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The Chair
If you were given an ancient-looking chair and told Jesus Christ made it, would you believe them?
James L. Rubart is the bestselling, four-time Christy Award-winning author of nine novels, and has won numerous other accolades for his unique, mind-bending stories.
About THE
When an elderly lady shows up in Corin Roscoe's antiques store and gives him a chair she claims was built by Christ, he scoffs. But when a young boy is miraculously healed after sitting in the chair, he stops laughing and starts to wonder. Could the chair heal the person whose life he destroyed twelve years ago?
As word spreads of the boy's healing, a mega-church pastor is determined to manipulate Corin into turning over the chair. And that mysterious woman who gave him the piece says it’s Corin’s destiny to guard the chair above everything else. But why?
Desperate, he turns to the one person he can trust, a college history professor who knows more about the legend of the chair than he reveals.
Searching for the truth about the artifact, and the unexplained phenomena surrounding it, Corin soon realizes he isn’t the only one willing to do anything to possess the power that surrounds The Chair .
James L. Rubart is the bestselling, four-time Christy Award-winning author of nine novels, and has won numerous other accolades for his unique, mind-bending stories.
About THE
When an elderly lady shows up in Corin Roscoe's antiques store and gives him a chair she claims was built by Christ, he scoffs. But when a young boy is miraculously healed after sitting in the chair, he stops laughing and starts to wonder. Could the chair heal the person whose life he destroyed twelve years ago?
As word spreads of the boy's healing, a mega-church pastor is determined to manipulate Corin into turning over the chair. And that mysterious woman who gave him the piece says it’s Corin’s destiny to guard the chair above everything else. But why?
Desperate, he turns to the one person he can trust, a college history professor who knows more about the legend of the chair than he reveals.
Searching for the truth about the artifact, and the unexplained phenomena surrounding it, Corin soon realizes he isn’t the only one willing to do anything to possess the power that surrounds The Chair .
403 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 14, 2011
154 people are currently reading
1093 people want to read
About the author
James L. Rubart
44 books897 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 208 reviews
May 20, 2014
If this book had been as "good" (that is of course a subjective word choice) throughout as it was for say the final quarter I could and would have given it 4 stars. This is the second book by the author I've read. It like the first I found (and again that is a subjective statement) I found the "storytelling" slow and somewhat disjointed.
The book has a story to tell us and it's got a message to deliver. it does both it's just that I found it a little convoluted, much as if there is/was maybe a quarter more book than there needs/needed to be. There are parts of the storytelling that just seems tacked on.
There are also some false notes and I'm not sure if they are there to show that people will accept arguments simply because they've heard them a lot or because the writer didn't check. (For example one of our characters who is hostile to Christianity states that "Jesus nowhere says He is the Son of God". This is not true [note John 10:36, "why do you call it blasphemy when I say, 'I am the Son of God'? After all, the Father set me apart and sent me into the world." So I'm not sure if his point is to get readers to check or simply that people have heard this a lot and simply accept it and he didn't look). There are a few places where the false notes intrude. On the other hand I suppose many readers will read over them without notice. Still it is as I noted a sour note in the books song.
Both books I've read by this writer have the same sort of back story. There are characters who have at least peripherally "known God" and are now making their way back. There are characters who have been hurt and and are now hostile to Christianity. Others aren't what they seem and so on.
As I said, not a bad book and I like the way he tied it up. I only wish that the story had been more organized a little sooner.
The book has a story to tell us and it's got a message to deliver. it does both it's just that I found it a little convoluted, much as if there is/was maybe a quarter more book than there needs/needed to be. There are parts of the storytelling that just seems tacked on.
There are also some false notes and I'm not sure if they are there to show that people will accept arguments simply because they've heard them a lot or because the writer didn't check. (For example one of our characters who is hostile to Christianity states that "Jesus nowhere says He is the Son of God". This is not true [note John 10:36, "why do you call it blasphemy when I say, 'I am the Son of God'? After all, the Father set me apart and sent me into the world." So I'm not sure if his point is to get readers to check or simply that people have heard this a lot and simply accept it and he didn't look). There are a few places where the false notes intrude. On the other hand I suppose many readers will read over them without notice. Still it is as I noted a sour note in the books song.
Both books I've read by this writer have the same sort of back story. There are characters who have at least peripherally "known God" and are now making their way back. There are characters who have been hurt and and are now hostile to Christianity. Others aren't what they seem and so on.
As I said, not a bad book and I like the way he tied it up. I only wish that the story had been more organized a little sooner.
August 21, 2013
Outstanding! Highly recommend! Hard to put down. Inspiring and insightful for the Christian walk. Story line changes and leaves you wondering what's next.
