Trust And Hope

Dogwood Plantation by Carrie Fancett Pagels is a fascinating Christian historical novel set in the South in 1814. There are factual details around which the author has woven her tale.

America was at war with the British. A character has been invalid out of the navy, retaining a bad leg. He reminds me of St Paul in the Bible who had to contend with a thorn in his side. The novel shows that the state of our heart is more important that the state of our body. The injury is a reminder to keep trusting and praying that all will be well, to keep the faith with God.

The subject of slavery is always abhorrent to a modern audience. The owners within the novel desire to free the slaves and send them North. There is a beautiful friendship and a meeting of hearts regardless of hierarchy.

Yellow fever has robbed characters of loved ones. It is no respecter of wealth or status and is feared by one and all. Much like coronavirus is today.

Carrie Fancett Pagels has created some marvellous characters. I loved the four young boys whose mannerisms are perfectly captured.

We see the theme of taking care of the widows and orphans. A brother and sister are all that remain of a family. He is wise beyond his years. She is very much a modern woman of her time. Their sibling bond is beautiful.

There are relationships budding beneath the surface. Sometimes jealousy rears its head as situations are misunderstood.

We are not responsible for the sins of the fathers. Every baby is a precious gift from God no matter what happened at conception.

There are the themes of forgiveness and grace. A character believes herself unworthy of forgiveness but none of us are worthy, and that is where the free gift of grace comes in.

Carrie Fancett Pagels has once more written a fabulous tale that educates and entertains as we become consumed in the lives at Dogwood Plantation.

I received this book for free. A favourable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.

JULIA WILSON