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Wyattsville #4
The Regrets of Cyrus Dodd
"Regret is what stands in the way of happiness," she said then turned and walked away...
From award-winning USA TODAY Bestselling Author BETTE LEE CROSBY, comes an early twentieth century family saga of two Southern men who come up against one another. Both are prideful, iron-willed and stubborn. One will lose his farm, the other will lose his family. In a tale that delves into the heart of a small town West Virginia community two men discover that being right is not the same as being happy.
Believing he has lost everything, Cyrus Dodd has no choice but to start over. He and wife Ruth leave their farm and travel to Wyattsville. As they settle down to a life far different than what he'd planned, Cyrus is forced to deal with one challenge after another, and the regrets trail behind him like a row of ducklings.
He told Ruth they were leaving trouble behind and swore this time it would be better; but now he's wondering if that's a promise he can keep.
Readers View says, "An engrossing story of ordinary people...a tale richly told."
Indie Book Awards, Historical Fiction Finalist
From award-winning USA TODAY Bestselling Author BETTE LEE CROSBY, comes an early twentieth century family saga of two Southern men who come up against one another. Both are prideful, iron-willed and stubborn. One will lose his farm, the other will lose his family. In a tale that delves into the heart of a small town West Virginia community two men discover that being right is not the same as being happy.
Believing he has lost everything, Cyrus Dodd has no choice but to start over. He and wife Ruth leave their farm and travel to Wyattsville. As they settle down to a life far different than what he'd planned, Cyrus is forced to deal with one challenge after another, and the regrets trail behind him like a row of ducklings.
He told Ruth they were leaving trouble behind and swore this time it would be better; but now he's wondering if that's a promise he can keep.
Readers View says, "An engrossing story of ordinary people...a tale richly told."
Indie Book Awards, Historical Fiction Finalist
244 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 15, 2016
301 people are currently reading
659 people want to read
About the author
Bette Lee Crosby
42 books2,184 followersUSA Today Bestselling and Award-winning novelist Bette Lee Crosby's books are "Well-crafted storytelling populated by memorable characters caught up in equally memorable circumstances." - Midwest Book Review
The Seattle Post Intelligencer says Crosby's writing is, "A quirky mix of Southern flair, serious thoughts about important things in life and madcap adventures."
Samantha from Reader's Favorite raves, "Crosby writes the type of book you can’t stop thinking about long after you put it down."
"Storytelling is in my blood," Crosby laughingly admits, "My mom was not a writer, but she was a captivating storyteller, so I find myself using bits and pieces of her voice in most everything I write."
It is the wit and wisdom of that Southern Mama Crosby brings to her works of fiction; the result is a delightful blend of humor, mystery and romance along with a cast of quirky charters who will steal your heart away. Her work was first recognized in 2006 when she received The National League of American Pen Women Award for a then unpublished manuscript. She has since gone on to win twenty awards for her work; these include: The Royal Palm Literary Award, the FPA President's Book Award Gold Medal, Reader's Favorite Award Gold Medal, and the Reviewer's Choice Award.
Crosby's published works to date are: Blueberry Hill (2014), Previously Loved Treasures (2014), Jubilee's Journey (2013), What Matters Most (2013), The Twelfth Child (2012), Life in the Land of IS (2012), Cracks in the Sidewalk (2011), Spare Change (2011). A Cupid inspired romance, Wishing for Wonderful, is scheduled for release in November 2014 and Book Three of The Wyattsville Series, Passing through Perfect, will be be available in January 2015.
The Seattle Post Intelligencer says Crosby's writing is, "A quirky mix of Southern flair, serious thoughts about important things in life and madcap adventures."
Samantha from Reader's Favorite raves, "Crosby writes the type of book you can’t stop thinking about long after you put it down."
"Storytelling is in my blood," Crosby laughingly admits, "My mom was not a writer, but she was a captivating storyteller, so I find myself using bits and pieces of her voice in most everything I write."
It is the wit and wisdom of that Southern Mama Crosby brings to her works of fiction; the result is a delightful blend of humor, mystery and romance along with a cast of quirky charters who will steal your heart away. Her work was first recognized in 2006 when she received The National League of American Pen Women Award for a then unpublished manuscript. She has since gone on to win twenty awards for her work; these include: The Royal Palm Literary Award, the FPA President's Book Award Gold Medal, Reader's Favorite Award Gold Medal, and the Reviewer's Choice Award.
Crosby's published works to date are: Blueberry Hill (2014), Previously Loved Treasures (2014), Jubilee's Journey (2013), What Matters Most (2013), The Twelfth Child (2012), Life in the Land of IS (2012), Cracks in the Sidewalk (2011), Spare Change (2011). A Cupid inspired romance, Wishing for Wonderful, is scheduled for release in November 2014 and Book Three of The Wyattsville Series, Passing through Perfect, will be be available in January 2015.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 118 reviews
June 6, 2016
As the elderly Cyrus Dodd looked back over his life with his beloved Ruth, the regrets he held near to his heart were many. But the biggest regret of all was the feud with his neighbour back when they were young married men – their futures ahead of them. The farms of the two families were side by side, though seven miles apart. But Cyrus relied on the water for his crops that ran from the river on his neighbour’s farm and down through his land. The day the feud began saw the damming of that river; livelihoods were lost and life changing events happened from that day forward.
After too many disasters to count, Cyrus and Ruth decided they needed to start over. The decision was hard; everything they loved and had known was on that land in West Virginia. But Ruth was desperately unhappy; Cyrus’ love for Ruth was more than his love for his farm. Their destination – Wyattsville.
Starting over was hard for a man like Cyrus Dodd to handle – but he did. Until more regrets began seeping in. Ruth was happy – she made friends easily and her days were filled. But Cyrus was filled with discontent – would he ever be happy?
The Regrets of Cyrus Dodd by Bette Lee Crosby is the 4th in the Wyattsville series – meeting up with the characters from the previous books in the series was just like an enjoyable catch up with friends. I’m afraid I didn’t take to Cyrus – he most certainly is a glass half empty kind of person! I felt like giving him a good shake on many occasions! But with the author’s usual style of writing, The Regrets of Cyrus Dodd is a gentle, delightful meander through the lives and loves of her characters; another novel I enjoyed very much by this author. Highly recommended.
With thanks to the author for this copy to read in exchange for my honest review.
After too many disasters to count, Cyrus and Ruth decided they needed to start over. The decision was hard; everything they loved and had known was on that land in West Virginia. But Ruth was desperately unhappy; Cyrus’ love for Ruth was more than his love for his farm. Their destination – Wyattsville.
Starting over was hard for a man like Cyrus Dodd to handle – but he did. Until more regrets began seeping in. Ruth was happy – she made friends easily and her days were filled. But Cyrus was filled with discontent – would he ever be happy?
The Regrets of Cyrus Dodd by Bette Lee Crosby is the 4th in the Wyattsville series – meeting up with the characters from the previous books in the series was just like an enjoyable catch up with friends. I’m afraid I didn’t take to Cyrus – he most certainly is a glass half empty kind of person! I felt like giving him a good shake on many occasions! But with the author’s usual style of writing, The Regrets of Cyrus Dodd is a gentle, delightful meander through the lives and loves of her characters; another novel I enjoyed very much by this author. Highly recommended.
With thanks to the author for this copy to read in exchange for my honest review.
February 7, 2019
Cyrus Dodd has had more than a few regrets over his life. In 1930 Cyrus Dodd has a farm where he lives with his beloved wife Ruth. But that all goes pear shaped when he and his neighbour Virgil get into an argument over, of all things, a pig. From there the bitterness between these two pride filled men escalates. And as often happens, it is the wives Ruth and Bethany that suffer as the stubborn men stand on their dig and refuse to back down. My heart went out to these two women who suffer so much because of life’s circumstances, as well as the behaviour of their men. Cyrus has one redeeming feature - that he loves Ruth and at least he tries to make things better for her. Whether he will succeed is the question. Virgil, on the other hand, just succeeds is make life worse for his wife and children. He is a thoroughly obnoxious character.
I admit to being a huge Bette Lee Crosby fan. This book got me in, though it did deal with a lot pf sadness. It was definitely the women of this story that engaged me. It took me a lot longer to grow to like Cyrus and see in him what Ruth saw. My emotions were always engaged, anger, sadness and, in time, joy. An easy book to fly though and want to keep reading. Sadly time doesn’t stop when I want to keep reading.
Maybe I didn’t adore it quite as much as some of this author’s other books, but I still enjoyed it and would definitely recommend it as a great read. Another terrific book in the Wyattsville series. It’s a book about choices and consequences, as well as how a person deals with what life throws at them. In the end a person can either look at their regrets ad focus on them and the changes life has brought. Or they can see the changes as opportunities and count their blessings. I know which sort of person I would rather be.
