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The Man He Never Was: A Modern Reimagining of Jekyll and Hyde
"Rubart will leave readers inspired . . ." --Publishers Weekly STARRED review for The Long Journey to Jake Palmer
What if You Woke up One Morning and the Darkest Parts of Yourself Were Gone?
Toren Daniels vanished eight months back, and his wife and kids have moved on--with more than a little relief. Toren was a good man but carried a raging temper that often exploded without warning. So when he shows up on their doorstep out of the blue, they're shocked to see him alive. But more shocked to see he's changed. Radically.
His anger is gone. He's oddly patient. Kind. Fun. The man he always wanted to be. Toren has no clue where he's been but knows he's been utterly transformed. He focuses on three Finding out where he's been. Finding out how it happened. And winning back his family.
But then shards of his old self start to rise from deep inside--like the man kicked out of the NFL for his fury--and Toren must face the supreme battle of his life.
In this fresh take on the classic Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, James L. Rubart explores the war between the good and evil within each of us--and one man's only chance to overcome the greatest divide of the soul.
What if You Woke up One Morning and the Darkest Parts of Yourself Were Gone?
Toren Daniels vanished eight months back, and his wife and kids have moved on--with more than a little relief. Toren was a good man but carried a raging temper that often exploded without warning. So when he shows up on their doorstep out of the blue, they're shocked to see him alive. But more shocked to see he's changed. Radically.
His anger is gone. He's oddly patient. Kind. Fun. The man he always wanted to be. Toren has no clue where he's been but knows he's been utterly transformed. He focuses on three Finding out where he's been. Finding out how it happened. And winning back his family.
But then shards of his old self start to rise from deep inside--like the man kicked out of the NFL for his fury--and Toren must face the supreme battle of his life.
In this fresh take on the classic Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, James L. Rubart explores the war between the good and evil within each of us--and one man's only chance to overcome the greatest divide of the soul.
507 pages, Library Binding
First published February 1, 2018
79 people are currently reading
1966 people want to read
About the author
James L. Rubart
44 books898 followersJames L. Rubart is a 28 year old trapped in an older man's body, who loves to water ski and dirt bike with his two grown sons. He's the bestselling, Christy Hall of Fame, Carol, INSPY, and RT Book Reviews award winning author of ten novels and loves to send readers on mind-bending stories of spiritual freedom. He's also an audio book narrator and co-owner of The Rubart Writing Academy. He lives with his amazing wife on a small lake in eastern Washington.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 177 reviews
February 16, 2020
Christian fiction. Story of a modern prodigal son, Dr Jekyll and Mr. Hyde. Supposedly everyone has a dark side?
Toren, kicked out of the NFL for his rages and anger. That was his work outlet. Now that he’s no longer playing football, it surfaces in the home. His wife, two lovely children. He’s a mean man. Intimidating. A yeller. The family is scared stiff of his rages. He can’t control himself and after the fact, I’m sorry, I’m sorry. This man has a lot of previous abusive history/ programming from his growing up years. A father who drank heavily, beat him and his younger brother and slapped around the mother, who made excuses for him/them. The day comes where Toren is older, has been working out and is bigger and stronger now, challenges his father to a fight after his father was caught slapping the wife around. Toren now becomes power crazy. He’s beat up his old man. Well, at least that stopped the father from being further abusive (at least with his hands but not his mouth). Good grief.
There’s religious messaging here but this guy just doesn’t get it. Through some miraculous intervention, he disappears for 8 months, has an amnesia of those 8 months, everyone thinks he’s offed himself due to a suicide note written in his handwriting and his “special blue writing marker.” He awakens in a remote hotel room 8 mos later, confused, trying to figure out what’s happened and is trying to collect his memories back and immediately wants to go return to his life/wife, etc; he was warned by whomever or whatever took him out for those 8 months that it is not the thing to do. Get to know himself first. But no, he’s impulsive, he’s confused...and he’s still mad. Who did this to him? Why? His family is not at all happy to see him. Why should they be? They actually felt relief when he was presumed dead. Life goes on without Toren and it’s a peaceful, happy life.
So this was weird - I’m thinking to myself, who abducted him, did they do some kind of brain rewiring on him, was this some neurological research center? Gaaah! Aliens? Some spiritual leader tucked away in the remote mountains in another part of the world? Illegal mind body experimentation? Some kind of cult?
It just made absolutely no sense to me and this guy, Toren, really made me angry (so now I’m the one getting angry about the story - what’s wrong with this picture?)because he kept being a complete stupid ass and he kept falling back into his old ways and he kept stalking his wife and trying to get back together with her but she was not trusting of him. Do you blame her? She basically said she’s moved on. She has a boyfriend she loves. A new life. Life is good for her and the kids without this psychopath. True to form, Toren got extremely angry hearing this. He was a jerk in his actions and words, and acted overly masochistic to everyone. A Tough guy; a real brute and he just did not get it. He would say he was sorry but he did not have the true compassion in his soul for love, forgiveness. Anything really, could and would set him off. So the madness continues. And the manipulation of people and circumstances around him continues, to suit only his needs and expectations. He’s a bully.
Toren had to be forced to go through some additional spiritual insight and experiences which I still lack clarity in what that all was explained in the book. There were actual people behind these spiritual scenes that were all involved in his soul change and redemption. Was it divine, cult, spiritual or mystical or all of the above? 🤔 what is the white octagon?
What gets me is all this lying, all this continual built up, provocated or not provocated rage and anger, and at the end, there is a possibility that everything perhaps might be lovely and everything might be ok? That he may have found his soul, saw the Light and he just might get a chance at being a new man? A good man? A changed man?
Toren’s journey was quite drawn out; the end of the story came upon very quickly and was really not what I was expecting. Do you believe or do you not believe? Do you forgive with your heart and soul or do you not? Can you contain your inner rage or will it seep out occasionally?
Can you fully trust again? Can you fully love again? Is it possible to fully change without divine, spiritual or mystical intervention? In your head and in your heart and soul, too?I certainly didn’t go for it. I think Toren’s journey was far too easy and too quick to get full redemption. His wife’s character was a disappointingly weak woman.
Personally, this book was not for me though others have rated this book at high stars. What drew me in to get this book, was Toren’s 8 month abduction and amnesia and then it all went downhill from there. The story turned into waaaaaaay something else other than what I thought or wanted it to be.
Toren, kicked out of the NFL for his rages and anger. That was his work outlet. Now that he’s no longer playing football, it surfaces in the home. His wife, two lovely children. He’s a mean man. Intimidating. A yeller. The family is scared stiff of his rages. He can’t control himself and after the fact, I’m sorry, I’m sorry. This man has a lot of previous abusive history/ programming from his growing up years. A father who drank heavily, beat him and his younger brother and slapped around the mother, who made excuses for him/them. The day comes where Toren is older, has been working out and is bigger and stronger now, challenges his father to a fight after his father was caught slapping the wife around. Toren now becomes power crazy. He’s beat up his old man. Well, at least that stopped the father from being further abusive (at least with his hands but not his mouth). Good grief.
There’s religious messaging here but this guy just doesn’t get it. Through some miraculous intervention, he disappears for 8 months, has an amnesia of those 8 months, everyone thinks he’s offed himself due to a suicide note written in his handwriting and his “special blue writing marker.” He awakens in a remote hotel room 8 mos later, confused, trying to figure out what’s happened and is trying to collect his memories back and immediately wants to go return to his life/wife, etc; he was warned by whomever or whatever took him out for those 8 months that it is not the thing to do. Get to know himself first. But no, he’s impulsive, he’s confused...and he’s still mad. Who did this to him? Why? His family is not at all happy to see him. Why should they be? They actually felt relief when he was presumed dead. Life goes on without Toren and it’s a peaceful, happy life.
So this was weird - I’m thinking to myself, who abducted him, did they do some kind of brain rewiring on him, was this some neurological research center? Gaaah! Aliens? Some spiritual leader tucked away in the remote mountains in another part of the world? Illegal mind body experimentation? Some kind of cult?
