I loved this book !! I live in the Deep South and this story is very realistic. The characters are true and the situations have happened. The author has been able to capture the essence of the south. I loved following the story of Pearl and her co-workers. I totally recommend this book. As a matter of fact, I just recommended it to the three people sitting around me as I’m writing this. Very good story, very well written. Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for allowing me to read an advance copy for my honest review.

I was always fascinated by sorority life but was never a part…which I am totally ok with because as much as it fascinates me it scares the crap out of me, esp now as an adult and parent! Rush takes place in the South with is another obsession of mine but all for the right reasons! Lisa Patton does southern amazing!
Rush gives the reader a witty look into the life of a sorority. The girls in this book were interesting but Miss. Pearl was my hands down favorite! Trust me you will love her!
Rush is a light, fun read but has a side of very important message about inclusion and racism.

Knowing nothing about sorority life, this book was very interesting to me. Told in first person by multiple people added to the perspective of the story. Wilda's husband was the voice of reasoning throughout the book which was needed. I loved the name Lilith after looking up the meaning since it fit the character perfectly. I loved the character Pearl for her heart. Everyone needs a Pearl in their life. I felt for Cali just wanting to belong but as the book emphasizes, everyone has some issue. I like the way the girls came together to support Pearl but felt it was a little unrealistic. Readers need to read the author's note to fully appreciate her need to write this book. Recommended!

⭐⭐⭐⭐💫 / 5 rounded up

BE THE CHANGE YOU WANT TO SEE IN THE WORLD. This is how Rush by Lisa Patton made me feel. It is a beautiful book that touches on race, and was reminiscent of a Jodi Picoult novel.

What it's about: Miss Pearl has been working at the sorority of Alpha Delt at Ole Miss for the past 25 years as a housekeeper and virtual mother to the girls, but when she tells the new House Corp President Lilith Whitmore that she would like to apply for a new promotion in the house, Lilith has a lot to say about it... and you can bet it's because Miss Pearl is black. Cali Watkins is a freshman at Ole Miss and wants nothing more than to join a sorority, but will her past and lack of a pedigree or family money mean she can't? Wilda Woodcock has just been appointed to the Rush Advisory Board and her daughter Ellie is rooming with Lilith's daughter Annie Laurie, but what lengths will Lilith go to for her daughter to get a Rush bid? And what will Wilda do about Lilith?

The story is told from multiple viewpoints which I really enjoyed overall. We get in the minds of Wilda, Miss Pearl and Cali; and the only time I didn't like this was when certain things were described from 2 different character's POVs. For instance, I could have done without the description of Ellie and Annie Laurie's room from both Cali and Wilda. Everything else about it was great though and I liked seeing the world through each of these characters.

Patton uses a lot of description in Rush, and I felt like I could see the Ole Miss campus while reading it. I loved the setting of Oxford, Mississippi for this novel and learning all about the process of rush. I was never in a sorority myself so the process is nothing like I have ever heard of and it was so interesting to read about. I also fell in love with the majority of the characters in the novel. Lilith was the character you love to hate, but besides her and her daughter most of the characters were very sweet and very relatable. I especially loved Wilda and Miss Pearl, but this book is full of amazing characters with lots of depth.

The truly beautiful thing Patton does in this novel, is the way she takes the subject of racism and infuses love, hope and laughter into it while still treating it with the seriousness it needs. Rush says you CAN change your attitude and make a difference in the world. I cried tears of both happiness and sadness while reading it, but the overall feel of the story was very heartwarming and uplifting. Besides racism, it touches on all kinds of relationships and how people can change for the better.

Final Thought: I really did love this book, and would recommend it to people who are fans of Jodi Picoult for the topic, and lovers of Southern fiction for the style in which it was written. It is a fairly long book at over 400 pages if you read the author's note, but it was well worth all those pages and they turn very quickly. Rush is set in 2016, but is still more than relevant to 2018 which is sad but true. This country has come a long way, but it still has a long way to go. The bright side is that there is hope and we can make changes to the world we live in if we come together and fight for what's right.

