52 pages 1 hour read

Susan Meissner

Only the Beautiful

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2023

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

Only the Beautiful by Susan Meissner follows Rose, a young orphan with synesthesia who is institutionalized for her condition, forced to give up her daughter, and strives to improve her life. Meanwhile, her friend Helen faces the horrors of World War II, returns home, and seeks to reunite Rose with her child. Descriptions of eugenics and sterilization without consent are included.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Susan Meissner's Only the Beautiful has garnered mixed reviews. Positively, readers commend its lyrical prose and evocative storytelling, capturing complex emotions effectively. However, some critics find the plot predictable and characters underdeveloped. Overall, the novel resonates with those seeking heartfelt narratives despite its flaws.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Only the Beautiful?

Only the Beautiful by Susan Meissner will captivate readers who appreciate poignant historical fiction with deep emotional resonance. Fans of Kristin Hannah’s The Nightingale and Anthony Doerr’s All the Light We Cannot See will be drawn to its compelling narrative, rich character development, and evocative portrayal of human resilience.

RecommendedReading Age

18+years

Book Details

Genre

Historical Fiction

Period

WWII / World War II

Themes

Identity: Mental Health

Relationships: Mothers

Relationships: Daughters & Sons

Topics

Military / War

History: World

Mental Illness