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Reader Comments on Where the River Ends
Posted in Reader Comments on Wed, July 02, 2008
If you have read Where the River Ends please post your thoughts by adding a comment.
I haven’t read it yet but I am so excited to buy this! I was just looking for a good book to read an hour ago when I received your email bulletin. Can’t wait!
I never met a Charles Martin book that I didn’t love! Cannot wait to read this one!!!!!!!!!!
P.S. I thought your video was very heartfelt; that’s how I know the book is going to be equally touching.
Wow, Charles, you can really pick the themes that pack the punches! I thought WRAPPED IN RAIN was a blockbuster ... sounds as if you have another winner. Can’t wait to read this tale you have woven.
PS I couldn’t watch the video since I am hearing impaired and need closed captions but I will take Nancy’s word for it that it is beautiful.
I just ran on to your books last year and now have them all and tell everyone about them. (I have them all) I have had Where the River Ends on pre-order for a couple months now and getting anxious now to finally be able to read it. I don’t know which of your books is my favorite now but a toss up between “Wrapped in Rain” and “Chasing Fireflies”. You are a truly gifted author and hope you will continue to write for years to come.
OK, call me metro or whatever...I enjoy all of Charles’ books. Wrapped in Rain is a truly soul searching book. Not one of those that does the searching for you. It’s one that takes you to a mountain trail, points it out then leaves it up to you personally to experience it. I read this book over several days. It takes some time to digest some of the trials the characters are going through. I keep thinking I know where we are going only to be derailed by the next emotional “twist” that Charles has lured me into. After reading the book, I wondered if the author is the hero to his wife that the character was...but I think I know the answer to that question. I highly recommend this book and all of them for that matter.
I can not wait to read your new book. I have all your other 5 books at least 3 times each. I love your books and have been sharing them with all my friends. Please keep writing.....and thank you so very much.
I am my church’s librarian and have tried to get all of Charles Martin’s books in our library. His writing is wonderful and I think WRAPPED IN RAIN was great reading.
i just finished the book and was pleasantly surprised. i have not read any of mr. martins other books but this one really takes you inside the ugly disease called cancer. i support relay for life because several members of my family have died with cancer. we all could only be so blessed to find a love like doss and abbie had and to have the priviledge to love the way they did. i look forward to the next book.
I have read the new book already, through a connection at a library (non-prooofed copy) , and it is very good. Everyone who loves Charles Martin’s other books will love this one, too. I work at a bookstore and have gotten fellow employees hooked on Charles Martin. Sadly, when we opened a year ago, no one else had even heard of him. Now several of the employees are reading his books, and I recommend them to customers every chance I get! I have never read such heartfelt, emotional stories as what Charles Martin writes. I hope he keeps coming up with wonderful ideas for more books.
Charles Martin is my favorite author. I have introduced him to MANY of my friends, and am so excited to be starting WHERE THE RIVER ENDS. My favorite so far is WHEN CRICKETS CRY.
I am a typo freak, though, and am concerned about the fact that someone from the South would spell Ft. Sumter SUMPTER.
I have read all of your books. All are very good - this one, outstanding. It turned me emotions inside out!
Hi all
The publishers are running an mobile campaign for Where the River Ends, you can text River to 64888 to get a the first chapter to read on your phone. It is a free service as the publisher pays to distribute the content.
Jane from ICUE
I just finished Where The River Ends. I think each book gets better. I am so glad that my friends and I were referred to Charles Martin. I have read every one so far, and each one has been better than the last.
I have emailed Oprah’s Book Club suggesting his books. They are all well written, compelling, thought provoking and inspiring.
Haven’t found another author who has touched my heart like him. Dottie in Ohio
It was great! You just keep getting better. We lost our Daddy last year to a brain tumor after only dealing with it for 4 months. The “log” said it all. I am a member of HAB & saw you last year. I want to say Thank you to Christy for allowing you to share so much with all of us. Keep up the fantastic work!
Thank you, Charles Martin, for Where The River Ends. I couldn’t put it down (really)! It was a reminder of the gift we have of each momemt, of the fraility of life and how we can give and take joy where it is found.
We have read all of your books.....Have Where The River Ends...and can’t wait to read it. We will post a comment following the read....We know it is as wonderfully compiled and written as all your previous books...Thank you for your expression of a God given talent...It spills over to others and offers hope in a sensible way.....