Rush tells the story of several vastly different characters through the Rush process at Ole Miss. I can’t really decide who the main character is, they each seem equally important to the story. Wilda is a fifty-something legacy to the sorority that is the focus of this book, and her youngest child, Ellie, is a freshman. Wilda’s sorority sister Lilith arranged for Ellie to room with her daughter, Annie Laurie.. Lilith is very involved in the sorority and acts as house director, and her family is very wealthy. and her daughter, Lilith convinces Wilda to get involved in Rush, for reasons that we learn are not altruistic. On the other end of the spectrum is Pearl, who works at the sorority house as a maid. Through Pearl we get to know the other employees at the sorority house, and see the radical disparity in the way they live and the lives of the sorority sisters who see them every day.

I was excited to read this book because I myself went through Rush, but in the Midwest, not the south (and 18 years ago!). I was eager to see how the process has changed since then, and how the process is different in the south. I was expecting a lighter read about young women going through Rush. I was not expecting the book to tackle very serious social issues. I’d say Pearl was the real heart of the book, and the author did a wonderful job writing Pearl so that I felt like I knew her. I also related to Wilda a lot, as someone who felt like she needed to put on a facade when she was at the sorority to fit in.

I will say that I wished the book skewed a little younger than it did. For a book about Rush, at times it felt like it was mainly about middle aged women. I can see how Rush involves multiple generations, and older members of the sorority staff. But when I went through Rush, I don’t remember middle aged alums being involved at all. Just my two cents on that.

Overall, the book packed a bigger punch than I was expecting. I especially appreciated the author’s note at the end about her inspiration for the book. That made me like the book even more than I already did.

*thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my advanced reader’s copy in exchange for an honest review*

I’m so conflicted. On the surface, this seemed like a good book. And in many ways, it was. But I was also disappointed. The story is told from three points of view - the sorority housekeeper, Pearl, Wilda, a former sorority girl and the mother of a rushee, and Cali, a rushee and good friend of Wilda’s daughter. While I liked Pearl, I thought that she was a bit passive at times. Wilda seemed realistic in the beginning, but her desire to please her former sorority sister (who also happens to be the mother of her daughter’s roommate) grated on me after a while. Cali was wholly underdeveloped and I feel like there were some unresolved issues with her. She is not one of the privileged students at Ole Miss and we hear her character say several times (albeit to herself) that she doesn’t know how she’s going to pay for the sorority if she gets a bid. And then suddenly POOF she’s in and there’s no further mention of her money troubles.

I think I understand the message that Lisa Patton was trying to get through by writing this book. And I appreciate that, because it’s an important message. I think had the main characters been a little more developed and a little less stereotypical, it would have come across a little better.

I didn’t love it. But I didn’t hate it. Thanks to NetGalley, the author and the publisher for a copy in exchange for my honest review.

How much you enjoy this well written novel might depend on how you feel about both the South and sororities. Patton has used a sorority to look at issues larger than who is accepted into the group. There are mother-daughter issues, racial issues, class issues. None of this goes too deep. This is not The Help but it's well worth a read. Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC. This might make a very good movie.

Rating: 3.5 Stars

I don't tend to read a ton of women's fiction (I usually gravitate towards romance), but I was interested in the book as a sorority woman. My years as an active were spent in the northeast, but I served as an advisor when I was living down south. I must say, Greek life is quite different in that part of the country, and I felt like Patton captured the parts I knew of it quite well.

The story of told from three points of view. I instantly liked Wilde and Pearl. Both had very clear voices, yet both were warm and caring and I wanted to know both of them better. It took me a little bit longer to buy into Calie. What can I say! I am always suspect of someone that perfect, but she grew on me. I found that I cared about the fate of all three of these women. When they were wronged, I was angry. When it seemed there was some sort of imminent threat, I was worried for them.

I am always a fan of female friendships, and I especially liked the kinship that developed between Jasmine, Calie, and Ellie. It was fun being an undergrad with them again, going through recruitment, and attending tailgates, but I really, really enjoyed the Woodcock family.