It just made absolutely no sense to me and this guy, Toren, really made me angry (so now I’m the one getting angry about the story - what’s wrong with this picture?)because he kept being a complete stupid ass and he kept falling back into his old ways and he kept stalking his wife and trying to get back together with her but she was not trusting of him. Do you blame her? She basically said she’s moved on. She has a boyfriend she loves. A new life. Life is good for her and the kids without this psychopath. True to form, Toren got extremely angry hearing this. He was a jerk in his actions and words, and acted overly masochistic to everyone. A Tough guy; a real brute and he just did not get it. He would say he was sorry but he did not have the true compassion in his soul for love, forgiveness. Anything really, could and would set him off. So the madness continues. And the manipulation of people and circumstances around him continues, to suit only his needs and expectations. He’s a bully.
Toren had to be forced to go through some additional spiritual insight and experiences which I still lack clarity in what that all was explained in the book. There were actual people behind these spiritual scenes that were all involved in his soul change and redemption. Was it divine, cult, spiritual or mystical or all of the above? 🤔 what is the white octagon?
What gets me is all this lying, all this continual built up, provocated or not provocated rage and anger, and at the end, there is a possibility that everything perhaps might be lovely and everything might be ok? That he may have found his soul, saw the Light and he just might get a chance at being a new man? A good man? A changed man?
Toren’s journey was quite drawn out; the end of the story came upon very quickly and was really not what I was expecting. Do you believe or do you not believe? Do you forgive with your heart and soul or do you not? Can you contain your inner rage or will it seep out occasionally?
Can you fully trust again? Can you fully love again? Is it possible to fully change without divine, spiritual or mystical intervention? In your head and in your heart and soul, too?I certainly didn’t go for it. I think Toren’s journey was far too easy and too quick to get full redemption. His wife’s character was a disappointingly weak woman.
Personally, this book was not for me though others have rated this book at high stars. What drew me in to get this book, was Toren’s 8 month abduction and amnesia and then it all went downhill from there. The story turned into waaaaaaay something else other than what I thought or wanted it to be.
February 16, 2018
This book pulled me in and I was hooked from the very beginning.
We all remember the old story of good vs. evil in the old Jekyll and Hyde classic. Well this modern day remake of the good vs. evil is sure to please you.
Rubart has woven so much in to this one story that you are not sure what's going to happen next.
The characters and there were a lot of them were a great cast.
The plot was great. If you have not read a book by James Rubart let this be your first it will not be your last.
I gave this book 4 stars and I can't wait for his next book.
The Mary Reader received this book from the publisher for review. A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are our own.
We all remember the old story of good vs. evil in the old Jekyll and Hyde classic. Well this modern day remake of the good vs. evil is sure to please you.
Rubart has woven so much in to this one story that you are not sure what's going to happen next.
The characters and there were a lot of them were a great cast.
The plot was great. If you have not read a book by James Rubart let this be your first it will not be your last.
I gave this book 4 stars and I can't wait for his next book.
The Mary Reader received this book from the publisher for review. A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are our own.
April 23, 2018
This is my third James Rubart novel and what I love most about them is they nudge readers to reflect on their own lives. Is there a better way to live?
In The Man He Never Was, main character Toren Daniels has difficulty controlling his anger and that has impacted his marriage and relationship with his children greatly. I do not read many novels that deal with spiritual warfare as directly as Mr. Rubart's novels. While I benefited from those parts of the novel, I enjoyed the interactions of Toren with his wife and children more.
My gratitude to publisher Thomas Nelson for a complimentary copy of the novel. I was not required to post a review and the opinions expressed are my own.
In The Man He Never Was, main character Toren Daniels has difficulty controlling his anger and that has impacted his marriage and relationship with his children greatly. I do not read many novels that deal with spiritual warfare as directly as Mr. Rubart's novels. While I benefited from those parts of the novel, I enjoyed the interactions of Toren with his wife and children more.
My gratitude to publisher Thomas Nelson for a complimentary copy of the novel. I was not required to post a review and the opinions expressed are my own.
January 6, 2025
2.5⭐️
The premise starts out intriguing. An abusive man wakes up in a hotel room, only to find he’s been missing for 8 months and does not have the same rage that he used to feel. What happened to him?
This story goes down hill quickly when the mystery of where he was for 8 months begins to be revealed. The conversations between characters does not feel natural at all
Eden was a weird character…?
Language: 1 ba, 1 hell as a swear
Also, HUGE spoilers for Dr.Jekyl & Mr.Hyde
I did love this quote: “Her smile grew, and the laugh lines made her beautiful the way only age can do for a woman”
The ending had a big message of you are your worst enemy and loving yourself anyway…?!? Weird message…and as far as the ending….
SPOILERS….
……
Sloan and Torrin have ONE conversation at the end and Sloan immediately knows his change is true and trusts him. There’s no time of trust needing to be rebuilt, it’s just, ‘ok, he’s changed, I forgive him, let’s be happily married again’….like what? There would be a while of healing that just isn’t there in this story.
The premise starts out intriguing. An abusive man wakes up in a hotel room, only to find he’s been missing for 8 months and does not have the same rage that he used to feel. What happened to him?
This story goes down hill quickly when the mystery of where he was for 8 months begins to be revealed. The conversations between characters does not feel natural at all
Eden was a weird character…?
Language: 1 ba, 1 hell as a swear
Also, HUGE spoilers for Dr.Jekyl & Mr.Hyde
I did love this quote: “Her smile grew, and the laugh lines made her beautiful the way only age can do for a woman”
The ending had a big message of you are your worst enemy and loving yourself anyway…?!? Weird message…and as far as the ending….
SPOILERS….
……
Sloan and Torrin have ONE conversation at the end and Sloan immediately knows his change is true and trusts him. There’s no time of trust needing to be rebuilt, it’s just, ‘ok, he’s changed, I forgive him, let’s be happily married again’….like what? There would be a while of healing that just isn’t there in this story.
Read
January 18, 2019This book is totally out of my comfort zone. It held my attention and it has a good message. It is just not my personal taste in books.
July 4, 2018
I was really looking forward to this book, especially with the added knowledge it was a Jekyll & Hyde retelling/influence. I definitely enjoyed it but maybe not as much as some of Jim’s other books.
I was definitely intrigued by Toren’s story and continued to wonder how he would overcome the obvious issue of his anger. I think the way Jim tells it is creative and complex, drawing the reader in with the question of whether or not the change really “stuck”.
I think, for me, where it began to break down as in the “how”.
All in all, it is well written and an interesting story! Maybe not my favorite but still very good. I’d recommend it to fans of Jim’s other work and those who like Ted Dekkers circle trilogy etc.
Read below for some deeper thoughts if you dare ;)
**Slight Spoilers & my deep thoughts **
I’ve long been a fan of Ted Dekker and I think some of Jim’s writing is very similar in idea. Like the focus on the spiritual aspects of our Christian life. While I agree with this, there were a few times I felt like the cryptic verbiage used by Eden was unnecessarily frustrating.
I agree that, in order for us to truly experience peace and the truths God offers, we must be open to feeling/experiencing things that are not typical. Perhaps supernatural is a good way to put it? But the use of some “tea” and coming face to face with the Lord’s love in a room gives me pause. Do we need to have special circumstances to come to God?
I can look past this for the sake of the story and it doesn’t tarnish or really affect my rating of the book, but it does cause me to think.
As a personal reflection: The trappings of a secret room and passage, of an almost angel-like person, of mystical tea, of a secret group created to take people to their lowest...it feels almost too mystical to me. As if it is so hard to come to God that it could discourage those seeking His truth. If I don’t experience this, does it mean I haven’t fully come to terms with Christ? That I don’t fully have his love or haven’t experienced forgiveness?
I defiantly don’t think that’s what Jim is saying, but I reflect on verses like “Believe in the Lord Jesus Christ and you will be saved” and how easy that is. Granted, following Christ is NOT always easy and I understand that. Perhaps the reality of Toren’s journey is to show the depth of soul change. The lengths that we sometimes must go through - with Christ’s strength - to experience true freedom. In that way, I can concede that it is an epic journey in and of itself. It just may not look like so much subterfuge or confusion and that’s okay.
