Wonders Never Cease

I loved reading Tim Downs' book, Wonders Never Cease. The story line was creative and insightful. The character development kept me coming back for more of "the rest of the story" every time I had a chance to read. In a culture as fast-paced and self-oriented as ours, it was refreshing to taste life from the perspectives and possibilities offered in this unique story...that heroes can emerge from the darkness, that there are far-reaching consequences to choices that include the supernatural, that slowing down to listen and to be present to those with whom we care for has its own reward, that the activity of angels intersects with our world. When a crisis hits, we learn what we are made of. Tim paints some telling moments as each of his characters respond at critical junctures to what life has handed them. At the same time, the author's clever artistry allows him to weave subtle but timely humor throughout. I laughed for days whenever I remembered some of his lines. His attention to detail gives an authentic feel to the story. I'm sure it was no accident that he mentions Leah reading The Magician's Nephew. Nice touch. This is a great read with just the right amounts of fun, suspense, believability, drama, and characters that compel me to ask what I would do in the same case scenario. And, may I say a personal thank you to "Emmet" for advancing the causes of mercy and justice, even from behind his janitorial garb.

Wonders Never Cease by Tim Downs was a very interesting reading experience for me. I have not read my religiously based books but I would gladly read another of its kind in the future. The book gives a reader a very good plot. Downs is able to bring the reader into the world these characters are living in. The story is very vivid and I felt as if I was really a part of that world for most of my reading experience. Once I started reading I was not able to put the book down and I read the entire thing in less than 2 days. I really enjoyed the fact that the book could give you a great deal of science combined with the spirituality that many people are seeking in this world. I also enjoyed the fact that the book involved a great deal of different elements from the world: controversy, love, friendship. The only thing that I did not like about the book was that the main characters do not really have an ending. Will there be some type of sequel I wonder? I would love to see where these characters would go in the future and what will happen to Kemp.

Kemp McAvoy has pulled some fast ones in his time, but nothing like his latest brainchild. Movie star Olivia Hayden has just been hospitalized after a car wreck, and Kemp is the nurse assigned to her in the ICU. Disgusted with is own life and lack of wealth, Kemp develops a get rich quick scheme involving his famous comatose patient and his own impersonation of an angelic being. If all goes according to plan, Olivia Hayden will wake up with a message from an angel that must be published and Kemp and his fellow conspirators will make a fortune from the proceeds. Unfortunately, Kemp will soon find out that impersonating an angel isn't always the best idea. Tim Downs takes a break from bugs and cadavers to treat his fans with a quirky tale that is fun to read and impossible to put down. On the surface, this plot seems extremely far-fetched, but Downs really nails this one with his tightly woven storylines and unforgettable characters. Kemp McAvoy might just be the most annoying character I've ever read, yet at the same time I had so much fun following his every ill conceived move. Perfectly nestled amongst the shenanigans is a nice little love story and a subtle, yet strong theme about belief in things unseen. There isn't a wasted word in this novel and Downs' research really gives this story the depth it needs to hold the reader's attention. I had no idea what to expect from this story on the front end. To be sure this was a risky move on Tim Down's part, especially after the cliffhanger ending of his last Bug Man novel. However, I've walked away from this one with an even greater appreciation for Down's storytelling ability. Bugs and cadavers or angel impersonating con men....if Tim Downs' name is on the cover you can be sure I'll be reading it.

Wonders Never Cease by Tim Downs is one of those books I really like -- exciting and intricate plot, excellent characterizations (with believable good guys and bad guys who stay true to form), and believable dialogue. This book is definitely one to read! Downs paints a picture of a could-have-been doctor who likes to cut corners and find the easy way ... regardless of who gets in his way. Kemp McAvoy decides to pretend to be an angel for a past-her-prime actress that is laying in the hospital in a monitored coma. McAvoy could care less about the ethics of messing with the actress's medication to bring her to a semi-conscious state; he could care less that in playing an angel he is messing with Divine Intervention. McAvoy is just hoping to reap the millions of dollar that can be made from a "near-death" experience. With the help of a few other less-than-desirable characters, McAvoy just about wins the day. But, as in life, God can make good from any situation -- even the most diabolical. This book is not high literature and doesn't pretend to be. That said, the deeper meaning of love and trust, the writing style, the characterizations and the plot itself, are all well-developed and well-delivered. I like that all was not solved, all is not perfect and the ending is wonderful. This is definitely a recommended read for high school age and up ... a fun and exciting summer-time read! -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- This book was received free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their Book Sneeze review program. I was not required to write a favorable review nor was I given any payment other than a free copy of the book. All the comments above are my honest reaction to this book.

For those who aren't into fiction, much less "Christian Fiction," but have always "wanted" to get into it...this book is for you! I'm not an avid "fiction (or Christian fiction) reader, but this book got my attention. The reviews of Tim Downs previous works, which I haven't read, pushed me to request this book to review and I'm SO glad I did. For those who just like plain "fiction," Tim Downs' "Wonders Never Cease" is the Coen Brothers' "Fargo" meets HBO's "Entourage"...in the Christian genre. Now THAT takes talent! Before I realized it, I was hooked. I was turning pages as the world turned around me and I felt myself "safely" escaping into a story that made me laugh, fume with anger, and slump back into my seat...only to bring me to the edge of it. Each page left me wanting more and I knew I was into a good book when I couldn't put it down to go to sleep...and couldn't wait to wake up and begin reading again. The core of the story revolves around the self indulgence of Kemp McAvoy, but quickly brings you into the lives of the other characters. Every character is believable and you're able to grasp their souls through the brilliant descriptions by the author. As the novel unfolds, you can't begin to imagine how it will end...the twist and turns ("Fargo" and "Entourage" style) make you "Wonder." The writing style is nothing less than magnificent and the care taken in choosing each word that was written will pay dividends in the success of this novel. (This could EASILY be a movie) I liked this novel especially because I haven't liked where "Christian" fiction seems to feel they can take the mind-places I don't want my mind going...thinking on things that are NOT lovely, admirable, or worthy of praise. That's the kind of Christian I am...and for those who stand upon their faith, as I do, will REALLY enjoy this novel that doesn't step over any boundaries, but presents a wonderful story that leaves your heart warmed and "Wondering"...will Tim Downs write another novel like this one??? I hope so. Note to Christian Fiction WRITERS: Read This book and TAKE NOTES! *I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their [...] book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255