An Epic Montana Love Story
Death of a Fly is an epic tale of love, redemption, and forgiveness, full of twists and turns, as told from my perspective as a real Montana fly-fishing guide. Many of the anecdotes are true stories, weaving a fictional tapestry of the characters' journeys. Landmarks and iconic hangouts will be familiar to readers who have visited Central Montana, and the detailed descriptions of the fly-fishing world will inevitably pull readers in, even if they have never straightened out a cast. You will fall in love with the characters and root for them to the end, and I promise the outcome will shock you.
-Russell Dobrzynski-
Breaking into fly-fishing on one of the Lower 48’s best rivers is hard for a woman. Finding peace and forgiveness is harder—especially after hurting someone you love.
Rose Marie Davidson grew up outdoors, always trying to outfish her older brother to please their father. Now she’s learning fly-fishing and chasing her dream of guiding on the Missouri River in Craig, MT. That dream means competing with the men on the river, in shops, and in bars, fighting for respect.
Trick Patterson is chasing his own dream of an NFL career. When their paths cross, both need redemption for past mistakes and losses that threaten those dreams.
What people are saying about Death of a Fly
Readers praise Death of a Fly for its honest voice, careful craft, and its use of narrative to deepen their understanding of fishing, conservation, and the small losses that mark outdoor life.
What people highlight most:
Voice and honesty: Many comments on the book’s quiet, reflective tone. It treats mistakes and endings without melodrama, which resonates with anglers and non-anglers alike.
Specificity and detail: The author’s precise descriptions of flies, water, and technique draw readers in. Those details become metaphors for larger lessons about care, attention, and consequence.
Craft of storytelling: People note how structure, pacing, and choice of scenes make the essays feel intimate.
Emotional impact: Responses range from quiet sadness to renewed commitment. For many, Death of a Fly opens a space to consider limits, loss, and respect in outdoor pursuits.
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