Angels Walking: A Novel by Karen Kingsbury

Angels Walking: A Novel by Karen Kingsbury
Series: Book 1 of 3
Publisher: Howard Books, September 2, 2014

Review by Gwen M. Plano

Karen Kingsbury is a hugely popular Christian author. Because of her strong readership, I selected Angels Walking: a Novel, to read for review. The story focuses on a national baseball star, Tyler Ames, and his unfortunate career-ending injury. Once his fame dissolves, friends and even family desert Tyler. Readers accompany him as he struggles to find his way.

The plot is fertile ground for a Christian-based story. Tyler’s despair takes him down multiple dead ends. When readers might wonder about his future, the story shifts. Angels are assigned to help Tyler navigate his situation, and slowly, he emerges triumphant.

Themes of redemption, forgiveness, and unconditional love are woven into the story. Below are two examples of how Kingsbury includes these themes.

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“Forgive as I have forgiven you. That means we forgive even when the person doesn’t deserve forgiveness. Because none of us ever deserves it. Besides, families need to be the first to forgive. That’s what love looks like.”

“Love first. Questions later. Grace beyond measure. All of it unconditional.”

Karen Kingsbury: Angels Walking: A Novel

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Angels Walking: a Novel begins slowly, but the pace quickens about midway through the story. That’s when I was drawn in.

I loved the characters. They are well-developed and relatable. I also liked how Kingsbury used inner thoughts and visual signs of emotion to bring them to life. She’s masterful at capturing the ordinary. For example, “Sami … hurried to her car. But she couldn’t out-pace the memories chasing her.” This simple line captures Kingsbury’s writing style.

As I read, I thought of a television show I used to watch: “Touched by an Angel.” The story has inspirational surprises, heart-tugging challenges, and a happy ending — just like this TV show. For readers seeking a hopeful read, this may be one for you.

I tend to read fast-paced genres, and Angels Walking was a slow read for me. It’s possible that it may be perfectly paced for other readers. Stepping back, I admire Kingsbury’s character development skill and storytelling finesse. But because of the pace, I’m offering four and a half very happy fish.  

I read the Kindle version of Angels Walking: A Novel.