Wilde's husband was a star, and I their interactions brought smiles to my face. I got a tiny romance fix, when she shared their meet cute with us. It was a precious as those two. I also like the way all three Woodcock's were together. Ellie, her mom, and her dad were a great family unit and such a contrast to Whitmores.

I was not expecting this book to take a social justice route, but I respect that Patton had ideas she wanted to explore.

I was never in a sorority but Greek life has always fascinated me so when I read the description of Rush I was all in. It had the added bonus of being set in the South and I’m a sucker for southern fiction as well and this one was oozing good old fashioned southern charm with a side of, oh bless her heart sass. It was witty, fun and I felt like I got a secret look behind the scenes of sorority life.

There are three points of view here, Miss Pearl the longtime housekeeper at Alpha Delt, Wilda who’s daughter Ellie is rushing for the first time as a freshman and then Cali another hopeful freshman who becomes fast friends with Ellie. My favorite of the three was easily Miss Pearl though everyone was enjoyable and fun to hear from. Pearl just stole the show for me with her heart that’s bigger than Mississippi and her love and affection for all of the Alpha Delt girls, she was a true gem.

While this was a light and fun read it definitely still explored some important issues pertaining to race relations and old, outdated traditions that are really just a disguise for casual racism. The only people of color involved in the sorority are the staff with the exception of just one member and the antiquated rules are finally questioned and challenged. There was a quiet power to this book with some relevant themes that make you think and contemplate which I always appreciate, definitely some substance beside sweet southern charm.

Rush in three words: Charming, Topical and Fun.

I'm torn on a lot of things with this book, which I didn't expect as I was prepared to totally love this one. Here's the thing- I'm not from the south. I've spent virtually no time there, and so I can't speak to the accuracy of the portrayal of Southerners in this book, though at times it reinforced all the worst stereotypes of those from the region. I didn't go to a school with a vibrant Greek system (there was one sorority, which from my understanding was VERY different from the ones at an SEC school, and since it was a women's college, it felt... pretty redundant to join a sorority), and so the world of sorority politics and the Rush process is completely foreign.
This story is told from the perspectives of Cali, a student going through Rush; Wilda, a former sorority girl and mother of one of Cali's new friends, and Pearl, the maid at the sorority house. Those who have compared this story to The Help aren't wrong- and with that means that this book comes with the same issues as that book. Others have also pointed out the white savior issue at the end of this book- another challenge with this story.
I struggle because I think that it would have been dishonest to tell this story without addressing the enormous issue of racism and socioeconomics in these institutions, but I'm not sure it was handled in the best possible way. Even just the smaller issue of socioeconomics- Cali mentions many times throughout the story that she doesn't know how she's going to afford the costs of being in a sorority, but as far as I can recall that issue is dropped as soon as she's in. The story really crams a lot of the plot into the second half of the book, as well, forcing some of the big issues to be less than fully developed.
This might have to be a story that you read for yourself to decide how you feel about the author's choices. Personal experience and where you live might really affect how you see this book.

RUSH is a powerful goosebumps-down-the-arms novel on the most sacred of all Southern rituals: sorority rush at Ole Miss. Will have you setting aside everything you plan to do today as you delve deeper into the pages of this addictive read about women, from both ends of the social spectrum, who find their own authentic voices and power. Exposes the complex relationships between mothers and daughters and female friends, while making you laugh and cry, pinned to the pages through twists and turns as dark family secrets are uncovered. Atlanta Journal Constitution, Southern Living and Deep South Magazine featured RUSH on their 2018 Best Summer Reading lists, for good reason! Highly recommended!

Pub Date 21 Aug 2018

Thanks to St. Martin's Press and NetGalley for the review copy. Opinions are fully mine.

