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Dogwood
A Christy Award winner from the best-selling author of War Room!In the small town of Dogwood, West Virginia, Karin has buried her shattered dreams by settling for a faithful husband whose emotional distance from her deep passions and conflicts leaves her isolated. Loaded with guilt, she tries to raise three small children and “do life” the best she can. Will returns to Dogwood intent on pursuing the only woman he has ever loved—only to find there is far more standing in his way than lost years in prison. The secrets of Will and Karin’s past begin to emerge through Danny Boyd, a young boy who wishes he hadn’t survived the tragedy that knit those two together as well as tore them apart. The trigger that will lay their pain bare and force them to face it rather than flee is the unlikely figure of Ruthie Bowles, a withered, wiry old woman who leads Karin so deep into her anger against God that it forces unexpected consequences.
352 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2008
349 people are currently reading
1006 people want to read
About the author
Chris Fabry
211 books673 followersChris Fabry is an award-winning author and radio personality who hosts the daily program Chris Fabry Live on Moody Radio. He is also heard on Love Worth Finding, Building Relationships with Dr. Gary Chapman, and other radio programs. A 1982 graduate of the W. Page Pitt School of Journalism at Marshall University and native of West Virginia, Chris and his wife, Andrea, now live in Arizona and are the parents of nine children.
Chris' novels, which include Dogwood, June Bug, Almost Heaven, Not in the Heart, Borders of the Heart, Every Waking Moment, The Promise of Jesse Woods, Looking into You, Under a Cloudless Sky, and A Piece of the Moon, have won five Christy Awards, an ECPA Christian Book Award, and two Christianity Today Book Awards of Merit, but it's his lyrical prose and tales of redemption that keep readers returning for more.
Chris has also published more than 70 other books, ranging from nonfiction and film novelizations, including the Kendrick brothers' War Room and Overcomer, to novels for children and young adults. He coauthored the Left Behind: The Kids series with Jerry B. Jenkins and Tim LaHaye, as well as the Red Rock Mysteries and The Wormling series with Jerry B. Jenkins. RPM is his latest series for kids and explores the exciting world of NASCAR.
Visit Chris' website at www.chrisfabry.com.
Chris' novels, which include Dogwood, June Bug, Almost Heaven, Not in the Heart, Borders of the Heart, Every Waking Moment, The Promise of Jesse Woods, Looking into You, Under a Cloudless Sky, and A Piece of the Moon, have won five Christy Awards, an ECPA Christian Book Award, and two Christianity Today Book Awards of Merit, but it's his lyrical prose and tales of redemption that keep readers returning for more.
Chris has also published more than 70 other books, ranging from nonfiction and film novelizations, including the Kendrick brothers' War Room and Overcomer, to novels for children and young adults. He coauthored the Left Behind: The Kids series with Jerry B. Jenkins and Tim LaHaye, as well as the Red Rock Mysteries and The Wormling series with Jerry B. Jenkins. RPM is his latest series for kids and explores the exciting world of NASCAR.
Visit Chris' website at www.chrisfabry.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 255 reviews
March 22, 2020
I've enjoyed all of the other Chris Fabry novels I've read. One of his, The Promise of Jesse Woods, was my book of the year. While the writing is good, the story line of Dogwood had me lost. I enjoy some mystery or need to speculate in novels, but I finished the final pages feeling less than satisfied. This novel won a Christy Award so it clearly has fans. Chris Fabry is a favorite author and I look forward to reading his other novels that I've not yet read.
September 5, 2008
I brought an advanced readers copy of this book back from ICRS (the International Christian Retail Show)along with a dozen other books. Knowing that I wasn't going to read it anytime soon, I gave members of my writers group the opportunity to read it first. The first person to grab the book was an 83 year old lady. She brought it back the next week, refusing to tell us anything about the book other than she loved it. Next a much younger person took it home and returned it with rave reviews, but she also refused to even give us a brief synopsis. Not being able to stand the intrigue anymore I snatched my book back and read over the next few days. Now I understand their enthusiasm and closed mouths. The plot twists are wonderful. I give this book 5 stars, but you'll have to read it to find out why!
September 7, 2014
This book left me wanting to punch someone in the face. I take reading very seriously. For me, there is no better feeling than finishing a really good novel and basking in the afterglow, thinking on it for days - how I've been touched by something or how I have learned something. Sadly, I want the 4 or 5 hours I spent reading this book back. I did not know this was a "Christian" novel and perhaps I would not have read it knowing that. But I am spiritual and the religious stuff doesn't bother me and that's not why I didn't like it. From the excessively unlikeable female protagonist to the out of nowhere underdeveloped second plot line - replete with a 60 year old grand mom shooting a rifle out of the back of a car during a high speed chase - to the just plain stupid and hokey plot twist, I finished this book with a scowl. The ending left me feeling cheated.
