Author: Anna Bushi

Slow Dance

I love reading Rainbow Rowell’s novels, and I’ve read every single one of them. So, you can imagine how excited I was to pick up her latest book, Slow Dance. That first chapter, introducing us to Shiloh and Cary, was everything I want from a book. Every time I read her stories, I fall in love with Nebraska—even though I’ve never been there. Who in North Omaha played golf?

One line that stood out to me was: “He was so familiar to Shiloh.” When she sees him after so many years, this single line encapsulates their entire relationship. Rainbow is a master at moments like this.

The side characters were also wonderful—Mikey, their mutual friend who brings them back together, both their moms, and Shiloh’s kids all had such depth. 

My only small nitpick is that, in contemporary novels, authors sometimes have to create contrived reasons to keep the leads apart, which can make them act irrationally when it comes to matters of the heart. 

“He always took Mikey home first, and then he’d take Shiloh home.”

Shiloh, my dear girl, that’s a big hint right there. How do you keep missing it?

In the historical romance novels I write, it’s easier to find reasons to keep my lovers apart because society had so many rules back then.

That aside, I absolutely loved the book. I highly recommend it to contemporary romance readers!

I was always heading your way, Cary.

My Lady Jane

I recently started watching My Lady Jane on Prime and enjoyed this quirky, alternate-history take on Jane Grey’s story. As someone who’s read Philippa Gregory’s Tudor novels, I was familiar with the real history. Then, as the credits rolled, I noticed the series was based on a book. You know me—I’m usually a “read the book before watching” kind of person (okay, except for Bridgerton). Naturally, I grabbed the book and devoured it in just a few days. It was an absolute delight—lighthearted, clever, and guaranteed to make you smile. Sometimes we adults feel guilty about reading purely for fun. Ignore that guilt and pick up this book if you want pure entertainment!

Afterward, I returned to the show, and I have to say, it didn’t disappoint. I don’t need adaptations to be perfectly faithful; I just want them to tell a great story, and this one delivered. It’s a shame Season Two was canceled, but at least the book tells the full, wonderfully weird alternate history.

Just finished my 25th book of the year!

The story follows Rose, who has always put her family first, often at the expense of her own needs, driven by a desire to honor her late father. A trip to Paris prompts her to reflect on what she truly wants, and the rest of the book captures her journey to find the courage to pursue it. I loved the Persian cultural elements, drawn from the author’s own life, which are beautifully woven throughout the story. The supporting characters, especially her mother and sisters, are excellent. My only critique is that Rose sometimes behaves more like a teenager in Paris than a woman in her thirties, though it can be seen as part of her late blooming. It’s an easy read with a happily-ever-after ending.

It’s been an amazing reading journey so far, and I’m already diving into the next one. What are you reading currently?

Short Review of an Epic Novel

This fantasy novel is not for the faint of heart. With hundreds of characters, a myriad of gods, and numerous kingdoms, you really need a supercomputer in your head to keep track of it all. It’s simply amazing how the author has crafted such a complex, rich, and magnificent world. I was able to focus on Kuni, Mata, and a handful of other characters, and that was enough for me to fully enjoy this incredible story. I particularly loved how it explores one of my favorite themes: what makes a good ruler. I’m looking forward to diving into the second book soon!

🌊✨ Preorder Now on Audible: Child of the River – A Fantasy Adventure Like No Other! 🎧

Will Prince Atul be able to guard what matters most?

When an exiled Kashgar prince seeks refuge, Prince Atul agrees to help—but their mission quickly turns deadly. A ship shrouded in shadows returns with lifeless emissaries, signaling a sinister war. Determined to restore the prince to the throne, Atul journeys to Kashgar, prepared for battle. But instead of soldiers, he finds a land cursed with arcane powers. How can he fight what he doesn’t understand? 🌀

Voices whisper to him, urging him to protect a mysterious girl named Sugandha—someone he’s never met. But why is she so important?

✨ Preorder Child of the River on Audible today and get ready to be swept into an epic tale of magic, mystery, and fate. Will Atul succeed in a world that defies all logic? Find out in this gripping fantasy adventure!

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Join Me at Two Exciting San Diego Events in October

If you’re in the San Diego area, I’d love for you to come see me at two local events this month! Both promise to be fun-filled with amazing people, lively activities, and plenty of chances to chat about books, writing, and more. Whether you’re a book lover, a fellow writer, or just looking for a good time, these events are sure to deliver. I hope to see you there!

Cover Reveal

Remember King Dushyant, my protagonist from King in Hiding? I’ve written a novella about his parents, and I’m excited to share it with you later this year.

Princess Neela faces the unbearable prospect of marrying a man old enough to be her father. Desperate to escape her fate, she turns to the only person who can help—King Bhodar, a ruler drowning in sorrow and toddy. Initially repulsed by his drunken conduct, Neela discovers a kind heart beneath his troubled exterior and slowly begins to see the man he could be. As they draw closer, Neela becomes determined to heal his wounds and help him reclaim his strength. But time is running out, and she must discover if love can truly conquer all and set them both free before it’s too late.

Will Neela and Bhodar find salvation in each other, or will their pasts forever bind them to lives they never wanted?

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The Caretaker: Book Review

The Caretaker is A.X. Ahmad’s debut novel, though I read it more than a decade after its release. Ranjit Singh, a disgraced ex-military officer from India, is living in Martha’s Vineyard during a cold winter, struggling to make ends meet while taking care of his wife and daughter. He works as the caretaker for a senator’s house. When the heater in his own home breaks down, he moves his family into the senator’s empty house, without his permission. They are attacked in the middle of the night, and so begins the adventure.

I love how the author intersperses Ranjit’s past on the Siachen Glacier with his present circumstances. Ranjit’s Sikh faith keeps him grounded as his life falls apart. The African American senator and his wife are written well; you can almost imagine reading about their lives in the newspaper.

The disabled veteran is another wonderfully fleshed-out character. My only nitpick with the story is regarding Ranjit’s wife, Preetham. I wish we saw more of her to better understand her depression and loneliness.

All in all, it’s a great debut thriller.