I was taken in by this story. When the the “C” word knocks on your door, it is an overwhelming shock which throws life into a tailspin. Most people consider the victim of the cancer. But cancer hits the whole family, especially the spouse. I learned the true meaning of “for better or for worse” as well as, “in sickness and in health.” Charles Martin truly describes this reality. In “Where the River Ends” we follow Doss Michaels as he risks all for the love of his life, cheering him on all the way to the mouth of the St. Marys River. Unlike many authors who tell us a good story, Martin has the unusual knack of showing us. Just as his main character knows how to create something beautiful with canvas and paint, Charles Martin paints a beautiful picture of unconditional love with paper and pen. This is a must read!
My daughter Missy had been trying to get me to read a Charles Martin book for months. When Where the River Ends came out, she insisted I start there since it was a story that that involved a love of mine...the St. Mary’s River. I had the pleasure of purchsing the book and meeting you at your book signing at Border’s Bookstore in Orlando the day the book was released. I couldn’t wait to begin reading. Once I started reading I couldn’t put it down...you took me for a stroll down memory lane as some of my last memories of my husband (who by the way had colon cancer and died in 1993) was a final trip on the St Mary’s river. We took out at Stokes Bridge and he was so weak he was bearly able to get the canoe up the hill to load on to our vehicle. The book was so well written and described the kind of love my husband and I had for one another. I cried a bucket of tears and then more...I didn’t want the book to end. I read it in two days and I work full time...just couldn’t put it down. Congratulations Charles...you are gifted! I’m now reading When Crickets Cry...keep up the good work. Best Wishes...Nancy
It was so nice to meet Charles today in Clayton. I’ve read all of his books, including his latest, Where the River Ends. He just consistently writes books with incredible stories, that are hard to put down (I stayed up till 2:30 one night this week because I just had to finish WTRE). More than an appealing story, is a story that speaks to the heart, that causes you to examine your own thoughts, feelings and relationships. WTRE challenges me to strive to be a wife who loves unselfishly and lavishly, knowing that how and when the end comes is only known by God and I want no regrets.
I am so sad to be missing you in Blowing Rock this week, but just got back today from a church trip to Costa Rica and must work (to keep buying books!!) for at least a couple of days.
Actually, it was truly exciting for me to take this new book on a mission trip out of the country, as my very first foray into your books was when I found “When Crickets Cry” (completely by accident) and dove into it pretty blindly during the toughest days of a month-long trip to teach nursery school in Africa. As you can imagine, that was a heart wrenching and life changing experience, and “When Crickets Cry” was a big part of working through that for me and several of my fellow volunteers who read it when I finished (and, like me, went home and purchased copies to share!!). Since then - especially being a Southerner - I have devoured (and passed along) all of your other books, and have loved each one more than the last. “Wrapped in Rain” is still probably still my favorite, although “Chasing Fireflies” was a close second. I’m really enjoying the new book as well and really loved having the opportunity to talk with my fellow travelers about your work.
A couple of the others on the Costa Rica trip suggested that I start contributing your books to our church library as a tribute to people or events, and I’m really excited about that idea! Any way to get a copy autographed - maybe by mail - without attending an “official” event??
Thanks so much to you and your family for sharing your talent, and for your great work that really shares the love of God by meeting people where they are in both the challenges and triumphs of life. I’ll continue to be an early buyer - and sharer - and will enjoy spreading the word (and your words!) with others....
Can’t wait for the next one!!
A friend introduced me to the Charles Martin books. Boy am I grateful ! I started with “Chasing Fireflies” and I could not put it down. I was laughing and crying reading the book. My children thought I had lost it. I just finished WTRE and Charles Martin has written another great story. It touched my soul because I know several people who have lost their battle with cancer. My favorite books from Mr. Martin is “The Dead Don’t Dance” and the sequel “Maggie.” I have recommended your books to my school’s book club and to many friends. Please keep writing.
I picked up “Where The River Ends” Friday night and finished it Monday. This is absolutely one of the best books I’ve ever read. One thing that make it so special is that all the places are familiar to me. I live in the Kings Ferry area and all small communities and boat ramps that are mentioned in the book are real. I have been to most all the places mentioned except Cedar Point. Even the small Mt. Horeb Baptist Church on Cooper’s Neck Road was brought into the story line. I couldn’t believe what I was reading. All of my family will be reading the book and I will certainly recommend it to many others. Also, a copy will be placed in our church library at Ephesus Baptist Church.
The story is truely touching. It gives insight to what loved ones as well as the patient go through with this terrible disease. I felt I could see the paintings Doss had painted by the vivid descriptions portrayed in the story. The way Doss and Abbie show their love through the tough times and with humor is truely amazing.
God has truely gifted Charles Martin with story telling.