May 29, 2023
I liked this book, but didn't love it even though it won a Christy award. There are several points of view, but the main two are Karin and Will. Since this is the first time I've ever read a novel that features a character with my name (my name isn't Karen) it was a bit challenging for me at first even though I do know other people with my name IRL. However, that didn't affect my rating. Much of what goes on revolves around an event that happened in the past. My favourite character was Ruthie.
I gave 4 stars to the first book I read by Fabry, but the other two I've read weren't as good, so I'm not sure if that was a one-off for me or because it was written later in his career and he's improved over time.
I gave 4 stars to the first book I read by Fabry, but the other two I've read weren't as good, so I'm not sure if that was a one-off for me or because it was written later in his career and he's improved over time.
August 22, 2017
It was hard to continue reading this book initially. The town was not very accepting of Will and "What he had done". I finally continued reading it. Such an interesting twist in story.
April 13, 2024
It was okay. I felt the ending was rushed, but also a complete mind blow with what happened! I liked that throughout the book, there wasn't much, if any, details that would have hinted to the ending of the book.
October 2, 2008
I saw this advertised on Focus on the Family web site and I checked it out of the library. It is a story with twists and turns. In some ways it reminds me of Charles Martin's books...he has something to tell you through the back door. Chapter 14 had a lot of good soul care:
God puts every one of us here for a purpose. There's some pull on our lives that draws us toward that purpose, and the farther we go away from it, the more unhappy we are. The closer we get, the more we yearn and desire it.
DOING is overrated. BEING is where God works. What he's most concerned about.
God knows where you are headed. You'll get there if you keep struggling. Most people think the struggle means failure. It's actually the best thing that could happen. That sturggle will pull you out on the other side a lot stronger, a lot deeper. It's like cooking a good meal. You don't do that in a microwave, my dear. You let it simmer and boil and simmer some more until it's right. And you do that in an oven over lots of time and some high temperatures. Life is a process without a timer.
Water that's not moving becomes stagnant. And if there's not someone pouring into you, the pitcher gets dusty. A person is most satisfied and most useful when she is both giving and receiving. In marriage. In life. In friendship. With God too.
We do almost anything not to struggle. We take the easy path because it makes us feel better. We think a smooth road will get us to the destination quicker. And that's our problem - we're not at all concerned about WHERE we're going but HOW FAST we can get there. That has been your full-time job for a long time....choosing to feel better instead of growing...Because growing is painful. Most people work overtime at the Make Me Feel Better Chapel. Something bad happens and they throw a verse at you, like a fish to a walrus. That makes THEM feel better, being able to pull something out of a hat they hope will make sense of the pain. But if you're on the other end, it doesn't matter that the verse is true; it still feels like a fish because the person had no intentino of entering your struggle. Of just sitting with you and moving through it like those Old Testament boys did or the man in the parable. It never occurs to them that you need them to bend down and help you up, take you to a doctor, try to bandage your wounds. They throw a verse, cross to the other side, and they're on their way.
Most people have given up on their heart. They've settled for less. Like a married couple on treadmills, both working hard, spewing out sweat, but never getting anywhwere. They're content to sit on the porch in rocking chairs and watch life. At one point they had some vague sense when something deep down inside called to them and they wanted to follow, but the ticking clock and the kids and the mortgage drowned it out. It's a rhythm, a beat in the background you have to strain to hear. You have to push things out of the way to really listen.
[If] You stop listening to your heart and you become a shell of who you were meant to be.
God is taking you somewhere. Someplace deep. He wants you to go with him.
Let go of the illusion...the one that says you can have a perfect life, a perfect marriage, a perfect child, or whatever else you dream of being perfect. That you can get to a point where there's no pain. That you never lose sleep.
Basically life is a dance through a field of cow manure. Most people won't even go into the field; they go around it and pretend. Or they try to tiptoe here and there and stay close to the fence. They never see that all that fertilizer creates some beautiful flowers and some of the greenest grass you'll ever see. "So you what, wallow in it?" "No, girl, I put my hip boots on and waltz through the cow pies."
God puts every one of us here for a purpose. There's some pull on our lives that draws us toward that purpose, and the farther we go away from it, the more unhappy we are. The closer we get, the more we yearn and desire it.
