Good Grief i s about a recently widowed mother who is raising her two young children, After her own mother finally leaves her, .after helping her for two years, her mother in law shows up on her doorstep. This is a story about family, relationships and friendships. It is humorous and emotional at times. This story will draw you in wanting to read more and see how the story plays out.

Another 5-star read from #saragoodmanconfino! As soon as I had the opportunity to snag an ARC, I put everything aside and jumped right in and, as with Sara's other books, I was not disappointed!

Barbara is recently widowed with two small children. Her mother comes to stay and help her with the children for a couple years then returns to her own life when Barbara's MIL, Ruth, decides it's her time to 'help.' Both women are determined to ensure the other doesn't end up alone for the rest of their lives and the ways they go about it are funny (and sometimes diabolical). It was a fun read that had me laughing, feeling sentimental, and at times triggering my anxiety (wishing I could physically remove Ruth from the house myself LOL!).

This heartwarming novel should move to the top of your TBR list - be the first in line to snag your copy August 26, 2025.

Thank you to #netgalley #lakeunionpublishing for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Anyone who I’ve ever discussed books with knows how much I adore Sara Goodman Confino’s writing, and this book was no exception. She creates these beautiful intergenerational relationships of strong, independent, and fiercely loyal women. The Jewish humor is also a great perk. This book was a joy to read

Sara Goodman Confino is one of my favorite new authors and her books never disappoint! Good Grief is no different! This book is so well written and relatable on many levels. It’s full of emotions from laughter to tears. Highly recommend!

Reading Good Grief by Sara Goodman Confino felt like curling up in a warm, cozy blanket—except that blanket occasionally shocks you with laughter or makes you tear up when you least expect it. Set in 1963, the story follows Barbara Feldman, a young widow navigating life with her two kids, trying to rediscover who she is after the grief of losing her husband. It’s been two years, and while she’s not quite ready to fly, she’s at least stepping out of the cocoon. And just when it seems like she’s ready to reclaim her space, in walks Ruth—her mother-in-law—with five suitcases and zero notice.

Let’s just say, Ruth is a lot. She’s blunt, set in her ways, and incredibly well-meaning in that overbearing, old-school way that makes you want to both scream and laugh. She claims she’s there to help, and while Barbara can’t exactly turn her away—because Ruth is also grieving, after all—it quickly becomes clear that this arrangement is not going to be temporary. What starts as a “few days” turns into weeks, and suddenly Barbara’s home, schedule, and sanity are being taken over by Ruth’s unsolicited advice, strong opinions, and rather dramatic flair.

The dynamic between these two women is hilarious, chaotic, and weirdly touching. At first, Barbara is determined to marry Ruth off just to get her out of the house—cue the awkward matchmaking attempts and some truly cringey dinner scenes. But the twist? Ruth has the exact same idea for Barbara. What follows is a series of mishaps, misfires, and genuine moments of connection that show how healing can come from the most unexpected relationships. Their banter is gold, and the growth in both characters feels natural and earned.

One thing I really appreciated is how the novel balances humor with heart. There’s definitely a sitcom-like quality to some of the scenarios, but the emotions underneath are real. Grief, single parenting, female empowerment, and the clash between generations—it's all explored with just the right touch of wit and warmth. The historical setting adds depth without overwhelming the story, and the little nods to cultural issues of the time—like gender roles and antisemitism—are handled with nuance.

Also, let’s not ignore how addictive this book is. I told myself I’d read one chapter before bed… and then the next thing I knew, it was 2 AM and I had finished the whole thing. Barbara is such a relatable protagonist—strong, messy, and deeply human. And Ruth? Well, she might make you want to throw a pillow at her, but you’ll probably end up loving her anyway.

If you’re into books that make you laugh, tear up, and root for the characters like they’re your own family, Good Grief is definitely one to add to your TBR. It’s heartfelt, smart, and seriously entertaining. I already want a sequel just to see what these two women get up to next.

This book will make you laugh and cry, experiencing the frustrations, grief, and hardships right alongside Barbara and Ruth. Barbara is just starting to get on her feet again - she thinks - when her mother-in-law appears to "help." There is a lot of very well-intentioned meddling, on behalf of both of them, and many hilariously awkward moments occur because of this. In the end, however, everyone gets their happily ever after! One thing I love here is that the author didn't sugarcoat women's working conditions of the day -- she describes the harrassment that many women received at work (and many got even worse) on a daily basis. While it can be difficult to read, it lends an air of authenticity to the novel's voice.

Everything Sara writes is perfection! I love the era she writes about, and it's obvious she has researched the time in history so well. Her strong female characters are always so inspiring and relatable. This latest book is no exception. She covers heavy topics but still weaves in humor. Loved this book so much!

The relationship that takes place between Barbara and Ruth is so well told. Most of us have been there with mother in laws. Not necessarily wanting them around but knowing, deep down, that we do indeed need them. Ruth reminded me of my own for sure. I have no complaints about this book and can’t wait to get my copy when it’s in the stores.

I really enjoyed reading this book. As always, the author develops her characters very well. They all have interesting qualities and provide humor throughout the book. The reader continues to learn about the characters and how their background explains their actions throughout the book. The plot moves quickly and is very well thought out and written. The chapters are appropriate length as they all take on a new problem that adds to the overall plot. The ending is appropriate as the story draws to a natural close. All the books from this author that I have read give insight to culture and historical time periods.

I am a big fan of SGC books. I’ve read them all! I love the setting, the era she writes in, the strong female characters breaking stereotypes and the comedic tones. This one just wasn’t really for me.