First thing going into this book I was armed with Kleenex because I knew I would cry, no ,weep, for all C.M.’s books touch a chord so deep and tender that you go where it takes you and drains you and finally, fills you up. That is what I felt reading this book. Could not put it down but had to in spots because I felt so raw from all the hurting and pain that Abbie was going through. But the way Doss loved her through it all, that was really something. And I don’t think many people are strong enough to love another person like that and forget all about their needs and just concentrate on someone else. Loved the book although it was hard to read at times, but then you made Abbie laugh and I could breathe again. Keep it up. I have told my world about your books and I thank you. Like the Keith Whitley song too even though country music isn’t my thing. And looked up all the art you mentioned in the book so I knew where you were coming from. The computer age, ain’t it grand. Reading and learning. Ok, I’m done here. Better leave room for someone else!
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Mr. Martin, I just finished reading your book, Where the River Ends, and immediately went to Amazon.com to see what other inspiring novels you had written. I thought your book was wonderfully written and after going to your website discovered your inspiration for the story. I, too, have had an inspiration of an amazing story that I am looking for an author to write. The setting is the early 1900’s and my great grandmother Anna (Sykora) Beckman gave birth to triplet sons in Humboldt, Saskatchewan, Canada. All three died when a nurse gave medicine to the triplets that was intended for the mother. After the tragedy, Anna her husband Joseph and their other three sons moved back to Iowa where they originated. Anna ended up in the mental health institute in Independence, Iowa. Meanwhile Joseph’s brother Tony Beckman was arrested for murdering a prominent Dubuque, Iowa farmer he worked for, but was set free because of the bazaar details behind the death. To this day it is questioned whether it was a murder or a suicide. The details of the story are extremely interesting, to many to share with you here. The Dubuque Telegraph Herald reported that the Sheriff called it the most bazaar case he had ever worked. It occurred in 1940. So Jospeh was going between Dubuque to deal with his brothers imprisonment, to Independence to deal with his wife’s institutionalization. I have all of the newspaper articles of the death of the farmer and much information on Anna’s institution. I would love to have someone write a novel based on these real life stories. I have been to Canada and have homesteading records of their difficult life there. If you are unable or unwilling to tackle this project do you know of someone I could contact who might be interested. I have a lot of detailed information, but need a novelist to flesh it out. Please advise. Gratefully, Fr. David Beckman
I’ve read all your books, at first I was not sure about this novel, I found it fragmented ,,,at first. Then I started to enjoy it, you write beautifully and you do make me FEEL. What a tribute to you. I have referred you books to everyone I know. I just wrote a book review for my bank newsletter on your books. Your first book was my favorite, but Firefly’s is a close second…
Where the River Ends is beautiful. Such a beautiful love story can only be defeated by something like cancer. I only wish I could be loved like that, but at least I get to read stories that make us think that that kind of love is possible. I would love to have known Abby and Doss and to look at the when they are zoned in to each other. I, like others, laughed and cried all through this one.
I met you in the fall of 2007 at the Fernandia Beach Book Festival and my best freind, Sherba, got a picvture with you.
You have a talent that surpasses alot of writers who have hit the NY Best Seller list. Keep it up because we need more Charles Martin products.
Thanks and may Our Lord keep you and your family in His loving arms!
Charles, I met you with my mother in Clayton, GA on Saturday the 26th. We were the 7th and 8th generation Natives. I wasn’t able to read Where The River Ends until Sunday. I was absolutely enthralled. I did not put it down. My very first thought was that this would be an incredible movie. The story is so beautiful yet it is real life stuff. I will be crossing my fingers that this becomes a movie. It would be a blockbuster. It was such a pleasure to meet you.
Charles, what an incredible story of endurance and true love. I started by reading a few chapters each night but then got to a point where I couldn’t stop reading. I stayed up all night finishing the last third of the book because I couldn’t put it down. The story is so true to life. When you mentioned the areas in Georgia some of it was so familiar to me because my brother -who is now retired from the navy -lives in the Kingsbay/ St Mary’s area and I’ve visited a few times. Also, I drove from Chicago to Georgia last year and drove through some of those areas(took the back roads in). This would make an excellent movie.
I finally got my hands on my very own copy. It took me two days and ignoring most of everything going on around me and I finished it! I cried and cried and could feel his pain. She died with grace. The only thing I would have likied to felt more is their spiritual side, their were some references but I’d like to have more from Doss of Abbie. I feel you just can’t handle things of that nature without something much stronger than yourself.
I love the very detailed descriptions, I can see it in my mind and that’s one reason Mr. Martin in my favorite author. His descriptions make me hungry, smell, and be able to see it clearly.
I’m not sure I can become a river paddler though, as bad as it make me want to the snake details about did it for me.
