Prophet Reborn

Book Two (Perfect Prophet 2)

Fiction - Horror
374 Pages
Reviewed on 07/19/2020
Buy on Amazon

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Author Biography

Diane M. Johnson was born and raised in the heart of Central New York before moving out to California upon graduating with a film theory degree from Binghamton University. She has been a screenwriting finalist many times over in various competitions, as well as a script reader.

Her first novel, The Schoharie, was adapted from one of her early scripts. She is also the first one to admit that if you've heard of Diane Johnson, she's probably not "that" Diane Johnson. But she's hoping that will change...

    Book Review

Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite

Prophet Reborn is a work of fiction in the horror, thriller and suspense sub-genres, and was penned by author Diane M. Johnson. In the second novel of a continuing series, we join the action where Perfect Prophet leaves off, and once again the book does contain adult content, including brief sexual scenes and some graphic violence and explicit language. We find Lucas as a failed satanic high priest, and his search for redemption takes him to a Christian commune where he tries to prove his worth. But things take a turn for the worse very quickly, and Lucas’s shot at redemption gets as warped as his own morals, endangering himself and others in the process.

Author Diane M. Johnson has created a highly engaging and disturbing horror novel that ticks plenty of boxes for fans of the genre. One of the things I particularly liked about this novel was the close psychological focus on the central figure, which allows us to get into his head and see where things are going to go wrong even before they happen. This creates a wonderful sense of dread which, combined with the use of imagery and disturbing themes, gives you an edge-of-your-seat feeling throughout the reading process. I also felt that the dialogue was particularly impactful, revealing much about character but also moving the plot on with some very memorable and dynamic scenes. Overall, I would definitely recommend Prophet Reborn for fans of the first book in the series, but also for intense horror fans in general.

Gobi Jane

Prophet Reborn is the second book in a series, a book with strong spiritual themes and an appeal to fans of horror. Diane M. Johnson’s book features a phenomenal character, Lucas, a satanic high priest on the journey towards redemption. Lucas joins a Christian community where he intends to make a new start. But it doesn't take long for the leader of the community to become suspicious of his shady past and his connection to a dubious celebrity faith healer. Will he be able to save himself by saving someone else? Does he have enough strength to walk this path to its very end and how long can he stay away from his past before it catches up to him?

This is a spellbinding novel that deals with themes readers are familiar with — the relationship between faith and power and the manipulation that can accompany it. In this novel, the reader encounters a character that is sophisticated. Lucas is a spiritually broken man and there is much that weighs on his conscience. The author does an impeccable job in exploring the protagonist’s values and his moral lens. Prophet Reborn is well-crafted and I was pulled in by the deft portrayal of the psyche of the protagonist. The characters are phenomenal, and the plot has well-crafted moments that send chills down the spine; focused and psychologically disturbing. Diane M. Johnson is a good storyteller who writes in a compelling voice and keeps the tone consistent from the beginning to the end.

Rabia Tanveer

Prophet Reborn: Book Two is the continuation of The Perfect Prophet by Diane M. Johnson. Lucas isn’t feeling so sure of himself lately. Lucas and Alec share a father, yet the two men cannot be more different from each other. While Alec enjoys being a faith healer, Lucas is tested beyond his expectations. A satanic high priest in the past, Lucas is now looking for redemption and wants to be a good Christian. He tries to keep his past hidden, but it is not possible. However, real trouble arrives when Lucas finds out his family is in danger and he is the only one who can save them. Someone wants him to prove Alec is really not a faith healer, but Lucas is not sure if he is the right person to figure it out. Before he can save anyone, he needs to first correct himself, strengthen his faith, and try his best to protect the innocent people he put in danger. Can he do that? Is there redemption for a satanic priest?

Diane M. Johnson raises questions about our faith, our moral values and what makes a person good. Being religious is not enough to make you good and your actions reveal everything hidden in your heart. This story is satirical as well as critical of us as a community that uses religion to serve our purpose. What amazes me is how the author makes the reader sympathize with both Lucas and Alec. While Lucas is conflicted, he also looks for ways to better himself and accept himself for who he is. Alec, on the other hand, is traumatized and finds it hard to get a grip on his reality. The two men are so different, yet they are very much alike in their struggles. The narrative is exceptionally simple but very effective. The simplicity of the narrative makes it easier for readers to connect with the characters and anticipate their next step. Prophet Reborn is a great book to keep you up at night and read on. I crave more of this rich and dark thriller and I really hope the author shares more stories soon.