In Good Grief, we follow Ruby and Barbara—two very different women whose lives intersect as they each wrestle with loss, identity, and the messy, often nonlinear process of healing. The novel explores the idea that grief looks different for everyone, it’s never a competition, and sometimes the hardest (and bravest) thing is realizing you can’t carry it all alone.
I really enjoyed this book. Not quite as much as Behind Every Good Man (which set the bar sky-high for me), but it was still a heartfelt and engaging read. And OMG, Bev makes a small appearance, which absolutely delighted me. Ruby wasn’t my favorite at first, but she definitely grew on me, and I came to appreciate that everything she did ultimately came from a place of good intentions. Barbara, on the other hand, I liked but didn’t feel nearly as connected to. I can’t quite put my finger on why. I think I would’ve loved to see a little less time in her head and a bit more action with her best friend, who felt like such a bright spot whenever she appeared and while I like Eddie, the ‘spark’ didn’t feel quite as developed.
One of my favorite aspects of this story was its focus on motherhood. It really resonated with me especially with how motherhood is a journey, not a fixed role, and how it’s okay (necessary, even!) to not do it all yourself. As someone in the trenches of motherhood right now, I found that honesty refreshing and validating.
Overall, Good Grief is a thoughtful, warm exploration of love, loss, and resilience. A little different in tone and pacing than Behind Every Good Man, but still a story well worth picking up.! Most of Goodman’s books can be found on KindleUnlimited which is a bonus for us KU users!
Other Sara Goodman Confino Reviews
AMAZON | GOODREADS | BOOKSHOP | ★★★★
Good Grief comes out August 25, 2025. Huge thank you to Lake Union Press for my copy in exchange for my honest opinion. If you liked this review please let me know either by commenting below or by visiting my Instagram @speakingof.books or on Tiktok @speakingof.books