I admit to being a huge Bette Lee Crosby fan. This book got me in, though it did deal with a lot pf sadness. It was definitely the women of this story that engaged me. It took me a lot longer to grow to like Cyrus and see in him what Ruth saw. My emotions were always engaged, anger, sadness and, in time, joy. An easy book to fly though and want to keep reading. Sadly time doesn’t stop when I want to keep reading.
Maybe I didn’t adore it quite as much as some of this author’s other books, but I still enjoyed it and would definitely recommend it as a great read. Another terrific book in the Wyattsville series. It’s a book about choices and consequences, as well as how a person deals with what life throws at them. In the end a person can either look at their regrets ad focus on them and the changes life has brought. Or they can see the changes as opportunities and count their blessings. I know which sort of person I would rather be.
October 17, 2016
The Regrets of Cyrus Dodd
Bette Lee Crosby
Received from author for a fair review
THE REGRETS OF CYRUS DODD hooked me from the very first page. I started it last night and finished it today. Someone please tell me how an author like Bette Lee Crosby who happens to be from New Jersey gets the southern charm and feelings down so perfectly? I've read many of her books and I still don't know how she does it, but she nails it each and every time. THE REGRETS OF CYRUS DODD is book four of the Wyattsville series and I loved each and every moment of this story.
Cyrus remembers those years known as the Depression. He was a newlywed and wanted to give his bride, Ruth, the best of everything. But then he had a fight with his neighbor over a piglet and the fight would go on for many many years. Many years later and after many heartaches, they find themselves in Wyattsville. There we are able to catch up with all our friends from the previous books in this wonderful series. THE REGRETS OF CYRUS DODD kept me reaching for the tissues, wondering how Ruth and Cyrus found the strength to carry on.
I just adore the way Bette Lee Crosby brings all of her characters to life. I felt as if I were right there at the kitchen table discussing the days happenings with Cyrus and Ruth. I love how Bette's writing paints a picture in my mind of the location and all the characters she writes about. She sneaks in the life lessons and we don't even realize she is she teaching us
that we should be kind and caring to each other. I love the way Ruth pulled Cyrus out of his funk each time he worried about all of his regrets teaching him that his biggest regret would be not to see the present as a gift. No one is perfect, we all make mistakes. THE REGRETS OF CYRUS DODD will stay with you long after you finish reading.
Bette Lee Crosby
Received from author for a fair review
THE REGRETS OF CYRUS DODD hooked me from the very first page. I started it last night and finished it today. Someone please tell me how an author like Bette Lee Crosby who happens to be from New Jersey gets the southern charm and feelings down so perfectly? I've read many of her books and I still don't know how she does it, but she nails it each and every time. THE REGRETS OF CYRUS DODD is book four of the Wyattsville series and I loved each and every moment of this story.
Cyrus remembers those years known as the Depression. He was a newlywed and wanted to give his bride, Ruth, the best of everything. But then he had a fight with his neighbor over a piglet and the fight would go on for many many years. Many years later and after many heartaches, they find themselves in Wyattsville. There we are able to catch up with all our friends from the previous books in this wonderful series. THE REGRETS OF CYRUS DODD kept me reaching for the tissues, wondering how Ruth and Cyrus found the strength to carry on.
I just adore the way Bette Lee Crosby brings all of her characters to life. I felt as if I were right there at the kitchen table discussing the days happenings with Cyrus and Ruth. I love how Bette's writing paints a picture in my mind of the location and all the characters she writes about. She sneaks in the life lessons and we don't even realize she is she teaching us
that we should be kind and caring to each other. I love the way Ruth pulled Cyrus out of his funk each time he worried about all of his regrets teaching him that his biggest regret would be not to see the present as a gift. No one is perfect, we all make mistakes. THE REGRETS OF CYRUS DODD will stay with you long after you finish reading.
August 1, 2016
This book should resonate with just about everyone. It’s a tale of one man’s regrets and how that affected him and all those around him.
Cyrus sits on the porch and remembers the Depression years. He was newly married to his beautiful bride, Ruth. He wanted so much to give Ruth everything. But then came the feud with the neighbor. Two proud men, each stubborn and headstrong.
One man will lose his family. One man will lose his home. Neither man will apologize. It’s only years later that the repercussions of that event is truly felt.
This is the 4th book featuring the small town of Wyattsville and its residents. The characters are finely crafted. Ruth is a wonderful, wise woman. Cyrus is a better man because of her. He promised Ruth a bright future …. Was he able to keep his promise?
This book is what I call a quiet book. As I was reading, I was reflecting on my own life, thinking about how choosing this path or that path can change everything. What if ….. ? I rarely say this .. but this is a book worth a second or even a third read. This author has a lovely way of writing that reached in and grabbed me from the start.
Many thanks to the author who provided a digital copy in exchange for an honest, unbiased review.
Cyrus sits on the porch and remembers the Depression years. He was newly married to his beautiful bride, Ruth. He wanted so much to give Ruth everything. But then came the feud with the neighbor. Two proud men, each stubborn and headstrong.
One man will lose his family. One man will lose his home. Neither man will apologize. It’s only years later that the repercussions of that event is truly felt.
This is the 4th book featuring the small town of Wyattsville and its residents. The characters are finely crafted. Ruth is a wonderful, wise woman. Cyrus is a better man because of her. He promised Ruth a bright future …. Was he able to keep his promise?
This book is what I call a quiet book. As I was reading, I was reflecting on my own life, thinking about how choosing this path or that path can change everything. What if ….. ? I rarely say this .. but this is a book worth a second or even a third read. This author has a lovely way of writing that reached in and grabbed me from the start.
Many thanks to the author who provided a digital copy in exchange for an honest, unbiased review.
June 15, 2016
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I didn't know what to expect when I first opened this book The Regret of Cyrus Dodd. However when I read the first few lines I wanted to know more about this person who spoke these words;
...I have heard it said that a man who cries is spineless, a weakling not worthy of his salt, but this I can tell you: a man who has never shed a tear has not yet learned to love...; which piqued my interest intensely.
The story surrounds Cyrus and his wife Ruth who live on a farm in a small town, Elk Bend, where everyone knows one another. Cyrus has a neighbor, Virgil Jackson, who is very competitive and hates to lose to anyone as with the first sour encounter between them over a piglet. From the anger and hatred that the two men harbored for one another a series of unfortunate events befell first Cyrus and then Virgil. After each event each man blamed the other and their anger and hatred grew out of control.
Losing two babies which caused Ruth to become despondent and depressed was the impetus behind Cyrus and Ruth leaving Elk Bend to begin life anew in Wyattsville. Though they made a new life for themselves, Cyrus could not help thinking about all they had lost and piling up regrets in his mind. Through it all Ruth loved and supported him, while raising a family in their new home. Eventually as life went on Cyrus came to realize that he had no regrets but he had plenty of rich memories stored up to last a lifetime .
I do have one regret. I did not read the first three books in this series, however they are on my list. This book does give insight into how time consuming and futile holding onto and having regrets are. It is best to live peaceably with all men if we can help it. Bette brought the characters to life as though they were living right next door and I was able to visit them. I was able to vividly picture every word that was written for a satisfying journey into a lost era of people helping one another, having compassion for their fellow man/woman and unconditional love.
I didn't know what to expect when I first opened this book The Regret of Cyrus Dodd. However when I read the first few lines I wanted to know more about this person who spoke these words;
...I have heard it said that a man who cries is spineless, a weakling not worthy of his salt, but this I can tell you: a man who has never shed a tear has not yet learned to love...; which piqued my interest intensely.
The story surrounds Cyrus and his wife Ruth who live on a farm in a small town, Elk Bend, where everyone knows one another. Cyrus has a neighbor, Virgil Jackson, who is very competitive and hates to lose to anyone as with the first sour encounter between them over a piglet. From the anger and hatred that the two men harbored for one another a series of unfortunate events befell first Cyrus and then Virgil. After each event each man blamed the other and their anger and hatred grew out of control.
Losing two babies which caused Ruth to become despondent and depressed was the impetus behind Cyrus and Ruth leaving Elk Bend to begin life anew in Wyattsville. Though they made a new life for themselves, Cyrus could not help thinking about all they had lost and piling up regrets in his mind. Through it all Ruth loved and supported him, while raising a family in their new home. Eventually as life went on Cyrus came to realize that he had no regrets but he had plenty of rich memories stored up to last a lifetime .