#Rush #NetGalley

Wow!!!!!!!! First book by Lisa Patton I have read and if her others are like this then I have got to read them!!!!!!! I LOVED this book!!!!!! The southern charm it has and because it's about Ol Miss College makes me think of the movie The Blind Side. It would (in my opinion) make a great southern movie and i would definitely watch it. This story is told from 3 different sides. First we have Wilda Woodcock whose daughter is pledging at Ole Miss and Wilda is on the Rush board. She gets swept up by Lilith Whitmore, a rascist rich woman who thinks everyone of color is beneath her. Wilda makes a huge mistake of lying to her husband because of her new friend Lilith but she figures out the error of her ways. Next is a sweet girl from Blue Mountain named Cali who was raised by her loving grandparents who just wants to get into a sorority for the sisterhood and change the world by one day becoming governor. Next we have Ms Pearl the beloved housekeeper at the most prestigious sorority houses at Ol Miss. Miss Pearl wants to better herself and get a higher job as house director of Alpha Delt sorority house. When Lilith Whitmore stamps her stuck up foot on that everything changes for the better. Thank you to Netgalley and St. Martin's Press for the oppurtunity to read this amazing novel. I will highly recommend this book to everyone

I knew southern sororities were a different world, but wow, I had no idea how it really is during Rush, and pledging, and whether you’re a legacy or not. I mean, I knew about it, but I guess not to this southern extent. See, I was in a sorority for a hot minute. I was pinned, I went to couple of things, but in the end, I was asked to leave. I couldn’t commit to the meetings and events because I was working two jobs at the time and just didn’t have all that extra time to give to sorority things. It wasn’t a good fit for me and I thought that experience was a little crazy. RUSH showed me there can be so much more.

But this book is not just about joining a sorority in the south. It’s about the young girls coming to Ole Miss, their families, and the people who run those houses. The hardworking people who work their asses off to care for the girls who come to live there.

If you liked The Help, then RUSH is a book for you. Set in a modern day world, we are shown that racism is still prevalent in our world and if we don’t work to fight against it, it will just continue on with each generation. RUSH is a story about a young generation who want to make a difference, who have a heart, who have a strong moral compass pointing in the right direction, and who are going to fight for change.

The story is told from multiple points of view: a couple of the girls, wonderful Pearl, and Wilda. I will admit Wilda grated me like you wouldn’t believe because of her lack of backbone, but I came to admire her in the end. And Pearl more than made up for it. I wish I knew a real Pearl; they’re definitely a rare find anymore…

I received an advance copy. All opinions are mine.

Sweet book, but there really wasn’t anything special about it. I didn’t like it or dislike it. I would not recommend to a friend.

A thought-provoking story of fairness, empowerment and forgiveness.

SUMMARY
It’s the run up to Rush week at Ole Miss in Oxford Mississippi. This is the story about women from all rungs on the social ladder, discovering their voices, courage and empowerment.

Pearl
For 25 years, Miss Pearl has been housekeeper and a second mother to the Alpha Delta girls. She listens to their stories, holds their hands when they are sick, and celebrates with them when they get good news. When an opportunity for promotion arises, it seems like a natural fit. But alum Lilith Whitmore puts her foot down fast, crushing Miss Pearls hopes of a better future. When the Alpha Delta girls find out, they devise a plan destined to change Alpha Delta and maybe the entire Greek system, forever

Cali
Cali Watkins possesses all the qualities sororities are looking for in a new potential member. She’s kind, intelligent, makes friends easily, and even plans to run for governor someday. Without family money and connections Cali’s chances of sorority membership are thin, but she has an even bigger problem. If anyone discovers the dark family secret she’s hiding she’ll be immediately dropped from consideration.

Wilda
When Wilda Woodcock gets a call from old friend and Alpha Delta sorority alum Lilith Whitmore, appointing her to the Rush Advisory Board, she can hardly believe her luck. Wilda will now be able to keep an eye on her daughter, Ellie, while she is away at school. What’s more Lilith suggests that her daughter Annie Laurie and Ellie, both incoming freshmen room together. This decision will prove costly to Wilda, in more ways than one.

REVIEW
RUSH takes a thought-provoking look at the issues of fairness, diversity, empowerment and forgiveness. My favorite part of the book is how it is the newest members of the sorority who are the ones to step up and make a difference. I also loved Pearl’s attitude of not backing down and fighting for what she wants in a professional way.