Anyway, those are the things I think about as I walk away from this book. And any book that can make you think like that is definitely a good one!
Again, these are personal thoughts and no reflection on the author or his work.
———
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher and was under no obligation to review it. I do so under my own volition!
I was definitely intrigued by Toren’s story and continued to wonder how he would overcome the obvious issue of his anger. I think the way Jim tells it is creative and complex, drawing the reader in with the question of whether or not the change really “stuck”.
I think, for me, where it began to break down as in the “how”.
All in all, it is well written and an interesting story! Maybe not my favorite but still very good. I’d recommend it to fans of Jim’s other work and those who like Ted Dekkers circle trilogy etc.
Read below for some deeper thoughts if you dare ;)
**Slight Spoilers & my deep thoughts **
I’ve long been a fan of Ted Dekker and I think some of Jim’s writing is very similar in idea. Like the focus on the spiritual aspects of our Christian life. While I agree with this, there were a few times I felt like the cryptic verbiage used by Eden was unnecessarily frustrating.
I agree that, in order for us to truly experience peace and the truths God offers, we must be open to feeling/experiencing things that are not typical. Perhaps supernatural is a good way to put it? But the use of some “tea” and coming face to face with the Lord’s love in a room gives me pause. Do we need to have special circumstances to come to God?
I can look past this for the sake of the story and it doesn’t tarnish or really affect my rating of the book, but it does cause me to think.
As a personal reflection: The trappings of a secret room and passage, of an almost angel-like person, of mystical tea, of a secret group created to take people to their lowest...it feels almost too mystical to me. As if it is so hard to come to God that it could discourage those seeking His truth. If I don’t experience this, does it mean I haven’t fully come to terms with Christ? That I don’t fully have his love or haven’t experienced forgiveness?
I defiantly don’t think that’s what Jim is saying, but I reflect on verses like “Believe in the Lord Jesus Christ and you will be saved” and how easy that is. Granted, following Christ is NOT always easy and I understand that. Perhaps the reality of Toren’s journey is to show the depth of soul change. The lengths that we sometimes must go through - with Christ’s strength - to experience true freedom. In that way, I can concede that it is an epic journey in and of itself. It just may not look like so much subterfuge or confusion and that’s okay.
Anyway, those are the things I think about as I walk away from this book. And any book that can make you think like that is definitely a good one!
Again, these are personal thoughts and no reflection on the author or his work.
———
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher and was under no obligation to review it. I do so under my own volition!
January 19, 2019
The book was a decent read. Loosely based on Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, I found the storyline written well. There were aspects about the book I didn't care too much for, but that was just personal preference. What kept this book from being a four star is what it contains.
When I pick up a Christian fiction book I hold it to a higher standard than others. And language that is considered crude/vulgar/cursing(cussing) is not acceptable in Christian literature.
The word "hell" is used out of context. Telling someone to "shut the **** up" is not what should be written in a Christian book. And if an author is going to use the word bastard, then it better be in reference to an illegitimate offspring or a type of sword. Otherwise, as it was used in this book, it is not an acceptable word in Christian fiction.
The author was able to convey cursing and other oaths without using them. Why in these two instances he didn't is confusing to me. Although I have read other books by him, this time I think I will hold off on future books.
When I pick up a Christian fiction book I hold it to a higher standard than others. And language that is considered crude/vulgar/cursing(cussing) is not acceptable in Christian literature.
The word "hell" is used out of context. Telling someone to "shut the **** up" is not what should be written in a Christian book. And if an author is going to use the word bastard, then it better be in reference to an illegitimate offspring or a type of sword. Otherwise, as it was used in this book, it is not an acceptable word in Christian fiction.
The author was able to convey cursing and other oaths without using them. Why in these two instances he didn't is confusing to me. Although I have read other books by him, this time I think I will hold off on future books.
Read
October 3, 2019The story provides much promise as it starts out: a man waking alone in a strange room with no memory. Amnesia stories can be intriguing mysteries as pieces are put back together. Unfortunately, there are too many plot holes to sustain the premise that a person can easily disappear for almost a year without more repercussions than indicated.
At times the message of how a person can overcome weaknesses through the strength of relying on the Lord is inspiring. It is confusing, even dismaying, that this truth gets garbled with New Age aspects of meditation centers, Eastern teas, and cosmic rooms. At times there is a Ted Dekker feel of spiritual mysticism and mystery to the plot. Robert Whitlow provides the same blending of spiritual and inspirational, but with more a faith-based storyline. Rubart's mixture is confusing, if not disturbing, in its approach to the idea of the dark side, the Hyde, within a person.
The publisher provided a copy in exchange for a fair review.
At times the message of how a person can overcome weaknesses through the strength of relying on the Lord is inspiring. It is confusing, even dismaying, that this truth gets garbled with New Age aspects of meditation centers, Eastern teas, and cosmic rooms. At times there is a Ted Dekker feel of spiritual mysticism and mystery to the plot. Robert Whitlow provides the same blending of spiritual and inspirational, but with more a faith-based storyline. Rubart's mixture is confusing, if not disturbing, in its approach to the idea of the dark side, the Hyde, within a person.
The publisher provided a copy in exchange for a fair review.
April 18, 2018
I should have stuck with the original Jekyll and Hyde story, which I really like. This wasn’t nearly as interesting as the other two books by JLR that I’ve read. Some things in the story didn’t sit well with me from a spiritual standpoint. There are two instances of word/phrase usage that many Christians consider inappropriate in a novel from a Christian publisher. I listened to the book and didn’t care much for the author’s narration. His words too often didn’t flow naturally from one to the other, especially with female characters; the end sounds of words came to abrupt stops.
December 18, 2017
4.5 stars
Rubart's latest is a complex, contemplative look at the two sides of everyone — the light and the dark — and their war with each other. Toren is not a very likable character, although many may identify with his inability to contain his temper. It seems like it takes him forever to work through his issues, but this is incredibly realistic and mirrors real-life situations. The unpeeling of the layers of Toren's life and its relation to the reader's life is what makes this book so captivating and elevates it above others. The unique perspectives and fantasy situations give stunning realizations about life and spiritual truth. This is a novel that begs to be read more than once and discussed with others to get the full impact of its meaning.
Toren Daniels disappears one September and wakes up eight months later with no memory of where he was during that time. His wife and children think he is dead and have moved on with their lives, as Toren was someone they had begun to fear when his uncontrollable temper took over more often than not. All Toren knows now is that he is a completely new man — his anger has disappeared. His family is not so willing to accept that he has changed, so he sets out proving it to them. Yet little by little, he feels the old feelings creeping back in. He is determined to discover where he was during his missing time so he can go back and fix it once and for all. However, things aren't as simple as it seems on the surface.
Rubart's latest is a complex, contemplative look at the two sides of everyone — the light and the dark — and their war with each other. Toren is not a very likable character, although many may identify with his inability to contain his temper. It seems like it takes him forever to work through his issues, but this is incredibly realistic and mirrors real-life situations. The unpeeling of the layers of Toren's life and its relation to the reader's life is what makes this book so captivating and elevates it above others. The unique perspectives and fantasy situations give stunning realizations about life and spiritual truth. This is a novel that begs to be read more than once and discussed with others to get the full impact of its meaning.
Toren Daniels disappears one September and wakes up eight months later with no memory of where he was during that time. His wife and children think he is dead and have moved on with their lives, as Toren was someone they had begun to fear when his uncontrollable temper took over more often than not. All Toren knows now is that he is a completely new man — his anger has disappeared. His family is not so willing to accept that he has changed, so he sets out proving it to them. Yet little by little, he feels the old feelings creeping back in. He is determined to discover where he was during his missing time so he can go back and fix it once and for all. However, things aren't as simple as it seems on the surface.
