accompanied by light. At the temple, she finds herself fascinated by a man who is praying. Before long, Rachel is going back to the temple for religious lessons from this man. She realizes that she is getting visions, and is informed that she is a Prophetess.

There is a secret community of Prophets and it appears that Rachel has been called. Rachel is able to see certain visions of where her sister will need her, and a young man also is thanking her for saving his life.  As Rachel is being taught more about the religious process, she gets stronger visions. It is almost like Rachel is like an empath, and there are times she is in great emotional and physical pain. There is a reason for this, and Rachel also is facing making decisions, and choices. I would recommend this thought-provoking novel for those readers with an open mind.

[Chava · Rating 3 out of 5]

Rachel inherited the gift of prophecy. It emerges as her senior year in high school is starting and when she has multiple distractions: Chris, the cute, Catholic, football-playing neighbor, friends Lauren and Maya, college applications, Jake from Poetry Club, her sister Beth’s increasing moodiness and diminishing weight, and dealing with the loss of her beloved Zaide, with whom she had a special relationship. Her family continues to attend the Orthodox synagogue for the High Holidays, and there Rachel is drawn to a man praying with fervor. She approaches him at the break-the-fast after Yom Kippur, and she soon learns that the flashes of light she is seeing are not migraines, but visions. With Yonatan’s guidance, she develops the skills to tap into her gift. Rachel goes to Israel over winter break with her friend Maya’s youth group. Yonatan is there, and she meets Devorah, the woman she has been seeing in her visions, who is the head
prophetess. After this meeting, Rachel goes to Tzfat for Shabbat, where she meets a group of prophets and prophetesses, including Noach, the head prophet. She returns to Baltimore and continues to meditate, and through her visions is able to help Jake, Beth, and eventually Noach. Jake and Rachel become closer, but soon she is called back to Israel. Devorah is dying, and Rachel will take over as “the Gedolah.” Rachel returns to Baltimore for her high school graduation, but then goes back to Israel to study there.

There is an interesting mix of “YA content” (fitting in, but trying to define one’s uniqueness, boys,
clothes, etc.) and Jewish content (Israel, Holocaust, observances and customs), with Rachel learning
more about Judaism and eventually observing mitzvot like Shabbat and kashrut. The foreshadowing
and back shadowing through Rachel’s visions add a subtle tension throughout the story, but often
distract from the main action.

[Tamar · Rating 3 out of 5]

I received a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.

This book was not what I expected. I thought it would be a fantastical bildingsroman, but it was more like a bildingsroman with a touch of fantasy. It's possible that many issues I have with this book stem from the fact that the latter is not my preferred genre. I also freely admit that my personal experience as a formerly Orthodox Jew colors my feelings towards this book.

I appreciate that this book doesn't sugarcoat reality - characters deal with issues like eating disorders, substance use, interfaith dating, and misogyny. I appreciate that this book is not attempting to shove Orthodox Judaism down every single characters' throat; characters are allowed to remain secular with no judgement. The writing is solid, but not particularly plotty. You could argue that this book has a soothing/calming tone, or that it's boring - it really depends on your taste.

One thing that bothered me about this book is it felt like the author took a good premise but neglected to address, even in passing, the wider ramifications of nevua (prophecy) returning to the world. In addition, it feels like nevua is used to prop up Rabbinic Judaism/current Orthodox social norms/status quo (such as emphasis on eating certified kosher food and wearing skirts/dresses) rather than emphasizing the Biblical Judaism that it accompanied. Or maybe I'm thinking too hard about this book and nevua is more like a plot device for kiruv (secular Jews becoming more religious). Other issues I had were that the moments of prophecy that occurred in the book were a bit confusing - it was not clear to me what was happening.

[Ruth Lanton · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a really sweet heartwarming story about a teenaged girl learning about her heritage, with just a touch of magic thrown in!

In a way, Rachel’s story was my story, in terms of starting off in the secular world and then growing closer to the Orthodox tradition. I was slightly older (college rather than high school) and didn’t have the magical gift of Prophecy to help me along, but I could definitely relate to the main character. At its heart, The Prophetess is a coming-of-age story, and should resonate with anybody, regardless of their background.

