The new book is progressing. Slowly.

For the record: I'm still working hard on the book I started early this year, on 1 April to be precise. I suppose I'm about a third of the way into the first draft and I do now have a tentative title. Unlike my other books -- and most other books --  my story has not one but nine 'heros'; it's like writing nine novels in one which is a bit of a challenge. I'm having to do a lot of research and it's interesting to see how very helpful some people (and institutions) are and how some simply ignore my requests for background information.

Another nice review.

Just saw another five-star review on Amazon for The Fine Art of Kindness

Charming Novel 
This is a charming and endearing novel that you will be delighted to read.
Although set in a small town in New Zealand the themes in this story are universal. It touches on social issues in a thought provoking but tender manner.
The relationship between the two elderly characters, as it develops is lovely.

A nice afternoon at Point Chevalier Library

Many thanks to Cristen and Ruth and the team at the Point Chevalier library, and the great turn out of people for my author's talk about 'My Marian Year' and my other books at the library yesterday (Saturday) afternoon. I enjoyed it very much. 

More wonderful reader feedback for 'The Fine Art of Kindness'

Yesterday I received more wonderful feedback for The Fine Art of Kindness. I have posted an edited version of here: 

"I want to tell you that with Kindness you have written a truly adult and most enjoyable book.  OK, you got me crying at the end, and I don’t cry just for anyone!  No, it was the real thing.

"Your characters are excellent, beautifully written and act the narrative assuredly and with true Kiwi panache.  Not just the main characters either.  I believed in ALL of the people in the novel, even the young student, Tim, introduced towards the end.  A meaningful addition, and excellently drawn.  I saw and believed the Hare Krishna gal and the slightly imperious nurse.   

"The two main characters, Jack and Betty were so believable; totally.  And Jack’s family.  Wonderful.  Superb supporting cast.

"Congratulations for a good read, and a good book, well written.  I hope it sells thousands, as it deserves to."

My Marian Year to feature in my library talk at Point Chevalier library, from two o'clock on Saturday 15 September, 2018

From the Auckland Libraries website...

For the record: a new book

For the record: Early in the new year I had an idea for a new book. I thought about it for a while but didn't start as I was also very busy with the launch of The Fine Art of Kindness. Eventually I started it on -- of all dates, the first of April -- but it was a tentative beginning as I was not at all sure where it was going to lead. Now, towards the end of June, I'm still writing and I'm feeling good. It has no title yet but it feels as though it (whatever it is finally called) is my most ambitious opus yet. I'll see how I goes but at the moment it feels like I have at least a year's work ahead. Watch this space.

Readers love 'The Fine Art of Kindness'

I continue to get good reader feedback for The Fine Art of Kindness. 

For example this came in yesterday: 

'...I started reading and couldn’t put it down.  Nice gentle story that will touch many hearts, I’m sure.  Do hope it is well received. I bought a copy for a friend’s birthday and I’m sure she’ll enjoy it.'

And this:  
'Thank you for your beautiful new book. … You write so beautifully and simply, it was a joy to read. I love the way the stories are about ordinary people leading ordinary lives. I have a friend from NZ  and I lent her 'To The White Gate' and she is anxious to read 'The Fine Art of Kindness'. I also must mention the cover, so beautiful and gentle, just like the book! Thank you so much for your fine act of kindness, best wishes.'