September 20, 2023
I had a hard time finishing this one. I really liked the characters, but just did not connect with the writing style or the story line regarding Torens battle with himself. There were points in the book that gave a lot of scientific findings about the brain, and I found myself wanting to skim those entire paragraphs. I also didn't care for how elusive everyone was throughout most of the book. It had a new age vibe throughout most of the book, that made me slightly uncomfortable. And while I did really love how the story of the Prodigal Son was inserted and helped guide Toren to a revelation of Gods love for him, I didn't care at all for the Octogon and how he had to go to a physical location to encounter God or for the battle to take place. That tied in to the overall New Age feeling.
I recently read Book of Days by this author and thought it was beautifully written and brilliant. It really left its mark on me. I immediately planned to read everything written by James Rubart. I enjoyed that book so much, I will try another book by this author although I did not care for this one.
I recently read Book of Days by this author and thought it was beautifully written and brilliant. It really left its mark on me. I immediately planned to read everything written by James Rubart. I enjoyed that book so much, I will try another book by this author although I did not care for this one.
February 26, 2018
I have read a good chunk of James Rubart's novels. While fantasy is okay with certain books, I don't mind them in Rubart's novels. He takes a concept from the Bible and have a hero learn to incorporate the concept into their life. Either from forgiveness to God's love to something deeper. Being familiar with his writing, I knew Rubart would take me for a ride inside the soul of the hero but would tear at my heart along the way.
The writing is clear and concise. I had no problem following Toren Daniels through his though process and watching him interact with the number of characters in the story. The setting is described just enough for me to visual what I need to focus on. When the setting was extremely important, Rubart would spend more time showing me what I needed to know to understand the room.
Toren Daniels is deeply hurting man. Just like a majority of the people in the world today. I really enjoy how the hero is the main character, well actually the only character in the story. Most novels are from the woman's perspective, and I really enjoyed how Toren dove into the deep emotions and struggles bubbling inside a male character. (Yes, I know Rubart is a male author, so he has a leg up on the women writers in this area.) I could relate to him pretty quickly and enjoyed watched his tale of transformation.
The plot is completely different than anything I have ever read before. I enjoyed watching Toren struggle with his problem over and over again. It shows the human side to him. Rubart didn't gloss over his issue with a quick fix. It kept rearing its head over and over. So realistic. But to seek redemption, he needs to rely on God and fully grasp the concept of God's love. While Rubart does a good job at showing how to understand this, I need to go back and re-read some parts of the story I highlighted and spend some time in prayer myself. He had me thinking of the concepts and wanted me to follow and learn like Toren did.
Overall, James Rubart's The Man He Never Was is an unique story and deeply moving. Rubart's story shows the importance of God's love in our lives and the ability to defeat darkness back with trusting God completely. This story gripped my mind and took me for a ride. I highly recommend The Man He Never Was for fans of non-fiction books who are always on the hunt for the next big step to learning something to draw them closer to God. Rubart's stories are written for readers like me who admire Max Lucado's concept but have a hard time enjoying a non-fiction story. I prefer to be entertained to learn a lesson.
I received a complimentary copy of The Man He Never Was by James Rubart from Thomas Nelson Publishing, but the opinions stated are all my own.
The writing is clear and concise. I had no problem following Toren Daniels through his though process and watching him interact with the number of characters in the story. The setting is described just enough for me to visual what I need to focus on. When the setting was extremely important, Rubart would spend more time showing me what I needed to know to understand the room.
Toren Daniels is deeply hurting man. Just like a majority of the people in the world today. I really enjoy how the hero is the main character, well actually the only character in the story. Most novels are from the woman's perspective, and I really enjoyed how Toren dove into the deep emotions and struggles bubbling inside a male character. (Yes, I know Rubart is a male author, so he has a leg up on the women writers in this area.) I could relate to him pretty quickly and enjoyed watched his tale of transformation.
The plot is completely different than anything I have ever read before. I enjoyed watching Toren struggle with his problem over and over again. It shows the human side to him. Rubart didn't gloss over his issue with a quick fix. It kept rearing its head over and over. So realistic. But to seek redemption, he needs to rely on God and fully grasp the concept of God's love. While Rubart does a good job at showing how to understand this, I need to go back and re-read some parts of the story I highlighted and spend some time in prayer myself. He had me thinking of the concepts and wanted me to follow and learn like Toren did.
Overall, James Rubart's The Man He Never Was is an unique story and deeply moving. Rubart's story shows the importance of God's love in our lives and the ability to defeat darkness back with trusting God completely. This story gripped my mind and took me for a ride. I highly recommend The Man He Never Was for fans of non-fiction books who are always on the hunt for the next big step to learning something to draw them closer to God. Rubart's stories are written for readers like me who admire Max Lucado's concept but have a hard time enjoying a non-fiction story. I prefer to be entertained to learn a lesson.
I received a complimentary copy of The Man He Never Was by James Rubart from Thomas Nelson Publishing, but the opinions stated are all my own.
November 17, 2018
I was instantly caught up in Toren Daniels quandary; as he wakes up in a strange place and doesn’t know how he got there. If that wasn’t scary enough he discovers he’s been presumed dead by the world because he went missing eight months ago. Crazy thing is he doesn’t remember any part of the past months.
Toren felt something new inside. Something he’d never experience before; a peace he felt bubbling through his entire being. He’s puzzled. Where did it come from? Where has he been for eight months? What did they do to him there? He must have answers.
I was hooked from the first page. I couldn’t put this novel down. I was just as curious as Toren was about where he’d been all that time and how his anger wasn’t controlling him anymore. What happened to him that he couldn’t remember? Toren begins to think seriously about life and his future. I liked how this book gradually build in momentum throughout, resulting in a gripping and compelling conclusion.
This author grabbed my heart and imagination by his brilliant contemporary re-imaging of the Jekyll & Hyde story. There were characters you cheered for and others you didn’t like very much, each were well developed. It makes me want to go and read the original story and see how they differ. This was a fun novel giving readers a hopeful thought provoking ride. We are all on a journey filled with opportunities; reminded of the fact we always have choices of which path to walk down. We can have hope if we accept the invitation and walk on the narrow trail and agony if we don’t. No one said the path would be easy. This is a great novel for a book club pick. The author includes 14 discussion questions. There is so much to discuss
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from blogging for books. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”
Nora St. Laurent
TBCN Where Book Fun Begins! www.bookfun.org
The Book Club Network blog www.psalm516.blogspot.com
Book Fun Magazine https://tinyurl.com/y9lwbfrs
SVP Promotion
Toren felt something new inside. Something he’d never experience before; a peace he felt bubbling through his entire being. He’s puzzled. Where did it come from? Where has he been for eight months? What did they do to him there? He must have answers.
I was hooked from the first page. I couldn’t put this novel down. I was just as curious as Toren was about where he’d been all that time and how his anger wasn’t controlling him anymore. What happened to him that he couldn’t remember? Toren begins to think seriously about life and his future. I liked how this book gradually build in momentum throughout, resulting in a gripping and compelling conclusion.
This author grabbed my heart and imagination by his brilliant contemporary re-imaging of the Jekyll & Hyde story. There were characters you cheered for and others you didn’t like very much, each were well developed. It makes me want to go and read the original story and see how they differ. This was a fun novel giving readers a hopeful thought provoking ride. We are all on a journey filled with opportunities; reminded of the fact we always have choices of which path to walk down. We can have hope if we accept the invitation and walk on the narrow trail and agony if we don’t. No one said the path would be easy. This is a great novel for a book club pick. The author includes 14 discussion questions. There is so much to discuss
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from blogging for books. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”
Nora St. Laurent
TBCN Where Book Fun Begins! www.bookfun.org
The Book Club Network blog www.psalm516.blogspot.com
Book Fun Magazine https://tinyurl.com/y9lwbfrs
SVP Promotion
April 10, 2018
Wow. The only coherent thought I had when I finished this book was, “I want what he’s having.” I may not have the same anger problem as Toren, but so many of the truths he works through in this story are truths that I still struggle with—and this book drove home just how much I still struggle with them. I feel like this book has opened the door to my own octagonal room (read the story and you’ll understand the reference), and just like Toren, I feel like I’ll need several visits so I can continue to absorb these truths into my heart. It’s one thing to know the truth at an intellectual level, but to feel the truth in your heart and live it out the way Toren must here? Wow.
