The Book Pusher--April 2018

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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--February 2018

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THE LADIES' ROOM Carolyn Brown: Humorous WF with elements of Romance

Trudy Martin's journey from browbeaten wife to happiness is as sweet as sweet tea and as funny as it can be. Being true to yourself and living your passion is worth the trip and the read.

GENTLEMAN JOLE AND THE RED QUEEN Lois McMaster Bujold, Space Opera (Vorkosigan series)

A fabulously twisty and rewarding SF Romance by a master in the field. Must Read, but only if you've read the entire Vorkosigan series beforehand. 

AN ECHO IN THE BONE Diana Gabaldon: Historical with elements of SF

Amazing. Astounding. Marvelous. Diana Gabaldon is golden. If you haven't read the entire series of OUTLANDER, you're going to be sorry when you watch the STARZ production of OUTLANDER. Go buy her books *now*! ;-D

THE BETTE DAVIS CLUB Jane Lotter Women's Fiction

With a deliciously snarky voice, Lotter's The Bette Davis Club explains how everything's connected and why it matters. A must read. 

LEFT TO CHANCE Amy Sue Nathan: Women's Fiction

Left to Chance is a lovely story of why our pasts and futures are so entwined with our present. Teddie Lerner is the perfect protagonist to teach us that truth.

DAUGHTERS OF THE NIGHT SKY Aimie K. Runyan: Historical Women's Fiction

With a fabulous, page-turning story, Runyan opens the annals of unsung heroes--this time the Soviet women who flew WWII bombing raids against the Germans in wooden and linen biplanes. The "night witches" lived large and died often testifying to women's place in the military then and now.

Up next: IWSG of course. ;-)

The Book Pusher: December

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You know you need a few last minute gifts... ;-)

MANY SPARROWS Lori Benton: Christian Historical Romance

How can we trust God when we can't trust others or ourselves? Clare Inglesby and Jerimiah Ring find the answers they seek, but only when they wait and don't make the answers on their own. Great Read.

THE CURSE OF CHALION Lois McMaster Bujold: Fantasy

Lois McMaster Bujold proves again that she is a master storyteller. The Curse of Chalion is one of the best introductions to a new world I've ever read. Cazarile is a fully realized character whose story will hook you and hold you long after you finish. This is a Must Read! 

THE SILENT SISTER Diane Chamberlain: Literary 

When a family hides secrets at in its heart, can anyone come out unscathed? Diane Chamberlain's The Secret Sister tells the story of one such family. Excellent Read!

FREEDOM'S RING Heidi Chiavaroli: Historical Fiction

Grace and love, forgiveness given and received all figure into this fabulous story of independence ancient and forever new. An absolutely must read!

THE CROWS OF BEARA Julie Christine Johnson: Romance

Poetry and magic pervade this amazing romance. If you've ever found a home place, you'll understand. Get this one now!

CLOSE TO HOME Deborah Raney: Christian Romance

Raney's fourth Chicory Inn novel is a beautiful exploration of remarriage, family, and responsibility. The Whitman family once again opens their hearts to how to live and love with courage.

RESTORING CHRISTMAS Cynthia Ruchti: Women's Fiction

You must read this Ruchti book NOW! It spoke to my soul in a deep way that I needed at this time. Ruchti's trademark storytelling and humor are even more important in this book than ever before. Read it today!

And a bonus review...

HOME AT LAST Deborah Raney: Christian Romance

Deborah Raney saved the best Chicory Inn story for last. With one fabulous love story, she explores the complexity of race in America. Read all of the Chicory Inn stories. You'll be glad you did.

Next Post: IWSG, of course!

The Book Pusher: November

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Get a jump on your Christmas shopping with theses gems!

THE BRONZE SKIES Catherine Asaro: SF

With an assured character voice, Asaro continues the story of Major Bhaajan that takes you deep into the Skolian Empine's history. 

SHARDS OF HONOR Lois McMaster Bujold: Space Opera

With this resounding story, Lois McMaster Bujold created a SF series that will stand the test of time. It's a good as anything any other Grand Master has ever written.

A FOUNTAIN FILLED WITH BLOOD Julia Spencer-Fleming: Mystery

This is the second of Spencer-Fleming's marvelous Russ Van Alstyne and Rev. Clare Ferguson stories. If you love mystery, read this one.

A BROKEN KIND OF BEAUTIFUL Katie Ganshert: Christian Women's Fiction with elements of Romance

Redemption and forgiveness are big concepts for us to understand and, more importantly, live. Ivy Clark, Sara Knight, and Davis Knight all have a difficult and different road to understand the truth--God is love. Taking the journey with them is worth your time. Excellent read. One of Ganshert's best.

POLDARK (ROSS) Bk. 1 Winston Graham: Historical

With a mix of sweet romance and the history of Cornwall, this story is a lovely combination that will keep you turning the pages.

A SON'S VOW Shelley Shepard Gray: Women's Fiction and Romance

Gray pens a riveting story of grief and recovery with elements of women's fiction and romance. This is a lovely read.

THE POISON WE DRINK Carol McClain: Women's Fiction

Torrie Sullivan and her friends face one of our greatest problems--bitterness. But healing is available. A Good Read.