July 13, 2014
Synopsis
Corin Roscoe, an antique dealer and restorer, is given a chair that is said to be made by none other than Jesus Christ. Corin doesn't really believe in such things…until a young boy is healed of his asthma after sitting in it, which makes headlines everywhere. The pastor of a mega-church tries to trick Corin into handing it over, but, the lady who gave him the chair told him it was his duty to protect the chair at all costs. Corin wants more than anything to heal the rift between him and his brother, who was severely injured in an accident several years ago thanks to Corin's mistake…but does the chair really possess such power? If so, how will Corin ever convince his brother to sit in it? The two of them are going to be in for a big surprise…
My Review
James L. Rubart is a relatively new Christian author whose storytelling talents can't be denied. Much like C. S. Lewis, he uses the power of allegory to both teach and entertain. This story made me realize that I can't progress until I move on from my past…and that's just what I plan on doing! My hat's off to you, Mr. Rubart!
Score: 4.5/5
Corin Roscoe, an antique dealer and restorer, is given a chair that is said to be made by none other than Jesus Christ. Corin doesn't really believe in such things…until a young boy is healed of his asthma after sitting in it, which makes headlines everywhere. The pastor of a mega-church tries to trick Corin into handing it over, but, the lady who gave him the chair told him it was his duty to protect the chair at all costs. Corin wants more than anything to heal the rift between him and his brother, who was severely injured in an accident several years ago thanks to Corin's mistake…but does the chair really possess such power? If so, how will Corin ever convince his brother to sit in it? The two of them are going to be in for a big surprise…
My Review
James L. Rubart is a relatively new Christian author whose storytelling talents can't be denied. Much like C. S. Lewis, he uses the power of allegory to both teach and entertain. This story made me realize that I can't progress until I move on from my past…and that's just what I plan on doing! My hat's off to you, Mr. Rubart!
Score: 4.5/5
August 30, 2011
Rubart does it again! The Chair is a beautiful and poignant look into friendships, bitterness, and beauty of restoration. An unexpected twist left me with my mouth open—but it also jarred me into the daunting realization that I too had made the same mistake the characters made (read the book to find out what I mean!) that made them lose sight of what was important. With Rubart, there is never a bad read, so grab this book and hold on to THE CHAIR with both hands!
April 25, 2012
If I could I would give this a 2.5 but that doesn't seem to be an option!
I have read his other title, Book of Days” and liked it. This story was not quite as developed. The idea was interesting but I had trouble following some of the story. The time line didn't flow in some places. I needed to go back thinking I'd skipped a chapter (It is rare for me to have this problems when reading a story) The story just skipped over some details that made it difficult to see how the main character goes from a to b. I think that my 12 year old son would really enjoy the story because there is lots of action and the main character is really into adrenaline rush sports. I'm thinking that the story was not really aimed at 40 year old mothers??? The main character seemed very stunted in his development. (I think the author intended this interpretation). He was so obsessed with an accident he believes was his fault where is brother became paralysed. He goes back to this “failure” repeatedly and yet he gives barely a passing thought to his ex-wife and the problems they must have had to cause their marriage to fail??? He keeps having almost identical conversations with his new girlfriend about things she clearly does not wish to discuss with him and he does not seem to get a clue! Not surprisingly their relationship does not work out and he is not too broken up about it.
I have read his other title, Book of Days” and liked it. This story was not quite as developed. The idea was interesting but I had trouble following some of the story. The time line didn't flow in some places. I needed to go back thinking I'd skipped a chapter (It is rare for me to have this problems when reading a story) The story just skipped over some details that made it difficult to see how the main character goes from a to b. I think that my 12 year old son would really enjoy the story because there is lots of action and the main character is really into adrenaline rush sports. I'm thinking that the story was not really aimed at 40 year old mothers??? The main character seemed very stunted in his development. (I think the author intended this interpretation). He was so obsessed with an accident he believes was his fault where is brother became paralysed. He goes back to this “failure” repeatedly and yet he gives barely a passing thought to his ex-wife and the problems they must have had to cause their marriage to fail??? He keeps having almost identical conversations with his new girlfriend about things she clearly does not wish to discuss with him and he does not seem to get a clue! Not surprisingly their relationship does not work out and he is not too broken up about it.
March 22, 2012
Much like Coran, an extreme sports junkie, I, too, feel like I just got done BASE jumping after having read this book and now I have a serious case of whiplash. While it was good, it felt, at times, very disjointed and like the whole plotline and story was being both forced and rushed.
The premise was utterly fascinating -- what if Jesus (who, according to the Bible moonlighted as a carpenter on top of his Son of God duties) had built a chair...And that chair was passed down by a secret society (oh, hi there, Dan Brown and the Illuminati) until it reached the hands and possession of our feckless main character, Coran, who also just so happened to be an antiques dealer.
I'm willing to suspend belief but there were simply too many holes in this story. I think the idea was great...What if Christ had built a chair and what if this mythical chair had powers to heal/reconcile? What an awesome premise. I just wish it had been fleshed out more and not rushed. The bad guys were easy to spot and very one dimensional. However, the character of Mark Jefferies was very intriguing. I wish he would have gotten more 'screen time' (page time?).