I couldn’t get past the things Ruth did and how Barbara continued to let them happen. It was so over the top for me that I found myself eye rolling. Not even the nicest person trying to be respectful of her late husband’s mother would have tolerated that. Barbara would get angry and then “be over it” within minutes. It didn’t read comedic to me.

I put the book down for a week and almost DNF because I couldn’t connect to either character. But because I love SGC, I decided to power through. I did enjoy the 2nd half of the book much more as both women grew and connected. However, even that resolution seemed quick, convenient and unbelievable given the atrocious things Ruth had done. I just needed Barbara to have more personality or a backbone.

The book was well written and at times very funny. I was touched by the themes for grief and loneliness. Overall, it just wasn’t for me.

I received an advanced reader copy of this book through NetGalley. It will be published in August 2026

Sara can do no wrong. Every book I read from her is my new favorite, this one being no exception. I love the way her female characters are written, especially the relationship between the women in her stories. I loved the cameo with Beverly! You hit it out of the park again! Can’t wait for the next one!

Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for my e-ARC of Good Grief!

𝐑𝐄𝐀𝐃 𝐓𝐇𝐈𝐒 𝐈𝐅 𝐘𝐎𝐔
🧳 have ever overstayed your welcome
❤️ are secretly in love with your best friend’s brother
🔥 were ever fired without cause
🐶 believe puppies can heal broken hearts

• 𝐖𝐇𝐀𝐓 𝐈𝐓’𝐒 𝐀𝐁𝐎𝐔𝐓

It’s 1963, two years since Barbara Feldman’s husband died. Raising two kids, she’s finally emerging from her cocoon of grief. Not yet a butterfly, but she’s anxious to spread her wings.

Then one day her mother-in-law, Ruth, shows up on her doorstep with five suitcases, expecting a room of her own with a suitable mattress. Abrasive and stuck in her ways yet well meaning, Mother Ruth arrives without warning to help with the children. How can Barbara say no to a woman who is not only a widow herself but also a grieving mother? As Ruth’s prickly visit turns from days to weeks to what seems like forever, Barbara realizes Ruth has got to go. But Barbara has an ingenious plan: introduce Ruth to some fine gentlemen and marry her off as fast as she can.

Soon enough, something tells Barbara that Ruth is trying to do the same for her. At least they’re finding common ground—helping each other to move forward. Even if it is in the most unpredictable ways two totally different women ever imagined.

• 𝐌𝐘 𝐓𝐇𝐎𝐔𝐆𝐇𝐓𝐒

I haven’t met a book by Sara I haven’t loved yet! This was another amazing novel with a great cast of characters. Sara has an incredible way of bringing her characters to life in a way that makes me feel I could reach right out and touch them. They are always so realistic, down to earth, and never without their many flaws, yet I always love them. I enjoyed this storyline as well. The title was puny in that this family is experiencing grief over the death of a spouse, father, and son, but that goodness can come from it. I also enjoyed the mentions of characters from her prior books thrown in! I love those kinds of Easter eggs. Preorder this one today!

Another 5 star from Sara Goodman Confino. This book was so beautiful and heartwarming. Her writing makes you feel like you are living in the book and I couldn’t put it down. I fell in love with Ruth and Barbra’s relationship. Great read that I didn’t want to end.

Good Grief by Sara Goodman Confino
Publishing date - 08/26/25
Rating (5/5) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Loved it! Sara Goodman Confino has done it again. Thank you Netgalley and Lake Union Publishing for this eARC. Good Grief is a heartwarming story about love , loss , and how to move on. I could not put this one down. Stayed up late to finish. Memorable characters … would love to see them show up in another book. Highly recommend this one when it releases in August.

@saraconfino hope to see you at Park Books for your next book tour 😊

Thank you to the publisher and to NetGalley for the ARC. I absolutely adored this. Such a wonderful story about family coming together and moving on after loss. The characters were wonderful and I loved seeing characters from old books, My favorite from this author and I’ve read all of her books. 4.5 stars.

Another fabulous read by Sara Goodman Confino! Sucked me right in and I loved every page!! Each book tops the one before! Such great historical fiction - love it!

I love reading Sara’s books! The Jewish trope is awesome and caters to all reading levels! I would like it to be a bit more sophisticated in the writing style, but I love supporting her writing! Keep the books with Jewish characters coming!!!

Another fun and endearing story from Sara Goodman Confino, filled with a strong female cast and hidden references to her previous books. A quick and enjoyable read.

I adore Sara Goodman Confino's book and this is no exception. She does it again. I love how she makes characters so relatable, kind and real. There were so many funny parts that made me love the characters even more. When Ruth appeared, I couldn't tell where it was going, but I'm so glad Ruth stuck around. She was blunt, thoughtful and in the end, the perfect person Barbara needed at the time. This book is amazing and I can't say enough wonderful things about it. Read it!!!

"Good Grief" by Sara Goodman Confino is a captivating exploration of female relationships, showcasing the author's talent for crafting multidimensional characters whose flaws ultimately contribute to their strength.

Confino excels at weaving a beautiful narrative centered around the complex dynamics between two strong women. The story unfolds with nuance and authenticity, allowing readers to connect deeply with the characters' journeys. What makes this book particularly compelling is how the author portrays realistic imperfections in her characters while demonstrating how these very flaws become integral parts of their resilience and growth.

For readers who appreciate character-driven narratives that explore the depth and complexity of human connections, "Good Grief" delivers a satisfying and thought-provoking experience. This is definitely a book worth recommending to anyone who enjoys stories about authentic relationships and personal growth.