Waking Lazarus

No, it's not Walking Lazarus. Or even Raising Lazarus. But whatever you call it, T. L. Hines' debut novel Waking Lazarus is a can't-put-down mind-twisting thriller from start to finish.

My review:

Jude Allman has died three times. Each time he returns to life, his fame grows, along with questions. Tired of being a freak, Jude changes his name and retreats to Red Lodge, Montana. As school janitor Ron Gress, all he wants to do is blend in and block all memories of his past, often repeating the Tolkien-ish mantra, “Keep it secret, keep it safe.”

But secrets of the past are about to be blown wide open. A young woman named Kristina has discovered Jude’s whereabouts, and she insists there’s a purpose behind Jude’s journeys to the Other Side. Amid his skepticism, strange things start happening. Visions. Blackouts. An odd coppery taste in his mouth. Rescues.

Meanwhile, children are disappearing in the towns surrounding Red Lodge, and the police have no decent leads. As Jude begins to shed his reclusiveness, rumors of his psychic encounters pique the interest of the authorities. It’s only a matter of time before they learn his true identity, and that will signal the beginning of the end - unless he can find the real kidnapper.

With an intriguing premise, a likeable hero, and a villain worthy of Ted Dekker, Hines has created a glued-to-your-seat read with themes to ponder long after the book is closed. Suspense is kept throughout Waking Lazarus, and each of the characters perfect the delicate balance of withholding and giving information. The plot dips, curves, and loops until the final twist at the end. Recommended for suspense fans and anyone who wants the ride of his life. -- Katie Hart, Christian Book Previews.com