All in all, a great idea that didn't live up to its own hype. Recommended, but with an asterisk. If you're looking for a rip roaring thriller, this doesn't quite fit the bill.
The premise was utterly fascinating -- what if Jesus (who, according to the Bible moonlighted as a carpenter on top of his Son of God duties) had built a chair...And that chair was passed down by a secret society (oh, hi there, Dan Brown and the Illuminati) until it reached the hands and possession of our feckless main character, Coran, who also just so happened to be an antiques dealer.
I'm willing to suspend belief but there were simply too many holes in this story. I think the idea was great...What if Christ had built a chair and what if this mythical chair had powers to heal/reconcile? What an awesome premise. I just wish it had been fleshed out more and not rushed. The bad guys were easy to spot and very one dimensional. However, the character of Mark Jefferies was very intriguing. I wish he would have gotten more 'screen time' (page time?).
All in all, a great idea that didn't live up to its own hype. Recommended, but with an asterisk. If you're looking for a rip roaring thriller, this doesn't quite fit the bill.
August 31, 2011
MOM'S REVIEW:
If you were told that a certain chair was made by Jesus Christ and had healing power, would you believe it?
Corin Roscoe, an antique store owner, is given this chair and then begins his search for the truth. His life takes many unexpected and dangerous turns as others are affected by his search and desperate people try to get possession of the chair.
Healing broken relationships is the main theme of this novel and that is accomplished in a unique way by this author of other books such as "Rooms" and "Book of Days". I enjoyed his characters and storyline and was pleased with his ending.
I recommend this book as a "good read", but also as a parable on relationships.
* * * * *
This review book was provided by B&H Fiction but the opinion expressed was my own.
If you were told that a certain chair was made by Jesus Christ and had healing power, would you believe it?
Corin Roscoe, an antique store owner, is given this chair and then begins his search for the truth. His life takes many unexpected and dangerous turns as others are affected by his search and desperate people try to get possession of the chair.
Healing broken relationships is the main theme of this novel and that is accomplished in a unique way by this author of other books such as "Rooms" and "Book of Days". I enjoyed his characters and storyline and was pleased with his ending.
I recommend this book as a "good read", but also as a parable on relationships.
* * * * *
This review book was provided by B&H Fiction but the opinion expressed was my own.
June 11, 2025
4.5 stars rounded up**
I really really enjoyed this book. It kept me company while I was gardening quite a bit.
The main theme of the book is restoring broken relationships, something that is heavy on my heart all the time. I enjoyed the suspense, the intrigue about a "chair made by Christ that can heal people". That was super interesting to me and is also what drew me into the story.
Everything doesn't really just get wrapped up in a neat and tidy bow at the end either which I did really appreciate.
If you enjoy a good Christian suspense, I definitely recommend you pick this one up!
I really really enjoyed this book. It kept me company while I was gardening quite a bit.
The main theme of the book is restoring broken relationships, something that is heavy on my heart all the time. I enjoyed the suspense, the intrigue about a "chair made by Christ that can heal people". That was super interesting to me and is also what drew me into the story.
Everything doesn't really just get wrapped up in a neat and tidy bow at the end either which I did really appreciate.
If you enjoy a good Christian suspense, I definitely recommend you pick this one up!
July 26, 2020
Over the top word play and some rediculous scenarios, but I really enjoyed this book. It kept me engaged. It had cool plot twists and all around it was good. I'll read more books by Rubart.
December 17, 2020
I enjoyed this, but it wasn't my favorite James Rubart book.
July 14, 2024
Found this book at my local library sale and I read the premise and had to read it!! It was an interesting read! A chair that was given to a antique dealer that was supposedly made by Jesus. It was an interesting read. It had me invested from beginning to end. It will have you wondering what is healing?? Definitely worth the 4 stars!!!
July 14, 2011
On Tuesday afternoon at five thirty, an elderly lady strode into Corin's antique store as if she owned it and said, "The next two months of your life will be either heaven or hell."
The corners of her mouth turned up a fraction. It was almost a smile.
"Excuse me?" Corin Roscoe stared at her over the mound of bills in front of him and stifled a laugh. White hair, deep smile lines etched into her high cheekbones - she had to be at least midseventies. Maybe eighty, but she moved like she was in her forties. She wore a dark tan coat that bounced off her calves as she strolled toward Corin, ice blue eyes full of laughter. She didn't look crazy.
"I've brought you the chair, you see." She stared at him as if that statement would explain everything.
Corin brushed his dark hair off his forehead and slid off the stool behind his sales counter. "What chair?"
The woman looked around the store like a schoolteacher evaluating a new classroom of students. Her eyes seemed to settle on the pile of precisely stacked books from the 1700's. "I love books, you know."
"Do I know you?" He took a step towards the woman.
"No." Her laugh had a tinge of music in it. "I hardly think so."
"You're sure?"
"Yes."