DOING is overrated. BEING is where God works. What he's most concerned about.
God knows where you are headed. You'll get there if you keep struggling. Most people think the struggle means failure. It's actually the best thing that could happen. That sturggle will pull you out on the other side a lot stronger, a lot deeper. It's like cooking a good meal. You don't do that in a microwave, my dear. You let it simmer and boil and simmer some more until it's right. And you do that in an oven over lots of time and some high temperatures. Life is a process without a timer.
Water that's not moving becomes stagnant. And if there's not someone pouring into you, the pitcher gets dusty. A person is most satisfied and most useful when she is both giving and receiving. In marriage. In life. In friendship. With God too.
We do almost anything not to struggle. We take the easy path because it makes us feel better. We think a smooth road will get us to the destination quicker. And that's our problem - we're not at all concerned about WHERE we're going but HOW FAST we can get there. That has been your full-time job for a long time....choosing to feel better instead of growing...Because growing is painful. Most people work overtime at the Make Me Feel Better Chapel. Something bad happens and they throw a verse at you, like a fish to a walrus. That makes THEM feel better, being able to pull something out of a hat they hope will make sense of the pain. But if you're on the other end, it doesn't matter that the verse is true; it still feels like a fish because the person had no intentino of entering your struggle. Of just sitting with you and moving through it like those Old Testament boys did or the man in the parable. It never occurs to them that you need them to bend down and help you up, take you to a doctor, try to bandage your wounds. They throw a verse, cross to the other side, and they're on their way.
Most people have given up on their heart. They've settled for less. Like a married couple on treadmills, both working hard, spewing out sweat, but never getting anywhwere. They're content to sit on the porch in rocking chairs and watch life. At one point they had some vague sense when something deep down inside called to them and they wanted to follow, but the ticking clock and the kids and the mortgage drowned it out. It's a rhythm, a beat in the background you have to strain to hear. You have to push things out of the way to really listen.
[If] You stop listening to your heart and you become a shell of who you were meant to be.
God is taking you somewhere. Someplace deep. He wants you to go with him.
Let go of the illusion...the one that says you can have a perfect life, a perfect marriage, a perfect child, or whatever else you dream of being perfect. That you can get to a point where there's no pain. That you never lose sleep.
Basically life is a dance through a field of cow manure. Most people won't even go into the field; they go around it and pretend. Or they try to tiptoe here and there and stay close to the fence. They never see that all that fertilizer creates some beautiful flowers and some of the greenest grass you'll ever see. "So you what, wallow in it?" "No, girl, I put my hip boots on and waltz through the cow pies."
July 9, 2015
Chris has a quote by Jackson Browne in the front of the book that speaks volumes about this story “I think that life is full of pain…It’s painful for everybody…Growing is painful. But I think that the only way through it , is through it…and anything that helps is a blessing”. The author shows his characters dealing with the pain of life in many different ways.
My mind and emotions were impacted as I read the first page. Ruthie Bowles helps Karin find answers and peace in her lonely days and sleepless nights. “I have been staring at the hornet’s nest called life, afraid to live, too stunned to move. Ruthie was the one who drew the poison from my soul.” Karin admits. Chris Fabry delivers word pictures like this all through this story. The imagery is powerful and thought provoking.
“Life isn’t pretty so you’ve got to hug the ugly out of it,” Ruthie said to Karin.
I loved the depth of gut level honesty these women share with one another. A close relationship develops between this most unlikely pair Ruthie and Karin. As I read I kept wanting to find out the tragedy and heartbreak that happened in this small town named “Dogwood” that brought so many people together and changed their lives forever.
In the first 4 chapters the author develops individual characters and their situations. Chris makes it easy to know who’s speaking because the character’s name is on top of each new chapter. Before he takes you to the next chapter and a new character ; the author leaves you hanging and wanting to learn more about the character he just introduced. After the 4th chapter I started wondering if and when these people’s lives would intersect. The story really builds up to this intersection of lives. Then it happens their worlds collide in a fast paced action packed climax. Chris Fabry has woven these people’s lives and this story together in a fascinating way. Chris has written many books for children. This is his first adult fiction story. I can’t wait to read what he writes next; you’ll be looking for his next book too!
