Gracious & Ruthless
by Susan Sokol Blosser
After passing the management of the Sokol Blosser Winery to a second generation, Susan Sokol Blosser looked back and realized, with some surprise, that combining two apparently opposing ways of being — gracious and ruthless — had been the key to the survival and success of the business.
While being ruthless allows you to face tough decisions squarely and dispassionately and move your business forward, being gracious means you can carry out those decisions with consideration for others. Combine the two and you will be both powerful and classy. Full of hard earned wisdom and practical advise that can be easily put into practice, Gracious & Ruthless shows entrepreneurs and small business owners how they can lead with heart and a hard hat.
$15.00
"A vivdly narrated, heartwarming, and inspirational tale. Susan Sokol Blosser introduces Belle, a delightfully unconventional heroine, who comes of age as a gifted female musician in early 20th-century Chicago, rising above the discrimination and misogyny of her time to experience early success and an ultimately satisfying life. Applause for Violin Girl!"
"Pioneering icon of Oregon's wine industry. Respected community leader. Innovative philathropist. These are all terms that describe the remarkable Susan Sokol Blosser. And with the publication of Violin Girl, she now adds the title of talented novelist. Violin Girl is captivating and page-turning story, full of unforgettable characters and events that will both break and warm your heart."
"Violin Girl is a delightful novel that follows a talented female violinist as she faces anti-semitism, misogyny, and the pressure to marry and raise a family. We cheer as we watch Belle navigate the ever-changing course of the 20th Century. In Belle Feingold, Sokol Blosser has created a character whose love of music and resilience you won't easily forget."
Essays and reflections on wine, work, family, and the lessons learned along the way.
Coming September 22, 2026!
Belle had the talent. She had the drive. But in early 20th-century Chicago, a proper Jewish girl’s place was in the home, not on the concert stage.
Based on a true story, Violin Girl follows Belle as her gift carried her toward a life her family and society would never approve. Marriage and motherhood are her preordained future. Professional women musicians did not raise families. What was she to do?
Join Susan Sokol Blosser at the Newberg Public Library to celebrate the launch of her first work of fiction, Violin Girl.
Hear Susan read from the book, share the story behind Violin Girl, answer your questions, and pick up your own copy.
September 22 | 6–7:30 PM
Newberg Public Library
