Review: Nick of Time by Tim Downes

Nick of Time by Tim Downes

This is a story about a man who loves bugs and uses this knowledge of them to solve murders and a woman who loves dogs and trains them for a similar purpose. They get together and a few days before their wedding they get caught up in all sorts of intrigue including murders, a small minded sheriff, a cabin in the scrub, a mansion by a lake, the FBI and a mystery woman. Will they solve the mystery, survive and get to their wedding? Can the bugs and the dogs help? Plenty of action and the twists will surprise you.

I thought it was a great yarn. Light reading and the fast pace continued all the way through. It was very hard to put down and lots of fun. I loved the author’s sense of humour and there was a good balance of intrigue and suspense. It wasn’t the sort of book where you can work out the end about half way through. In fact, just when you think you have it all worked out, the plot takes an interesting turn.

I really liked the main character, Nick Polchak, and I have made a mental note to see if he features in any other books by Tim Downes. If he does, I’ll certainly read them. Actually, having read this book, I’ll certainly read some more Tim Downes’ books, even if Nick isn’t in them.

It was also refreshing to read a book without any sex, violence or bad language. This book shows that those things aren’t necessary for a good story. I did wonder if a story about a man who is fascinated by bugs and solves murders might be a bit gruesome, but it wasn’t. It was very tastefully handled.

I’d recommend the book to anyone who wants some enjoyable light reading that is well written and not padded out with lots of unnecessary side tracks. A great read.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com <http://BookSneeze®.com> 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 <http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html> : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”