Disclosure of Material Connection:
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. 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 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”
Nora St.Laurent
The Book Club Network www.bookfun.org
The Book Club Network blog www.psalm516.blogspot.com
Book Fun Magazine www.bookfunmagazine.com
My mind and emotions were impacted as I read the first page. Ruthie Bowles helps Karin find answers and peace in her lonely days and sleepless nights. “I have been staring at the hornet’s nest called life, afraid to live, too stunned to move. Ruthie was the one who drew the poison from my soul.” Karin admits. Chris Fabry delivers word pictures like this all through this story. The imagery is powerful and thought provoking.
“Life isn’t pretty so you’ve got to hug the ugly out of it,” Ruthie said to Karin.
I loved the depth of gut level honesty these women share with one another. A close relationship develops between this most unlikely pair Ruthie and Karin. As I read I kept wanting to find out the tragedy and heartbreak that happened in this small town named “Dogwood” that brought so many people together and changed their lives forever.
In the first 4 chapters the author develops individual characters and their situations. Chris makes it easy to know who’s speaking because the character’s name is on top of each new chapter. Before he takes you to the next chapter and a new character ; the author leaves you hanging and wanting to learn more about the character he just introduced. After the 4th chapter I started wondering if and when these people’s lives would intersect. The story really builds up to this intersection of lives. Then it happens their worlds collide in a fast paced action packed climax. Chris Fabry has woven these people’s lives and this story together in a fascinating way. Chris has written many books for children. This is his first adult fiction story. I can’t wait to read what he writes next; you’ll be looking for his next book too!
Disclosure of Material Connection:
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. 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 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”
Nora St.Laurent
The Book Club Network www.bookfun.org
The Book Club Network blog www.psalm516.blogspot.com
Book Fun Magazine www.bookfunmagazine.com
November 16, 2011
This book suck you in right from the beginning. It's a murder mystery with a spiritual element. There is a lot of talk about God, what He wants for one of the characters, etc, to the point where it made me uncomfortable. I was rolling along with the story, and then suddenly at the end of the book there was a very strange twist. VERY strange. It seems like the author was trying to write his own sort of parable. Perhaps he's a minister of some sort? The ending just left a bad taste in my mouth about the whole book. It's too bad, because the story itself was good.
August 19, 2018
It started out really well. Excellent, even. I can't decide whether I liked the ending or not. I found thought provoking passages in the initial chapters, which blew me away. I was disappointed I did not know enough about Christianity to totally appreciate some of the analogies.
I don't want to reveal anything else, other than the fact that, you will not be disappointed if you read this book. (So why 4 stars? There was an action sequence. I had to roll my eyes at that.)
I don't want to reveal anything else, other than the fact that, you will not be disappointed if you read this book. (So why 4 stars? There was an action sequence. I had to roll my eyes at that.)
June 11, 2022
Wow.
Very rarely do I have to sit back and have time to mentally process what I’ve read in a fiction book. When I finished this book, that’s what I needed.
I feel like a review would ruin so much of this one, so instead I’ll just say that I had difficulty stopping while reading and I have never read one where I was so stunned by the outcome. 🤯
You’ll eagerly turn each page and the only way to sum this one up is: whoa.
Very rarely do I have to sit back and have time to mentally process what I’ve read in a fiction book. When I finished this book, that’s what I needed.
I feel like a review would ruin so much of this one, so instead I’ll just say that I had difficulty stopping while reading and I have never read one where I was so stunned by the outcome. 🤯
You’ll eagerly turn each page and the only way to sum this one up is: whoa.
December 8, 2009
I just started this book on my lunch break and was wondering if I could call in sick for the rest of the day to finish it. Yes, it's that good! I can't wait until my next break to continue.
If you like surprise endings, you will love this book!
If you like surprise endings, you will love this book!
August 1, 2013
This is a great book. I'm constantly searching for books that promote faith, without being overbearing, or overly sappy. This book met the requirements. It has a a suspenseful plot, great character development, and left me singing Country Roads!
May 16, 2019
I love Fabry's books, his writing is lyrical and the stories are memorable. This is the start of everything involving this small town, and it is a beautiful start.
October 16, 2010
The notion that this book won an award is almost unbeliveable. I shudder to think what the competition was like.
September 20, 2015
This is my fav book written by Chris Fabry. It was detailed and had so much emotion to it. The ending is a supriser that you didnt expect.
February 5, 2023
2.5/5 stars
Dogwood is the first book I have read by Chris Fabry. I picked it up at a used bookstore last year and this year I am trying to read more from my own bookshelves. I also want to give more male authors a try.