"You're a fortune teller, right? And think a little heaven and a little hell is coming my way. Can't I just subscribe to your newsletter?"
"Probably an interweaving of the two realms. And I believe you'll discover the hope of restoration. The final outcome will, of course, be your choice."
In the latest novel by James. L. Rubart, The Chair, takes readers on an exceptional journey into one of the greatest possible antiques ever discovered. A plain, wooden chair crafted perfectly in every dimension and whenever people sit in it, they are miraculously healed. Soon it appears that is possible that the chair was crafted by Jesus Christ and within the chair holds all the power He possessed after He was resurrected.
This being my third book by James L. Rubart, I couldn't wait to read this one when I read about it through his Facebook page. Literally on pins and needles waiting to the first opportunity to read this one. I was not disappointed for my long wait. Worth every single word on the page. He once more captivated my attention from the first few words I shared with you above, until the final paragraph that closes the book. It was exceptional once more and I could completely feel the burden that Corin carries with him throughout the book. The Chair will do more than keep you glued to every word, but pull at your own heart and provide you a clear picture at what Christ did for all of us on the cross.
I received this Kindle format compliments of B & H Publishing Group through Netgalley for my honest review and again, 5 out of 5 stars is not high enough for this book. It literally goes off the chart in my book and thank you James for becoming one of my personal favorite authors in my own personal collection of your literary works.
The corners of her mouth turned up a fraction. It was almost a smile.
"Excuse me?" Corin Roscoe stared at her over the mound of bills in front of him and stifled a laugh. White hair, deep smile lines etched into her high cheekbones - she had to be at least midseventies. Maybe eighty, but she moved like she was in her forties. She wore a dark tan coat that bounced off her calves as she strolled toward Corin, ice blue eyes full of laughter. She didn't look crazy.
"I've brought you the chair, you see." She stared at him as if that statement would explain everything.
Corin brushed his dark hair off his forehead and slid off the stool behind his sales counter. "What chair?"
The woman looked around the store like a schoolteacher evaluating a new classroom of students. Her eyes seemed to settle on the pile of precisely stacked books from the 1700's. "I love books, you know."
"Do I know you?" He took a step towards the woman.
"No." Her laugh had a tinge of music in it. "I hardly think so."
"You're sure?"
"Yes."
"You're a fortune teller, right? And think a little heaven and a little hell is coming my way. Can't I just subscribe to your newsletter?"
"Probably an interweaving of the two realms. And I believe you'll discover the hope of restoration. The final outcome will, of course, be your choice."
In the latest novel by James. L. Rubart, The Chair, takes readers on an exceptional journey into one of the greatest possible antiques ever discovered. A plain, wooden chair crafted perfectly in every dimension and whenever people sit in it, they are miraculously healed. Soon it appears that is possible that the chair was crafted by Jesus Christ and within the chair holds all the power He possessed after He was resurrected.
This being my third book by James L. Rubart, I couldn't wait to read this one when I read about it through his Facebook page. Literally on pins and needles waiting to the first opportunity to read this one. I was not disappointed for my long wait. Worth every single word on the page. He once more captivated my attention from the first few words I shared with you above, until the final paragraph that closes the book. It was exceptional once more and I could completely feel the burden that Corin carries with him throughout the book. The Chair will do more than keep you glued to every word, but pull at your own heart and provide you a clear picture at what Christ did for all of us on the cross.
I received this Kindle format compliments of B & H Publishing Group through Netgalley for my honest review and again, 5 out of 5 stars is not high enough for this book. It literally goes off the chart in my book and thank you James for becoming one of my personal favorite authors in my own personal collection of your literary works.
July 21, 2018
Where to begin....
Again the only thing I didn't like for the whole book was Tori. Other than her everything was fine. It was an okay read comparing to the author's other books but I would recommend Soul's Gate the most so far still. This and the Book of Days were considerably harder/slower to chew through.
Again the only thing I didn't like for the whole book was Tori. Other than her everything was fine. It was an okay read comparing to the author's other books but I would recommend Soul's Gate the most so far still. This and the Book of Days were considerably harder/slower to chew through.
August 13, 2012
I loved LOVED this book, it stretched my imagination greatly. I have grown up in the church, and have never ever considered the concept or idea that a peice of furniture could be made by Jesus. It stretches me to imagine that a chair could survive for two thousand plus years, and end up in America of all places. However that is what makes the book fantastic. It is the unknown. Could it be possible.
Of all the people in America, Corin Roscoe, cannot fathom why this lady, who will not tell him who she is, ended up bringing this chair into his antique shop. Corin is hanging on the edge by the tip of his fingers. Financially, emotionally, and often physically. Alway pushing the envelope, seeming to try to cheat death with his daring adventure, Corin is a mess. His only brother is paralyzed and will not even speak to him, after an accident occurred during one of these high risk adventures. Their parents are dead, and Corin is trying to beat the demons that plague him in his dreams. The dark, murky water that he drowned in as a child, threatens to drown him in his nightmares. Now a chair that might have been made by the only person who can truly help Corin, Jesus, has found its way into his life, and as the woman who gave it to him warned, his life turns into hell on earth. He thought things were bad before the chair! Threats, and violence follow Corin now. It seems that the chair is greatly desired by at least one person, the pastor of a megachurch. But is he the one who is sending the threats, and causing damage to Corin's store?
