Dive into a world of intrigue and deceit with "The Push" by Ashley Audrain while savoring the bold flavors of a Creamy Spinach Sausage Pasta paired with a zesty Aperol Spritz. The complexity and depth of the novel mirror the rich, comforting dish, while the refreshing Aperol Spritz offers a perfect balance with its bitter and citrus notes, complementing the meal and the thrilling narrative. This harmonious pairing sets the scene for an unforgettable book club experience as you explore the psychological depths of the story.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces of pasta (penne or your choice)
- 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Sausage: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook until browned, breaking it up into smaller pieces with a spoon. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Onion and Garlic: In the same skillet, add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
- Make the Cream Sauce: Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Let it simmer for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Add Spinach and Sausage: Stir in the chopped spinach and cooked sausage. Cook until the spinach is wilted and everything is heated through.
- Combine with Pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat it evenly with the sauce. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh basil or parsley. Serve immediately, and enjoy the creamy deliciousness!
The Push
A profound exploration of motherhood and trauma, "The Push" follows Blythe Connor as she navigates the challenges of raising a daughter she fears she cannot connect with, unraveling her own haunting past in the process.
'The women in this family, we're different . . .' The arrival of baby Violet was meant to be the happiest day of my life. It was meant to be a fresh start. But as soon as I held her in my arms I knew something wasn't right. I have always known that the women in my family aren't meant to be mothers. My husband Fox says I'm imagining it. He tells me I'm nothing like my own mother, and that Violet is the sweetest child. But she's different with me. Something feels very wrong. Is it her? Or is it me? Is she the monster? Or am I?
Discussion Questions
- How does the author build tension throughout the novel?
- In what ways does Blythe's own childhood impact her relationship with her daughter?
- Discuss the significance of the book's title.
- How does the author use unreliable narration to enhance the story?
- What role do secrets play in the plot?
- How does Blythe's perspective on motherhood evolve throughout the novel?
- In what ways does the novel challenge societal norms about maternal instinct?
- Discuss the use of flashbacks in the novel and their effect on the reader.
- How do the book's male characters influence the story's progression?
- What themes from the book resonate with you personally, and why?
Authors:
Ashley Audrain
ISBN: 978-1984881663
Publisher: Michael Joseph
Published Date: 2021-01-05
ISBN: 978-1984881663
Publisher: Michael Joseph
Published Date: 2021-01-05
Aperol Spritz
A refreshingly light cocktail with a bitter-citrus profile, perfect for pairing with rich and savory dishes like pasta. The Aperol Spritz invigorates your palate with its effervescent and vividly hued blend, making it an ideal accompaniment for lively book discussions.
Ingredients
- 3 oz Aperol
- 3 oz Prosecco
- 1 oz soda water
- Orange slice for garnish
- Ice cubes
Instructions
- Fill a glass with ice cubes.
- Pour the Aperol and Prosecco over the ice.
- Add a splash of soda water and stir gently.
- Garnish with an orange slice.