"Mahtab Narsimhan incorporates multiple characters, each serving to move the plot forward and with roles such as the evil servant, the grandfather, the new friend, and the astrologer. The character details are fantastic, especially with the way Narsimhan builds suspense through their behavior. The servant has a villainous role with a sinister attitude such as taunting Avi and downplaying his allergy to wasps, though he also plays an important part in what’s happening in the village. A mysterious girl enters his life and opens his eyes to certain things such as the caste system there and her status within it. Her opinions and experiences have an impact on how he thinks and how he views his grandfather while also serving as a subtle commentary that is poignant and honest. Underneath these different elements are Avi’s feelings toward his parents not being there, which is seen through moments of bitterness and anger. The writing style incorporates vivid visuals through subtle details such as the phone ringing half-heartedly and comparing the servant’s movements to an elephant. Warned: The Astrologer's Prophecy blends suspense and mystery into a story that will draw you in from the beginning."

"What I particularly loved about this book was the pace and quick escalation of stakes. When the book opens, we are already standing in line with Avi at the astrologer's tent in the remote village of Tolagunj, India—we are thrust into the action of the plot straight away. This book also highlights the social inequities of the caste system, bringing it to life through the character of Lalita. Many young readers may be shocked by the outright unfairness of this system, so THE ASTROLOGER'S PROPHECY will serve as a perspective shift. I'm looking forward to sharing this book with the students in my creative writing classes!"