Here’s the thing –

I love books that have unique stories. I love reading from an author that I’ve not read from before, much less heard of. And I love when a book captures my imagination, staying in my thoughts long after I’ve closed the last page. Which is why I’m so disappointed that I didn’t fall in love with The Pages Of Her Life, because this novel held the promise of everything that makes a good story.

The beginning of this story jumped right into the depth of what this novel was all about; Finding ones inner strength while overcoming great obstacles. And it’s not a overstatement when I say that that lesson was showcased in a very different and unique way. It took some time for me to get into the flow of the characters, just because of how different the story was, but I eventually got the hang of it. Kinda. 😉 I wouldn't say that I’m over the moon with this novel, but I enjoyed the time spent reading it.

In summary, The Pages Of Her Life is a standout novel.

If you have never read a James Rubart book, you are missing out! He is one of the best authors I have ever read. The Pages of Her Life is another home run for this very talented author.

Allison Moore thought starting her own architecture firm with her best friend was going to be the best thing ever, no more working in the corporate world and having to answer to others. After her divorce and the death of her father, she needs something good in her life. While she enjoys working with her best friend and not having to answer to anyone, things are tougher than she would like to admit. When her mom tells her that her father had been living a secret double life and has left them almost half a million dollars in debt, she knows she must do something to help. As Allison searches for ways to help, she is gifted a journal which she pours her heart into. With each passing day, her problems seem to intensify and so does the mystery of her new journal. The words she writes in the journal begin to disappear and are replaced by new ones that help her see her situation in a new light.

James Rubart is quickly becoming one of my go to favorite authors. If I see he has a new book coming out, I am all over it. This is the third book I have read by him and it fully lived up to my expectations. His writing style is unlike that of anyone I have read before. He has a way of writing a story that goes so deep with characters that will pull you in better than most. I loved the way Allison and her brother stepped up to help their mom when they found out she was in need. Their mom was trying to do what all moms do and keep her kids from worrying but in the end, they had to come together as a family and work together to solve the difficult problem.

Readers need to go into this book with an open mind for what they will find within the pages. It is not your normal feel good read; this will require readers to go deeper and examine their faith and aspects of their own life. Rubart did an outstanding job of character development with Allison as she goes through trials and tribulations in her personal and professional life. I despised Derek and Linda, but that is ok as these are not characters we are supposed to like, and I loved how real the dislike for them came across. Fans of Rubart’s writing will notice characters from previous novels making an appearance. I almost feel there is a little more that could happen for a few of the characters. The storyline itself wrapped up nicely but I became so invested in these characters I would like to see more with them. I highly recommend this to readers that enjoy a story that will draw them in to the supernatural and explore elements of faith not often written about in such an entertaining and enjoyable story.

In "The Pages of Her Life," Allison Moore discovers what's truly important to her. But first, she learns that her dad had a secret life and put her family in massive debt. She must face rejection and wounds from her childhood. She faces a crisis at work that leaves her confused and hurt. She also receives a mysterious journal that changes her words and encourages her to look deeper inside herself as she pours out her fears, worries, frustrations, thoughts, and feelings onto the pages.
I liked the message in this book about how we must take off the facade and return to our true selves. It's almost a tale of how a mid-life crisis can return us to what's really important. And that's what happens to Allison. The book includes an ethereal, angelic angle, though, that's unrealistic, and there's no mention of the gospel and how God is the One who truly changes us rather than us changing ourselves. Also, the characters are relatable but not necessarily likable.
Overall, I like the book okay. I just didn't like it enough to buy it for myself or others.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Thomas Nelson through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

This may be my new favorite James Rubart book, edging out Rooms.
I think part of the reason I enjoyed this book so much, was I think this is the first time that Rubart’s main character is a woman. I could relate so well with Allison. Her struggles to be successful and to feel “good enough.”

Rubart did a fabulous job portraying what it is like to strive to be good enough for a parent or a boss or a significant other. I really could relate to her and her pain. The story spoke to me on a very deep level.

The other aspects of the story with her brother and mother were also very good. Sadly, portray what too many face in our world today.

The best part of the story, I can’t share in the review. Wouldn’t want to give too much away! But if you are a James Rubart fan you will be over the top excited! If you’re new to Rubart, you won’t see the significance of some of the key characters in this story.

Well written and thought provoking. I enjoyed this book very much and look further to read more of the author's previous and future work as well.

Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for giving me an ARC in exchange for an honest review*

Well now! This story was unexpected and so much more than I'd imagined beforehand. I confess that I haven't read much of Mr. Rubart's writing before this, but the synopsis intrigued me and other reader friends have loved his stories. So I dived in and found a whole lot more than I thought I would! In a really good way. Oh, this isn't a perfect story. There were a few bits that I skimmed through, but overall? Just wow.