The story is solidly built with strong, believable characters. The details about Orthodox Jewish life are accurate (something I’ve found lacking in some other books.) Even the way prophecy was woven into the story felt believable- or at least as believable as any magic in the “magical realism” genre, which is what this feels like. In the real world, the age of prophecy is past, but in this story, it still exists on a small scale. Biblical prophets were saving whole cities or even the entire Nation of Israel, while the characters here were mostly saving one person at a time.

I’d had some hesitancy about the idea of prophecy with the current situation in Israel- how could such a thing be believable when something like that can happen in the world? But this was actually addressed in the book, with the older characters talking about the Holocaust. This works because it’s on a smaller scale, with the focus being on saving individuals rather than the entire People.

All in all, it’s a sweet, fun read that leaves you with a warm feeling in your heart.

I received an advanced reading copy for free.

[Heidi Slowinski · Rating 5 out of 5]

When Rachel loses her grandfather, a survivor of the Shoah, during her senior year of high school, she finds herself seeking answers to questions with no one to answer them. The rest of her nuclear family is not observant of their Orthodox faith. Rachel finds herself with a large number of questions and no teacher from whom to seek answers. That is until she meets Yonatan at High Holidays service. This chance meeting changes the shape of her life.

Rachel’s story encompasses a number of themes within this coming of age tale. It’s a story of love, grief, and self-discovery. It is primarily geared toward young adults but given it deals with some very big emotions and life-shaping events I felt it resonated well, as an adult reader. Marzouk does a nice job of interweaving concepts of Jewish mysticism at an introductory level.

This book would make for an interesting discussion in a confirmation or youth group setting. It presents thought-provoking themes about finding personal meaning in ritual and the individual soul’s purpose in this world, with the protagonist gaining understanding of her abilities as a prophetess. While it’s not explicitly discussed in the narrative, I appreciated the underlying elements of the principle of Tikkun Olam.

I’d like to thank the author for a free copy of the book in exchange for my honest review.

[Gail Fisher · Rating 5 out of 5]

The plot of this book - following Rachel, a teenaged girl, as she is awakened into her growing powers and becomes involved with a community of contemporary prophets that she never suspected existed - is so engrossing that I kept reading right through, chapter after chapter, always drawn to know what was going to happen next. The characters were well developed over time - we got to understand each of them more clearly as the novel progressed. The scenes that took place in Israel were so clearly drawn that I could see again all the places I love and had the sense that the author must have lived there for some period of time.

At the same time, woven through this is a coming-of-age story, with crushes and developing relationships and the possibility of love. It is very sensitively done and I particularly value how Rachel does not turn her back on anybody as she grows but instead accepts what she can learn from each person in her life.

I was given a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest and independent review.

[Stephen Gordon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Evonne Marzouk’s THE PROPHETESS is a story full of passion about Rachel, a high school student at a crossroads in her life. She is unsure of herself socially, a bit awkward with boys, and is torn religiously between a secular Jewish upbringing, and the influence of a now deceased beloved grandfather, who was much more traditional.

Marzouk has developed a story with a protagonist that adolescents and many adults can identify with – someone who is pulled one way, but is in conflict with family and friends who don’t share the same evolving drives. The questions that are raised are very real: stay safe, take a risk, sacrifice some parts of your life for a future that may or may not work out.

Rachel is clearly on a journey of self-discovery, and Marzouk crafts a story filled with realistic family conflicts over traditions, growing religiosity, blossoming talent and personal insights.

(Note: I received a copy of this book from the publisher, Bancroft Press, and I’m reviewing it voluntarily.)