I do have one regret. I did not read the first three books in this series, however they are on my list. This book does give insight into how time consuming and futile holding onto and having regrets are. It is best to live peaceably with all men if we can help it. Bette brought the characters to life as though they were living right next door and I was able to visit them. I was able to vividly picture every word that was written for a satisfying journey into a lost era of people helping one another, having compassion for their fellow man/woman and unconditional love.
November 22, 2016
4.5 stars. This book will resonate with most readers - we all have regrets. And yet the message is one of hope. Cyrus and his wife are great characters, and watching them throughout their lives was a real pleasure. We also get glimpses of their neighbor and his family, and the contrast between letting go and moving on as opposed to harboring grudges was striking. This would be a great book group read, and its one I'll be recommending to my mom :)
June 7, 2016
(I love to note the first lines of the books I'm reading. First lines can really grab a reader's attention and I love seeing where the author takes the reader after their first line.)
First line—'I have heard it said that a man who cries is spineless, a weakling not worthy of his salt, but this I can tell you: a man who has never shed a tear has not yet learned to love.'
I just love the wisdom and insight in this first line. Like all of Bette's book, this one is packed full of beautiful lines and wise advice. I was lucky enough to get a chance to be an early reader of The Regrets of Cyrus Dodd and whenever I get my hands on one of Bette's books, I drop everything to read them. And as luck would have it, I had the day off from work that day, so I was able to devour, yet savor this lovely book.
This is book #4 in the Wyattsville series and I always love it when I get to go back to Wyattsville. All the wonderful people that I have come to know and love are there and I get to spend time with all of them again. In this story, we meet Cyrus and his wife, Ruth as they go through the trials and tribulations put before them. Cyrus lives with the regrets that he has and can't see all of the good in his life. As the two of them make their way to Wyattsville, will he finally be able to realize that he has to let go of those regrets to finally be happy?
'I regret all those years of thinking I had a bunch of regrets.'
Bette has done it again! She has written another wonderful, gentle story full of loveable characters. She writes such beautiful words and imparts so much wisdom in her stories, wisdom that we can all learn from. Thank you Bette, for another great trip back to Wyattsville!
First line—'I have heard it said that a man who cries is spineless, a weakling not worthy of his salt, but this I can tell you: a man who has never shed a tear has not yet learned to love.'
I just love the wisdom and insight in this first line. Like all of Bette's book, this one is packed full of beautiful lines and wise advice. I was lucky enough to get a chance to be an early reader of The Regrets of Cyrus Dodd and whenever I get my hands on one of Bette's books, I drop everything to read them. And as luck would have it, I had the day off from work that day, so I was able to devour, yet savor this lovely book.
This is book #4 in the Wyattsville series and I always love it when I get to go back to Wyattsville. All the wonderful people that I have come to know and love are there and I get to spend time with all of them again. In this story, we meet Cyrus and his wife, Ruth as they go through the trials and tribulations put before them. Cyrus lives with the regrets that he has and can't see all of the good in his life. As the two of them make their way to Wyattsville, will he finally be able to realize that he has to let go of those regrets to finally be happy?
'I regret all those years of thinking I had a bunch of regrets.'
Bette has done it again! She has written another wonderful, gentle story full of loveable characters. She writes such beautiful words and imparts so much wisdom in her stories, wisdom that we can all learn from. Thank you Bette, for another great trip back to Wyattsville!
June 30, 2016
I know that it seems that I'm biased about Bette Lee Crosby's books, and perhaps I am. She's one of my favorite authors, but honestly, I believe the lady is utterly incapable of writing anything lacking in quality. Every single one of her books I've read has just immersed me in, and transported me to the story taking place. This is another fantastic book in a long line of fantastic books.
Am I going to summarize it for you? No, because you need to read it yourself, she's one of the greats!!!!
Am I going to summarize it for you? No, because you need to read it yourself, she's one of the greats!!!!
June 29, 2017
Betty Lee Crosby's writing is magical, like the feel of a slow southern afternoon spent swinging barefoot in a hammock. Her characters are rich, and she weaves little life lessons into her tales reminding us all what real wealth is. Ruth and Cyrus Dodd are a farming couple in West Virginia, they have a small plot and two room home and are quite happy until one set back and heartache after another have them leaving their home and moving to Wyattsville.
“As I grow ever closer to the end of my time, I look back at this life and tell you that the only thing I would wish to give up is the regret I've carried in my heart for all these years. At long last I have come to realize the things I once counted as regrets were indeed blessings that I was too blind to see.”
One of those reasons for their trouble had to do with a neighboring farmer, and Crosby took us through his life as well giving readers a tale of regrets you aren't; soon to forget. I found myself completely caught up in this families story as well. Crosby took me through many emotions from anger, sorrow, and pride.
“A man cannot change who he is. He can only hope that with age comes the wisdom to see his folly. I would like to believe I have achieved that.”
Wyattsville and the townsfolk there have me wanting to pack my bags and move. As the Dodd's settle in, make friends and become a part of the community, Cyrus deals with regrets. Things don't go exactly as he expected but he becomes caught up in daily challenges and their new lives, slowly lining up his list of regrets. Through it, all Crosby shares their family life, trials, successes, and losses. I found myself smiling, shedding a tear and at times wanting to shake Cyrus. Ruth is a rock, and I could not help but admire her. While he may have a long list of regrets and question his validity he never doubts or questions his partner.
“It's no such thing! she said. It's friendship! And if you're a man who can't tell friendship from charity, then you're to be pitied!”
Hope, love, and faith are the cornerstone of this couple's lives, and while some days they muddle through, it is upon reflection they will come to realize how truly blessed their road was. Their story is told from multiple perspectives, and I came to love each character. Fans of the series will recognize familiar landmarks, buildings and colorful characters like Olivia! This book/series is excellent for your book club. Crosby's writing is rich and profound. You'll discover passages you want to quote and others that will resonate with you.
Readers will reflect on their regrets and remember darker days along with Cyrus, but Crosby weaves magic and shows both the reader and Cyrus how blessed we truly are. As I was crying over an event, I suddenly wiped my eyes and was excited to see what Crosby had in store for them. The ending left me smiling and longing to return to Wyattsville. This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Book Reviewer
“As I grow ever closer to the end of my time, I look back at this life and tell you that the only thing I would wish to give up is the regret I've carried in my heart for all these years. At long last I have come to realize the things I once counted as regrets were indeed blessings that I was too blind to see.”
One of those reasons for their trouble had to do with a neighboring farmer, and Crosby took us through his life as well giving readers a tale of regrets you aren't; soon to forget. I found myself completely caught up in this families story as well. Crosby took me through many emotions from anger, sorrow, and pride.
“A man cannot change who he is. He can only hope that with age comes the wisdom to see his folly. I would like to believe I have achieved that.”
Wyattsville and the townsfolk there have me wanting to pack my bags and move. As the Dodd's settle in, make friends and become a part of the community, Cyrus deals with regrets. Things don't go exactly as he expected but he becomes caught up in daily challenges and their new lives, slowly lining up his list of regrets. Through it, all Crosby shares their family life, trials, successes, and losses. I found myself smiling, shedding a tear and at times wanting to shake Cyrus. Ruth is a rock, and I could not help but admire her. While he may have a long list of regrets and question his validity he never doubts or questions his partner.
“It's no such thing! she said. It's friendship! And if you're a man who can't tell friendship from charity, then you're to be pitied!”
Hope, love, and faith are the cornerstone of this couple's lives, and while some days they muddle through, it is upon reflection they will come to realize how truly blessed their road was. Their story is told from multiple perspectives, and I came to love each character. Fans of the series will recognize familiar landmarks, buildings and colorful characters like Olivia! This book/series is excellent for your book club. Crosby's writing is rich and profound. You'll discover passages you want to quote and others that will resonate with you.
Readers will reflect on their regrets and remember darker days along with Cyrus, but Crosby weaves magic and shows both the reader and Cyrus how blessed we truly are. As I was crying over an event, I suddenly wiped my eyes and was excited to see what Crosby had in store for them. The ending left me smiling and longing to return to Wyattsville. This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Book Reviewer
August 24, 2016
Received from the Publisher and NetGalley in exchange for an honest opinion.
This book is part of a series but worked very well for me as a stand alone book as I have not read the other books in this series.
The book begins with an Older Cyrus Dodd looking back on his life and his many regrets. His main regret stems from a fight/pissing contest he had with his neighbor Virgil. Both men had Sow's that had piglets, one's pig gave birth to more, etc. One night during a storm the piglets get out and thus begins the battle between the two men. Where jealousy, pride, saving face and being right get in the way of reason for the two men. Unfortunately for Cyrus, Virgil controlled the water to his land and in a dispute, Cyrus lost his ability to water his crops.
