My Two Cents

Well I figured I would just share my thoughts on "Veil of Roses" since the author has been so courteous to actually read our blog! :) We really do appreciate it and enjoy reading your comments.
First I have to say that I thought your novel was fabulous! I love how it combines both light-hearted romantic comedy aspects with more serious themes such as identity, social injustice and inequalities between men and women in Iranian society. It has really opened my eyes to a culture/nation that I have to say I knew very little about before reading this book. It makes me realize that some of my own concerns and anxieties pale in comparison to what other women around the world have to face. I take a lot of the things that I do everyday, which Tami was not able to do until she got to America, for granted but I realize now that I shouldn't and I am very lucky. I appreciate what I have a lot more now. One of the other things I really liked about the book were the relationships that Tami developed with some of the other characters. Falling in love with Ike was not instantaneous as it conveniently seems to happen in other novels with love stories. Their love grew from friendship to more, and it took Tami a while to realize that what she was feeling was love. Other relationships I liked were those Tami formed with unexpected characters. Her brother-in-law became a confidante and major support for Tami which I did not expect to happen. As well, her friendship with Eva was great. Who would expect two people who seem to be total opposites at first to become best friends?
On another note I really think that this book would make a really great movie. I can see it playing out really well onscreen, since there are so many quirky characters and humorous and romantic moments. Just out of curiosity, if you were able to cast any actor as Ike who do you think you would pick? As well, have you ever visited Iran? If not do you ever plan on it?
I also really loved the part where Tami reminisced about the singer Googoosh. This was such a sad but sweet story of a "caged bird" who after many years is finally allowed to let her voice be heard, though she has to leave her home country to do it.
Well I will end it there for now. I have a lot more to say in the future though. I am really looking forward to reading your next novel. I read the excerpt on your website and it is very intriguing and compelling, I can't wait to read more!