ANOTHER WAY HOME Deborah Raney: Romance

How long do you have to wait for God's time? Danae and Dallas learn how hard waiting is when infertility and family twines together in the third Chicory Inn book. Lovely read.

EMPIRE FALLS Richard Russo: Literary Fiction

With a deep understanding of the failing economy and the desperation it engenders, Russo creates characters who will draw you in and hurtle you through a whirl of emotions. A classic Pulitzer Winner.

Next Post: Insecure Writers Support Group, of course!

The Book Pusher: September

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BARRAYAR Lois McMaster Bujold: Space Opera

If you like your adventure pulse-pounding, BARRAYAR is your book. Add two of the most delicious love interests ever and you're in for a treat. Intelligent characters make this read wonderful. Read this Book!

SINCE YOU'VE BEEN GONE Christa Allan: Christian Women's Fiction

When life goes into storm mode for Olivia Kavanaugh, she has to find the faith to let herself forgive and live. A fabulous read!

EVERYTHING WE LEFT BEHIND Kerry Lonsdale: Romance and Family Fiction

Be sure to read Everything We Keep first. This sequel will keep you turning its pages with its amazing plot twists and deep psychological insight. Great Read!

HOME TO CHICORY LANE Deborah Raney: Christian Fiction

Home to Chicory Lane is sweet start to a five-book series and is the story of the tight-knit Whitman clan and how going home again can be the answer to achieving your dreams.

WHEN THE MORNING GLORY BLOOMS Cynthia Ruchti: Christian Women's Fiction

When the Morning Glory Blooms is the story of three women, three tales of motherhood in all its joy, sorrows, and above all else, love. Ruchti's story will hold you heart and fill it with the beauty of forgiveness and family. 

MR. PENUMBRA'S 24-HOUR BOOKSTORE Robin Sloan: Magical Realism/WF

Mr. Penumbra's 24-hour Bookstore is truly an unclassifiable story, that rewards its readers with one of the sweetest truths at its heart. Check the genre classification on Amazon before reading to see if it fits your tastes, but you'll be glad you read it. 

Next Post: IWSG
I'll be attending the ACFW Conference in Texas this week. Keep my in your prayers, thoughts, and wish me the best! 

The Book Pusher: December Mini Book Reviews

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This is your last chance to use The Book Pusher's mini book reviews for your shopping list for gifts. ;-) You know you want to buy a few for family and friends--or the ever popular "gift for myself" list.

GENTLEMAN JOLE AND THE RED QUEEN Lois McMaster Bujold: Space Opera

 A fabulously twisty and rewarding SF Romance by a master in the field. Must Read, but only if you've read the entire Vorkosigan series beforehand.

DRUMS OF AUTUMN Diana Gabaldon: Historical/Time Travel

Another fabulous part of the OUTLANDER Series. If you haven't read these books, what are you waiting for?

TWILIGHT CHRISTMAS Normandie Ward Fischer Romance/Women's Fiction

In a continuation of her Carolina Coast Series, Fischer gives her readers a Christmas story of danger, warmth, and redemption. If you love good stories, be sure to read this one.

THE ROSE GARDEN Susanna Kearsley: Historical Romance

This wonderful romance will weave its way into your heart, and its twists and turns will delight, scare, and excite you in turn.

EXIT SIGNS Patrice Locke: Romance

Either a romantic comedy or romantic suspense, but who cares? The main character, a documentary writer, is always trying to pin down the genre controlling her life with limited success--until she meets Jesse Elliot, and then all bets are off. Fun Read!

GREAT SMALL THINGS Jodi Picoult: Women's Fiction

Picoult takes on the charged topics of racism, justice, and privilege in Great Small Things and succeeds in opening eyes to the full story. As always Picoult's multiple--POV narrative opens windows into the minds of each character touched by the story.

Next week: Some gifts for writers... ;-)

The Book Pusher--October Harvest: L. Bujold, S. Knipper, K. Long, F. North, W. Randel,

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A CIVIL CAMPAIGN Lois McMaster Bujold: SciFi--Space Opera/Romance

Bujold's hero, Miles Vorkosigan, heir to a Count and Imperial Auditor is in love, so why is he so scared the lady will get away? His congenital disability might be one, and the other suitors are flocking. Bujold is in fine form in this installment of her Vorkosigan series.

THE PECULIAR MIRACLES OF ANTOINETTE MARTIN Stephanie Knipper: Women's Fiction--magical realism

This amazing, magical tour of heart, love, sacrifice, death, and life will win your heart. Must Read!

BROKEN PIECES Kathleen Long: Women's Fiction

A journey of loss and loneliness results in healing and renewed strength. This is a lovely story that plumbs the depths of grief and finds a few smiles along the way.

THE WAY BACK HOME Freya North: Women's Fiction

Absolute freedom vs. absolute neglect--either creates a childhood to run away from. So, why is Oriana returning home after eighteen years? Mystery and secrets run the halls of Winward and we're allowed to peep in of them in North's THE WAY BACK HOME.

THE MOON IN THE PALACE Weina Dai Randel: Historical Women's Fiction

This hypnotic historical of the young Empress Wu has political intrigue and palace jealousies. Set in the atmosphere of ancient China, THE MOON IN THE PALACE is a great coming of age story.

Next Week: October Links!