This book doesn’t just reimagine The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde; it answers it. Robert Louis Stevenson presents half of the truth in his story—that it is impossible to bring Hyde under full submission through our own efforts—but he leaves the reader without the truth that there is One who DOES have the power to overcome Hyde. In fact, He has already done so. But in order to claim that victory as our own, we need to die to ourselves. We must overcome the evil with good, with love. Much easier said than done, as Toren discovers.
The real-life aspect of this story is just as compelling. Having believed Toren was dead for nine months, his wife hasn’t just moved on with her life; she’s relieved. She’s heard Toren’s promises of change hundreds of times before, and she’s not prepared to go down that path again, especially since she’s met Levi. Thus, Toren is not just seeking change for his own sake; he needs to defeat Hyde if he wants any chance at being reconciled to his wife and children, and somehow, he needs to prove that the change is real.
I was so intensely invested in this story that I had to put it down for about half an hour at the 80% mark. I wasn’t at all certain how it was going to play out, and I needed to take a fortifying breath, so to speak, just in case. Beyond that, I will simply say: This is gripping, thought-provoking storytelling. Don’t miss it.
I received a copy of this novel from the publisher. This has not influenced the content of my review, which is my honest and unbiased opinion.
This book doesn’t just reimagine The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde; it answers it. Robert Louis Stevenson presents half of the truth in his story—that it is impossible to bring Hyde under full submission through our own efforts—but he leaves the reader without the truth that there is One who DOES have the power to overcome Hyde. In fact, He has already done so. But in order to claim that victory as our own, we need to die to ourselves. We must overcome the evil with good, with love. Much easier said than done, as Toren discovers.
The real-life aspect of this story is just as compelling. Having believed Toren was dead for nine months, his wife hasn’t just moved on with her life; she’s relieved. She’s heard Toren’s promises of change hundreds of times before, and she’s not prepared to go down that path again, especially since she’s met Levi. Thus, Toren is not just seeking change for his own sake; he needs to defeat Hyde if he wants any chance at being reconciled to his wife and children, and somehow, he needs to prove that the change is real.
I was so intensely invested in this story that I had to put it down for about half an hour at the 80% mark. I wasn’t at all certain how it was going to play out, and I needed to take a fortifying breath, so to speak, just in case. Beyond that, I will simply say: This is gripping, thought-provoking storytelling. Don’t miss it.
I received a copy of this novel from the publisher. This has not influenced the content of my review, which is my honest and unbiased opinion.
September 14, 2025
All things are permissible, but not all things are profitable.
Trigger warning: Spiritual warfare, child abuse (non graphic), Domestic violence (non graphic)
Torin has an anger problem. It's more than just getting mad. He loses control. Then he wakes up in a hotel eight months later with no memory of what happened. But he can tell he's changed. The rage that simmered inside of him is no longer there. The problem though, his family thought he was dead and have moved on. They have found peace with him being gone and don't really want him back in their lives.
This book hooked me from the start. There was one point I didn't want to pick it up, but I am also wondering if that is due to the events that happened this week that put me in a grieving state for a few days.
I love the spiritual warfare in this. I had anger issues before I came to Jesus. Nothing as horrible as Torin went through but I could understand lashing out when angry. Thankful Jesus came into my life. Do I have episodes every now and then, yes, but nothing prayer to my Heavenly Abba can't fix.
I do recommend this book if you want spiritual warfare, but a word of caution. If you have not read the Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde by Robert Louis Stevenson and want to read it, then I suggest you read that first. Not only does this have the same themes, but it also talks about the novella. It even spoils the story. So go read Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde first, which is a classic I recommend as well.
Trigger warning: Spiritual warfare, child abuse (non graphic), Domestic violence (non graphic)
Torin has an anger problem. It's more than just getting mad. He loses control. Then he wakes up in a hotel eight months later with no memory of what happened. But he can tell he's changed. The rage that simmered inside of him is no longer there. The problem though, his family thought he was dead and have moved on. They have found peace with him being gone and don't really want him back in their lives.
This book hooked me from the start. There was one point I didn't want to pick it up, but I am also wondering if that is due to the events that happened this week that put me in a grieving state for a few days.
I love the spiritual warfare in this. I had anger issues before I came to Jesus. Nothing as horrible as Torin went through but I could understand lashing out when angry. Thankful Jesus came into my life. Do I have episodes every now and then, yes, but nothing prayer to my Heavenly Abba can't fix.
I do recommend this book if you want spiritual warfare, but a word of caution. If you have not read the Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde by Robert Louis Stevenson and want to read it, then I suggest you read that first. Not only does this have the same themes, but it also talks about the novella. It even spoils the story. So go read Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde first, which is a classic I recommend as well.
February 26, 2018
I received a copy of this book as a free advance copy from YPG, directly from the publisher. The book was accompanied by a letter of introduction from the author. I read the first two sentences of that letter and immediately returned the book. If that letter is an example of this author's writing, then I want nothing to do with it. Shame on the publicity/marketing team (and editor if they were aware that such a mailing was being undertaken) that let such a poorly written letter (by the author no less!) out the door. This is not the way to drum up interest in a newly published book. Bad form.
March 20, 2018
I never quite know what to expect when I pick up a book by James L. Rubart. This one really had me stopping, setting the book down and thinking before I could pick it up again.
There is never a book that touches everyone. For me, this genre is not my normal genre. I love women's fiction and historical. This is nowhere near either of those genres. For me, this story is a tale of a man that allowed the evil to control him, the evil that is within many, and it nearly destroyed his life and his family. It is the story of the journey that he takes to conquer it, which when done in your own strength is impossible.
I was deeply touched at certain parts of the book. Some of the thoughts were so deep, it made me have to wrap my mind around it.
I will say while this book is not about domestic abuse or child abuse, it touches on both of those. There are a couple of descriptive scenes that if you have been there, will either endear you to the characters, or will cause a trigger to arise depending on where you are in your healing. For me, it was healing.
If you read this book with the mindset that you are just going to read a nice story, you may not get the meaning of this one. It is much more than that. But if you are reading this book to see what true love and repentance can look like, this one does share that.
Very unique story, that I highly recommend.
There is never a book that touches everyone. For me, this genre is not my normal genre. I love women's fiction and historical. This is nowhere near either of those genres. For me, this story is a tale of a man that allowed the evil to control him, the evil that is within many, and it nearly destroyed his life and his family. It is the story of the journey that he takes to conquer it, which when done in your own strength is impossible.
I was deeply touched at certain parts of the book. Some of the thoughts were so deep, it made me have to wrap my mind around it.
I will say while this book is not about domestic abuse or child abuse, it touches on both of those. There are a couple of descriptive scenes that if you have been there, will either endear you to the characters, or will cause a trigger to arise depending on where you are in your healing. For me, it was healing.
If you read this book with the mindset that you are just going to read a nice story, you may not get the meaning of this one. It is much more than that. But if you are reading this book to see what true love and repentance can look like, this one does share that.
Very unique story, that I highly recommend.
May 21, 2018
POTENTIAL TRIGGER WARNING: This novel addresses the topic of domestic abuse (child and spousal abuse, to be specific).
NFL player Toren Daniels, long known for his violent temper, finds himself booted from his spot on the Seattle Seahawks. Not long after, he vanishes, his whereabouts unknown for eight months. People even begin to presume he's dead. But now he's reappeared, and the Toren we're re-introduced to is "the man he never was". The new Toren is strangely more kind and patient with everyone he interacts with. Even more odd, he has NO memory of where he's been these past months. Toren's one main goal is to reunite with his family but the reception proves to be many layers of upsetting. It's not so easy for his wife and kids to just forget all the years of abuse. So how is he to win them back?
The back cover copy of this Christian fiction tale proclaims it a "fresh take on the classic Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde". I'm quite familiar with the classic and to be honest, I can only see whispers of that story in the modern retelling presented here. That said, there ARE spoilers for the classic within Rubart's novel.
