A review by emeraldjulep
The Push by Ashley Audrain

challenging dark emotional reflective sad tense slow-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.25

*Audiobook

I can hardly breathe having just finished this book. Like so many other reviewers I spent every free moment I had in the last day and 1/2 completely engrossed in this deeply unsettling, but moving story. She delves deeply into nature vs. nurture but allows the reader to question which wins out without spelling it all out.  I was with Blythe the whole way-hoping but unsure of whether or not she had a grip on reality.   It’s probably a better read for seasoned moms who can relate to the complexity motherhood. It’s never exactly what one expects- and it works out better for some than others.   I agree with another reviewer that if you are pregnant or have very young children, don’t go here.

It’s an incredible work for a debut author. The characters and the plot are both so layered, the twists and pacing right on. I thought the ending was perfect. 

I would have rated it higher becaue although it is very plausible that these things could happen, it’s improbable that all of it would happen to one woman and her lineage. It made me desperately sad for Blythe having had such an unfortunate childhood followed by such a sad adulthood - so unfair. 
Highly recommend if you are up for a dark, intense read. (Narration was really great too).
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