This book sucks you in, I mean literally I felt like I was in a Twilight Zone vacuum, very surreal but ohh so amazing!! I love James Rubart's books, and this one did not disappoint me. The only disappointment was that I waited so long to read it!! 5 stars US $14.99 382 pages
This book was provided for review purposes only, no payment was received for this review.
October 2, 2011
James Rubart is carving out his own niche in writing. It isn't pure spec fiction, but has tones of it. It isn't pure mystery or suspense but it will keep you guessing. It isn't pure drama but it is infused with it at every turn. What is it? Fantastic!
He started with Rooms and then Book of Days and now his 3rd book in one year is The Chair. Each one is a stand alone with new characters, different situations and insightful theology. The Chair got me from the beginning with the main character, Corin, an adrenaline junkie that has a darkness in his past related to his younger brother, Shasta. Eventually we find out what exactly happened and why Shasta won't even talk to Corin or even let him in his house. So Corin has lost his only family and is trying to keep his antique shop out of the red and fighting a losing battle it seems.
Then an unusual woman brings an antique to his store to give him that starts creating havoc in his life. A chair that she claims is really old and made by someone special. She doesn't give him details and says she'll be in touch. A series of events happen that lead Corin to believe that just maybe the carpenter in question is Jesus. So what do you do then? He is offered large sums of money for the chair but is starting to think there might be something to it - the power of it. How does he find out just what the chair is really about and who can he trust? James takes you on an amazing journey to truth, forgiveness and grace as Corin follows the clues, the legends and his heart. I can't wait to see what James Rubart serves up next!
He started with Rooms and then Book of Days and now his 3rd book in one year is The Chair. Each one is a stand alone with new characters, different situations and insightful theology. The Chair got me from the beginning with the main character, Corin, an adrenaline junkie that has a darkness in his past related to his younger brother, Shasta. Eventually we find out what exactly happened and why Shasta won't even talk to Corin or even let him in his house. So Corin has lost his only family and is trying to keep his antique shop out of the red and fighting a losing battle it seems.
Then an unusual woman brings an antique to his store to give him that starts creating havoc in his life. A chair that she claims is really old and made by someone special. She doesn't give him details and says she'll be in touch. A series of events happen that lead Corin to believe that just maybe the carpenter in question is Jesus. So what do you do then? He is offered large sums of money for the chair but is starting to think there might be something to it - the power of it. How does he find out just what the chair is really about and who can he trust? James takes you on an amazing journey to truth, forgiveness and grace as Corin follows the clues, the legends and his heart. I can't wait to see what James Rubart serves up next!
September 15, 2011
I wasn't sure what to expect when I started 'The Chair' - because this is the first book that I've read by James L. Rubart - but I'm pleased to say that I really enjoyed it! It had suspense, drama, and a good story.
If you were given an ancient-looking chair and told Jesus Christ made it, would you believe it?
Corin Roscoe, the owner of an antiques store, is given a chair and told it was made by the most talented craftsman the world has ever known. He is then taken on an intense journey of grief, joy, sorrow, and restoration.
He lives with guilt over pain from the past, deals with claustrophobia, and is afraid of going in water because of something that happened when he was young.
I found many parts of 'The Chair' weird (which I think was the intent) and I felt as though I was reading a mystery. There was so much going on, but until the end you didn't know the full intent (and even now I'm still slightly confused). I feel there should have been at least one more chapter (or at least an epilogue) - the ending didn't feel like the end (if that makes sense).
I found the characters intriguing. People you thought were friends, were foes. And people you thought were against Corin, were actually for Corin.
'The Chair' puts a whole new light on James L. Rubart's books. I now plan to read other books by him in the future. I recommend this if you enjoy reading books that have a slightly weird plot, but are really interesting (kind of like Ted Dekker's books).
*Many thanks to B&H publishing and JKSCommunications for my review copy.*
If you were given an ancient-looking chair and told Jesus Christ made it, would you believe it?
Corin Roscoe, the owner of an antiques store, is given a chair and told it was made by the most talented craftsman the world has ever known. He is then taken on an intense journey of grief, joy, sorrow, and restoration.
He lives with guilt over pain from the past, deals with claustrophobia, and is afraid of going in water because of something that happened when he was young.
I found many parts of 'The Chair' weird (which I think was the intent) and I felt as though I was reading a mystery. There was so much going on, but until the end you didn't know the full intent (and even now I'm still slightly confused). I feel there should have been at least one more chapter (or at least an epilogue) - the ending didn't feel like the end (if that makes sense).