Additionally, I just DID NOT click with Toren's character. I know the book wants the reader to see him as a changed man but I was not sold. The bits I found problematic:
~ The dialogue style / flow is awkward, at times too formulaic and stiff
~ The metaphysical back and forth business made for a tiring reading experience
~ Toren's anger at his wife wanting to move on with her life was aggravating... made it seem like there was no HONEST change within him, only the surface appearance of a softer man, the same jerk was underneath and reared his head whenever he didn't get his way.
~ GROAN ending -- I don't buy that everything is all better just because we need a tidy wrap up in the last couple chapters and Christian readers like happy endings. Nothing felt honestly resolved for me but I felt like Rubart just wanted the reader to go along with it anyway.
I think this is the second or third ( I forget) of Rubart's books I've tried and I haven't quite hit gold yet. We'll see what the future holds, I 'spose.
FTC Disclaimer: TNZ Fiction Guild kindly provided me with a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. The opinions above are entirely my own.
February 24, 2018
This story was very different. If I had to write a summary, I would say it had me from the beginning. Then...things got weird. As in, really really weird. I ended up not liking it at all, despite the encouraging beginning. That's the short version. To say more...Toren grew up with an extremely physically abusive father. He abused Toren, his younger brother and their mother with both his words and physical strength. Toren began to dream of the day that he could be big enough, strong enough to take the belt away from his father and use it on him. Eventually, that day came and along with it came a fury that stayed with Toren and emerged when he became upset. He married Sloane and they had two children, a son and a daughter.
Toren played with the NFL and his anger was the result of him being let go. Once that happened, his anger showed up other places, such as at home. Previously, it was only on the field and never with his wife and children. They became terrified of him.
Then, Toren disappeared for eight months. His family believed him to be dead and they finally had moved on. His wife was dating another man whom she cared very much for. Suddenly, Toren reappears. He has no memory of the months that he was gone. He woke up in a hotel room not knowing how he got there. His wife fainted when he showed up at their home. His children were scared, angry and didn't want to see him.
Sounds like a good story, right? I thought so, too. Then, the weirdness began. Strangers are showing up in his life attempting to give him direction in cryptic messages. Then, he was taken to the 'octagon.' He desperately wanted to beat the dragon inside him and kill the anger forever. When he first returned, he believed something magical had been done to him to rid him of the fury inside him. But, it slowly emerged in certain upsetting circumstances. He believed the 'octagon' would forever rid him of the anger that dominated him. So many things in the story are not sound doctrine, but I do realize this is fiction. I just could not get into the octagon and all that came with it.
I was given a free ecopy of this by the publisher, Thomas Nelson and Netgalley in exchange for my honest review.
Toren played with the NFL and his anger was the result of him being let go. Once that happened, his anger showed up other places, such as at home. Previously, it was only on the field and never with his wife and children. They became terrified of him.
Then, Toren disappeared for eight months. His family believed him to be dead and they finally had moved on. His wife was dating another man whom she cared very much for. Suddenly, Toren reappears. He has no memory of the months that he was gone. He woke up in a hotel room not knowing how he got there. His wife fainted when he showed up at their home. His children were scared, angry and didn't want to see him.
Sounds like a good story, right? I thought so, too. Then, the weirdness began. Strangers are showing up in his life attempting to give him direction in cryptic messages. Then, he was taken to the 'octagon.' He desperately wanted to beat the dragon inside him and kill the anger forever. When he first returned, he believed something magical had been done to him to rid him of the fury inside him. But, it slowly emerged in certain upsetting circumstances. He believed the 'octagon' would forever rid him of the anger that dominated him. So many things in the story are not sound doctrine, but I do realize this is fiction. I just could not get into the octagon and all that came with it.
I was given a free ecopy of this by the publisher, Thomas Nelson and Netgalley in exchange for my honest review.
March 1, 2018
Eight months after Toren Daniels vanished, everyone has assumed that he is dead. But then he wakes up in a strange hotel room with no memory of what he's been through the previous months. When he shows up at home, his wife and children are not only shocked, but also worried that he's not only seemingly returned from the dead, but that his rage has returned with him. They soon realize that he's been transformed from a man of anger to one of peace. Or has he? As Toren begins to piece together what happened to him, he also discovers that his darkest parts are still present and arising from the depths of his being, and he must confront the civil war taking place in his soul.
Inspired by the classic tale of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, "The Man He Never Was" is a truly fascinating read unlike anything I've read before. Rubart has crafted together a remarkable character in Toren, one who you will find yourself relating to as he struggles with the darkest corners of his soul. You certainly won't like all parts of him as you get to know who he has been and the things he has done. But Rubart does a marvelous job at using the medium of fiction to showcase the struggle Paul talks about in Romans 7, where he talks about the battle within each of us, where we do the things we don't want to do, that "although I want to do good, evil is right there with me". We can all struggle to understand how we've been made into a new creature in Christ, and the spiritual battle raging around us, and Rubart has penned a story that will bring the truths of scripture to light in a manner that will stay with you for some time. He has woven in twists and turns throughout that will keep you glued to this clever plot until you arrive at the final conclusion, likely deep in thought as I was!
James L. Rubart has once again written a novel that will inspire his readers to search the depths of their own soul and contemplate their journey with God. I strongly recommend this intriguing novel and award it 4.5 out of 5 stars.
Book has been provided courtesy of the publisher through the Booklook Bloggers program.
Inspired by the classic tale of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, "The Man He Never Was" is a truly fascinating read unlike anything I've read before. Rubart has crafted together a remarkable character in Toren, one who you will find yourself relating to as he struggles with the darkest corners of his soul. You certainly won't like all parts of him as you get to know who he has been and the things he has done. But Rubart does a marvelous job at using the medium of fiction to showcase the struggle Paul talks about in Romans 7, where he talks about the battle within each of us, where we do the things we don't want to do, that "although I want to do good, evil is right there with me". We can all struggle to understand how we've been made into a new creature in Christ, and the spiritual battle raging around us, and Rubart has penned a story that will bring the truths of scripture to light in a manner that will stay with you for some time. He has woven in twists and turns throughout that will keep you glued to this clever plot until you arrive at the final conclusion, likely deep in thought as I was!
James L. Rubart has once again written a novel that will inspire his readers to search the depths of their own soul and contemplate their journey with God. I strongly recommend this intriguing novel and award it 4.5 out of 5 stars.
Book has been provided courtesy of the publisher through the Booklook Bloggers program.
Read
May 11, 2018Toren Daniels, a somewhat-famous football player, wakes up in a strange hotel room with no idea how he got there, and finds he has been missing for the last eight months. He has no idea where he has been, but he realises he has changed into The Man He Never Was.
He is no longer angry. But as time goes—and as he tries to reconnect with his wife and children—Torren finds the anger returning. This leads him on a quest to find where he was during those missing eight months, and what he can do to make the anger go away forever.
The Man He Never Was is a modern twist on old tales: Jekyll and Hyde, Banner and Hulk, Saul and Paul. One character says:
"If we're willing to admit it, we all have a monster inside us, and we're fighting to stop it from taking over our lives."
That was definitely Toren’s visible battle, but the statement got me wondering? What monsters were inside the other characters in the story? What about in real life? What monsters are inside the people I know? What monster is inside me? They are interesting questions, and they got me thinking …
But then the tone of the novel changed. The second half of The Man He Never Was contained some deep spiritual truths. But it also contained some speculative woo-woo stuff (that’s a real term, right?). Unfortunately, the speculative elements didn’t work for me. I prefer to see characters work through their problems in something that approximates the real world, working through some kind of replicable solution. Yes, I know James L Rubart writes speculative novels, and I should have expected this. But I didn’t—perhaps because this novel was based on Jekyll and Hyde.
I have read and enjoyed several of James Rubart’s earlier novels, but The Man He Never Was didn’t work so well for me. The writing was as outstanding as ever. The first half was brilliant, and it raised lots of questions. But the second half didn’t answer my questions, although I’m sure diehard Rubart fans will love it.
