The Passion of Hubert

When Hubert Lamb and his wife Felicia retire to Florida, they think they've found their own private paradise-until an act of God leaves a body floating face down in Hubert's swimming pool. The dead man is a dead ringer for Jesus, so perhaps it's not surprising when Hubert acquires a halo and "miracles" begin to occur, thanks to the water in his pool. Soon Hubert must contend with faith healings and a megachurch led by the charismatic Pastor Brad Light, the arrival of a pregnant fifteen-year-old runaway named Genie, and the glare of worldwide publicity, all while struggling with the shock and grief of a personal tragedy. Yet as Hubert moves through the stages of his personal passion, he isn't alone. Among those who come to his rescue are his sister- and brother-in-law, Patty and Buck, and a savvy entertainment lawyer, Mitch Miransky. There's also a voice that might-or might not-be all in Hubert's head. Will Hubert survive the assaults on his privacy and reputation and hold onto his identity, or should he remake himself to fit the spotlight and seize the opportunity to become a celebrity? How will he uncover the truth about his pool and make peace with his own long-dormant beliefs when everyone is telling-and selling-a different story? It's all a bit much, especially for a man who knows in his heart he's never been special in any way. How do you make sense of reality when miracles are happening in your own backyard?

Arliss Ryan is the author of five previous novels: The Coloring Scroll, Sanctuary, The Secret Confessions of Anne Shakespeare, How (Not) to Have a Perfect Wedding, and The Kingsley House. She lives with her husband in St. Augustine, Florida, where she works as a writer and professional storyteller. Visit her website at www.arlissryan.com