I struggled to get into Dogwood for several reasons. First, there is a lot of description, the beginning especially is very plot-driven, which makes it harder for me to stay engaged. Second, each chapter shifts to a different person as the author introduces us to the characters. Every time I started to feel like I was understanding what was going on, there would be another shift (four main characters plus the ones introduced with them, family/friends). Third, I had a hard time connecting with Karin or even liking her very much.
There are so many things I want to say about this book, but I won't because they would be spoilers. There was a lot going on in this book and the author did bring all the pieces together in the end. However, I did not see the ending coming, and I hated it. Yep, you read that right. I do not normally have that strong of feelings about an ending, but I was like "are you kidding me?!" If you want to take it in a positive light, it is a memorable ending.
Dogwood is the first book I have read by Chris Fabry. I picked it up at a used bookstore last year and this year I am trying to read more from my own bookshelves. I also want to give more male authors a try.
I struggled to get into Dogwood for several reasons. First, there is a lot of description, the beginning especially is very plot-driven, which makes it harder for me to stay engaged. Second, each chapter shifts to a different person as the author introduces us to the characters. Every time I started to feel like I was understanding what was going on, there would be another shift (four main characters plus the ones introduced with them, family/friends). Third, I had a hard time connecting with Karin or even liking her very much.
There are so many things I want to say about this book, but I won't because they would be spoilers. There was a lot going on in this book and the author did bring all the pieces together in the end. However, I did not see the ending coming, and I hated it. Yep, you read that right. I do not normally have that strong of feelings about an ending, but I was like "are you kidding me?!" If you want to take it in a positive light, it is a memorable ending.
March 9, 2022
This book has a surprise ending which I thought took the story to the next level. The first 3/4 of the story was good but just ordinary. It is well written and details unfold as the story progresses. Fairly ordinary, everyday characters. They could have been people living in my own neighborhood. The author, Chris Fabry, gently interweaves Christian Judaeo ideas and beliefs into the story. I am glad I took a chance on an author I didn't know about. I would definitely read other books he has written.
September 2, 2018
Loved it till the ending!!
June 26, 2025
What an enjoyable book! I found myself wondering until the very end how some of the characters were going to play out in this story. Chris Fabry is becoming one of my favorite authors!
August 25, 2017
God's work
Heart wrenching beautiful. A gripping story of unfinished love with compelling characters. The author most truly love W. Virginia. And our God!
Heart wrenching beautiful. A gripping story of unfinished love with compelling characters. The author most truly love W. Virginia. And our God!
August 9, 2008
What an amazing story! While there were several different characters and viewpoints, for the most part they were distinct enough where I could keep track of them. At any rate, this story was a page turner. I loved how the author dropped little clues on a trail which led to the culmination of the story. While not perfect or super-spiritual, the ending was still gratifying despite the tragic undertones. For the majority of the story, you aren't quite sure what the whole issue is with Karin, but begin to suspect a little bit more as the story moves along. It's so bittersweet, yet surprising. And beautiful.
This story left me wanting to mull over the the details even after I finished it. Kind of like I did with the movie "Summersby" starring Jodi Foster and Richard Gear. Yet Dogwood didn't leave me with a "bummer" feeling like some novels have. In fact, I grew more fond of Will as the story progressed, despite what had allegedly occurred before he went to prison. And kind of like in the movie "Dead Man Walking," I wanted to obsess over what could have happened differently to prevent the incident in the first place. My heart ached for him.
Then as the truth slowly came out, a tragic sense of loss hit me deep inside, but it mingled with rejoicing as things were revealed. There were some intense moments in the story when I thought for sure it was over for Will. The suspense was killing me as was his unrequited love and longing for Karin. The scenes that went back to that tragic year were particularly powerful. The emotion was totally gripping, and it was so precious to get to know Will's heart so much that he felt like a real person to me.
I can see this movie becoming a Hollywood feature film. In fact, it was so well done I felt like I was living in Dogwood as I read the story. Rarely does a novel strike such a deep chord in me like this one had. This story is not only well worth reading, but sharing with friends, too. It would make a fabulous book club selection because it was so thought-provoking and edgy. And I SO love edgy because I love anything that makes me think and feel things on a deeper level.
This story left me wanting to mull over the the details even after I finished it. Kind of like I did with the movie "Summersby" starring Jodi Foster and Richard Gear. Yet Dogwood didn't leave me with a "bummer" feeling like some novels have. In fact, I grew more fond of Will as the story progressed, despite what had allegedly occurred before he went to prison. And kind of like in the movie "Dead Man Walking," I wanted to obsess over what could have happened differently to prevent the incident in the first place. My heart ached for him.