I found the characters intriguing. People you thought were friends, were foes. And people you thought were against Corin, were actually for Corin.
'The Chair' puts a whole new light on James L. Rubart's books. I now plan to read other books by him in the future. I recommend this if you enjoy reading books that have a slightly weird plot, but are really interesting (kind of like Ted Dekker's books).
*Many thanks to B&H publishing and JKSCommunications for my review copy.*
August 30, 2011
“Do religious artifacts have supernatural power?” “how do you really get over guilt and regret?” and “What lengths would you go to in order to get what you want?” Best-selling author James Rubart (www.jimrubart.com) plays with these and other interesting questions in many ways in his new book.
An ancient chair, crafted by the “most talented tekton craftsman the world has ever known” ends up in Corin Roscoe’s antique shop. The chair apparently has healing power—though a power that can’t be manipulated or controlled. But many people exert their own power to try to obtain the chair, believing it was actually made by Jesus. So in a way, people’s obsession with the chair is evidence of the chair’s power.
This artfully woven story includes not just the mystery of the chair, but explores themes like relationships, forgiveness, healing and faith. One thing I appreciated is that although the book is Christian, it isn’t overly simplistic. There’s a Christian character who’s a hypocrite (but wrestles with what he sees himself becoming), and someone who doesn’t believe in Christianity that is very likable but has obviously been burned and doesn’t want to open her heart. Some of the characters are changed as they grow spiritually, others look at faith and walk away. I love that! It’s not all neat and tidy—much more like real life. The author shows people’s process and doesn’t try to preach, and I was really grateful for that! I highly recommend this book.
An ancient chair, crafted by the “most talented tekton craftsman the world has ever known” ends up in Corin Roscoe’s antique shop. The chair apparently has healing power—though a power that can’t be manipulated or controlled. But many people exert their own power to try to obtain the chair, believing it was actually made by Jesus. So in a way, people’s obsession with the chair is evidence of the chair’s power.
This artfully woven story includes not just the mystery of the chair, but explores themes like relationships, forgiveness, healing and faith. One thing I appreciated is that although the book is Christian, it isn’t overly simplistic. There’s a Christian character who’s a hypocrite (but wrestles with what he sees himself becoming), and someone who doesn’t believe in Christianity that is very likable but has obviously been burned and doesn’t want to open her heart. Some of the characters are changed as they grow spiritually, others look at faith and walk away. I love that! It’s not all neat and tidy—much more like real life. The author shows people’s process and doesn’t try to preach, and I was really grateful for that! I highly recommend this book.
April 10, 2018
This book will always be in my top 10 list. Although the book starts out a little slow, and I found myself correcting grammar, and sentences, the message of this book is a very significant component of my life and a direct path to my happiness.
Numerous profound themes are exhibited throughout the book as components that lead one to peace. Forgiveness, Friendships, Healing, Love, Truth - They all should be treasured and handled with care.
Two quotes in the book have made me contemplate and given me greater understanding of life events, reactions, and devotion.
1. Nicole said; “Healing is healing. Western culture makes the distinction, but God does not. What good is an arm or leg that is healed, when the mind is still broken? Also, you might consider your sitting in the chair might not be only about your healing, but about someone else's.”
2. “An obsession with the chair is one of despair, unless it lead to an obsession with the one who made it”.
I love when a book keeps me captivated even when I'm not reading especially when I gain greater understanding and happiness.
This book has a message for anyone who is a follower or Christ, or feels they are being swallowed up by a dark and murky fear, or have a hole or void they know needs filled.
Numerous profound themes are exhibited throughout the book as components that lead one to peace. Forgiveness, Friendships, Healing, Love, Truth - They all should be treasured and handled with care.
Two quotes in the book have made me contemplate and given me greater understanding of life events, reactions, and devotion.
1. Nicole said; “Healing is healing. Western culture makes the distinction, but God does not. What good is an arm or leg that is healed, when the mind is still broken? Also, you might consider your sitting in the chair might not be only about your healing, but about someone else's.”
2. “An obsession with the chair is one of despair, unless it lead to an obsession with the one who made it”.
I love when a book keeps me captivated even when I'm not reading especially when I gain greater understanding and happiness.
This book has a message for anyone who is a follower or Christ, or feels they are being swallowed up by a dark and murky fear, or have a hole or void they know needs filled.
November 30, 2011
SOMETIMES A CHAIR IS NOT JUST A CHAIR.
Corin Roscoe, an antiques store owner, is a man fighting fears relatable to us all: ones with family, with friends, with God. His days are haunted with harsh realities and his nights by dreams of horrific incidents endured. He reaches many crossroads in this book: does he hang onto fear or face it? Hang onto guilt or seek forgiveness? Deny the truth or accept it? And when life offers him a choice between the easy road or the high road--when the easy road will spare him further struggles--which does he choose?
Life is tough, the conflicts are easily imagined as our own, and the choices we make either lead us into deeper trouble or shine a light on a path of redemption and restoration. The choice, as Corin learns, is ours to make. Over and again throughout our lives.