Blessings,
Danna Fleming
The story of Abbie and Doss was wonderful and in the “Charles Martin style” I LOVE! However, I was bogged down in the details of every tree and every bend in the river and every lizard that passed by.
I just finished reading this magnificent book and still have tears in my eyes. I could not put it down. My Mother has colon cancer & is now doing fine but this just brings back memories of living through the treatments and torment they go through. It was such a wonderful love story of how her husband took care of her and the love he had for her. This is a must read for everyone.
Bought it on a Thursday. Read it on Friday, and loaned it to a family member on Sunday. Thanks once again, Charles, for writing a beautiful story and for touching my soul.
I started reading Charles Martin books a few months ago. I was hooked from the first book. I just bought and read Where the River Ends. I have a friend who is right now going through all the Chemo and Radiation that Abbie in the story went through. The cancer has now entered her brain and her bones are brittle and breaking. Though she is not as young as Abbie, the pain and suffering are as great. My friend has a wonderful husband who has been by her side for years. Though I have always known about what cancer can do, I understand their journey so much better now that I have read your story. Thank you for such a wonderful book. I read it cover to cover in a day and have already passed it on to a friend.
Have just finished this wonderful book. It rates # 1 on my all-time read list. I read approx. 2 books per week and want you to know how refreshing it is to pick up such a treasure as this. I wanted to read all night, but slowed myself down to savor every word, every descriptive phrase. Charles has an insight and depth of understanding into the very core of what love is really all about.
Please, more like this one - maybe one on the subject of Multiple Sclerosis?? Thanks you for this joy!
Sorry I missed you when you came to Pawley’s Island. I have read 4 of your other books. Mr Martin this is by far the best book you have written. For such a young man you are so wise in the way of love. Where the River Ends is a REAL tear jerker. Feb my husband and I will be married 50 years, Lord willing. My husband would do what Doss did for Abbie and vice versa. Great book, I can’t wait to see you next year. Truly, Judy Modica
I thought it was hauntingly beautiful sad and I wish there was a little more of the story it was so powerful I wanted to ebb in to a more restful area of the rive and watch him recover. I love to read good stories and to hear the words in my head to think and feel what the characters are feeling your work dose that. Thank you , write more you have lots left if you think of the great writers before you .... keep up the good work.
I just finished reading this wonderful book. A beautiful “love story”. I am a cancer survivor and know some of what Abbie experienced. I was more fortunate and survived...the love that Doss and Abbie shared was wonderful and I believe this is my favorite book yet. I have loved all of your books and have read all of them. Keep them coming...you are now and will be one of my favorite writers.
Do you think that possibly any of your books would ever be made into a movie...I would love to see both When Crickets Cry and Where the River Ends made into movies. You have style that is truly one of a kind in writing. I guess by now you know I am a huge fan....
Charles Martin is my favorite author. I accidently stumbled upon him when Amazon suggested I might like Wrapped in Rain. After reading his first novel, I have been hooked. I couldn’t put down Where the River Ends until iIcompleted it. The last few chapters were difficult for me to get through because of the tears blinding my eyes. He is a gifted writer, and his descriptive writing of each character in his books make me feel I feel like I have met them in person. I can’t wait for his next book.
My darling hubby called me from Seattle one day as he stood in a Borders Books. He wanted to make sure he was purchasing the correct book for me. I hadn’t seen him for more than a few minutes over the previous two weeks and he was going to be away for another week. I have to admit, though I longed for him to come home, the truth is that I really wanted to see him, kiss him, then delve right into my latest Charles.
I normally would have read the book in a very short few hours, but decided instead to savour every word. One chapter here, one chapter there. I finally finished it today. As I sat there sobbing, my compassionate four-year-old came over to my chair, got up and hugged me for about an hour, saying “It’s okay to cry, Mommy, it’s okay.” I explained to her the reason for my tears and in doing so felt the full weight of grief that my mind could imagine Doss must have felt. Of course this brought more tears and more comfort from my preschooler. At that moment I felt what I could imagine Abbie would feel--loved with pure, unconditional love akin to that of our Saviour’s.
Bravo, Charles. You swept me into a world of wonder and discovery yet again.
Now, if only your publisher would hire a spell-checker…
I am a huge Charles Martin books fan! My first was “When Crickets Cry” - loaned to me by a friend - and still my VERY favorite! It knocked Gone With the Wind off the top of my all-time favorites list. Have read the others as well - all are awesome. Charles, you have such a gift for making life jump from the pages of your books - you paint beautifully moving pictures in my head. This book was no different! I have a dear friend experiencing a round of Chemo for breast cancer...so the story was difficult to read at times. What a beautiful love story you have woven around such a difficult theme. Reminds me of “Love Story” but so much richer and more complex. You are so gifted! I can’t wait for the next one! Till then, I’ll continue giving away your books to friends and relatives!