Cyrus and his wife Ruth suffer many hardships before leaving town and starting over. Virgil and his wife stay and their hardships continue. Although, the book is mainly about Cyrus Dodd and his family, we also get to see the effects of the argument on Virgil's family as well.
The book is about Cyrus but the wives were my favorite characters in this book. I especially liked how Ruth was the voice of reason for Cyrus and helped him to see how his pride often got in the way of his happiness.
I like how each chapter began with a character's thoughts. Through these thoughts we get to learn more about the characters and their relationships with other. I thought this was a very nice touch. I also like how the Author showed how both families were affected by the men's pride. How a series of actions can have life changing repercussions.
The book was a very fast read for me. Overall, the book was heartwarming although it does have moments of great sadness. There are some life lessons thrown in there with some Southern Charm.
Engaging characters, characters that felt real, characters you wanted to shake, characters you root for,etc.
See more of my reviews at www.openbookpost.com
This book is part of a series but worked very well for me as a stand alone book as I have not read the other books in this series.
The book begins with an Older Cyrus Dodd looking back on his life and his many regrets. His main regret stems from a fight/pissing contest he had with his neighbor Virgil. Both men had Sow's that had piglets, one's pig gave birth to more, etc. One night during a storm the piglets get out and thus begins the battle between the two men. Where jealousy, pride, saving face and being right get in the way of reason for the two men. Unfortunately for Cyrus, Virgil controlled the water to his land and in a dispute, Cyrus lost his ability to water his crops.
Cyrus and his wife Ruth suffer many hardships before leaving town and starting over. Virgil and his wife stay and their hardships continue. Although, the book is mainly about Cyrus Dodd and his family, we also get to see the effects of the argument on Virgil's family as well.
The book is about Cyrus but the wives were my favorite characters in this book. I especially liked how Ruth was the voice of reason for Cyrus and helped him to see how his pride often got in the way of his happiness.
I like how each chapter began with a character's thoughts. Through these thoughts we get to learn more about the characters and their relationships with other. I thought this was a very nice touch. I also like how the Author showed how both families were affected by the men's pride. How a series of actions can have life changing repercussions.
The book was a very fast read for me. Overall, the book was heartwarming although it does have moments of great sadness. There are some life lessons thrown in there with some Southern Charm.
Engaging characters, characters that felt real, characters you wanted to shake, characters you root for,etc.
See more of my reviews at www.openbookpost.com
June 10, 2016
If I could give this book 10 stars, I would! Bette Lee Crosby is my kind of rock star! Her writing is so imaginative and so full of words perfect to the story that I am speechless. Her writing is realistic and so full of love for her characters that it takes my breath away sometimes.
Ruth and Cyrus Dodd are a farming couple in West Virginia. They have troubles like all farmers, but they carry faith and hope in their hearts and minds. However, certain setbacks (don't ask, I'm not giving anything away) cause Cyrus to have "regrets." I look at Cyrus and truly feel his frustrations, but that's only part of what this story is about. Bette's works are all about hope and caring about others around us. She certainly brought that home in this book!
And I love that Olivia came back for a visit. What a treat!
I highly recommend this book to any and everyone!
I received this book from the author in return for an honest review.
Ruth and Cyrus Dodd are a farming couple in West Virginia. They have troubles like all farmers, but they carry faith and hope in their hearts and minds. However, certain setbacks (don't ask, I'm not giving anything away) cause Cyrus to have "regrets." I look at Cyrus and truly feel his frustrations, but that's only part of what this story is about. Bette's works are all about hope and caring about others around us. She certainly brought that home in this book!
And I love that Olivia came back for a visit. What a treat!
I highly recommend this book to any and everyone!
I received this book from the author in return for an honest review.
June 15, 2016
A special thank you to the publisher and author for an ARC in exchange for an honest review. What a great read for a rainy Friday (read in one sitting) Love this series!
Southern, much loved storyteller, Bette Lee Crosby returns following Passing Through Perfect (2015), landing on my Top 50 Books of 2015 - Best Southern Fiction” and “Best Southern Storyteller of 2015”, continuing with heart-warming #4 Wyattsville Series, with THE REGRETS OF CYRUS DODD.
A complex life of one man. A story worthy of telling. But to appreciate the end you have to go back to the beginning. A long dark road of misery.
Elk Bend, West Virginia 1930, Cyrus Dodd’s life in the rural country on a farm. He and his wife Ruth own land, a home, and a farm. Everything a man wants in this era. He takes pride in protecting his family. They may not have riches; however, live comfortable.
However, Virgil Jackson, a neighbor (not friends), has them over a barrel. Virgil of course took every opportunity to remind Cyrus of this, daily. An evil man with greed and hate in his heart and soul.
The Dodd’s source of water was from the pond on Virgil’s land. It had an underground spring that offered an endless stream of fresh water, and fed the brooks running across three different farms. One being Dodd’s cornfield. It enabled Cyrus to irrigate the bottomland and water the livestock as well as their crops. Unfortunately, Cyrus had no alternative other than to remain neighborly with Virgil.
Until . . . .
The spring they each had piglets. Virgil seven and one stillborn, and Cyrus nine (all alive and well). A week later a tornado, and his pig wound up at Virgil’s farm. Cyrus knew where his missing pig was and tried to attain it from him. It was branded, so he knew. Virgil said it was his. Refused to return it. Cyrus goes back later and takes his pig.
This started the feud of a lifetime.
Virgil goes to the sheriff, they go to court, and ultimately case dismissed. However, worried about the water, his wife wants him to make peace. Virgil would not accept pigs, animals or apologies. Soon he built a dam, and Cyrus' water supply was cut off.
Virgil was not a forgiving man. Virgil desired nothing more than to see Cyrus fail.
Pretty soon, tragedy hits the Dodd’s household. From his crops, animals, and his livelihood. Cyrus is stubborn and will not leave his land. Ruth knows he cannot make a living on a farm without water. What kind of life would they have if they stayed? When they think matters cannot get any worse, they lose their baby. Almost as bad as "Job from the Bible", everything is taken away. They buried their baby boy and planted a small elderberry bush.
Who is to blame? The anger Cyrus feels toward Virgil is hatred. Ruth saw it coming; however, he did not listen. He will make it up to her. He cannot change the past, but he will not let Ruth pay for his mistakes.
A feud is not forgotten, regardless of how well-intentioned a man is, once hatred settles in his heart, it remains there forever. With every hardship he suffered the hatred grew stronger, until eventually it became so powerful, not even his prayers could overcome it.
More tragedy and sorrow. Even rain flooded his cornfield. Day after day, Cyrus' anger swelled. Ruth wants them to sell the farm. Cyrus is proud and says it is his home and he will never leave. Ruth reminded him it was "their" home. A man's pride. Another cold winter, and no money, and once again another sorrow. This time, a loss so painful, Ruth may never recover.
Cyrus, is at his lowest when he sees the light go out in Ruth’s eyes. She is bedridden and has lost her will, to even get out of bed with her sadness. She has lost her will to live. It is his fault.
In the meantime, Cyrus does not know, Virgil has problems, of his own. His wife cannot handle his anger. Their oldest son is holly terror. He is bullying his younger brother and baby sister. Things get so bad his wife takes their daughter to live with her sister in fear of their lives. She has to guard her younger son and carries a gun to protect for their own son. The oldest son is out of control. Virgil cannot see he is following in his path. Bad things start happening to Virgil. Karma is a bitch…
Cyrus was a strong man who could deal with many things—from flooded land, failed crops, hard winters, even humbling himself to a man like Virgil. But the one thing he couldn’t deal with was seeing Ruth so weary. He thinks of killing Virgil, he is so angry. Will his hatred get the better of him?
However, he thinks about what Ruth said.
He learns of a job in Virginia outside a small town of Wyattsville, working for a railroad. A man loves his land, but he loves his wife more. She gets a flicker of light back in her eyes. They make plans to leave; however, they have not been able to sell the land, due to Virgil, cutting off the water supply. No one could afford to get on the bad side of Virgil.
They are afraid of staying, and equally frightened of going. They begin selling off everything they con to get enough money to make the trip. Cyrus will never stop trying. Ruth deserved better. With little money they leave and take a train.
From here to the end of the book, things start changing for them. When all seemed gloom and stuck on the side of the road, with nowhere to go, they meet a stranger. Fate steps in. A right decision.
A woman, (angel) Prudence Greenly all alone and her husband, Arnold is deceased. She offers them a room for a few days, and they wind up staying. They love the town, and Ruth soon gets her strength back, and she and Prudence become best friends. Life is good.
