The Book Pusher: October 2018

{Note to followers: if you want an email when a new post goes up, go the right column and subscribe for emails. Thanks.}

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 HOUSE GIRL Tara Conklin Historical/dual timeline

Conklin creates a fabulous tale that will fascinate and horrify you, but hope will win in the end. Be sure to read this one now!

INTO THE WILDERNESS Sara Donati: Historical Romance

Donati takes a page from J. F. Cooper and stirs in a few Easter eggs from D. Gabaldon to create a vivid story of upstate New York. You'll enjoy Nathanial and Elizabeth's story. But I dare you to stop at just one. This is the first in a series. ;-)

THE ROYAL NANNY  Karen Harper: Historical

The story of Charlotte Bill will charm you. Late Victorian, Edwardian, and early 1900's England comes to life in this novel. You'll laugh and cry, but you will never forget Lala.

HEAVEN ADJACENT Catherine Ryan Hyde: Contemporary

With deep insight and true love, Hyde creates a gem of a story about the truth of life, love, and happiness. This one will make you smile--and hug your loved ones. Read it now!

ONCE BELOVED Amara Royce: Historical Romance

Another member of the Needlework for the Needy has found a chance for love--but only if she faces her anxieties and returns to her hometown.

Next Post: IWSG!

The Book Pusher: September 2018

{Note to followers: if you want an email when a new post goes up, go the right column and subscribe for emails. Thanks.}

Many ask me why I don't label my mini reviews with a ranking of 1-5. The answer is very simple. I never review books I can't give either a 4 or 5. Believe me, I read far more than eight or ten books a month. Some I don't review because they are a reread, but others I don't review because I can't give then a high rating. Rather than shame a writer who poured their heart into the story, I choose to not review. So, enjoy the books! I know you will. ;-) 

NOBLE HOUSE James Clavell: historical fiction (classed as anything before 1970)

This is another of Clavell's excellent historical fictions about Asia. This time it's Hong Kong in 1963. As always there are a lot of characters, but they are skillfully woven into the tapestry of a riveting story. The backstory of the Straun's and their company is wonderful. As always, Clavell gives a good read.

THE LIGHT OF HIDDEN FLOWERS Jennifer Hanford: Women's Fiction

Missy Fletcher grinds along in the shadow of her confident, extroverted father. But something's missing. Something she must learn. Lovely Story and Good Read.

WHERE WE BELONG Catherine Ryan Hyde: Coming of Age

A lovely coming of age story that shows what love, trust, and responsibility truly looks like.

BELLEWETHER Susanna Kearsley: historical Fiction

Kearsley's done it again! You'll get caught up in the dual timeline, root for the characters, and learn what love does to protect and survive. A brilliantly plotted, inspired story you can't miss. Read it Now!

MORGAN'S RUN Colleen McCullough: Historical Fiction

Taking a figure from history and telling his story can be fraught with many potholes, but McCulough is a master at this type of story. In MORGAN'S RUN, she takes a man who many wrote off, but who is a founder of Australia. Great Read!

DIGGING IN Loretta Nyan: Women's Fiction

Grief and life can be challenging, but allowing yourself to breathe, grow, and live is the message of Nyan's lovely story. Let Paige Moresco teach you how.

THE ART OF INHERITING SECRETS Barbara O'Neal: Women's Fiction

With an intricately detailed story worthy of long contemplation, O'Neal has created mystery, love, intrigue, and a fully realized old home--a character as much as the people. Enjoy!

UNSTRUNG Laura Spinella: Women's Fiction

This is one of the most amazing books I've read lately. Olivia Klein's life is both haunting and uplifting. I'm amazing and transported as only singing choral music has in my life. Her main character is a symphony violinist and Spinella describes the feeling of providing the door knob into Heaven that I've experienced singing in a choir. An amazing read. Get this one! Read it now! You'll never forget it.

Next Post: IWSG, of course!

The Book Pusher: June 2018

{Note to followers: if you want an email when a new post goes up, go the right column and subscribe for emails. Thanks.}

THE HIDDEN SIDE Heidi Chiavaroli: Women's Fiction (multiple time lines)

No matter which side you're on about gun safety and violence in school, you owe it to yourself to read this amazing story. Chiavoroli shows all sides with compassion and insight. Be sure you read this one. Amazing!

WHEN NEVER COMES Barbara Davis: Women's Fiction

Avoidance, abandonment, and all the hurts one wants to bury can shut doors to our happiness. Christy Lynn Parker is a master at shutting doors. Davis's latest story is a glorious look at learning to open them. A must read!

THIS I KNOW Eldonna Edwards: Women's Fiction

This is a sweet story of spirit and love, truth and belief. The Carter family will touch your heart and bring you to tears of understanding. An excellent book!

WORTHY Catherine Ryan Hyde: Women's Fiction

This is one of the best stories about the meaning of family and home. And there's a good dog at the center too.You owe it to yourself to read this one. It's one of the best stories I've ever read--and I've read a lot of good stories. ;-)

SEND DOWN THE RAIN Charles Martin: Literary Fiction

This is an amazing story of no greater love. Martin takes his characters and their hearts opens and drains their pain. Then restarts it again. Must read--Do Not Miss!