James Rubart plays fair with the reader, portrays a realistic view of anti-faith and expresses an intriguing, thought-provoking glimpse at God's mysterious ways of redemption. Sometimes a chair is not just a chair. Sometimes it's a path to discovery, forgiveness, healing, and restoration.
4-1/2 STARS
Gratitude to B & H for providing a copy of this novel.
Corin Roscoe, an antiques store owner, is a man fighting fears relatable to us all: ones with family, with friends, with God. His days are haunted with harsh realities and his nights by dreams of horrific incidents endured. He reaches many crossroads in this book: does he hang onto fear or face it? Hang onto guilt or seek forgiveness? Deny the truth or accept it? And when life offers him a choice between the easy road or the high road--when the easy road will spare him further struggles--which does he choose?
Life is tough, the conflicts are easily imagined as our own, and the choices we make either lead us into deeper trouble or shine a light on a path of redemption and restoration. The choice, as Corin learns, is ours to make. Over and again throughout our lives.
James Rubart plays fair with the reader, portrays a realistic view of anti-faith and expresses an intriguing, thought-provoking glimpse at God's mysterious ways of redemption. Sometimes a chair is not just a chair. Sometimes it's a path to discovery, forgiveness, healing, and restoration.
4-1/2 STARS
Gratitude to B & H for providing a copy of this novel.
September 23, 2015
James Rubarts' The Chair will lead you on an adventure of faith and self-examination as Corin, owner of an antiques shop that is on it's last breaths of life, stumbles upon what will no doubt be his greatest acquisition yet. When an elderly woman walks in and gives him a chair supposedly made by Christ himself, he is naturally skeptical. But when strange and unexplained phenomenon begin to surround the chair, Corin begins to wonder if there really isn't more to it than meets the eye. With criminals on the prowl, looking to get the artifact for their own selfish purposes, Corin will embark on a journey that will open wounds, both old and new, and lead him to the precipice of true revelation. The entire book is centered around the "classic" ideas of faith, restoration, and existentialism, and is based off of one of the authors own experiences and, for me, was an utter bore. The book was mostly filler, dealing with Corins own fears and familial issues and could have been half as long for what actually happened. The only thing I liked about this book is that it's a nice fast read.
January 16, 2016
Wow, wow, wow, wow, wow! And an extra WOW just so you take me seriously! I was not too sure about this book because I read "Rooms" by the same Author and thought it was just OK. But this one was so much better than just ok, it was amazing! Part Christian psychological drama, part thriller, part suspense, part love story, and ALL on-the-edge-of-your-seat reading! I read this in 2 days and didn't even want to put it down when I had to.
Every single time I thought I had things figured out... I would be wrong! I did figure out a couple of details but certainly was fooled by most of it.
This is a great Christian suspense book, very powerful book with a strong message., but even if you are not a Christian you should still enjoy reading this. This book has gotten great reviews!
Every single time I thought I had things figured out... I would be wrong! I did figure out a couple of details but certainly was fooled by most of it.
This is a great Christian suspense book, very powerful book with a strong message., but even if you are not a Christian you should still enjoy reading this. This book has gotten great reviews!
January 7, 2020
I read "Soul's Gate" first, and I liked it better than "The Chair." "The Chair" was an ambitious concept, and I deeply appreciated the importance the book gave to inner healing and forgiveness without delving into cheesiness.
But what happened with Tori? I know they broke up, but her confusion and hurt over the things of God was left unresolved. If her turmoil wasn't germane to the story, why include it?
I'm glad to see this type of Christian fiction being published. It's been too long in coming.
But what happened with Tori? I know they broke up, but her confusion and hurt over the things of God was left unresolved. If her turmoil wasn't germane to the story, why include it?
I'm glad to see this type of Christian fiction being published. It's been too long in coming.
July 7, 2014
Reseña en español
A very entertaining reading. I liked the history and development of the mystery. It wasn't overwhelming and it was easy to read. But what I did not like much was the end ...
Moreover, the message was touching and it touched my heart.
A very entertaining reading. I liked the history and development of the mystery. It wasn't overwhelming and it was easy to read. But what I did not like much was the end ...
Moreover, the message was touching and it touched my heart.
December 7, 2011
A very thought provoking book. Is it reallly a chair crafted by Christ? This is what the owner of an antiques store wonders after an odd older woman gives him a free chair. Odd miracles seem to occur as the book continues. A very interesting read; I recommend it highly.
August 11, 2015
Gripping from start to end.
February 19, 2019
I love how James Rubart writes each book with a life giving message. His books are always powerful reminders to live life to the fullest and for eternity. The theme of this book is reconciliation and I thought James nailed this one well in this story.