Cyrus is doing well on the job and now they are saving money. However, Cyrus is a proud man and wants a place of their own; however, he helps out Prudence and they wind up staying until Prudence’s death years later. Even a healthy daughter.
Cyrus still has regrets and thinks of his land and everything in his life. However, they begin to start taking trips and vacations (one to the Greenbrier Hotel, VA). Been there many times. They try to appreciate one another, their time, and good fortune. They try enjoy life without the worries of money-with new neighbors and friends.
Cyrus never forgets Virgil – he stole his life, but decides he has all he can get. He is giving him too much power over his life.
As they get older, their daughter Joy goes off to school and starts her own life; they become empty nesters. Another tragedy. Another storm. This time the neighbors rally around to help them. This is when we get to revisit with Olivia, and some of the folks from previous books at the Wyattsville Apartment. (love it)
In the meantime, little does Cyrus know, Virgil has lost almost everything important in his life. There was a murder, and his family is gone. He was a hateful evil man.
Cyrus has a long list of regrets. The problem is you never know exactly what it is you’re going to regret until it’s too late to change what you’ve already done.
Flashing back and forth from Ruth and Cyrus, and get the updates happening back at Elk Bend from Virgil Jackson.
From the house on Harrison Street. Young Married to Empty Nesters. Retirement. Wyattsville Arms Apartments. Full circle. The cycles of life. The regrets. The memories.
A former life. They revisit their land they lost, and their home they loved years ago . . and the man who took it away. Landing where they are today. Sometimes we have to reach our lowest in order to receive what awaits around the corner. One flicker of fate can change your whole life. Memories: Some sweet. Some painful.
What a heart-warming series!
Bette is a master designer with her quirky gritty southern storytelling. She bridges the gap from young to old, so eloquently.
Reading her stories is like sitting in a cozy kitchen- with some homemade goodies, a fire, and a cup of tea or coffee with a wise grandmother, telling tales to her grandchildren. (Southern Comfort) Glued to the fascinating history with eyes dazzling. It is amazing how stories of our grandparents relate to today’s top headlines.
When we think of regrets, I recently read an article in Forbes: The 25 Biggest Regrets In Life. What Are Yours? 5 Choices You'll Regret Forever.
We are all busy. Life happens. There’s always something to distract us from getting around to certain things we know we should do. We regret our decisions and second guess our past parenting, financial, career, education, friends and family choices we have made. Things we did, or did not do with our time here on earth. Sometimes life passes us by, while dwelling on things we cannot change.
With today’s social media and smartphones, we are neglecting some stuff we should do. But we never get around to it. Then, something happens. We begin to think about what our biggest regrets would be, if we were suddenly sitting on our death bed.
In light of the recent Orlando’s tragic shootings, we see firsthand what hatred does. From terrorists, evil, greed, jealousy, lies, shootings, bullying, and more. The lives it destroys. Not so different in the thirties, when people used their own weapons in different ways to drive others out of their lives. From the early Bible days of Cain and Abel. Man's hatred.
As always, Bette delivers a wise message, metaphors of life storms, and plenty of life’s essential lessons. A cautionary tale.
Some decisions have repercussions that can last a lifetime. Most of these decisions are made daily, and they require focus and perspective to keep them from haunting you.
Highly Recommend The Wyattsville Series (All 5 Starred)!
Passing Through Perfect (Wyattsville, #3)
Jubilee's Journey (Wyattsville, #2)
Spare Change (Wyattsville, #1)
“I am not a product of my circumstances. I am a product of my decisions.” –Stephen Covey
JDCMustReadBooks
Southern, much loved storyteller, Bette Lee Crosby returns following Passing Through Perfect (2015), landing on my Top 50 Books of 2015 - Best Southern Fiction” and “Best Southern Storyteller of 2015”, continuing with heart-warming #4 Wyattsville Series, with THE REGRETS OF CYRUS DODD.
A complex life of one man. A story worthy of telling. But to appreciate the end you have to go back to the beginning. A long dark road of misery.
“Love and sorrow come into your life hand in hand. I’m an old man now and over these many years I have seen more than my share of sorrows, some so great they brought me to my knees. But I have also loved with such passion that it set my soul afire. Were you to ask me would I give up one to avoid the other, I would turn away.”
Elk Bend, West Virginia 1930, Cyrus Dodd’s life in the rural country on a farm. He and his wife Ruth own land, a home, and a farm. Everything a man wants in this era. He takes pride in protecting his family. They may not have riches; however, live comfortable.
However, Virgil Jackson, a neighbor (not friends), has them over a barrel. Virgil of course took every opportunity to remind Cyrus of this, daily. An evil man with greed and hate in his heart and soul.
The Dodd’s source of water was from the pond on Virgil’s land. It had an underground spring that offered an endless stream of fresh water, and fed the brooks running across three different farms. One being Dodd’s cornfield. It enabled Cyrus to irrigate the bottomland and water the livestock as well as their crops. Unfortunately, Cyrus had no alternative other than to remain neighborly with Virgil.
Until . . . .
The spring they each had piglets. Virgil seven and one stillborn, and Cyrus nine (all alive and well). A week later a tornado, and his pig wound up at Virgil’s farm. Cyrus knew where his missing pig was and tried to attain it from him. It was branded, so he knew. Virgil said it was his. Refused to return it. Cyrus goes back later and takes his pig.
This started the feud of a lifetime.
Virgil goes to the sheriff, they go to court, and ultimately case dismissed. However, worried about the water, his wife wants him to make peace. Virgil would not accept pigs, animals or apologies. Soon he built a dam, and Cyrus' water supply was cut off.
Virgil was not a forgiving man. Virgil desired nothing more than to see Cyrus fail.
Pretty soon, tragedy hits the Dodd’s household. From his crops, animals, and his livelihood. Cyrus is stubborn and will not leave his land. Ruth knows he cannot make a living on a farm without water. What kind of life would they have if they stayed? When they think matters cannot get any worse, they lose their baby. Almost as bad as "Job from the Bible", everything is taken away. They buried their baby boy and planted a small elderberry bush.
Who is to blame? The anger Cyrus feels toward Virgil is hatred. Ruth saw it coming; however, he did not listen. He will make it up to her. He cannot change the past, but he will not let Ruth pay for his mistakes.
A feud is not forgotten, regardless of how well-intentioned a man is, once hatred settles in his heart, it remains there forever. With every hardship he suffered the hatred grew stronger, until eventually it became so powerful, not even his prayers could overcome it.
More tragedy and sorrow. Even rain flooded his cornfield. Day after day, Cyrus' anger swelled. Ruth wants them to sell the farm. Cyrus is proud and says it is his home and he will never leave. Ruth reminded him it was "their" home. A man's pride. Another cold winter, and no money, and once again another sorrow. This time, a loss so painful, Ruth may never recover.
Cyrus, is at his lowest when he sees the light go out in Ruth’s eyes. She is bedridden and has lost her will, to even get out of bed with her sadness. She has lost her will to live. It is his fault.
In the meantime, Cyrus does not know, Virgil has problems, of his own. His wife cannot handle his anger. Their oldest son is holly terror. He is bullying his younger brother and baby sister. Things get so bad his wife takes their daughter to live with her sister in fear of their lives. She has to guard her younger son and carries a gun to protect for their own son. The oldest son is out of control. Virgil cannot see he is following in his path. Bad things start happening to Virgil. Karma is a bitch…
“A man’s pride will cause him to do things you never dreamed possible. When being right was most important, and all other things were blocked out.”
Cyrus was a strong man who could deal with many things—from flooded land, failed crops, hard winters, even humbling himself to a man like Virgil. But the one thing he couldn’t deal with was seeing Ruth so weary. He thinks of killing Virgil, he is so angry. Will his hatred get the better of him?
However, he thinks about what Ruth said.
He learns of a job in Virginia outside a small town of Wyattsville, working for a railroad. A man loves his land, but he loves his wife more. She gets a flicker of light back in her eyes. They make plans to leave; however, they have not been able to sell the land, due to Virgil, cutting off the water supply. No one could afford to get on the bad side of Virgil.
They are afraid of staying, and equally frightened of going. They begin selling off everything they con to get enough money to make the trip. Cyrus will never stop trying. Ruth deserved better. With little money they leave and take a train.
From here to the end of the book, things start changing for them. When all seemed gloom and stuck on the side of the road, with nowhere to go, they meet a stranger. Fate steps in. A right decision.
A woman, (angel) Prudence Greenly all alone and her husband, Arnold is deceased. She offers them a room for a few days, and they wind up staying. They love the town, and Ruth soon gets her strength back, and she and Prudence become best friends. Life is good.
“Having regrets ain’t good for the soul.” Some are irreversible.