Thanks to Thomas Nelson and NetGalley for providing a free ebook for review.
He is no longer angry. But as time goes—and as he tries to reconnect with his wife and children—Torren finds the anger returning. This leads him on a quest to find where he was during those missing eight months, and what he can do to make the anger go away forever.
The Man He Never Was is a modern twist on old tales: Jekyll and Hyde, Banner and Hulk, Saul and Paul. One character says:
"If we're willing to admit it, we all have a monster inside us, and we're fighting to stop it from taking over our lives."
That was definitely Toren’s visible battle, but the statement got me wondering? What monsters were inside the other characters in the story? What about in real life? What monsters are inside the people I know? What monster is inside me? They are interesting questions, and they got me thinking …
But then the tone of the novel changed. The second half of The Man He Never Was contained some deep spiritual truths. But it also contained some speculative woo-woo stuff (that’s a real term, right?). Unfortunately, the speculative elements didn’t work for me. I prefer to see characters work through their problems in something that approximates the real world, working through some kind of replicable solution. Yes, I know James L Rubart writes speculative novels, and I should have expected this. But I didn’t—perhaps because this novel was based on Jekyll and Hyde.
I have read and enjoyed several of James Rubart’s earlier novels, but The Man He Never Was didn’t work so well for me. The writing was as outstanding as ever. The first half was brilliant, and it raised lots of questions. But the second half didn’t answer my questions, although I’m sure diehard Rubart fans will love it.
Thanks to Thomas Nelson and NetGalley for providing a free ebook for review.
March 4, 2018
I liked this book. The unique take on Jekyll and Hyde was cool. Additionally, the way the author incorporated this battle of good and evil with religion was nice. The religion aspect was there for a purpose to help tell the story but without being too preachy.
I didn't know much about Toren in the beginning. Yet, as I got to know who his "former" self was, I could see why his family was not so welcoming to take him back. Yes, we all get upset at times but Toren's anger was really out of control. However, the program that he awake from as a "changed" man was very effective. The journey that Toren took was a meaningful one.
I can briefly remember reading The Chair by Mr. Rubert. I enjoyed that book as well. Mr. Rubart wrote a good book filled with a lead character that was very relatable thus making the book that much better.
I didn't know much about Toren in the beginning. Yet, as I got to know who his "former" self was, I could see why his family was not so welcoming to take him back. Yes, we all get upset at times but Toren's anger was really out of control. However, the program that he awake from as a "changed" man was very effective. The journey that Toren took was a meaningful one.
I can briefly remember reading The Chair by Mr. Rubert. I enjoyed that book as well. Mr. Rubart wrote a good book filled with a lead character that was very relatable thus making the book that much better.
May 3, 2018
This is the second book I've read by James L Rubart, the first being The Five Times I Met Myself which I really enjoyed.
"The Man He never Was" was a great representation of Romans where the fight between good and evil is discussed. I enjoyed seeing Toren's journey of trying to overcome Hyde (our fleshly weakness whichever that might be for each of us).
I didn't enjoy this book as much as the previous book I've read. I think if I would have read this first, I would not have added more of this author's books to my reading list. However, I really enjoyed "The five times I've met myself" and heard good things about his other books, which I would like to read as well.
Fans of Ted Dekker will like this book.
"The Man He never Was" was a great representation of Romans where the fight between good and evil is discussed. I enjoyed seeing Toren's journey of trying to overcome Hyde (our fleshly weakness whichever that might be for each of us).
I didn't enjoy this book as much as the previous book I've read. I think if I would have read this first, I would not have added more of this author's books to my reading list. However, I really enjoyed "The five times I've met myself" and heard good things about his other books, which I would like to read as well.
Fans of Ted Dekker will like this book.
November 14, 2018
2018 Reading Challenge complete with 52 books!
I dubbed 2018 "My Year of Reading Dangerously" with the intention of reading outside of my usual box. I definitely did that, and this Christy award winner (visionary category) was the perfect way to wrap up the challenge. I enjoyed it very much and found the symbolism fascinating.
Especially recommended for book clubs. This is the kind of story that begs to be discussed!
I dubbed 2018 "My Year of Reading Dangerously" with the intention of reading outside of my usual box. I definitely did that, and this Christy award winner (visionary category) was the perfect way to wrap up the challenge. I enjoyed it very much and found the symbolism fascinating.
Especially recommended for book clubs. This is the kind of story that begs to be discussed!
August 8, 2018
Thought it was a thriller. A guy wakes up in a hotel room and it's 8 months later--where has he been?
It turned out to be some kind of poorly written, pontificating, Christian schlock with interchangeable characters who all talk the same way.
Poor Levi, but maybe he was better off without this crowd.
Awful. And I don't mean "awe."
It turned out to be some kind of poorly written, pontificating, Christian schlock with interchangeable characters who all talk the same way.
Poor Levi, but maybe he was better off without this crowd.
Awful. And I don't mean "awe."
December 17, 2020
James L. Rubart really has a divine gift.
A book about facing and overcoming our inner demons. This book really spoke to me in a way I didn't imagine... it is just overwhelming; it is wonderful.
Toren discovers Life in Christ is like nothing he had ever experienced; that the love of Christ overcometh all things.
This book is a treasure.
A book about facing and overcoming our inner demons. This book really spoke to me in a way I didn't imagine... it is just overwhelming; it is wonderful.
Toren discovers Life in Christ is like nothing he had ever experienced; that the love of Christ overcometh all things.
This book is a treasure.
March 27, 2018
There is only one novel of James L. Rubart's I haven't read and I will correct that very soon. However to understand his style of writing, it is not going to be something you can easily figure out like most novels. Most of his take the reader on a journey that may have not been expecting and with that I believe comes a greater understanding that we share similar qualities with the characters he pens to life in his novels.
The Man He Never Was is exactly like that. You have the main character Toren Daniels who mysteriously wakes up in a hotel room with no recollection of why he is there. He believed he went bed beside his wife in his own home, but that is not what has happened, nor will he like what he is about to discover. Eight months of his life have completely vanished without a trace. He has no memory other than the rage he used to have to contend with is no longer present in his life, leaving his with a calming peace in places where only there used to be burning rage and anger. His only clue is a mysterious package that arrives, telling him that the anger that has robbed him not only of his chance with the NFL but also with his family.
He vaguely remembers that anger as it seems that he is looking outside of the former person he was and all he knows from those he talks with is he apparently wrote a suicide note, and vanished into thin air, leaving people to believe he followed through on his threat. Even his wife and children have moved on and his wife is now in love with someone else. Through vague recollections and pieces of what might have occurred he struggles to get back what he has lost, without losing himself to the former man he was. Using the examples of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, along with the Hulk, Toren believes he may have been experimented on, giving some kind of mind altering drink but as he feels that peace and contentment slipping away, he knows he is running out of time and the dark beast within is threatening to become unleashed again.
I received The Man He Never Was by James L. Rubart compliments of TLC Book Tours and Thomas Nelson Publishers. There are so many spins in this novel that unless you are familiar with James' work you might just get lost before you settle in and wait for the outcome. Most often than we'd like to admit, there is a bit of darkness in all of us. Some can make peace with it while keeping it under control and there are others that allow it to dominate the person they become and in the process are lost like children who can't find their way home. "Henry Jekyll says that he and every other man and woman is not truly one, but truly two, and he sees the human soul as the ultimate battleground of our lives - one part of us an angel and the other a demon, both struggling for mastery and destruction of the other." You'll have to see what you get from this when you finish, but for me, another well done masterpiece. There is even a reader's discussion guide included which would make this a great novel for book clubs. For me, another well deserved 5 out of 5 stars.
The Man He Never Was is exactly like that. You have the main character Toren Daniels who mysteriously wakes up in a hotel room with no recollection of why he is there. He believed he went bed beside his wife in his own home, but that is not what has happened, nor will he like what he is about to discover. Eight months of his life have completely vanished without a trace. He has no memory other than the rage he used to have to contend with is no longer present in his life, leaving his with a calming peace in places where only there used to be burning rage and anger. His only clue is a mysterious package that arrives, telling him that the anger that has robbed him not only of his chance with the NFL but also with his family.
