The Unlikely Occultist

A Biographical Novel of Alice A. Bailey

Fiction - Historical - Personage
321 Pages
Reviewed on 01/11/2021
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    Book Review

Reviewed by Deborah Lloyd for Readers' Favorite

Shortly after her loving Aunt Hilary’s funeral, Heather faced a challenge at her job. At the State Library in Victoria, Australia, she was assigned the task of assessing a one-hundred box collection donated by the late Professor Foyle. She was a professor of religious studies, with a strong interest in Alternative Spiritualities, often called New Age. Heather soon became engrossed in the professor’s writings, and how her own belief system was affected by the study of this collection is a fascinating aspect of this book. Author Isobel Blackthorn has crafted a thought-provoking, insightful book in The Unlikely Occultist: A Biographical Novel of Alice A. Bailey. The journey of Alice is told in a chronological format, including both her personal life and her work in the spiritual realm.

This biographical novel is written in an easy-to-read, flowing manner. It describes the facts of Alice Bailey's life – the early years of strong Christian beliefs; her commitment to service; the expansion of her spiritual beliefs; the telepathic connection with several Masters; her marriages and mothering three daughters. It also includes how some spiritualists accepted and others vilified her prolific writings and presentations. How Isobel Blackthorn interweaves the life of Alice of the last century and the life of Heather at the present time is truly masterful. This book provides a context for anyone interested in Alice’s teachings and books, the Arcane School, or organizations she or her followers founded. A novel based on historical facts, The Unlikely Occultist is truly an exceptional read.

Steven Chernikeeff

Undoubtedly an outstanding book that sets Alice Bailey into the context of a novel. We travel with Heather through the twists and turns of Alice's life and enjoy the journey thoroughly. This book coupled with 'Alice Bailey, Life and Legacy' is a fitting addition to the understanding of Alice and her world. Congratulations Isobel Blackthorn!