It’s been a busy start to 2021, with the Australian launch of When the Apricots Bloom – and the North American and UK release just around the corner on February 2. So far, the reviews have been great. Phew! The Herald Sun named When the Apricots Bloom as one of the ‘Most Anticipated Books of 2021’. It was also chosen as the January ‘Great Read’ by the venerable Aussie institution, The Australian Women’s Weekly…my dear mum would be so proud.
Here are a few more excerpts:
‘Transporting readers to one of the world’s most legendary cities, with mouth-watering cuisine, incredible history, a surprising art scene and bustling book markets. A wonderful read.’ – Better Reading
‘In this vivid debut, set in early 2000s Baghdad, secrets and lies mingle as easily as the scent of apricot blossoms and nargilah smoke. Wilkinson weaves in the miasma of fear and distrust that characterized Hussein’s regime with convincing detail…richly drawn characters and a high-stakes plot.’ – Publisher’s Weekly
‘A thoroughly absorbing tale populated by relatable characters, flawed like all of us, magnificent as we would want to be if called.’ – Living Arts Canberra
Some of my favorite book bloggers have also chimed in – check out The Book Muse for example or Instagrammer Happy Valley, who reviews women’s fiction from a male perspective.
Over on Facebook, the Global Girls Online Bookclub, is putting me in the author hotseat at 20:00 AEST tonight, Monday January 4. This club focuses works by on Aussie and New Zealand authors. Given the time-zone difference, those of you in North American may well be curled up in bed. But if you’re a night owl (or an early riser in the UK) please feel free to join in!
Best wishes to you all for a healthy, safe and happy 2021!