He vaguely remembers that anger as it seems that he is looking outside of the former person he was and all he knows from those he talks with is he apparently wrote a suicide note, and vanished into thin air, leaving people to believe he followed through on his threat. Even his wife and children have moved on and his wife is now in love with someone else. Through vague recollections and pieces of what might have occurred he struggles to get back what he has lost, without losing himself to the former man he was. Using the examples of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, along with the Hulk, Toren believes he may have been experimented on, giving some kind of mind altering drink but as he feels that peace and contentment slipping away, he knows he is running out of time and the dark beast within is threatening to become unleashed again.
I received The Man He Never Was by James L. Rubart compliments of TLC Book Tours and Thomas Nelson Publishers. There are so many spins in this novel that unless you are familiar with James' work you might just get lost before you settle in and wait for the outcome. Most often than we'd like to admit, there is a bit of darkness in all of us. Some can make peace with it while keeping it under control and there are others that allow it to dominate the person they become and in the process are lost like children who can't find their way home. "Henry Jekyll says that he and every other man and woman is not truly one, but truly two, and he sees the human soul as the ultimate battleground of our lives - one part of us an angel and the other a demon, both struggling for mastery and destruction of the other." You'll have to see what you get from this when you finish, but for me, another well done masterpiece. There is even a reader's discussion guide included which would make this a great novel for book clubs. For me, another well deserved 5 out of 5 stars.
January 5, 2019
This is not a book about football. I need to say that up front, becuase I don't care for sports-centered novels, and the description on the back cover, "a former football player gets kicked out of the NFL," kept me from picking up this book for months. It my mind, it became "the football book"and found a place at the bottom of my stack. But take heart, dear reader! The main character never steps foot on the field and you don't have to read about a single snap.
I have loved Rubart's previous work, so I had high expectations, but I just couldn't bring myself to give this book 5-stars. Like some of his other work, the reader is left with too many unanswered questions. Perhaps this is the author's intent. Maybe he's setting us up for a sequel, or allowing us to use our imagination, but I prefer my endings neat and tidy. If that is considered cheesy or predictable.. fine. This made my brain hurt like I sipped my milkshake too fast.
The first half of the book was wonderful. It pulls you into the action so quickly. Toren wakes up in a strange hotel room, has no recollection of the previous 8 months, and finds out that he has been presumed dead by his friends and family! Wow! However, the second half slips into some far-out remedies for his malady. Don't get me wrong. I believe in the supernatural and I love Christian fiction, but this has an odd New Age vibe that just made me uncomfortable. Still, it was a good read with lots of scripture references and a nudge in the right direction for those who only view our Heavenly Father as a God of wrath and not a God of Love. (1 John 4:7-21)
I have loved Rubart's previous work, so I had high expectations, but I just couldn't bring myself to give this book 5-stars. Like some of his other work, the reader is left with too many unanswered questions. Perhaps this is the author's intent. Maybe he's setting us up for a sequel, or allowing us to use our imagination, but I prefer my endings neat and tidy. If that is considered cheesy or predictable.. fine. This made my brain hurt like I sipped my milkshake too fast.
The first half of the book was wonderful. It pulls you into the action so quickly. Toren wakes up in a strange hotel room, has no recollection of the previous 8 months, and finds out that he has been presumed dead by his friends and family! Wow! However, the second half slips into some far-out remedies for his malady. Don't get me wrong. I believe in the supernatural and I love Christian fiction, but this has an odd New Age vibe that just made me uncomfortable. Still, it was a good read with lots of scripture references and a nudge in the right direction for those who only view our Heavenly Father as a God of wrath and not a God of Love. (1 John 4:7-21)
February 20, 2018
How is it possible that I have not discovered this amazing author long before now? My favorite type of Christian fiction is not the sweet stories of Christians living out their faith, although those are wonderful; rather my favorite type of Christian fiction is the type whose stories open my heart and mind to the truth of God’s Word in a way that I have not seen it before. Ted Dekker and Francine Rivers, two very different types of writers, but both quite skillful at teaching God’s truth, are among the best, and now I know James Rubart to be that type of writer as well.
In The Man He Never Was Rubart addresses what it means to truly be crucified with Christ, the essence of God’s love, and what it means for perfect love to cast out all fear. He does this by allowing us to join Toren Daniels through an abusive childhood into an out-of-control adulthood. As readers we get to watch Toren’s struggle to gain control, to do the right things, and to win back the family he drove away. Stalked by someone from his middle and high school years, aided by a group of mysterious strangers, Toren is torn between darkness and light, between desires for peace and for an outlet for his anger, between love and hate. Warren Wiersbe wrote that Satan’s philosophy is glory without suffering, and God’s philosophy is suffering transformed into glory. Toren was certainly torn between choosing the philosophy that would determine which mountain he would end up climbing in his effort to be the man he wanted to be.
Not long into The Man He Never Was I was already wanting to share this book with many of my friends and family. It is one of those books that I will want to give a permanent spot in my home library, frequently revisiting the pages I’ve highlighted, of which there are many. It will be necessary to delete the copy that NetGalley and Thomas Nelson kindly provided in exchange for an honest review, but it will be worth purchasing a copy to transfer my highlighting to. I received no monetary compensation for providing this review. It was fueled with the hope that others will be moved to read this moving and enlightening book.
In The Man He Never Was Rubart addresses what it means to truly be crucified with Christ, the essence of God’s love, and what it means for perfect love to cast out all fear. He does this by allowing us to join Toren Daniels through an abusive childhood into an out-of-control adulthood. As readers we get to watch Toren’s struggle to gain control, to do the right things, and to win back the family he drove away. Stalked by someone from his middle and high school years, aided by a group of mysterious strangers, Toren is torn between darkness and light, between desires for peace and for an outlet for his anger, between love and hate. Warren Wiersbe wrote that Satan’s philosophy is glory without suffering, and God’s philosophy is suffering transformed into glory. Toren was certainly torn between choosing the philosophy that would determine which mountain he would end up climbing in his effort to be the man he wanted to be.
Not long into The Man He Never Was I was already wanting to share this book with many of my friends and family. It is one of those books that I will want to give a permanent spot in my home library, frequently revisiting the pages I’ve highlighted, of which there are many. It will be necessary to delete the copy that NetGalley and Thomas Nelson kindly provided in exchange for an honest review, but it will be worth purchasing a copy to transfer my highlighting to. I received no monetary compensation for providing this review. It was fueled with the hope that others will be moved to read this moving and enlightening book.
February 15, 2018
James Rubart is an author who doesn't have a lot of books out yet - I think this is his 9th - but they are all amazing and different reads. You don't get the run of the mill book. This one is no departure from his usual fare.
I was intrigued by the idea of a modern retelling of the classic Jekyll and Hyde story, and he did not disappoint. As with all of his books, this one had a supernatural aspect that only made the book more of an enjoyable read.
The classic story is mentioned in the book, and the main character has to fight his bad side which is referred to as Hyde. Ultimately, it comes down to Toren totally believing in and embracing God's love for him, and he in turn totally loving his family unselfishly.
I loved the book, and it really makes the reader think. The plot was great, and Rubart again came up with a terrific cast of characters, not the least of them, Toren, the man battling his own self. Although the book and story are fictional, there is a lot of great insight and spiritual truth throughout the book. I definitely recommend it.
I was intrigued by the idea of a modern retelling of the classic Jekyll and Hyde story, and he did not disappoint. As with all of his books, this one had a supernatural aspect that only made the book more of an enjoyable read.
The classic story is mentioned in the book, and the main character has to fight his bad side which is referred to as Hyde. Ultimately, it comes down to Toren totally believing in and embracing God's love for him, and he in turn totally loving his family unselfishly.
I loved the book, and it really makes the reader think. The plot was great, and Rubart again came up with a terrific cast of characters, not the least of them, Toren, the man battling his own self. Although the book and story are fictional, there is a lot of great insight and spiritual truth throughout the book. I definitely recommend it.
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