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Leaf Runner
Mercer Evans, a talented junior analyst for a hedge fund who is habitually late for work, starts experiencing vivid dreams that feel more like memories, flashes of places he’s never been and people he’s never met. But then his uncle sends him an old map with Madagascar circled in red. He thinks it’s nothing more than a curious family relic until he realizes there’s more to his family’s history than he ever imagined.
Haunted by his brother’s disappearance and driven by a need for answers to the dreams plaguing him, Mercer digs into his ancestry, uncovering a legacy that stretches back centuries. From the modern streets of New York City to the ancient ruins of Wales and the colonial past of Madagascar, Mercer searches to find the answers he seeks. But with every step forward, Mercer and his sister Lizzy find themselves tangled in a deeper mystery, one that powerful forces are desperate to keep hidden.
Mercer’s dreams reveal hidden truths about his ancestors, secrets tied to pivotal moments in history. As he and Lizzy follow the trail of clues left behind, they discover that some of their family’s choices have had far-reaching consequences. And now, Mercer faces an impossible uncover the truth and risk rewriting history—or let the past remain buried.
But the past isn’t the only thing chasing Mercer. A secret organization that has been manipulating history is watching his every move. If Mercer uncovers too much, he may not live long enough to share what he’s found.
Set against a backdrop of rich historical landscapes and high-stakes suspense, Leaf Runner is a gripping story about family, legacy, and the power of hidden truths. Perfect for fans of historical thrillers, supernatural mysteries, and stories where the past and present collide, Leaf Runner will keep you guessing until the very last page.
Discover the secrets of the past. Face the truth. Read Leaf Runner today.
Haunted by his brother’s disappearance and driven by a need for answers to the dreams plaguing him, Mercer digs into his ancestry, uncovering a legacy that stretches back centuries. From the modern streets of New York City to the ancient ruins of Wales and the colonial past of Madagascar, Mercer searches to find the answers he seeks. But with every step forward, Mercer and his sister Lizzy find themselves tangled in a deeper mystery, one that powerful forces are desperate to keep hidden.
Mercer’s dreams reveal hidden truths about his ancestors, secrets tied to pivotal moments in history. As he and Lizzy follow the trail of clues left behind, they discover that some of their family’s choices have had far-reaching consequences. And now, Mercer faces an impossible uncover the truth and risk rewriting history—or let the past remain buried.
But the past isn’t the only thing chasing Mercer. A secret organization that has been manipulating history is watching his every move. If Mercer uncovers too much, he may not live long enough to share what he’s found.
Set against a backdrop of rich historical landscapes and high-stakes suspense, Leaf Runner is a gripping story about family, legacy, and the power of hidden truths. Perfect for fans of historical thrillers, supernatural mysteries, and stories where the past and present collide, Leaf Runner will keep you guessing until the very last page.
Discover the secrets of the past. Face the truth. Read Leaf Runner today.
Kindle Edition
Published March 19, 2025
5 people are currently reading
35 people want to read
About the author
John C Stroebel
1 book2 followersJohn C. Stroebel was born and raised in the Driftless Area of Wisconsin and spent many summers baling hay on local farms in the hills around his small town. Since he could walk, he loved taking things apart to see how they worked and learning how to piece them back together. This passion eventually resulted in his graduating with an electrical engineering degree from the University of Minnesota. In 1987 he began designing implantable medical devices and has since amassed more than three dozen patents in the field. His contributions have directly impacted the lives of millions of people worldwide.
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Displaying 1 - 3 of 3 reviews
September 26, 2023
I loved this book! I felt like I stepped into another world that kept me interested from beginning to end. I loved this book as an adult but think it would also be incredible for teens and young adults! SO GOOD. Thank you for writing this book, John Stroebel. Continued success. Here’s to many more!
June 2, 2024
Great story! You are hooked from the prologue to the last chapter. Great adventure with a few twists and turns.
December 11, 2023
Each night, Mercer Evans dies.
Or at least, that's how it feels in his dreams. Dreams so vivid that upon awakening, he's left uncertain of his own identity and reality. When a fanatical cult targets him in his waking life, Mercer discovers that these aren't mere dreams, but something far more potent. But is this newfound power a gift or a curse? As history's threads begin to unravel, Mercer Evans finds himself at the crux of not only the past but also humanity's future.
John C. Stroebel's debut novel, 'Leaf Runner,' introduces a novel and captivating twist to the time-travel genre. I'll admit, the initial prologue and chapters were somewhat disorienting. Each focuses on a different character, spanning various timelines, and alternates between first and third-person perspectives. Just as I found myself getting attached to the characters and their stories, I was abruptly shifted to a different setting, leaving me feeling somewhat unanchored.
However, this initial disorientation smoothens out as the narrative progresses. The story interweaves these diverse voices in a more predictable and fluid manner. Stroebel employs a range of intriguing plot devices, accompanied by twists and turns that keep the reader engaged, surprised, and eager to see how the climax unfolds.
While 'Leaf Runner' is a complete and satisfying story in itself, the main plot device paves the way for future adventures. I eagerly anticipate what John C. Stroebel has in store next.
Or at least, that's how it feels in his dreams. Dreams so vivid that upon awakening, he's left uncertain of his own identity and reality. When a fanatical cult targets him in his waking life, Mercer discovers that these aren't mere dreams, but something far more potent. But is this newfound power a gift or a curse? As history's threads begin to unravel, Mercer Evans finds himself at the crux of not only the past but also humanity's future.
John C. Stroebel's debut novel, 'Leaf Runner,' introduces a novel and captivating twist to the time-travel genre. I'll admit, the initial prologue and chapters were somewhat disorienting. Each focuses on a different character, spanning various timelines, and alternates between first and third-person perspectives. Just as I found myself getting attached to the characters and their stories, I was abruptly shifted to a different setting, leaving me feeling somewhat unanchored.
However, this initial disorientation smoothens out as the narrative progresses. The story interweaves these diverse voices in a more predictable and fluid manner. Stroebel employs a range of intriguing plot devices, accompanied by twists and turns that keep the reader engaged, surprised, and eager to see how the climax unfolds.
While 'Leaf Runner' is a complete and satisfying story in itself, the main plot device paves the way for future adventures. I eagerly anticipate what John C. Stroebel has in store next.
Displaying 1 - 3 of 3 reviews