The Book Pusher: October

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Here's a harvest of books for you!

UNDERCITY Catherine Asaro: SF
Undercity is a stirring addition to Asaro's Skolian Empire Series. The main character is an unlikely hero--Major Bhaajan--a PI with a voice you'll love.

BEAUTY LIKE THE NIGHT Joanna Bourne: Historical Romance

With another fabulous romance, Joanna Bourne finds Severine de Cabrillac an interesting romantic option--a jewel thief and wine maker. But can they find who killed his wife and is after Severine in time? You'll turn the pages as fast as you can read because Bourne has created a wonderful plot--a always.

THE FEATHERED BONE Julie Cantrell: Women's Fiction

This is an amazing examination of faith and grace at the intersection of abuse and family life. Set against the backdrop of New Orleans and Katrina, Cantrell's story will stop you cold and rebuild your compassion.

IN THE BLEAK MIDWINTER Julia Spencer-Fleming: Mystery

Not only are Spencer-Fleming's books wonderful, intricate mysteries, she also creates deep, rich characters. The developing relationship between Clare Fergusson, the Episcopal priest, and Russ Van Alstyne, the police chief, is amazing for it emotional reality. If you read mysteries, read these books! If you love real characters, read these books.

SEVEN STONES TO STAND OR FALL Diana Gabaldon: Historical Fiction with elements of SF

Anytime you read this master of fiction's words, you're in for a treat. That goes double for new words. This anthology is stuffed with five older short (well, at least by Gabaldon's standards) pieces

and two ravishing new ones. Get it now!

THE ALMONST SISTERS Joshilyn Jackson Women's Fiction

This is Jackson's best book yet. With an unflinching vision, The Almost Sisters takes on the real layers of the South and race, allowing us to come to the truth of who we are and what we could become. Absolutely must read now!

CLOSER HOME Kerry Anne King: Women's Fiction

No matter how far you go, you're always moving closer to home. At least, that's what Annalise Redding discovers in King's story. Good read!

THE MOUNTAIN BETWEEN US Charles Martin: Adventure/Romance

The Mountain Between Us is an amazing testament to enduring love and the stamina and faith required to maintain it. Must Read (Now, a movie, but I haven't seen it.)

TWO ROADS HOME Deborah Raney: Christian home life 

The second story of the five Chicory Inn series is a sweet story of counting the blessings and choice we all make. A sweet read.

LIFT AND SEPARATE Marilyn Simon Rothstein: Women's Fiction

This is a wry look at marriage, family, mothers, and of course, bra sizes and fit. This one will have you in stitches--and tears. Good read.

Next Post: November IWSG

January Mini Book Reviews: C. Asaro, B. Davis, W. Lamb, T. I. Lowe

It's a new year and you have to have books, right? ;-)

  UNDERCITY Catherine Asaro: Science Fiction

Undercity is a stirring addition to Asaro's Skolian Empire Series. The main character is an unlikely hero--Major Bhaajan--a PI with a voice you'll love.

 THE WISHING TIDE Barbara Davis: Women's Fiction

What's the best way to deal with a painful past? The Wishing Tide takes a look at this through three points-of-view. A must read!

 I KNOW THIS MUCH IS TRUE Wally Lamb: Literary Fiction

I know this much is true--Wally Lamb is one of the best writers I've ever read and I Know This Much Is True is one of the best books I've ever read. This look at an identical twin of a paranoid schizophrenic is amazing. This is a must read if you like deep characters.

 GOODBYES AND SECOND CHANCES T. I. Lowe: Christian coming of age/romance 

A Christian story starring a rock star might be unlikely unless it's Goodbyes and Second Chances--an uncommon love story I know all of you would enjoy.

Next Week: I'll interview T. I. Lowe! Come and make her welcome in the Shade!


Mother's Day Update: I'm one chapter from being able to say that I'm done with the MS! You can start holding your breath now. ;-)

Mini-Reviews IV and an Announcement

And another list of good reads for all of you who have lots of time to read, read, read... ; )

CARNELIANS Catherine Asaro (Science Fiction)
Carnelians is a solution for all the various story lines in Asaro's Skolian universe that began in Primary Inversion in 1995. Even if there are subsequent books, this one answers the burning questions. It's a bit telling so that all the threads will knit together. Still, it's a good read.

CAPTAIN VORPATRIL'S ALLIANCE Lois McMaster Bujold (Science Fiction)
This is another example of a great SF series that is nearing its end. Bujold has created a vivid, detailed universe that centers on Miles Vorkosgian and his family. One of those relatives is Ivan "You Idiot" Vorpatril, but in this new book, Ivan comes into his own. Bujold's "Vorkosiverse" is so good, that John and I regularly reread and enjoy it all over again. Great Read!

DANDELION SUMMER Lisa Wingate (Inspirational)
This is part of Wingate's Blue Sky Hill Series. I've never read any of her books before, but I will seek them out now. Dandelion Summer has a light touch with the inspirational part of the story. What's most impressive is the fully-realized characters of J. Norman Alvord and Epiphany Jones who both learn the importance of family and that it's not too late to connect. Great read.

STILL LIFE IN SHADOWS Alice Wisler (Christian Literary)
This is a fascinating story about the challenges facing those who choose to leave the Amish Community. It's an interesting read.

THE SPARROW Mary Doria Russell (Literary Science Fiction)
The Sparrow is one of the most amazing books I've ever read. It is an intriguing, thought provoking, and deeply philosophical look at faith and how it is lived out in real lives. I'd recommend this book to anyone who asks me for a great read and warn them that it will show them the complexities of faith and obedience. A Must Read!

And now the announcement! I'll be interviewing Charlotte Rains Dixon about her new book Emma Jean's Bad Behavior on February 19. You won't want to miss it. Charlotte is an author, writing teacher, and writing coach. Check out her blog at charlotterainsdixion.com.