Review – Rooms

This is the kind of book that makes my head hurt! James L. Rubart makes a notable splash with his debut novel…makes me curious to see what he’ll come up with next.

“Rooms” chronicles the life of Micah Taylor, a Seattle software genius who’s high-octane life is about to change dramatically. He’s inherited a house in Cannon Beach from his Great Uncle Archie…and he can’t resist the temptation to check out the property.

What he finds will blow his mind…and yours. The house is unique…changing…molding itself around who Micah is–or who he is becoming, maybe? Rooms appear and disappear, each with a spiritual significance.

Who built this house? How do they know so much about his life? And what does this have to do with him? Does Micah’s new friend, Rick, hold the answers? Or is Rick the one he needs to watch for?

With twists and turns, “Rooms” will hold your attention. It’s well-crafted, but not seamless…I was able to poke a few holes in the overall outline. I’m hoping these are just bugs and kinks to work out in the final draft.

The bizarre events cause Micah to examine his life and the path he is on. What will he find? How will it all end? Don’t give in to the temptation to read the last few pages…it will RUIN the story for you! But I must admit…**sniff**…I smell a sequel!

Overall, I was intrigued by the premise of “Rooms”, and found myself examining my own life in the light of the story. Questioning things I’ve taken for granted, and challenging views of Scripture that have embedded in my soul to see if they are truth or fiction.

I’m impressed with Mr. Rubart, and hope he writes more novels. In the meantime, I’m giving his debut four out of five bookmarks, with a key as a charm. Question is…which room will the key unlock for you?

Bwahahahahahahahahahaha……..sorry, couldn’t resist:-)

“Rooms” releases April 2010 from Broadman and Holman publishing…watch for it! And my thanks to Susan Sleeman of The Christian Suspense Zone for my advance reader copy.