Author James L. Rubart has brought us an incredible modern day retelling of the classic Robert Louis Stevenson’s Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde with “The Man He Never Was.”
Toren Daniels, an ex-NFL player with a major anger issue, wakes up one morning in a strange hotel without the realization that he has also been missing for eight months. He has no idea where he has been all that time, or how he has gotten to where he is. The one thing he does realize, though? The fact that he no longer seems to be the same man he was — he no longer gives in to his rage.
But his wife Sloan and children Callie and Colton, who believed Toren was dead, aren’t so quick to believe in his transformation. And when he begins to once again give into his dark urges, Toren finds it harder and harder to find reconciliation with himself, his family and his past.
As he undergoes his journey to truly tame “the beast” within him, Toren meets some interesting and mysterious characters — private investigator Eden Lee, who just may be more than she seems; Clavin Sorkin, the director at The Center where Toren sought help; and Alena, an intriguing storekeeper. Will these people be able to find the answers he seeks, and help him once and for all slay the beast within?
Toren undergoes a Jekyll/Hyde journey, as he must learn to overcome the Hyde-like urges within him and try to reclaim his life — the good parts of his life — once again.
“The Man He Never Was” is an allegorical piece that takes on the battle between good and evil, light and darkness. Heavily rooted in Scripture, it reminds us that God loves us beyond measure; we must learn to trust and press into what we know is true; overcoming the loss of hope; love is the greatest weapon we have and that it casts out all fear; the importance of grace and forgiveness; and that nothing can separate us from Christ.
Rubart also does an incredible job in reminding us of who God is: ruler of angel armies, and yet our Daddy; a rock and a lamb; and an eagle and a shield. In essence, He is everywhere and we cannot escape His presence or His protection.
Fans of allegorical pieces, like “Hinds’ Feet on High Places” and works like William Paul Young’s “The Shack” will enjoy “The Man He Never Was.”
Four stars out of five.
Thomas Nelson provided this complimentary copy for my honest, unbiased review.