I just finished reading and crying my way through Where the River Ends, and it is wonderful. I’ve read all your books, and with each one I think they just can’t get any better, oh but they do!!!!! You are truly a gifted writer. I am a public library director in a very small rural town in SC, and your books have all circulated through our town! God bless you and keep writing! Dawn Ellen
What a beautiful story of love! So poignant. I loved how the journey down the river was a symbol of Doss and Abbie’s fight with cancer: slowly they ran out of supplies just as they ran out of options when fighting the disease.
While the story was good, I was surprised to find quite a few typo errors that someone had missed. That may sound picky, but those kind of errors disrupt a story because the reader’s eye goes back and says “That’s not right. I think they mean...” Even the use of a Spanish expression was totally incorrect. I’ve read all your books and consider you a gifted writer. The nature of this story being what it was, I was dissappointed by the lack of Biblical worldview. Without being “preachy”, it seemed to me that there was an opportunity for some expressions of Biblical truth that was never forthcoming.
I agree with Ann’s comments. As I’d said above, I wish Charles’ publisher would have hired a proof reader/spell-checker.
As a Christian, I can see a powerful underlying Christian message in this novel. However, I wish it would have been more blatant.
And, frankly, I also wish there were far less references to drinking. The number of them in this particular piece was offensive to me.
But, Charles, you’re still tops in my book. hehe :)
A wonderful interesting well written book, another of my favorite novels by Charles Martin.
Charles, you have a God-given talent with the written word. Please don’t ever stop writing.
Ann—oops! You created your own “typo” when you misspelled disappointed! I am listening to the book on CD and it is wonderful! I don’t have to overlook any typo mistakes, and I get to experience the feel of the book through the voice of the reader. I do agree with the statement that Charles has a God-given gift with the written word. He is able to communicate such deep feeling with few words. Keep writing, Charles!
I just finished Where the River Ends, I told you I would send my comments when I finished. I’ve read and loved everyone of your books, couldn’t wait for the next one. I have read the comments from the readers who have just finished WTRE. for the ones who live in the area you wrote about I’m sure they enjoyed all the details of the river. But, I think you were to detailed, about all the graphic’s.. You can weave a story line, like no other author Ive read. But you dragged out more details then what you needed to. More story line on the characters would have been better. I will still buy your next book as I said, you are a fantistic writer.
Brovo Charles, you have once again peaked my imagination and emotions, looking forward to your next book.
Just finished “Where the River Ends” and while I loved, loved the story, was (as many others of you have also noted) so disappointed in—and distracted by—the poor editing that I wrote to the publisher. Mr. Martin, your fine work deserved so much better from them.
“Where the River Ends” is the first Charles Martin book that I have read. I just happened to pick it up at the library. I am so glad that it caught my eye. What amazing writing and what a touching story. I pray that if I am ever in Abbie’s shoes I will have the grace to face it as she did. I also enjoyed the art aspect of this story. There is much that I can apply to my photography. I visited Charleston and St Marys when my nephew was in the nuclear sub program. It was interesting to learn more about both areas.
I will definitely be reading Charles” other books.
In my opinion, Where the River Ends is a profound literary work. I finished reading this book in two days - couldn’t put it down except for sleep time. Underlined every profound statement. Yes, this masterpiece will break your heart! Bravo, Mr. Martin, and I can hardly wait to read your other works.
Loved, loved, loved your latest book - Where the River Ends. I think all your books are exceptional and I’m always lending them out for others to enjoy. I don’t normally cry while reading a story but, wow...............went through lots of tissue! Can’t wait for the next one!!
Like a beautiful poem or a magniicent painting your book is a work of art! What a beautiful, beautiful
book! It did for me exactly what you wanted it to do for your readers! It did what only God can do!
I thank God for your beautiful heart and the love you shared with your readers. I have also known pain
and have learned that it is only through suffering that we feel truly alive and grateful!
Please keep writing books like that! It was not only a book that touched muy heart and soul but a novel
that was so highly descriptive(what SO many writers can’t do) that one could see everything so clearly
and also learn something! Thankyou!!!!
Loved Where the River Ends. Thought it would be a chick book, but I love Steel Magnolias too. We lost my wife’s Maid of Honor 8 years ago at the age of 30. The chemo and bone marrow transplants were actually worse than the book depicts. Excellent job. This book is not just a “story”, it is literature and a realistic metaphor for life. Truly we are watched over, and He meets us where we are to bring us where He wants us to be. Keep the faith.