[Masha · Rating 4 out of 5]

I wasn't sure exactly what to expect when reading this book. It was an interesting concept I haven't picked up in the Jewish themed book world yet. Overall, I liked the book. It was an easy read, well descripted and made you feel you were a part of the story. I liked how well she made sure to explain words, phrases etc. to make sure everyone can understand. The part that was a bit "off" for me was that the main character is still in high school and how she ends up in her role at the end, with so little time in that world, irked me a bit. It's nice that she will embrace it and is passed on as the "next generation" so to speak, but that made it a bit more farfetched and unrealistic (if prophetesses were real). There was also little direction and understanding of the "visions" etc. for her to get to where she was all of a sudden. There was just something missing for me by the end. I guess it just didn't really come "full circle"? So, 3.5-4 rating?

I received a copy of this book from the publisher, Bancroft Press, and I’m reviewing it voluntarily.

[Mariella Gold · Rating 5 out of 5]

Warning: Don't read this book on public transportation or in a queue or you will miss your stop/turn.

It's a great book, a definitive page-turner about finding yourself, growing and learning about Jewish traditions and leaning into your unique gifts. I personally missed my stop on public transportation while reading this book, and once I finished the book the same night I wished there would already be a sequel. The characters are realistic and relatable, I wish there were more to read about this world and the characters.

Although it's "targeted for young adults", as a 30-year-old mother of two kids, I didn't feel it was in any way non-relevant for my own age. Sure the heroine is younger but besides that, most people either struggle or have struggled with finding their own place in society and finding their purpose in life, hence why I found it relevant and definitely an interesting twist on Jewish mysticism and how it could play out today if things were different...

I received a copy of this book from the publisher, Bancroft Press, and I’m reviewing it voluntarily.

[Jennifer Paton Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the warm and compelling story of Rachel, a secular Jewish teenage girl in Baltimore who is drawn into the world of Orthodox Judaism as she discovers her prophetic powers. The characters are authentic, well-drawn, and engaging, and they draw the reader into the story. Rachel is torn between exploring her spirituality as she learns more about Orthodox Judaism, and pursuing her previously set goals. Rachel's discussions with her family and friends about the ideal level of religious observance are realistic and full of substance.

I would characterize this book as Jewish YA meets fantasy (because of the prophecy angle), although adult and non-Jewish readers will enjoy it too.

I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Jewish fiction or who is interested in learning more about Judaism in the context of a novel. It's particularly appropriate for Jewish-themed book clubs.

Thank you to the author and Bancroft Press for a free copy of this book in exchange for a voluntary and honest review.

[Beth Berk · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had no idea what to expect when I received this book. The cover art is catchy, yet gave nothing away to the story, which I always appreciate.

Rachel is a teenager who discovers a special gift that she was born with during the angst-filled teenage years; a time of difficulty for anyone! A death in the family leads her to rediscover her Jewish roots. In the process, she meets Yonatan, her spiritual guide / partner. She takes on others’ pain, suffering, love and loss through visions as she grows into her status as a Prophetess. It’s breathtaking!

If a book doesn’t draw me in, it takes me weeks to get through it. I found myself trying to steal away between meetings to just get a few pages in if I could! I didn’t want to put it down.

Evonne Marzouk tells a spellbinding story of lives lived, light and darkness, and the power of religion and family. The reader does not need to be Jewish to understand the book. This book should be read by everyone!

I received an advance copy from the publisher, Bancroft Press, and I reviewed it voluntarily.

[Ilana Wieder · Rating 5 out of 5]

Evonne Marzouk tells the story of Rachel, a high school girl who discovers and grows into her gift of being a prophetess. As the story unfolds, we journey through profound Jewish mystical teachings and discover the beauty of Jewish traditions and Israel. For example, early on in the book, I loved how Evonne weaves comparisons of Rachel's journey, to that of biblical Deborah. The author gives us, the reader, permission to doubt our own greatness when someone as great as Prophetess Deborah had her own initial doubts.

As I read the book, I found myself eager to continue reading in order to discover what Rachel’s next vision of prophecy will be and try to decipher the meaning of each prophecy as the story unfolded. Deep mystical teachings pave the path to our hero’s journey, intertwined by a beautiful love story.

I highly recommend this book to anyone who is a seeker of knowledge, of Jewish wisdom and of Jewish traditions.

