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Kristy H (1252 KP) rated The Push in Books

Nov 11, 2021  
The Push
The Push
Ashley Audrain | 2021 | Contemporary, Fiction & Poetry, Thriller
7
7.8 (5 Ratings)
Book Rating
I realized I need a book project to keep me reading the books on my shelves… so I’m turning to the ABCs again. This time, it’s authors. The only rule is the book can start with either the author’s first or last name, and I’m trying to prioritize BOTM books to meet my goal of reading twelve this year. Let’s see how I do!

My first choice was THE PUSH by Ashley Audrain (two As and a BOTM!). This was a mesmerizing psychological thriller about a woman, Blythe, who has always feared motherhood, based on her own childhood. After giving birth to Violet, she becomes convinced there’s something wrong with her. Violet doesn't act like other kids. Her husband Fox says it's all in her head. When their second child, Sam, is born, Blythe has a wonderful connection with him--motherhood is finally everything she's wanted. But then it all changes in a devastating moment, and Blythe must face the awful truth she's been fearing.

THE PUSH offers a very honest and brutal look at motherhood. It definitely kept me flipping the pages! It starts off with a bang, then dragged a bit for me in the middle. It's certainly serious and sad, and, at times, a mystery as well. THE PUSH will keep you thinking long after you've turned that last page. 3.5 stars.
  
Teacher’s Threat
Teacher’s Threat
Diane Vallere | 2021 | Mystery
8
8.0 (1 Ratings)
Book Rating
Going Back to School is Murder
Madison Night needs cash to buy inventory to relaunch her decorating business. After the banks keep turning her down, she hopes that getting an MBA will change their minds. The only class she is finding helpful in the program is Radical Business Theory, even after the professor uses her as an example on her first day. However, when the professor is killed in the parking lot, Madison wonders what is going on at her new school. Can she figure out how to relaunch her business while also solving the murder?

This book really is focused on both parts of that question, and new comers to the series will definitely find the mystery slow as a result. As a fan of the series who is invested in Madison’s life, I found the dual focus enjoyable. It certainly helps that we have an ingenious murder method and a surprising yet logical climax. The characters, both new and returning, are great as always. Fans of Doris Day will laugh at the massive Easter Egg in this book, but if you haven’t watched the movies, you’ll be fine since the author uses the scene to advance the plot. If you are a fan of this mystery series, you’ll be happy with this book. If the series sounds fun to you, I recommend you start at the beginning.
  
Trooper (The Reckless Order MC #2)
Trooper (The Reckless Order MC #2)
Audrey Bell | 2026 | Contemporary, Romance
8
8.0 (1 Ratings)
Book Rating
TROOPER is the second novella in The Reckless Order MC series, and you don't need to have read book one to enjoy this one. Trooper takes place a couple of years after Tarzan.

Shea is happy being alone, convinced no one will stay. She has her tattoo shop, and that's good enough. Plus, she has her best friend, Trooper/Teddy/Theo. But that's all it is, right? Trooper has been happy with his love 'em and leave 'em life up until now, but he's getting older and is maybe just the tiniest bit envious of what his brother has with Keely. He's just glad he's got Shea as his best friend. After all, it will never be anything else, right? Their relationship pootles along until Shea is on the receiving end of a stalker. Trooper doesn't take kindly to this and does everything in his power to protect her.

Once again, this was WAY too short for my liking. I am in love with the writing style and the characters, so the ending always comes way too soon. This was a great addition to the series, and I also loved catching up with Tarzan and Keely. Definitely recommended by me.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Mar 30, 2026