First of all, I really like the sort of imagination that Mr. Rubart clearly has! :) Such a fantastically incredible story clearly comes from a mind whirling with insight and creativity. Even if the situations that are described within these chapters aren't true reality, can any one of us say that God can't really work this way? I mean, He's God! He can do anything and use any person or any situation in any way He chooses. He's all about story and words of truth, so it wasn't too difficult for me to fall into the fantastical bits of this story as if they were real. I was swept up in Allison's journey from start to finish, enjoying every step or misstep along the way.

Which brings me to Allison herself. She's a character that I could relate to because her uncertainty and fear spoke to my own battles with the same. And watching as she slowly begins to understand herself and how God sees her was a delight to witness. We get so much time in her head and her heart, and y'all know how much I love introspective and character-driven stories. Allison's progress isn't a page-turner, but a quiet and meaningful journey worthy of a reader willing to stick with her for the long haul.

Imaginative, fantastical, quiet, yet powerful, this is a story worth checking out. The emotions and truth-seeking resonated so well with my heart. With this first full foray into Mr. Rubart's writing, I am certainly intrigued to seek out more!

**I received a copy via Netgalley. All opinions expressed are my own.

To be completely honest, for the majority of this book I did not like it—not because the writing wasn’t stellar, but because of all the hardships the main character faced. Joining Allison Moore as she struggles with troubles and trials, which keep increasing exponentially, does not make for “pleasant” reading. However, the intriguing elements this author always includes hook you and you must keep going to find out how everything will turn out. And his skill at toying with the reader’s emotions is evident by the way it affected me. Yet, I do prefer a more uplifting story. That said, I did truly enjoy the last 10 percent as the problems resolved and the supernatural elements unfolded. James L. Rubart knows how to create plausible characters in unusual situations and make the tale seem believable. And the connection to earlier books was cleverly done. Of course, this fictional account can stand solidly on its own. I received a copy from Celebrate Lit. All opinions are my own.

I am speechless after reading this book. It is so emotional and reached into my soul and filled me with joy. It is not everyday you read a book that has all the elements you need to walk through life with. Allison is such a deep character that I was immediately drawn to her. A simple stop to get a coffee will change her life in ways she never thought possible. I was very intrigued by the journal that was handed to her. I'm sure I would question why I was chosen to receive it. God answers us in many ways and this book was packed with his wisdom and compassion. The author illustrates what it is like to seem lost in the world and everything around you falling apart.

Dexter was my least favorite character because he was deceitful and prideful. Poor Allison falls for his charms and goes to work for him with a promise to be his partner. I couldn't understand why she continued to work for him when it was obvious he was using her. Don't get me started on Linda the office manager. She defines the word power hungry by her actions and sour attitude.

As Allison begins to write in the journal, something happens and the words change. They are not what she wrote, but words that encouraged her and drew her toward God as He directed her path. There are so many intricate stories within the story that I found to be exceptionally well written. Allison't family is reeling from a tragedy, but they don't know how bad it is going to get. The surprises they discover are over whelming. I loved how Allison, her mother and brother were able to break down barriers and try to heal their relationships.

The story is about healing, seeking the truth, forgiving, and most of all trusting God. He puts people in our pathway at just the right time. I know what it is like to seek approval from my parents and never receiving it. Allison and her brother have carried that hurt for a long time from their father. Will they be able to heal from rejection? Will the journal lead Allison to hope and a better life? What a beautiful story that makes you look at yourself. Al the bitterness we carry can be gone if only we would give it to God. I believe that God doesn't give us more than we can handle. The one thing I took away from this story was hope. He is always there and sees our pain. We need to make the choice to listen to His voice and watch for signs that he is speaking to us.

I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.

James Rubart is definitely on my list of top authors. With a unique plotline propelled by unexplained circumstances and God-sized miracles, Pages of Her Life doesn't disappoint. I couldn't put this one down. I was caught up by the interesting premise and carried away by the adventure and character growth. I also loved how it was tied to a previous novel, Rooms. I highly recommend this book or any other by Rubart.

I did enjoy the premise of this book, but at times it didn’t seem realistic, but then this is a fictional book.
The author has given us a story of a Mom, struggling with the death of her husband [and not in the way you think], and focusing more on the life of her daughter and some on her son. We also deal with both of these children forgiving their dad for playing favorites, but most of all what he has done to their mom.
While the story does revolve around a journal, and in the end, I had a person that I wanted it to go to, but you will need to read and see what happens.
Can this family give the forgiveness, and will they be able to mend and take care of their problems?
Now I see there is another book coming, the brothers, and am looking forward to it!