[Nicole reading_with_nicole]

After Rachel’s Orthodox Jewish grandfather passes away she comes to terms with the fact that she is not like everyone else; she is a Prophetess.
Rachel is a senior in high school and has all the challenges that every high school senior girl has; parties, deciding on what college to attend, boys… but none of this stops her from digging deep and learn her full potential.
Rachel has visions of people she knows and some she does not know; she knows she is different, she knows she has a gift. Yonatan is a prophet and with his help Rachel will decide if she will become Orthodox to become a true Prophetess.
This book was a fun YA read for me. I learned a lot more about the faith than I thought I knew.

[Natasha Nadel · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this book. I couldn't stop reading it but I never wanted it to end. I usually don't like anything supernatural in my fiction, but every aspect of this book felt so real, I barely noticed that it wasn't 100% realistic fiction. It was completely believable. I felt the characters growing and changing. They were all well thought out and explored. This book is so enjoyable. I truly recommend it to everyone. It is perfect for the teenage girl, but also just anyone who has ever been a teenager, when every day can turn into an adventure. For those of us well past our teenage years, it was an enjoyable adventure and a reminder to have adventures more often! You will love this book!

[Checkthebook · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good writing and I could not put it down! (Thank goodness the author is able to present mitzvos in an accurate and appealing way; I get so aggravated when I read Jewish books which are jarringly wrong.) There is lots and lots of teen kissing in this book. Lots. And cute high school boys, spine tingles, dances, crushes, etc. It would be a good read for non-frum teens who have no background in yiddishkeit. This book introduces the reader to the fact that the practice of yiddishkeit is deeply spiritual, and is designed to connect us to Hashem. The character development was very good, all the way until the end. I would like to see this writer do more!

[Chavah Hull · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Prophetess is a coming-of-age novel that combines magical realism, mysticism, and a Jewish worldview into the perfect YA book. The reader will walk away with a deeper understanding of Judaism, faith, the land of Israel, and the bonds that connect us all. Evonne Marzouk has created a female heroin we all -- young and old -- can relate to, learn from, and enjoy. Parents and educators should be aware there is a wide range of topics discussed throughout the book, including the Holocaust, addiction, eating disorders, and terrorism.

*I received a copy of this book from the publisher, Bancroft Press, and I’m reviewing it voluntarily.*

[Deborah Brodie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rachel is a typical teen with typical issues ... until she slowly realizes that the words of your grandfather regarding her gifts become central to her being. We all have gifts -- some of us recognize them early in life; others go through their entire journey wandering what their purpose is. This book is mezmerizing - the reader won't want to put it down. I learned a lot from this book - and I'm a senior.

In today's world, hoping that all the Rachels come forward and offer us guidance.

[Galina · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received this book from the publisher, Bancroft Press, and am reviewing it voluntarily!

When I first started, the author’s down to earth, culturally familiar tone drew me in. As I kept reading, I realized the suspenseful nature of this novel is woven by the author’s style of storytelling. I kept asking myself, what’s next? All this paired with excellent character development, sprinkles of profound inspiration, and warmth despite the often serious content. The wisdom of discovering one’s hidden abilities is revealed in this book. I highly recommend it.

[Jolene Gutiérrez · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book so much! Rachel is a young woman whose grandfather has given her the blessing to grow into her gifts.

And when these gifts begin manifesting, Rachel learns that she is a Prophetess and that the world needs her. A lovely story about finding your purpose, this book is layered with information about Judaism, and even though I'm not Jewish, the story is accessible thanks to Evonne Marzouk's footnotes, glossary, and discussion questions. I recommend this book for young adult readers, schools, and libraries.

[Abby Jones · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book so skillfully intertwines the imagination with the ordinary world we all relate to. Rachel is not only the girl we could have known, but the person we could all be. She is so relatable that when I finished the story I felt like I was saying good-bye to a new friend. I would recommend this book to all young female readers, not only those into fantasy. Thinking about our own purpose here in the world is something all young people can gain from!