Book of Days by James L. Rubart

Here is James L. Rubart's highly anticipated second novel. Let's begin with the back cover copy:

“… in Your book all my days were recorded, even those which were purposed before they had come into being.” —Psalm 139:16

Young Cameron Vaux’s mind is slipping. Memories of his wife, killed two years earlier in a car accident, are vanishing just as his dad predicted they would. Memories he knows he has to remember. His father tells Cameron that to save his mind he must find “the book with all days in it” —the past and future record of every soul on earth. When an obscure clue leads Cameron to a small central Oregon town, he meets enigmatic Taylor Stone, a possible guide to finding the book who seems to carry secrets far deeper than anyone imagines. Local hotshot TV personality, Ann Bannister, thinks the legend of the book is a farce, but she has her reasons to join Cameron’s search anyway. Finally, there is fanatical New Age guru Jason Judah, who will stop at nothing to find the book of days before Cameron does.

And now, my review:

Jim’s second novel carries with it the same thinking-outside-the-box originality which made Rooms so enjoyable. You’ll be swept into a world of secrets and searches against the rich backdrop of the beautiful Northwest.

The hero battles time’s passing as his recall abilities fade. The novel unnerved me as I saw some similarities in my own forgetfulness. What a great jumping-off point for a story. How cool too, that Jim honored the memory of his father in the writing, dedication, and author’s note of Book of Days.

Jim’s imaginative elements intrigue me, as does his use of outdoors hobbies, like rock climbing. As evidenced by both Rooms and Book of Days, Jim enjoys exploring supernatural elements. Makes for a more satisfying read. Along those lines, I once again loved Jim’s exploration of faith and belief. Is this "Book of Days," which is mentioned in the Bible, real? Can you find it on earth? Is God real…?

I appreciated Jim’s inclusion of a romance thread, but as a reader and writer of inspirational romance, I would have liked to see more of this. Especially when he mentioned Wesley of The Princess Bride.

If you enjoyed Rooms and/or if you’re looking for something outside the box, you’ll love this novel.

Highly recommended.