Leaf Runner

by John C Stroebel, Phillip Nathaniel Freeman (Narrator)

What if your dreams weren’t dreams at all—but fragments of a hidden past waiting to be uncovered?



Leaf Runner by John C Stroebel, masterfully narrated by Phillip Nathaniel Freeman and produced and published by Audiobook Publishing Services, is a gripping historical thriller audiobook blending mystery, suspense, family secrets, supernatural intrigue, and global adventure into an unforgettable listening experience.



Mercer Evans is a brilliant yet chronically late hedge fund analyst whose life begins to unravel when vivid dreams start haunting him—dreams so real they feel like forgotten memories. Strange places, unfamiliar faces, and unsettling visions refuse to leave his mind. But everything changes when an old map sent by his uncle arrives with Madagascar circled in red, hinting at secrets buried deep within his family’s past.



Driven by questions surrounding his missing brother and the mystery behind his recurring visions, Mercer embarks on a dangerous journey across continents and centuries. From the bustling streets of New York City to the ancient ruins of Wales and the colonial history of Madagascar, Mercer and his sister Lizzy uncover a hidden family legacy tied to pivotal moments in history.



But the truth comes at a cost.



As Mercer’s dreams begin revealing shocking truths about his ancestors, he discovers that powerful forces have spent generations manipulating history—and they are watching his every move. With danger closing in, Mercer faces an impossible expose secrets capable of changing everything or protect truths meant to stay buried forever.



Narrator Phillip Nathaniel Freeman brings depth, tension, and cinematic energy to every moment, immersing listeners in a story filled with hidden truths, ancient secrets, and high-stakes discovery.



Produced by Audiobook Publishing Services, Leaf Runner is an atmospheric thriller about legacy, destiny, mystery, and the enduring power of uncovering the past before it destroys the future.

Audible Audio

Published June 10, 2026

About the author

John 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.

Reviews

[Kat Forrester]

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!

[Meranda P]

Great story! You are hooked from the prologue to the last chapter. Great adventure with a few twists and turns.

[Andrew Chapman]

The dialogue often felt very stilted and unnatural. the premise didn't really get into much of the concerns about the impacts of time travel. the main character was pretty unlikeable and unexpressive, even in his thoughts.

[Todd Fonseca]

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.