Cyrus is doing well on the job and now they are saving money. However, Cyrus is a proud man and wants a place of their own; however, he helps out Prudence and they wind up staying until Prudence’s death years later. Even a healthy daughter.
“The thing about regrets is that no matter how many you’ve got, you just keep adding more.”
Cyrus still has regrets and thinks of his land and everything in his life. However, they begin to start taking trips and vacations (one to the Greenbrier Hotel, VA). Been there many times. They try to appreciate one another, their time, and good fortune. They try enjoy life without the worries of money-with new neighbors and friends.
Cyrus never forgets Virgil – he stole his life, but decides he has all he can get. He is giving him too much power over his life.
As they get older, their daughter Joy goes off to school and starts her own life; they become empty nesters. Another tragedy. Another storm. This time the neighbors rally around to help them. This is when we get to revisit with Olivia, and some of the folks from previous books at the Wyattsville Apartment. (love it)
“I keep thinking surely to God, I have already done everything there is to regret, but every time I’ve thought that I discover another regret waiting on the horizon.”
In the meantime, little does Cyrus know, Virgil has lost almost everything important in his life. There was a murder, and his family is gone. He was a hateful evil man.
Cyrus has a long list of regrets. The problem is you never know exactly what it is you’re going to regret until it’s too late to change what you’ve already done.
“A man cannot change who he is. He can only hope that with age comes the wisdom to see his folly.”
Flashing back and forth from Ruth and Cyrus, and get the updates happening back at Elk Bend from Virgil Jackson.
From the house on Harrison Street. Young Married to Empty Nesters. Retirement. Wyattsville Arms Apartments. Full circle. The cycles of life. The regrets. The memories.
A former life. They revisit their land they lost, and their home they loved years ago . . and the man who took it away. Landing where they are today. Sometimes we have to reach our lowest in order to receive what awaits around the corner. One flicker of fate can change your whole life. Memories: Some sweet. Some painful.
“As I grow ever closer to the end of my time, I look back at this life and tell you that the only thing I would wish to give up is the regret I’ve carried in my heart for all these years. At long last I have come to realize the things I once counted as regrets were indeed blessings that I was too blind to see.”
What a heart-warming series!
Bette is a master designer with her quirky gritty southern storytelling. She bridges the gap from young to old, so eloquently.
Reading her stories is like sitting in a cozy kitchen- with some homemade goodies, a fire, and a cup of tea or coffee with a wise grandmother, telling tales to her grandchildren. (Southern Comfort) Glued to the fascinating history with eyes dazzling. It is amazing how stories of our grandparents relate to today’s top headlines.
When we think of regrets, I recently read an article in Forbes: The 25 Biggest Regrets In Life. What Are Yours? 5 Choices You'll Regret Forever.
We are all busy. Life happens. There’s always something to distract us from getting around to certain things we know we should do. We regret our decisions and second guess our past parenting, financial, career, education, friends and family choices we have made. Things we did, or did not do with our time here on earth. Sometimes life passes us by, while dwelling on things we cannot change.
With today’s social media and smartphones, we are neglecting some stuff we should do. But we never get around to it. Then, something happens. We begin to think about what our biggest regrets would be, if we were suddenly sitting on our death bed.
In light of the recent Orlando’s tragic shootings, we see firsthand what hatred does. From terrorists, evil, greed, jealousy, lies, shootings, bullying, and more. The lives it destroys. Not so different in the thirties, when people used their own weapons in different ways to drive others out of their lives. From the early Bible days of Cain and Abel. Man's hatred.
As always, Bette delivers a wise message, metaphors of life storms, and plenty of life’s essential lessons. A cautionary tale.
"Sometimes regrets are not mistakes. The difference is some keep hanging on to the memory of them. Some regrets Cyrus carried around, weren’t really regrets after all. Just life’s heartaches. It is imperative we learn to discover the differences."
Some decisions have repercussions that can last a lifetime. Most of these decisions are made daily, and they require focus and perspective to keep them from haunting you.
Highly Recommend The Wyattsville Series (All 5 Starred)!
Passing Through Perfect (Wyattsville, #3)
Jubilee's Journey (Wyattsville, #2)
Spare Change (Wyattsville, #1)
“I am not a product of my circumstances. I am a product of my decisions.” –Stephen Covey
JDCMustReadBooks
June 29, 2016
Ms Crosby...cant get enough of her books...here is another one that I like....no that's not true...I loved it....Ms Crosby takes us into a world where people are kind to each other no matter what happens. It's what life should be about....friends, neighbors, loves, children....no matter what bad luck you run into. Cyrus runs into it all. From his neighbor Virgil torturing him, to leaving the place he loves, to his wife's childbirth problems, to...let me stop there as I do not want to give any more of this amazing story away. Cyrus "regrets" so many things ... but his wife pulls him through all their pain and he begins to see you should concentrate on the things you have accomplished - this is a story of love which sustains this family through heartaches ....but there are good times....and these outweigh the bad. A story that shows you should always look at the glass as half full...not half empty.
June 15, 2016
I received an ARC of this book and I can honestly say that I loved it. I have read all of Bette's books and this one is wonderful. I guess it's because it reminds us to live in the present and not the past. And that even though we all have regrets we can't dwell on them and let them shape our future. This book was about a young man who had many dreams and as they changed because of circumstances he views them as regrets and forgets to see the present for the gift that it is. The book follows Cyrus and his wife Ruth through many changes, where in the end they end up in Wyattsville. A small town that has a way of bringing friends family and love together. This book is a definate read. You will enjoy it as a stand alone or as part of Bette's wonderful Wyattsville series.
June 7, 2016
I received a kindle copy of the book from the author for my honest review.
AWESOME STORY!
Very well written with such amazing characters! A very heartwarming story on how regrets can change your life forever. It will make you stop and think about what really is important in life and about holding onto regrets. I loved every minute of the story and fell in love with all of the characters, well almost all of them. Virgil and Jeremy I really did not like how they acted and treated others.
Read the book you will not be sorry you did.
AWESOME STORY!
Very well written with such amazing characters! A very heartwarming story on how regrets can change your life forever. It will make you stop and think about what really is important in life and about holding onto regrets. I loved every minute of the story and fell in love with all of the characters, well almost all of them. Virgil and Jeremy I really did not like how they acted and treated others.
Read the book you will not be sorry you did.
June 27, 2016
Cyrus Dodd and his beloved wife Ruth are farmers. They depend on water from a nearby neighbor and fellow farmer, Virgil Jackson. After a feud over a pig, Virgil cuts off the water from Cyrus's farm and then even worse things start happening to both men.
This is an inspirational story of two families and how some move on while others harbor resentment, and drag down their families with them. Beautifully written and well developed characters. I felt as if I knew and grew with these people.
This is an inspirational story of two families and how some move on while others harbor resentment, and drag down their families with them. Beautifully written and well developed characters. I felt as if I knew and grew with these people.
July 21, 2016
I read this book in one day. Bette Lee's writing is very good, her characters so well done, the story just took me right in and wouldn't let go until the end. The story was very sad, yet sweet, and had a very important lesson about life and regret. Well done!
December 17, 2018
As the elderly Cyrus Dodd looked back over his life with his beloved Ruth, the regrets he held near to his heart were many. But the biggest regret of all was the feud with his neighbor back when they were young married men – their futures ahead of them. One night during a storm the piglets get out and thus begins the battle between the two men The farms of the two families were side by side, even though they were seven miles apart. Cyrus relied on the water for his crops that ran from the river on his neighbor's farm and down through his land. The day the feud began saw the damming of that river; livelihoods were lost and life changing events happened from that day forward. Cyrus and Ruth decide to leave their farm and travel to Wyattsville. Cyrus learns of a job in Virginia outside a small town of Wyattsville, working for a railroad but, they are stuck on the side of the road, then they meet Prudence Greenly [who is alone because of her husband passing away] and she offers them a room for a few days . As it happens fate stepped in for Cyrus and Ruth. Do things work out for Cyrus and Ruth. To find out you need to read this book. I truly loved this book!!
April 17, 2017
Yet another fantastic book by Bette Lee!! Just love her books. Sweet story about two pig farmers. Cyrus and Virgil. They are bitter enemies and this never changes until the end of the book. The book is about forgiveness, LIFE, changes, regrets and most of all LOVE. ALL the characters in her books are so believable. I took forever to finish this book but so glad I finally did!! I truly loved it!! Great book by a great author!!
May 26, 2016
'I have heard it said that a man who cries is spineless, a weakling not worthy of his salt, but this I can tell you: a man who has never shed a tear has not yet learned to love.'