Strickly by chance I purchased your latest book Where The River Ends. Like your other readers, I could not put it down. I have not read your other novels but am so excited to start in on them asap. What I appreciate the most about your masterpiece is that you were able to write the entire book without giving us the graphic details of rape, sexual behaviors, (before or after marriage), and abuse. You left lots up to our own deduction without imposing on us or actually detailing every incident. Thanks so much for that. I often wonder how so many writers (popular ones of today) could be comfortable letting their spouses or most certainly, their children, read their works. I will proudly pass your book onto my young adult children . I’m sure your entire family is proud to claim you as their favorite author!
I just finished reading “Where the River Ends” while waiting for Tropical Storm Fay to leave.
A very good read that took my mind off the storm. It gave me a glimpse of what cancer patients go thru and their families and also reminded me of a good friend I lost to breast cancer 2 years ago that fought a good fight for 2 years when the Dr’s said she only had a month to live. Thank you for sharing your heart thru your words.
It is with a very heavy and sad heart that I have just completed reading all of your books. I wasn’t ready to be finished with them. I started with “Where The River Ends”. I had never read any of your books before this one. I immediately, upon finishing it, ordered all of your other books on the internet. I now have a new FAVORITE AUTHOR!! In my fifty-five years, I have read thousands of books. Never have I been touched by a book like I have yours. Thank you for bringing so much joy into my life (and LOTS of tears). You have a wonderful God-given talent. Please hurry up with your next book. Take care and GOD bless you and your family.
I just finished reading “Where the River Ends” and I can honestly say that it is the best book I have ever read. I cried like a baby. I have read all your books and love them all, especially “When Crickets Cry”, but this is my favorite. Thank-you!
You have done it again!!!! In every book I feel like I am the main character. You are truly one of the all time great authors of our day. The only bad thing is that now I have to wait on you to write another one!!!!! Charles Martin has nothing but class when he writes, enough said.
I just got done reading “Where the River Ends”. As with your other book, I couldn’t put this book down either. You have a way with your writing that makes me feel as if I’m right there. This book brought back a lot of memories of my dad who recently died of lung cancer. There were plenty of times I was found setting on my deck with your book in my hands and tears falling down my cheeks. I am happy and proud to say my dad did accept Christ before his passing. I felt sadness reading your book but I felt peace as well. This book will forever hold a special place in my heart. May the Lord continue to Bless you in your talent . God Bless.
I was just wandering through indigo trying to pass the time when I picked up your novel. I sat there reading it for two hours and when it was time to go, I couldn’t leave it behind. I finished the rest of your book in a day. I’ve always loved sad stories about ideal love, and this was perfect. Thank-you for bringing me to tears and filling me with hope.
While browsing in a bookstore, I ran across a book that said the author, Charles Martin, kneels beside his son’s beds at night. That touched me, and I purchased my first Charles Martin book that night because I wanted to read from a Christian author. I have read all of your books, and I always wait for the next one. My sister lives in Fernandina Beach, and she sent me the recent Jacksonville newspaper article about you because she and I love your books. She knew I would want to read the article. Please don’t go away from the Christian influence your books have. Don’t change your writing trying to make the best seller list. About your books, sometimes the topics are “heavy” and leave me sad. I had to put the lastest book aside several times to get my mind off the sadness. I would like to ask you to write in the same style, but make an upcoming book more lighthearted. A book should make you feel something like your books do, but I would like to feel happy while reading an upcoming book. Also, I found myself skipping over the parts that went into too much detail about every little thing and place. My mother has lost enough of her sight where she can’t read anymore, but she loves to listen to books on tape. I have tried to find tapes/CDs of your books, but I haven’t had any luck. If you haven’t recorded any of your books, you might consider doing so. I wish your book tour would bring to southern Indiana. I thank you for your books, and can’t wait for the next one. Let Christ continue to speak through your books. He will guide your success. God bless you.
I wrote an comment earlier, about Charles Martin’s books, there is no other author, besides KareKingsbury, that I enjoy reading, your comment Debbie, said how I felt so much better than I, I just had to thank you. I donot want to say anything that would take away from, or stop anyone from reading a Charles Martin book, I’m looking forward to the next one, I do hope he, is more lacks about all those little details, that was my only concern with WTRE. I’ve never been able to put the other books he written down, and when I did, I couldn’t wait to pick it up again. I was with this last book. I believe, that God does show hisself in Charles Martin’s book. I hope the next one will be out soon.