Then as the truth slowly came out, a tragic sense of loss hit me deep inside, but it mingled with rejoicing as things were revealed. There were some intense moments in the story when I thought for sure it was over for Will. The suspense was killing me as was his unrequited love and longing for Karin. The scenes that went back to that tragic year were particularly powerful. The emotion was totally gripping, and it was so precious to get to know Will's heart so much that he felt like a real person to me.
I can see this movie becoming a Hollywood feature film. In fact, it was so well done I felt like I was living in Dogwood as I read the story. Rarely does a novel strike such a deep chord in me like this one had. This story is not only well worth reading, but sharing with friends, too. It would make a fabulous book club selection because it was so thought-provoking and edgy. And I SO love edgy because I love anything that makes me think and feel things on a deeper level.
August 2, 2017
I was immediately drawn in by the characters and then had a very hard time putting the book down.
January 19, 2013
Chris has a quote by Jackson Browne in the front of the book that speaks volumes about this story “I think that life is full of pain…It’s painful for everybody…Growing is painful. But I think that the only way through it , is through it…and anything that helps is a blessing”. The author shows his characters dealing with the pain of life in many different ways.
My mind and emotions were impacted as I read the first page. Ruthie Bowles helps Karin find answers and peace in her lonely days and sleepless nights. “I have been staring at the hornet’s nest called life, afraid to live, too stunned to move. Ruthie was the one who drew the poison from my soul.” Karin admits. Chris Fabry delivers word pictures like this all through this story. The imagery is powerful and thought provoking.
“Life isn’t pretty so you’ve got to hug the ugly out of it,” Ruthie said to Karin.
I loved the depth of gut level honesty these women share with one another. A close relationship develops between this most unlikely pair Ruthie and Karin. As I read I kept wanting to find out the tragedy and heartbreak that happened in this small town named “Dogwood” that brought so many people together and changed their lives forever.
In the first 4 chapters the author develops individual characters and their situations. Chris makes it easy to know who’s speaking because the character’s name is on top of each new chapter. Before he takes you to the next chapter and a new character ; the author leaves you hanging and wanting to learn more about the character he just introduced. After the 4th chapter I started wondering if and when these people’s lives would intersect. The story really builds up to this intersection of lives. Then it happens their worlds collide in a fast paced action packed climax. Chris Fabry has woven these people’s lives and this story together in a fascinating way.
After serving a prison sentence for a DWI that killed three children, Will returns home to the scorn of his small town, the love of his life, and a police corruption scandal involving meth.
My mind and emotions were impacted as I read the first page. Ruthie Bowles helps Karin find answers and peace in her lonely days and sleepless nights. “I have been staring at the hornet’s nest called life, afraid to live, too stunned to move. Ruthie was the one who drew the poison from my soul.” Karin admits. Chris Fabry delivers word pictures like this all through this story. The imagery is powerful and thought provoking.
“Life isn’t pretty so you’ve got to hug the ugly out of it,” Ruthie said to Karin.
I loved the depth of gut level honesty these women share with one another. A close relationship develops between this most unlikely pair Ruthie and Karin. As I read I kept wanting to find out the tragedy and heartbreak that happened in this small town named “Dogwood” that brought so many people together and changed their lives forever.
In the first 4 chapters the author develops individual characters and their situations. Chris makes it easy to know who’s speaking because the character’s name is on top of each new chapter. Before he takes you to the next chapter and a new character ; the author leaves you hanging and wanting to learn more about the character he just introduced. After the 4th chapter I started wondering if and when these people’s lives would intersect. The story really builds up to this intersection of lives. Then it happens their worlds collide in a fast paced action packed climax. Chris Fabry has woven these people’s lives and this story together in a fascinating way.
After serving a prison sentence for a DWI that killed three children, Will returns home to the scorn of his small town, the love of his life, and a police corruption scandal involving meth.
December 18, 2013
This novel is set in the small community of Dogwood, West Virginia. The story is told from the perspective of Will, a young man who has just spent 12 years in prison for a crime he did not commit, Karin, the young woman Will has been in love with since he was a teenager, Bobby Ray, Karin's brother and a new deputy in the town of Dogwood, and Danny Boyd, the brother of 2 little girls who were killed in a tragic car accident 12 years ago. When Will comes back to Dogwood after being released from prison, he faces nearly insurmountable difficulties because of intense hatred towards him by the people of the town, including his own brother. He is determined to find a way to reach Karin and show her his love for her but she has escaped the reality of the accident that resulted in Will going to prison by escaping into a world of her imagination. Although there is only one reference to Christian beliefs in the book, it seems as though Will himself portrays Jesus in how he has made a supreme sacrifice for her and has continued to love her regardless of her other boyfriends and her withdrawal from him. It is hard to believe that someone would make the choices that he has and remain as pure in heart as he has.