THE UNDOING OF SAINT SILVANUS Beth Moore: Women's Fiction

Moore's first novel takes a reader into the heart of New Orleans. It's a journey you don't want to miss. With her characteristic empathy on display, she tells a story of forgiveness and redemption. You don't want to miss this one--and the Book Pusher can't wait for Moore's next novel.

THINGS I NEVER TOLD YOU Beth Vogt: Christian Women's Fiction

The real world of sisters comes alive in Vogt's story. How many ways can sisters miscommunicate and take one guilty that isn't their to own? All I can say is the resulting forgiveness will win your over. 

THE MARTIAN Andy Weir: SF

This is a total Science Fiction rush! Brilliantly written, The Martian is a great example of maintaining character voice throughout a narrative. Andy Weir has written a compulsive, hard SF story that's so human. Everyone who reads it will care about his main character. Bravo!

Next Post: IWSG, of course!

The Book Pusher--April 2018

{Note to followers: if you want an email when a new post goes up, go the right column and subscribe for emails. Thanks.}

I have a long, lovely list for you. You'll find at least one that draws you in...or two, or three. What the heck! Just read them all!!! ;-)

SAVANNAH BLUES Mary Kay Andrews: Humorous WF/Romance mix

This is cute, quick, and totally hilarious! When you find a joyous read with adorable characters and twisty plots, you have to enjoy.

THE LILAC BOUQUET Carolyn Brown: Multi-generational Women's Fiction 

When an author has the voice and culture of a place down to the core, their stories will stir your heart and open your eyes. This is an A++ Read.

PALADIAN OF SOULS Lois McMaster Bujold: Fantasy

This is a must read for the 3-D characters who portray what heroic really means and a universe that is as multidimensional as the people in it. This is a fantasy and the sequel to The Curse of Chalion. Read Curse first.

THE CAFE BY THE SEA Jenny Colgan: Women's Fiction/Romance

This is charming, funny, and poignant in turns. Colgan creates a story of depth and feeling on the shores of the Scottish Islands.

IF I STAY/WHERE SHE WENT Gayle Foreman: Literary

An intimate exploration of how love, grief, and music can build a person up and tear them down. Good Read.

SAY GOODBYE FOR NOW Catherine Ryan Hyde: Women's Fiction

When a deep truth is shown through lives of rich characters, you have Hyde's story of love and loyalty. Beautiful Story.

STILL ME Jojo Moyes: Women's Fiction

What a perfect ending to Moyes' trilogy of Louisa Clark. There are readers who think books #2 and #3 are unnecessary, but I disagree. Louisa's story isn't complete until you finish the final installment. Now, get to reading!

THE SPARROW  Mary Doria Russell: Literary SF

With this masterful story of mission, love, and heartache, Russell, introduces us to one of the most endearing and exasperating characters ever. Emilio Sandoz's journey is fabulous and deep. Must read NOW!

LAST CALL TL Watson: Romance

Watson continues to entertain with red-hot stories about intriguing people. Blake and Gwen will win you over and teach you about love. This is a Must Read

THE PROMISE BETWEEN US Barbara Claypole White: Women's Fiction

Anxiety disorders are cruel taskmasters and Claypole White has created a cast of deep characters you will love and cheer for. This is by far her best book yet.

Next Post: IWSG, of course!

My momma is doing well. Her surgery was last Tuesday. She's recovering nicely. Thanks for all the prayers.

The Book Pusher--March '18

{Note to followers: if you want an email when a new post goes up, go the right column and subscribe for emails. Thanks.}

THE ROAD TO BITTERSWEET Donna Everhart: Southern Women's Fiction

With a great handle on Southern settings, Everhart draws durable characters from Wallis-Ann, Laci, and their family. Enjoy!

WRITTEN IN MY OWN HEART'S BLOOD Diana Gabaldon: Historical Fiction Plus a bit of SF

Diana Gabaldon has again crafted an amazing story, a masterpiece that ties up the threads from its predecessor, AN ECHO IN THE BONE, with a roller coaster of a ride. She writes every single one of her POV characters' hearts, minds, and souls with humanity. WRITTEN IN MY OWN HEART'S BLOOD is my second favorite of all the Gabaldon books. But be forewarned: There's more coming in this story. If you haven't read Diana Gabaldon's books before, start at the beginning with OUTLANDER. You won't be sorry.

UNDER ROSE-TAINTED SKIES Louise Gornall: Women's Fiction

Living with agoraphobia and OCD requires vast amounts of courage. Norah has it in spades. The journey is long, but oh, so worth the trip. Must Read! If you like Barbara Claypole White's books, this is a don't miss read.

THE MASTER MAGICIAN Charlie Holmberg: YA

The third in the Paper Magician Series is the best one yet. Love, adventure, and danger are Ceony's to win and over come.

ASK HIM WHY Catherine Ryan Hyde: Family Saga and WF

A deep story of a family in which the silences mask massive psychological and emotional gulfs. Until your ready to ask "why, " you'll never understand someone's motivations--but only ask when you are ready to listen to their truth.

A PLEDGE OF SILENCE Nora J. Solomon: Historical Women's Fiction

Many of us know about the soldiers who suffered and died on the Bataan Death March in WWII, but the military nurses have a story too. Don't miss this story of one such heroine.

THE SOUND OF SLEIGHBELLS Cindy Woodsmall: Christian WF

A sweet story outlines the truth of healing--spiritual, physical, and psychological--that faith and love offers when we are ready to let go of the past.

Next Post: IWSG!