I read Where the River Ends while on a recent trip to the West Coast. What a wonderful book! I can relate to the character in the book because I had breast cancer too. How I love her husband for taking such good care of her! I have a wonderful husband who took excellent care of me too. I’m blessed.
And, all of us Charles Martin fans are waiting for the next one....I know, I know, writing is a lot longer journey, but we’ll wait.
First time I have read a book by Charles Martin.
The book was heartbreaking, a real life, and beautiful story of love.
I don’t know if in real life there is such a man, but the fiction one was great.
What we all dream about...someone who stands by us always to the end..
I couldn’t stop reading, even when you know the end when you begin the book.
GREAT BOOK!
I loved this book… I’ve read all of your books and seriously can say that the one I love best is always the one that I just read. When I started reading “Where the River Ends” I couldn’t believe I was going to spend the waning days of summer reading about a woman dying of cancer. But it was really more about living and has helped me live more fully. It usually takes me about a week to breeze through a fiction book, but this book took me three weeks. I savored it slowly and thoughtfully, as we all should good things in life… Many times I had to just put it down and reflect on the moment. Thank you for sharing your gift . Your writing and characters are unlike any that I experience in other books.
From a “River Guy”:
An amazing story of true love and drama in the outdoors… Fast moving with a southern twang and ring of possible truthfulness. Dreams for all of us who fly fish, paddle, fly biplanes, ---and most importantly, --love… We can and do find ourselves in these characters. Makes you want to get in your canoe and start another journey paddling. Enjoyed it! Looking forward to paddling the St. Mary’s.
Gary L. “snook” Hofman, Retired Angling Guide and pilot. Tallahassee, Fl.
I just finished Where the River Ends......my first Charles Martin book. I am hooked. It is the best book I have read this year! Don’t miss it.
I just finished Where the River Ends. Wow. Having read each of Charles Martin’s books, I was thrilled to find another! Wow - maybe it is too soon to comment. I am still blown away. What a beautiful book. The turn of a phrase, the flowing, readable and touching way the book is written. Details are great but not overwhelming. Thank you, Charles Martin for yet another Masterpiece! I look forward to the next!
Before seeing this novel on the shelf, my mind had no concept of Charles Martin. The story itself was beautifully told, and the characters were not only interesting, but believable. Once this book was completed, I went to find other works by Mr. Martin and read “When Crickets Cry”. It is obvious after these two books that Mr. Martin obviously lost someone near and dear to his heart, and loves the water. While I enjoyed Where The River Ends, it in no way in my mind holds a candle to When Crickets Cry. River had its moments, but was in my liking too tragic, and far too graphic for my taste. That poor girl, the amount of tragedy she had to endure just to get down the river. The nudist’s colony was a tremendously welcomed laugh, and the night with the rednecks was also a good and welcomed segment of peace, the rest of the book just kept my stomach in knots and my insides hurting. Good book, but I just can’t go back and read it again, too upsetting for me. I look forward to your other works.
I cannot tell you how much I enjoy your books. Keep them coming!
I just finished reading Where the River Ends. It was a wonderful book. It was my first novel by Charles Martin. What caught my attention was the location of the novel so I decided to give his books a try. I was born and raised in a small south Georgia town so I could relate to the location. You did a wonderful job describing the surroundings and the people. I have actually visited most of the locations you described so I could envision these as you were describing them. I enjoyed both the story line and the description of the river. It made me think of my years growing up in South Georgia. I also noticed your pod casts about writing and I plan on sharing those with my students (middle schoolers). Great descriptive writer! I can’t wait to read other books by Charles Martin.
I’ve read all his books and he’s my most favorite writer! I laugh out loud, it’s all very cute, so smart, and totally enjoyable to read. The characters are wonderfully portrayed and the stories are out of this world. I read them so fast I’m disappointed I don’t have more to read, which is why I hope he comes out with yet another book soon...he can’t write them fast enough for me. I’m in the middle of Where the River Ends, and I honestly don’t know which one so far has been my favorite, I love them all!
Thank you Charles!
Christine
Romeo, MI
I live in the area in which you have brought to life so well in your words. I can’t help but wonder if the inspiration for this story came from my friend m who lost her life to cancer. Thank you for allowing the world into this journey and into the journey’s end. It not only pays tribute to this beautiful area, but also to all the “Abbie"s and the “Doss"s who love them, and see them through to the very last breath. I can’t wait to meet you when you are in St. Marys.