The writing is clear and succinct and despite having multiple points of view is very easy to follow. The characters were as dramatic and diverse as you would find in any sorority house. I particular loved the strength and outward thinking that Cali and Ellie exhibited. It’s a well-written story emanating from a Southern perspective, and while it may not appeal to everyone, I found it thoughtful and moving. The book was engaging: I laughed at parts, shook my head at parts and even had tears streaming down my face at parts. Anyone who has belonged to a sorority should definitely read this compassionate, compelling and enlightening book.

From LISA PATTON’s personal note at the end of the book, you easily discern that this book was written from the heart despite many impediments put in her way. It is well beyond frustrating that these issues as real today as they were thirty and forty years ago, not just in the South and not just in sorority houses, but in small businesses everywhere. By writing this book it is apparent that Patton hopes to facilitate change. I hope that it will do just that. It’s time that young women like Cali and Ellie, our future leaders empower themselves; and find their courage and their voice to make things happen.

Thanks to Netgalley for an advance reading copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Publisher St. Martin’s Press
Published August 21, 2018
Review www.bluestockingreviews.com

Lisa Patton, Author of “Rush” has written a enthralling, captivating, significant, unique, emotional and heartwarming perspective of sorority life in Oxford, Mississippi,, on the Ole Miss Campus. I loved Lisa Patton’s vivid descriptions, witty and tasteful details, and the colorful cast of characters in this southern novel. The Genres for this novel are Fiction and Women’s Fiction.

I attended a local college within commuting distance, and never had the time or options to join a sorority, and I enjoyed reading about the lifestyle and housing. What is so amazing is the realization that the houses that these girls lived in required help to feed, clean and keep it going. The women and men that helped to take care of the young women were there all hours and seemed to provide the emotional support and physical comfort that were required. I appreciate that the author brings this to our attention, instead of keeping it in the background.

The author describes the excitement of the young “girls” coming to college, and longing to have a place to belong. The process of finding a sorority, and being accepted is extremely anxiety provoking and there is high tension. The settling in , going to classes, finding friends and making and bonding ever-lasting friendships is important.

The author also discusses the roles of the parents, especially the mothers in this story. Some of the sorority life revolves around “Pedigrees” and being in a higher social class. There is still evidence of some discrimination against people of color, and people in a lower class by some of the characters.

I love that the author leaves us with the feeling that change is possible, courage, determination, love and hope are so important. I highly recommend this novel to readers of Women’s Fiction. I received an ARC from NetGalley for my honest review.

This was a story about sorority recruitment at a southern university that touched on race and class issues as well. Lots to think about but I found the dialogue to be a little simplistic and stereotypical. I did enjoy the characters and the story overall.

Let me begin by saying that Lisa Patton is the quintessential southern lit writer, I have loved her since her series, Dixie. I love the way in which she writes, the character development she creates and the way in which she gets the reader involved. You might asked what do you mean involved? Well for example, last night I came to a part in the story that I was so unhappy about (I don't want to give away details, sorry!) but I could feel how invested I was in the story and I LOVE that!

On to RUSH, I have always wondered what I missed by not rushing when I was in college. Now I know this book is fiction, but I have heard similar stories from friends and its been the same if not worse! I know some say it's totally worth it, but I'm happy that didn't turn out to be a life style for me. Too crazy...

Without giving much away, the story takes you through a typical rush period at a major university in the south, Ole Miss. You experience the lack of sleep, rushing to meetings and still not missing classes and the emotional turmoil these girls experience. But on the other side, you meet the workers in the sorority house - the cleaning staff, the cooks, etc. You will learn about the way in which they are treated (racial discrimination, poor employment standards) and how above all else they still love and nurture the girls as their own.

It's an amazing story and I didn't want it to end!!

I received an advanced copy of this book through Netgalley. This book had me from the very beginning. I love that it kept me on the edge of my seat the whole time. I would highly recommend this book to my fellow readers. Thank you for the chance to review this book!!!!

This book is soooo good!! It’s a must read for everybody! One of my top favs of the year! I love a book that draws you in from the start and this one does just that! I didn’t want to put it down!!