The book builds up suspense throughout the plot and has some surprises at the end. Although I enjoyed this book, the switches back and forth among the characters were sometimes confusing for me and seemed to be missing something. The character development of Karin seemed to be weak and incomplete. I did not enjoy this book as much as I did June Bug by Chris Fabry.
The book builds up suspense throughout the plot and has some surprises at the end. Although I enjoyed this book, the switches back and forth among the characters were sometimes confusing for me and seemed to be missing something. The character development of Karin seemed to be weak and incomplete. I did not enjoy this book as much as I did June Bug by Chris Fabry.
January 16, 2020
If you judge a book by the surprise ending, this one would get 5 stars. I was so surprised I said, "What??!!" The ending was such a surprise I felt the need to read it all over again to understand what had happened. But I didn't. This was a very personal view of pastor's wife whose one true love was getting out of prison. Now that makes me worried from the start. Is the author manipulating me into hoping something would happen that is a bad idea from the start? How can it possibly be resolved in a good way? Well, it is, but somehow I couldn't help feeling cheated all the same. The first third or so was well written and intriguing, though the situation was disturbing. About the middle third seemed very personal and emotional, but very little action was taking place. The last third seemed jam-packed with action. Then the big surprise at the end left me feeling I didn't know what to think about the book. I rated Chris Fabry's "Not in the Heart" 5 stars and read it more than once, but "Dogwood" just wasn't my favorite.
October 21, 2015
I kind of struggled through this one at the outset. Chapter after chapter of reading but not really understanding what was going on. I got to know the characters, but the story seemed so fragmented and disjointed. As I neared the end, I realized why and the book instantly moved from 2 looks to 3 looks. I was not completely surprised at the end, but did find it was a nice twist.
While this is Christian fiction, winning a Christy Award in 2009 in the Contemporary Standalone category, it is not your typical book in the genre. It is engaging and easy-to-read without being in-your-face evangelistic or full of too-good-to-be-true characters. Very easy to read, t took me a morning to read finish it.
Recommended.
While this is Christian fiction, winning a Christy Award in 2009 in the Contemporary Standalone category, it is not your typical book in the genre. It is engaging and easy-to-read without being in-your-face evangelistic or full of too-good-to-be-true characters. Very easy to read, t took me a morning to read finish it.
Recommended.
May 1, 2017
I bought this secondhand during a convention held at my church. It was highly recommended by a church sister.
For the first two parts of the novel I was confused, it seemed to be slow story and I was not planning on giving this a high rating or even finishing it. I couldn't relate to the setting which seemed to be a major factor to understanding the characters. This is one book where my perseverance paid off. I guess one of the major reveals of the book, but then the last two revelations pulled everything together. I will probably be re-reading this one just to see how I missed the clues.
There are some great quotes in here, need to start making notes for reviews.
Overall, I recommend this one, but it will not be easy read initially but the pay off is worth it. Rating is 3.5 stars
For the first two parts of the novel I was confused, it seemed to be slow story and I was not planning on giving this a high rating or even finishing it. I couldn't relate to the setting which seemed to be a major factor to understanding the characters. This is one book where my perseverance paid off. I guess one of the major reveals of the book, but then the last two revelations pulled everything together. I will probably be re-reading this one just to see how I missed the clues.
There are some great quotes in here, need to start making notes for reviews.
Overall, I recommend this one, but it will not be easy read initially but the pay off is worth it. Rating is 3.5 stars
May 22, 2017
Oh, wow... Will gets a visit in the penitentiary by his former girlfriend and her older friend, Ruth. Will has vowed to wait for Karen, but she has settled by marrying a minister and has children now. When Will's time is over, he returns home to Dogwood. Hostility is great, still, against this child killer. The unfolding of the plot is magnificent and amazing. You will know the amazing part when you get there...What love!
May 30, 2023
Excellent read and image of sacrificial love. I read many reviews from Amazon and was surprised by the number of who didn't understand Danny's place in the book. The other surprise was the number of comments about the ending.
I jumped to the last 3 chapters after reading the first 5. Knowing the end made the rest make so much more sense. I'm not patient so waiting until the end was too difficult. However, if you do have the discipline to wait it will be worth it. I also agree with others who said this is a book you'll get,more from the second time.
