Reviews and comments are starting to pour in about Domenico’s Table, and as more people read the sequel to Bianca’s Vineyard, I find myself again surprised by the questions and observations put to me by my readers.  Feedback and dialoguing with readers, whether through e-mail correspondence, book clubs, vineyard events or Italian Festas, is one of my favorite things to do as an author!

Some questions so far are similar to those presented by Bianca’s Vineyard: Which Bertozzi family members are real? What parts of the story really happened? Did you pattern some of the characters after people you knew personally?

Recently, however, a reader mentioned something I thought worth addressing. “On the cover of the book,” she said, “is a review from the Portland Review that says in the end there is “a climax you do not expect.”

She went on to tell me what she imagined the surprise ending would be and was surprised that it wasn’t what she had imagined. LOL.

If you’re reading Domenico’s Table, or plan on reading it, here’s a little disclaimer:  I was surprised when the Portland Review wrote that about the climax.  I know what they were referring to, but as the author, the end of the book was a natural progression for me — something I’d already planned out in the plot.

Silly me; I assumed anyone reading the book would have figured out the ending. Evidently not. So, temper your expectations about the book’s “climax.” You may be surprised, and you may not. Cryptic, I know — but don’t want to spoil it for you!  I’m curious to hear what you think when you’re finished 🙂

For those of you who live in Oregon, I’ll be signing copies of my books at the Upstairs Downtown Albany Wine Walk in Albany, Oregon, on Friday, May 3.  I will have a table with two vineyard reps in the historic old Penny’s building downtown.  Stop on by, and we can visit!

Until then, enjoy spring, love like there’s no tomorrow and keep the faith. Mille baci!