In the Darien, CT Library, August 20, 2015

We have lots of news to report as A REMARKABLE KINDNESS hit the stores and online booksellers on August 11. I am posting my blog tour below where bloggers write about the book and even offer recipes to go with it. So far the reviews have been fabulous! As I am learning, writing (and reading) is about making a connection, transcending our differences, and finding common ground. Here are a few excerpts:

“This book is so wonderfully character-driven and I was caught up in decisions and emotions and friendships and casual interactions with secondary characters. Long before the book ended, I was fully invested and wanted the very best for each woman/family. I recommend A Remarkable Kindness by Diana Bletter for readers that enjoy women’s fiction and readers that enjoy learning about cultures other than their own. This would make a great beach or pool read.” Into the Hall of Books

“Overall, A Remarkable Kindness was an interesting, enlightening glimpse into women’s lives in a very different, sometimes dangerous culture. ” Becca Rowan

“…The end brought closure and I was left with a smile and, admittedly, a few tears. A Remarkable Kindness will appeal to anyone who enjoys well-written women’s fiction, Jewish culture and tradition, and stories about friendship and life.” — Kahakai Kitchen

Tabbouleh salad with A REMARKABLE KINDNESS

“The book will bring out a lot of emotions in you. I felt sorry for these women at times, but I also felt anger and admiration. The story and the women are very well written. I loved that they bonded over a circle of life ritual and I also loved learning  a bit about Israel…I’m not really a fan of this genre, but the synopsis grabbed my attention and I’m very glad I didn’t pass it up.” Vicki, I’d Rather Be At the Beach

More to follow in the next few days:

o   Monday, August 24th: Raven Haired Girl

o   Tuesday, August 25th: Svetlana’s Reads and Views

o   Wednesday, August 26th: JulzReads

o   Thursday, August 27th: Bibliotica

For those of you who are writing, keep working…Show your work to people you trust and if they make suggestions about how to improve your text, take the suggestions. I know, I know…we want the first draft to be perfect. But it rarely is…

We have to go back and delete scenes, add some, put aside others for the next book. We have to put in a lot of time and patience and energy when we work. Remember what my husband Jonny says: Anyone can give up, but if you give up, you will never forgive yourself. Keep writing, if that is what you want to do. Keep doing whatever gives you joy. Enjoy the journey. Enjoy this moment. It is one page in the best chapter of your life.

For those of you near Connecticut, I will be at the WILTON LIBRARY on August 26, at 7 PM, and at R J JULIA BOOKSELLERS on August 27. Hope to see you there!