Spoilers next
I do agree with others about wondering how Will could be so dedicated to Karin to trade his life for hers. She was stereotypical rich kid who engaged in activities to rebel against her parents. Though a rebellious child is not a big deal but there didn't seem to be any true affection demonstrated by Karin toward Will other than he was the type of boy that her parents disapproved of.
Will's devotion is admirable and even though he gave into Karin's peer pressure to do what he knew was wrong it just confirmed he was human and a young man in the presence of a tempting beautiful girl. His self control in prison and after his return is a testament that his intentions were honorable even when he stumbled. To stumble is everyone's story whether they admit it or not.
Danny's story is sad and likely controversial based on your beliefs. His "counselor" is not of this world. The discussions are the part that would likely offend people, but who can say what Jesus will do when we meet him. We know he loves the children and guiding them to the truth seems possible. What we know immediately after our death is also unknown. The age of the children is another area of possible controversy. Again how do we know what our bodies will be like in heaven other than perfect and ready to worship our Lord. Danny's acceptance of the truth resulted in his entrance into eternal peace with his sisters.
The "redemption" Will received within his community, family, and Karin is the earthly reward for his sacrifice. Though it was implied that it would not be perfect and resentment would still exist, the fact the judge acknowledged he was wrong is huge especially in a small town. The family whose children were killed showing acceptance of Karin suggests she likely knew something because why else would a young woman be in a nursing home. Karin having a relationship with Will would also result in the families coming face to face eventually. It's a small town, they knew Will was back and they knew Karin had a past with him. Ruthie's example of forgiveness was likely passed on to her daughter. It's also unlikely the secret will stay between Karin, Will, and her counselor. It's a small town and everyone knows you're business.
The corruption of the police force is less obvious for me other than the opportunity for Will to be allowed the redemption he deserves. The changes in his mother's character that others complained about make sense especially for "mountain people" or "hill people". She was meek, sought the safe path, but you threaten a mama's family and watch out. They don't call mother's "mama bears" for no reason. Women in those areas know how to survive and when that survival is threatened there's nothing she wouldn't do to protect her family, especially since her husband wasn't around to be the protector.
I jumped to the last 3 chapters after reading the first 5. Knowing the end made the rest make so much more sense. I'm not patient so waiting until the end was too difficult. However, if you do have the discipline to wait it will be worth it. I also agree with others who said this is a book you'll get,more from the second time.
Spoilers next
I do agree with others about wondering how Will could be so dedicated to Karin to trade his life for hers. She was stereotypical rich kid who engaged in activities to rebel against her parents. Though a rebellious child is not a big deal but there didn't seem to be any true affection demonstrated by Karin toward Will other than he was the type of boy that her parents disapproved of.
Will's devotion is admirable and even though he gave into Karin's peer pressure to do what he knew was wrong it just confirmed he was human and a young man in the presence of a tempting beautiful girl. His self control in prison and after his return is a testament that his intentions were honorable even when he stumbled. To stumble is everyone's story whether they admit it or not.
Danny's story is sad and likely controversial based on your beliefs. His "counselor" is not of this world. The discussions are the part that would likely offend people, but who can say what Jesus will do when we meet him. We know he loves the children and guiding them to the truth seems possible. What we know immediately after our death is also unknown. The age of the children is another area of possible controversy. Again how do we know what our bodies will be like in heaven other than perfect and ready to worship our Lord. Danny's acceptance of the truth resulted in his entrance into eternal peace with his sisters.
The "redemption" Will received within his community, family, and Karin is the earthly reward for his sacrifice. Though it was implied that it would not be perfect and resentment would still exist, the fact the judge acknowledged he was wrong is huge especially in a small town. The family whose children were killed showing acceptance of Karin suggests she likely knew something because why else would a young woman be in a nursing home. Karin having a relationship with Will would also result in the families coming face to face eventually. It's a small town, they knew Will was back and they knew Karin had a past with him. Ruthie's example of forgiveness was likely passed on to her daughter. It's also unlikely the secret will stay between Karin, Will, and her counselor. It's a small town and everyone knows you're business.
The corruption of the police force is less obvious for me other than the opportunity for Will to be allowed the redemption he deserves. The changes in his mother's character that others complained about make sense especially for "mountain people" or "hill people". She was meek, sought the safe path, but you threaten a mama's family and watch out. They don't call mother's "mama bears" for no reason. Women in those areas know how to survive and when that survival is threatened there's nothing she wouldn't do to protect her family, especially since her husband wasn't around to be the protector.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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