Where the River Ends was my first introduction to Charles Martin...and what an amazing introduction it was! One of the few books where I have actually cried...and not just a tear or two, but al l out bawling. This is an incredibly touching and moving story. Swollen faced, I immediately went to the library to check out Fireflies...and cried all over again. Mr. Martin you are heads above other writers. I much prefer books over movie s but I would wait all night to be first in line at the premiere if either of these books were made into film.
I finished reading “Where the Rive Ends” at l A.M. this morning. It pulled me into it and just wouldn’t let me go. Everytime I read your novels I think this one is the best and it was no different with this one. I have now read all 6 of your books and am ready for another. When can all your readers expect to see another “best” on the book shelf? N.
I am an avid reader and read 2 or 3 books a week. I live on the river in the hills of Virginia, thus I picked up the book because of the title. I have read the book in two evenings and never read anything better. The twists and turns, the pain and love are all captured so beautifully! Can’t wait to indulge in your other works! Godspeed…
I commented several months ago about this book and how much I enjoyed it. Now, I feel as if I’m living the novel with a wife who has just been diagnosed with Breast Cancer herself. Operation behind us with uncertainty as to what other treatment protocol’s we will be experiencing. Oh man, I wasn’t ready for a book to come true. Now it’s my job to be like Doss and support a wife who’s world has been turned upside down. I’d say good timing on reading this book though. The intro by the author also let’s me know the husband not to be.
The novel touched my soul............
What an incredible love story. I can’t imagine how you can create such a moving book, and I pray you didn’t experience it yourself. I’ve just finished reading it, and have told at least ten people it’s a must. What a testament to love and commitment. Just marvelous! I’m looking forward to finding more of your books.
I just have one word to describe your book “Where the River Ends”.......MAGNIFICENT! Book in one hand and Kleenex in the other...thanks!
I am a physician and a writer and I thought I knew something about emotions related to death and dying but ‘When Crickets Cry’ and ‘Where the River Ends’ made me realize that my feelings were shallow. Both books should be required reading in medical school curriculums. Thank you Charles for teaching us with your brilliant works.
What a beautifully written book! A very touching story. I cannot remember the last time a Novel made me cry. Totally enjoyed it.
Sunday Nov. 9th Started reading at ten this morning and could not stop until I finished at five o’oclock My husband of 53 years even brought me a cup of tea (fear of dehydration I guess as he has never or almost never done that) Wonderful story Thank you for reminding me to love and treasure my family and others in my life and to have the courage to be there for them no matter the circumstances
From Ontario, Canada . . . my first Charles Martin read ! I have recommended it to all my friends and family and agree with Dr. John House . . . Where the River Ends should be mandatory reading in medical school ! Only a thoughful, sensitive man with integrity could write such an extraordinary book. Congratulations and thank you !!!
I just finished ---Where the River Ends. This is my first book by Charles Martin, but most certainly will not be my last. Such a story---written so well. I’ll be checking our library to see if his other books are there. Incidentally, I appreciated the lack of bad language and sex,sex,sex ---that we see in so many books written recently.
Tell me how does one so young, get the characaters to be so incredibly real.
When I read your books, these people become my friends.
Please don’t ever stop writing.
Every morning my 9 year old son and I can’t wait listen to another installment of Where the River Ends, read by Dick Estell on NPR, while driving to school… we hate it when the half hour ends… your book is captivating and beautiful. Thank you for writing it!
I am officially a fan! I picked this book up on a whim and held if for a while with passing interest. I didn’t know if I would be interested in the book or not after a few pages. However, I was drawn to it and kept reading more, until finally I couldn’t put it down. I had to make myself stop reading to feed my kids! Now I’m looking at all of the other books and will be asking for these books for Christmas. Well, actually, I don’t think I can wait that long, I’m going to have to make a trip to the bookstore myself! Awesome descriptions and heartfelt writing, I felt as if I were right there with Abbie and Doss. Charles Martin is a true craftsman of words, he made me feel for this couple as if they were close personal friends.
Wow!!! This book was amazing!!! I can’t remember the last time I read a book that moved me like this! Thank you so much! I read the nudist colony bit out loud to my husband and we laughed out loud!!!I am going to read all of your books as soon as I can. You are a very gifted writer.Sue
I started listening to this book on the radio on my to work every morning. It sucked me in. The way you made you see everything you were hearing. He only read for 30 mins in the mornings. I had to go buy the book because I had to know. I have never read a book and cried. It is the BEST book I have ever read. I have told all kind of people about it. They have the same reponse as I did. Thank you so much. I am looking forward to getting another one of your books.
Loved the book and story. Your description of the river and banks were excellent and I think added to the story. It brought back memories of fishing with my dad on various rivers in NE Florida. A very moving story.
Wonderful,great reading.Judy