The above is the first line of this book. Moving and intriguing, isn't it? After that,coupled with the title, how can you NOT want to read the rest of the story?
Cyrus and his wife Ruth live a difficult and trying life, starting with a feud with neighbor Virgil Jackson over a piglet. The two men continue the feud to ridiculous lengths, and their families suffer from it as well.
Cyrus and Ruth eventually are forced to leave their farm and move to Wyattsville, where Cyrus gets a job with the railroad, and he and Ruth find a dear friend who is there for the Dodd family the rest of her life.
Cyrus has many regrets as the years pass, and those regrets often keep him from enjoying events in his life. He tends to live in the past and not concentrate on the present.
Will the people of Wyattsville be able to help Cyrus realize how many blessings he still has, or will he live in the sadness and bitterness of regret forever?
This book is very well written and full of emotion. It draws you into the lives of both the Dodd and Jackson families and each tragedy is heartbreaking.
This is the first book I have read in this series, and I can't wait to go back and get to know more about the residents of Wyattsville.
**I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are entirely my own.**
The above is the first line of this book. Moving and intriguing, isn't it? After that,coupled with the title, how can you NOT want to read the rest of the story?
Cyrus and his wife Ruth live a difficult and trying life, starting with a feud with neighbor Virgil Jackson over a piglet. The two men continue the feud to ridiculous lengths, and their families suffer from it as well.
Cyrus and Ruth eventually are forced to leave their farm and move to Wyattsville, where Cyrus gets a job with the railroad, and he and Ruth find a dear friend who is there for the Dodd family the rest of her life.
Cyrus has many regrets as the years pass, and those regrets often keep him from enjoying events in his life. He tends to live in the past and not concentrate on the present.
Will the people of Wyattsville be able to help Cyrus realize how many blessings he still has, or will he live in the sadness and bitterness of regret forever?
This book is very well written and full of emotion. It draws you into the lives of both the Dodd and Jackson families and each tragedy is heartbreaking.
This is the first book I have read in this series, and I can't wait to go back and get to know more about the residents of Wyattsville.
**I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are entirely my own.**
June 8, 2016
I have heard it said that a man who cries is spineless, a weakling not worthy of his salt, but this I can tell you: a man who has never shed a tear has not yet learned to love...
The first line of a very heartwarming and touching story. Cyrus Dodd has many regrets in his life and in some ways I understand why. The story goes back to when he and his wife were young and the things that happened to make him have so many regrets. But by the end his loving wife, Ruth, made him appreciate life more than even he thought possible.
I've read every single book Bette Lee Crosby has written and loved them all. I believe now that this one is my very favorite of this series and possible of all of her books. It was such a good story. It made me laugh, cry, get mad, cry a bit more and most of all think about how things can affect you. It's just a wonderful story that you will be glad you read.
From the very beginning, I was hooked on this book. You just can't help but feel like you are a part of these people's lives; good and bad. The Dodd's sure had their share of heartache, but they had more love and happiness to make up for it.
I was given a copy of this book for an honest review. If I could I would give it way more than 5 stars too. It was wonderful from start to finish. Bette never disappoints me with her books. This one is just awesome. I can't tell you what is in the story. You have to read it for yourself and you won't be sorry. It's wonderful...
The first line of a very heartwarming and touching story. Cyrus Dodd has many regrets in his life and in some ways I understand why. The story goes back to when he and his wife were young and the things that happened to make him have so many regrets. But by the end his loving wife, Ruth, made him appreciate life more than even he thought possible.
I've read every single book Bette Lee Crosby has written and loved them all. I believe now that this one is my very favorite of this series and possible of all of her books. It was such a good story. It made me laugh, cry, get mad, cry a bit more and most of all think about how things can affect you. It's just a wonderful story that you will be glad you read.
From the very beginning, I was hooked on this book. You just can't help but feel like you are a part of these people's lives; good and bad. The Dodd's sure had their share of heartache, but they had more love and happiness to make up for it.
I was given a copy of this book for an honest review. If I could I would give it way more than 5 stars too. It was wonderful from start to finish. Bette never disappoints me with her books. This one is just awesome. I can't tell you what is in the story. You have to read it for yourself and you won't be sorry. It's wonderful...
June 15, 2016
I received a free advance reader copy of this book in exchange for an honest & unbiased review.
When I first read the title of the book, I expected Cyrus Dodd to be an old man, pondering the things that went wrong in his life. But it turns out Cyrus is a young man with some difficult and trying times in his life, beginning with a feud with Virgil Jackson over the ownership of a piglet. And on top of that Virgil's land had an underground spring that bubbled an endless stream fresh water, enough to feed the brooks running across three different farms, the Dodd farm included. The pig argument spiraled into Virgil's decision to dam up the water flowing to Cyrus' farm.
Cyrus continues his struggle to keep his farm alive, without the needed water. He tries different crops on different section of the farm, but to no avail. He can't keep up the farm, and decides to give it up and move on to a different job, taking his loving wife, Ruth with him. As his life unfolds, and he has more and more regrets, the loss of the farm, moving to some other place, dragging his wife along with him, trying to keep her happy in spite of all of his regrets. When he assesses his life, regret is all he sees. He is a stubborn and prideful man.
I enjoy Bette Lee Crosby's stories from the 20th century, stories of hardship and love; stories that tug at the heartstrings with characters I never forget.
When I first read the title of the book, I expected Cyrus Dodd to be an old man, pondering the things that went wrong in his life. But it turns out Cyrus is a young man with some difficult and trying times in his life, beginning with a feud with Virgil Jackson over the ownership of a piglet. And on top of that Virgil's land had an underground spring that bubbled an endless stream fresh water, enough to feed the brooks running across three different farms, the Dodd farm included. The pig argument spiraled into Virgil's decision to dam up the water flowing to Cyrus' farm.
Cyrus continues his struggle to keep his farm alive, without the needed water. He tries different crops on different section of the farm, but to no avail. He can't keep up the farm, and decides to give it up and move on to a different job, taking his loving wife, Ruth with him. As his life unfolds, and he has more and more regrets, the loss of the farm, moving to some other place, dragging his wife along with him, trying to keep her happy in spite of all of his regrets. When he assesses his life, regret is all he sees. He is a stubborn and prideful man.
I enjoy Bette Lee Crosby's stories from the 20th century, stories of hardship and love; stories that tug at the heartstrings with characters I never forget.
June 16, 2016
I received this e-book free from the author in return for an honest review.
Well to be honest, I was dragging my heels getting into this book. It opens with an older Cyrus musing over his regrets and his reminiscence starts with the a feud with his neighbor. I saw two stubborn and prideful men whose wives were suffering because of their feud. But as I got into the book it got better and better.
This is the fourth in the Wyattsville series and unfortunately I haven't yet read the first three, but I am going there after having read this wonderful book. The characterization was fantastic and I grew to love Ruth (Cyrus' wife) and how she was able to bring out the best in Cyrus. I think Cyrus learned from his wife to have a more positive view and saw what he regretted as more challenges he had to overcome. He became stronger and more loving through the book and learned to find the simple blessings in his life. After all, if hadn't had a feud with his neighbor to begin with, he never would have come to Wyattsville and found such beauty in his life.
I learned a lot about my own life and my attitudes and when a book reaches into me that way it is one I that is a blessing to me. Thank you Bette Lee Crosby for the adventure.
Well to be honest, I was dragging my heels getting into this book. It opens with an older Cyrus musing over his regrets and his reminiscence starts with the a feud with his neighbor. I saw two stubborn and prideful men whose wives were suffering because of their feud. But as I got into the book it got better and better.
This is the fourth in the Wyattsville series and unfortunately I haven't yet read the first three, but I am going there after having read this wonderful book. The characterization was fantastic and I grew to love Ruth (Cyrus' wife) and how she was able to bring out the best in Cyrus. I think Cyrus learned from his wife to have a more positive view and saw what he regretted as more challenges he had to overcome. He became stronger and more loving through the book and learned to find the simple blessings in his life. After all, if hadn't had a feud with his neighbor to begin with, he never would have come to Wyattsville and found such beauty in his life.
I learned a lot about my own life and my attitudes and when a book reaches into me that way it is one I that is a blessing to me. Thank you Bette Lee Crosby for the adventure.
June 16, 2016
Another 5 star book by Bette Lee Crosby. I absolutely adore all of her characters and getting to go back to Wyattsville, was an awesome visit.
Bette's southern flair with her writing is inspiration and touching. The characters come to life on the page for me.
This is the story of Cyrus and Ruth. It all began with a pig. It is the story of two farmers and what they lost and found along their way. Sometimes a regret is nothing to hold onto and pride got in way for Cyrus. He fought with his neighbor, Virgil, who controlled the water that fed his farm. After an argument over a pig, things went from bad to worse with the two men.