I received this book through Celebrate Lit, and was not required to give a positive review.

Who are you really? Are you living with authenticity to who God made you to be? The Pages of Her Life by James L. Rubart explores these deep questions. The mystery genre of this book is what interested me. I am an avid reader but I tend to choose realistic novels with no supernatural elements. This book is such a unique novel. Yes, it is a mystery, and yes, it has supernatural elements. But I was blown away at how well the supernatural elements were incorporated into the story and felt realistic and powerful as a result. Mr. Rubart is a phenomenal writer with deep story themes that will resonate with readers of many ages and backgrounds. I loved the way the story included characters from Mr. Rubart's other novel Rooms. It definitely made me interested in reading that novel as well. This is the first novel I have read by this author but it will not be the last. I highly recommend it! I received a digital copy of this novel from the author with no obligations. These opinions are entirely my own.

Whenever I begin a novel by James Rubart I know I am in for an experience I won't likely forget any time soon and this book is no different.

Like an onion this book peels off in layers with each layer revealing Allison's inner and spiritual struggles through the use of a journal. Journaling is a very private act something I do daily and I was quite impressed with the way Mr. Rubart used it and especially his ability to write from a female heroine's point of view.

The conflict that Mr. Rubart creates is real and believable. When an author makes a reader care about the characters, you have an experience not just a book you read.

The Pages of Her Life is a book with lots of twists and turns and even some surprises - like a couple of character's from Mr. Rubart's first book Rooms show up. If you haven't read Rooms don't worry you won't need to to enjoy this book. I read it back in 2010 and don't remember all of it and I wasn't lost.

This is a multifaceted book that takes the reader on both Allison's journey and their own. It's hard not to read a James Rubart novel and not do some soul searching.
I highly recommend this book!

James Rubart is only recently a favorite author of mine. I got started reading his books...oh, say in the last year or so.

While this is not my preferred genre, I keep coming back for more of his writings. Each and every book I've read by him has challenged me in my spiritual walk, and this one is no exception.

Alison finds herself in a hard place. She needs to help her mom out of a large financial difficulty. And then, she gets the perfect answer to her prayer.

As life gets more complicated, rather than easier, she finds comfort from a very unexpected and unusual source.

The journey she finds herself on is one that we can all learn from. The answers she discovered, about life, about herself, I found to be relevant to my own life, and I believe they will be to any one that reads this book.

Like the other Rubart books I've read, this one left me thinking deeply. Thinking about God, about life, about myself, and so much more.

Disclaimer: I receive complimentary books from various sources, including, publishers, publicists, authors, and/or NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review, and have not received any compensation. The opinions shared here are my own entirely. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255

Well, It's really hard to describe this book without giving away spoilers but I will do my best. :)
I enjoyed this book immensely. The Pages of Her Life is a book that does not fit your typical story. It's like an oreo.
An outer layer and an inner layer. The outer layer is your typical story. Allison is an Architect who enjoys her job but it also pays the bills then something happens and she has to figure out what to do. Everyone sees this. The inner layer is the part where her inner thoughts, beliefs and struggles are. She struggles with who she is. Everyone can't see this layer. I liked how James Rubart took this unseen layer and made it visible using a journal. Its a physical item that represents something untangible. liked most of the characters especially Allison. You can tell when an author has created believable characters when the reader wishes she could punch the bad guys and hug the good guys. Or even just wish they were real people. I think every reader can see a little of themselves in the characters because they are so real. It's fun to read about the various places the characters go to because i have been there as well. I can picture it clearly. Plus, there are some awesome appearances from characters from other stories James has written.
The Pages of Her Life is a story that appears to be straightforward but then takes many twists and turns that you're not expecting. You'll not want to put it down! It's a story that will challenge, encourage and give you hope. I know I will be thinking about this story long after I've read it. I believe that the Lord uses stories to change lives. I know that the reader can learn valuable truths right along with Allison.

I recommend this book to my family and friends.
I received this book from the publisher to read and give my honest review. All thoughts are my own,

WOW, what a shock in reading this book. I received this title free on my Kindle from NetGalley to review.

As I began reading the book I was not certain I wanted to continue. It sounded a little on the side of smoke and mirrors with a journal that changed your words and was delivered by an angel. While that is by no means normal, I continued reading and found the book to be more along the lines of "examine your life". What wasn't said was the solid foundation of the Bible is the basis of the exam.