I loved the plot of this book and I thought it was interesting and thought provoking! This story is about a chair that was supposedly made by Jesus when He was a carpenter. The chair also supposedly has healing abilities due to its maker. One day, an old woman drops off this chair to a 30 something male who owns an antique shop. This old woman was not selling this chair, however, but GIVING this chair to him. This story is shrouded in mystery about the reasons behind this women’s benevolence as well as whether this chair really was special or not. I also appreciated the plot twist at the end. The ending of the book was also perfect!
Also, don’t miss the authors note at the end! The author talks about his own story of reconciling with a close friend and how that event led to writing this story. It brought tears to my eyes and that true story was the perfect conclusion to this book!
I loved the plot of this book and I thought it was interesting and thought provoking! This story is about a chair that was supposedly made by Jesus when He was a carpenter. The chair also supposedly has healing abilities due to its maker. One day, an old woman drops off this chair to a 30 something male who owns an antique shop. This old woman was not selling this chair, however, but GIVING this chair to him. This story is shrouded in mystery about the reasons behind this women’s benevolence as well as whether this chair really was special or not. I also appreciated the plot twist at the end. The ending of the book was also perfect!
Also, don’t miss the authors note at the end! The author talks about his own story of reconciling with a close friend and how that event led to writing this story. It brought tears to my eyes and that true story was the perfect conclusion to this book!
May 31, 2019
A three star story until the last 50 pages
I wouldn’t say that the author is a gifted writer; I would however say that he is able to trigger emotions from his stories and make you see things from a new perspective and I value that in a story more than how well it it written. the depth of the characters is less than I expected, the story seems to take unanticipated course changes without notice tot he point that they become expected and there are the trite literary sayings often found in Christian books related to peace in their demeanor. Don’t let them become distractions from the message within the book. The message is worth the time invested. The book takes off in the opening chapters but appears to stall midway through. I finally finished the book today and I’m glad I stayed the course. If you bought the book to satisfy your need for a literary masterpiece; may I suggest that there is more in store than you had hoped for but it won’t be what you were searching for. There are many lessons to be had from this book and I hope that the readers are as touched by this story as I have been. May you experience the healing you so desperately need in your life.
I wouldn’t say that the author is a gifted writer; I would however say that he is able to trigger emotions from his stories and make you see things from a new perspective and I value that in a story more than how well it it written. the depth of the characters is less than I expected, the story seems to take unanticipated course changes without notice tot he point that they become expected and there are the trite literary sayings often found in Christian books related to peace in their demeanor. Don’t let them become distractions from the message within the book. The message is worth the time invested. The book takes off in the opening chapters but appears to stall midway through. I finally finished the book today and I’m glad I stayed the course. If you bought the book to satisfy your need for a literary masterpiece; may I suggest that there is more in store than you had hoped for but it won’t be what you were searching for. There are many lessons to be had from this book and I hope that the readers are as touched by this story as I have been. May you experience the healing you so desperately need in your life.
April 5, 2019
The chair is an exciting thrill ride of adventure, suspense, and healing of relationships. Corin has been carrying years of guilt, while his brother is wrestling with years of resentment. Can they both find peace and resolve their relationship and be healed from the hurt of the past?
The chair is part fantasy, but has wonderful spiritual aspects laced throughout the story that grab at your heart and make you think. It's a story of relationships restored, renewed faith, and peace. The characters seemed very real to me and I admired Corin's determination to not give up on a relationship with his brother. I highly recommend this book.
The chair is part fantasy, but has wonderful spiritual aspects laced throughout the story that grab at your heart and make you think. It's a story of relationships restored, renewed faith, and peace. The characters seemed very real to me and I admired Corin's determination to not give up on a relationship with his brother. I highly recommend this book.
October 2, 2018
Didn’t get it..
I was really expecting ‘The Chair” to be among books like ‘The Room’ and I was throughly disappointed. I understand we have to have forgiveness and forgive others in our lives..but the end was so not expected and I thought ‘The Chair’ was going to be something fascinating, it wasn’t. To say I liked it would be a lie. I’m sorry but it was all over the place & I still don’t get it? I’m a Christian and I have an open mind, but what has forgiveness got to do with a “chair” that was supposed to be made by Jesus? I didn’t get it..
I was really expecting ‘The Chair” to be among books like ‘The Room’ and I was throughly disappointed. I understand we have to have forgiveness and forgive others in our lives..but the end was so not expected and I thought ‘The Chair’ was going to be something fascinating, it wasn’t. To say I liked it would be a lie. I’m sorry but it was all over the place & I still don’t get it? I’m a Christian and I have an open mind, but what has forgiveness got to do with a “chair” that was supposed to be made by Jesus? I didn’t get it..
January 22, 2019
Reading this book was like riding a really wild roller coaster with so many ups, downs, twists and turns. This is the first book I have read by this author. The story was nothing like what I normally read. We often treasure those bits of history passed down generation to generation in the form of a Knox knack, chair, desk, table, etc. It is fun to imagine a piece of furniture crafted by Jesus,as a carpenter and passed down to a modern generation. It's a well written book you will want to read and pass on to others.
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