Along the way, Cyrus had to put his wife, Ruth, first and he moved on to a different life than he imagined. Finding his self worth along the way.
This was truly a book that I never wanted to end. The words flew by and I found myself being disappointed that the book actually had to end. I was trying to savor the last few chapters.
Looking forward to reading more works by Bette Lee Crosby.
*Note: I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
5 stars (can I give it more!!!)
Bette's southern flair with her writing is inspiration and touching. The characters come to life on the page for me.
This is the story of Cyrus and Ruth. It all began with a pig. It is the story of two farmers and what they lost and found along their way. Sometimes a regret is nothing to hold onto and pride got in way for Cyrus. He fought with his neighbor, Virgil, who controlled the water that fed his farm. After an argument over a pig, things went from bad to worse with the two men.
Along the way, Cyrus had to put his wife, Ruth, first and he moved on to a different life than he imagined. Finding his self worth along the way.
This was truly a book that I never wanted to end. The words flew by and I found myself being disappointed that the book actually had to end. I was trying to savor the last few chapters.
Looking forward to reading more works by Bette Lee Crosby.
*Note: I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
5 stars (can I give it more!!!)
June 10, 2016
The Regrets of Cyrus Dodd is a lovely story that starts a time long ago and in a place far away.
Cyrus Dodd and Virgil Vigil Jackson allow a disagreement to boil over into a feud, resulting in the loss of so much more than Cyrus' farm. Virgil appears to be the winner, but Cyrus follows a path of love in his life while Cyrus does just the opposite. In the end, Cyrus finds that all the things he regretted in his lifetime were simply the foundation of his eventual success and happiness.
Like most of the books by Ms. Crosby, it's the people in this story who grab hold of your heart and imagination and just won't let go. What makes them so real is that they aren't all perfect. They could be the folks next door, warts, blessings, and all.
You feel the pain Ruth lives when she loses her babies. You know the choices Cyrus makes in the name of love. You even understand the choices Virgil makes: you may not like those choices, but you have seen it happen in real life.
All I can say is, do not ever pass up a Bette Lee Crosby book, especially not this one. It was a wonderful journey.
Cyrus Dodd and Virgil Vigil Jackson allow a disagreement to boil over into a feud, resulting in the loss of so much more than Cyrus' farm. Virgil appears to be the winner, but Cyrus follows a path of love in his life while Cyrus does just the opposite. In the end, Cyrus finds that all the things he regretted in his lifetime were simply the foundation of his eventual success and happiness.
Like most of the books by Ms. Crosby, it's the people in this story who grab hold of your heart and imagination and just won't let go. What makes them so real is that they aren't all perfect. They could be the folks next door, warts, blessings, and all.
You feel the pain Ruth lives when she loses her babies. You know the choices Cyrus makes in the name of love. You even understand the choices Virgil makes: you may not like those choices, but you have seen it happen in real life.
All I can say is, do not ever pass up a Bette Lee Crosby book, especially not this one. It was a wonderful journey.
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June 15, 2016Review: The Regrets of Cyrus Dodd by Bette Lee Crosby
For those times when i feel down, or just in need of book comfort, I and many other happy readers know just where to turn: to any novel from Bette Lee Crosby. Her very newest, THE REGRETS OF CYRUS DODD, is a fine example. Author Crosby has a writing style that is immediately relaxing yet riveting, and the reader finds attention locked to the page. Set in the fairly early 20th century, in rural West Virginia, this novel relates the story of dedicated farmer and husband Cyrus Dodd, a man who possessed so many intrinsic blessings, yet allowed pride to trip him up, and not just his own pride, but the pride of another. Like so many of us, Cyrus' moral integrity meant that when he was right, he knew it, and he expected everyone else to also know and acknowledge. But not every individual possesses integrity or even character; and when Cyrus' innate sense of justice encounters one of those individuals, he unwittingly steps into a damaging situation which unrolls like a snowball flying down a mountainside.
For those times when i feel down, or just in need of book comfort, I and many other happy readers know just where to turn: to any novel from Bette Lee Crosby. Her very newest, THE REGRETS OF CYRUS DODD, is a fine example. Author Crosby has a writing style that is immediately relaxing yet riveting, and the reader finds attention locked to the page. Set in the fairly early 20th century, in rural West Virginia, this novel relates the story of dedicated farmer and husband Cyrus Dodd, a man who possessed so many intrinsic blessings, yet allowed pride to trip him up, and not just his own pride, but the pride of another. Like so many of us, Cyrus' moral integrity meant that when he was right, he knew it, and he expected everyone else to also know and acknowledge. But not every individual possesses integrity or even character; and when Cyrus' innate sense of justice encounters one of those individuals, he unwittingly steps into a damaging situation which unrolls like a snowball flying down a mountainside.
June 5, 2016
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest and impartial review.
I have read most of Bette's books - and she still amazes me whenever I read a new one. This one has me reflecting and thinking about how we view things and events in our life.
A moving, deep account about a man and how he perceives life's challenges as "regrets". I am so touched and can relate so much - not because of my own views, but those of someone very close to me. The way Better's superbly developed characters each present their perspective is thought-provoking, and a call for reflection.
Seeing the characters (old friends!) from the previous books on the series was like a family reunion :) If you haven't read Bette's books, start with this series. Every new book is my new favorite, but I tell you this one REALLY is!! Pick it up now, peoples!!!
I have read most of Bette's books - and she still amazes me whenever I read a new one. This one has me reflecting and thinking about how we view things and events in our life.
A moving, deep account about a man and how he perceives life's challenges as "regrets". I am so touched and can relate so much - not because of my own views, but those of someone very close to me. The way Better's superbly developed characters each present their perspective is thought-provoking, and a call for reflection.
Seeing the characters (old friends!) from the previous books on the series was like a family reunion :) If you haven't read Bette's books, start with this series. Every new book is my new favorite, but I tell you this one REALLY is!! Pick it up now, peoples!!!
June 8, 2016
The Regrets of Cyrus Dodd
“At long last I have come to realize the things I once counted as regrets were indeed blessings that I was too blind to see.”
I received this book in return for my review.
Cyrus starts telling his story and how he and his neighbor Virgil were not exactly friends but then something happens and neither one of them will give an inch and there is a full on feud. Everything happens for a reason in life and I was seeing that in this book as well. I will not give away the plot else it would spoil it for everyone else. I did like seeing some old characters from Wyattsville from earlier books. I felt like they were old friends. The story shows how one family overcomes major and minor issues and how people can be so nice. The other family not so much and that was tragic.
“At long last I have come to realize the things I once counted as regrets were indeed blessings that I was too blind to see.”
I received this book in return for my review.
Cyrus starts telling his story and how he and his neighbor Virgil were not exactly friends but then something happens and neither one of them will give an inch and there is a full on feud. Everything happens for a reason in life and I was seeing that in this book as well. I will not give away the plot else it would spoil it for everyone else. I did like seeing some old characters from Wyattsville from earlier books. I felt like they were old friends. The story shows how one family overcomes major and minor issues and how people can be so nice. The other family not so much and that was tragic.
July 15, 2016
Full disclosure: I received this book from the author as an ARC in return for my unbiased review. Thank you Bette Lee Crosby!
The Regrets of Cyrus Dodd is the story of Cyrus Dodd and his wife Ruth. Cyrus dreamed of a life of farming and raising a family with Ruth. When things did not go as planned, regretfully, they must leave and start a new life. For Cyrus the regrets keep coming even though life is giving him many wonderful opportunities, all of which Ruth is grateful and appreciative for. In time, Cyrus learns that life's regrets are actually instead we opportunities, that in many cases are paths to a better life. A beautifully written, fast read that will have you smiling.
The Regrets of Cyrus Dodd is the story of Cyrus Dodd and his wife Ruth. Cyrus dreamed of a life of farming and raising a family with Ruth. When things did not go as planned, regretfully, they must leave and start a new life. For Cyrus the regrets keep coming even though life is giving him many wonderful opportunities, all of which Ruth is grateful and appreciative for. In time, Cyrus learns that life's regrets are actually instead we opportunities, that in many cases are paths to a better life. A beautifully written, fast read that will have you smiling.
May 18, 2016
As Bette Lee Crosby's books always do, this story carried me right along and captivated me with characters I'd love to know in person. This is the story of a man who focuses on what could have been, what he should have said or done, instead of celebrating what is. The novel is filled with touches of wisdom and populated with terrific characters connecting this story to other books by this author.
(Review based on ARC provided by the author through Socialbook)
(Review based on ARC provided by the author through Socialbook)
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