The author does a great job of drawing the reader into the story and encourages the reader as well.

I would only recommend it to someone that had a very strong foundation in the Bible otherwise it could be confusing and depend too much on emotion.

Wow, I just found my new favorite author! I’m going to start reading the rest of his books, starting with “Rooms” This book is about a woman who need to remember who she is, and to learn to fight for herself.

I received this free copy from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review of the book. James Rubarts story "The Pages of Her Life" shows how we often allow ourselves to be blind to the truth because it is easier to accept the lies in our lives. Allison is living that situation right now. She is overwhelmed by family and financial situations, leading her to make choices that she shouldn't have. When she finally turns to God in desperation, will she be willing to accept the help offered? In many ways James Rubart reminds me of Frank Peretti. I look forward to reading more of Mr. Rubarts books in the future.

“...secrets did not make for strong alliances.” And yet, in The Pages of Her Life, by James Rubart, we see a family thrown into a Twilight Zone setting by the death of the father and husband who kept unwelcome secrets. Allison, and her estranged brother, Parker, have difficulty in their lives as they try to escape the legacy of inadequacy their father bestowed upon them. An old journal and a stranger are about to shake up their lives forever.
This novel was a great reminder for me that not everything that seems to be of God really is. Certainly, some people claimed to love God in the book, but their actions proved just the opposite. They were their own gods. I wanted to cry with Allison as she begins to figure this out. It is easy to relate with her and her brother, as all the outer trimmings are stripped away and each is forced to look at his most basic needs.
Of course, there is the mysterious working of God. The journal was unpredictable. “God isn’t working on my time frame, I’m working on his.” As I finish the novel, I have to say I feel like it is imaginative, yet there is that piece of me that says, “all things are possible with God.”
In a few places, there were large portions of Scripture written out. That seemed to detract from the smoothness of the story. I felt that in at least one instance, the Scripture story could have been shared shortly and easily without being long and drawn-out, given that it is a familiar story.
My other little issue is a theological one. I can’t share it without a spoiler, but I will say that many Christians, including me, may be surprised when we get to heaven and find out that things we held tightly to as Biblical absolutes are not. Also, the novel couldn’t happen without this theological difference, and that’s ok.
One quote I will adopt as my own for fun:
“She really needed to get in the habit of waking up before she decided to think.”
Most memorable quote?
“Choose to believe the kingdom is in your midst and is here to set you free.” The Jews missed this when Jesus came the first time. Allison and Parker have their turns to choose freedom or bondage. Now it is our turn; which will we choose?
“Got it” quote?
“Compared to the ocean, she felt small. Insignificant. And that was a good thing. A reminder that He was God, she was not, and that all along He’d had a plan to rescue her.”
What a great tome to cause the mind’s cogs to start turning! And turning mine are. Pass me another Rubart, please.
References by other readers have been made to a previous book, Rooms. I have not read that and understood The Pages of Her Life well. I feel it stands alone on its own merit.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher through Celebrate Lit and NetGalley. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own.

This book was a wonderful read. There were times that I did not really like Allison because I wanted her to stand up for herself but I love how the journal helped her to learn who she really was. I did not want to put this book down because I was rooting for Allison and her brother Parker. I received a copy of this book from Celebratelit for a fair and honest opinion that I gave of my own free will.

Having read several of Rubart’s books I was looking forward to reading this new one and I was not disappointed. With a blend of the speculative and reality, The Pages of Her Life by James L. Rubart is a thought-provoking and compelling story. A soul-searching story of a transformative journey. A journey to knowing one’s worth regardless of what others think or convey. A journey to understanding God’s work in one’s life. When Allison, a young architect, finds herself facing seemingly insurmountable circumstances she is given a journal, not just an ordinary journal though, but one that appears to be ancient with a gorgeous leather cover and thick creamy white pages, one that is magical…or is it magic? Why was she chosen? What does it mean for her to be given the journal? Will it change her life as the previous owner she’d overheard saying that it had changed his? The author does a great job of portraying timeless emotions and struggles and threading them with spiritual truths to bring a tension-filled story, one with several twists to the plot keeping the reader wondering how things are going to turn out for Allison and her family. I especially liked the message the author brings in regards to the two worlds we live in…the outward world of circumstances, friendships, and words spoken to us and the world of words that we speak to ourselves. We often allow too much of the outside world to inform and influence our inward world. As is usual with this author’s book, it is a story that will not easily be forgotten, one to mull over and reflect on for some time to come.
I received a complimentary copy of this book via CelebrateLit. A favorable review was not required and opinions are my own. This review is part of a CelebrateLit blog tour.