Barbara lost her husband unexpectedly two years ago, and has just gotten her mother to move out, ready to start the next chapter of her and her young children’s lives independently. But then her mother in law shows up at her door, suitcases with her, clearly ready to stay indefinitely.

What follows is a tumultuous battle of wills that grows into an understanding between the two women, both grieving the husband and son they lost in their own ways, and each with their own ideas of how the other can move on. The primary idea they both have? Matchmaking.

Sara Goodman Confino’s books are the perfect summer read - gentle character studies that pack an emotional punch. They’re funny and lovely and have characters from her other novels interwoven throughout. For the last few summers, I’ve received her latest novels - and it is truly a highlight of the season for me!

Grief is complex. When you add in a meddling mother-in-law who won't leave, two young children, a job and a whole cast of characters you are in for a moving tale of growth and discovery. A tale of love, both lost and found. A tale of healing and forgiveness. A tale of acceptance. Sara goodman Confino cannot write a bad book. She is an excellent storyteller who really understands human nature and the workings of the heart and soul. I just love this story. Thank you for the opportunity to read this arc.

Advanced Book Review! Thank you @netgalley & @amazonpublishing for sending me this book for review. Opinions are mine.
“Mother and daughter in-laws. To move on, one of them will have to move out in a hopeful and hilarious novel about widowhood and family friction.”
If it wasn’t official before it is now: Sara Goodman Confino is one of my favourite authors. Good Grief, her latest, is a heartfelt, yet hilarious, story about navigating grief, difficult in-laws, and the unpredictable joy of second chance.
Set in 1963, two years after Barbara Feldman’s husband Harry has passed, the story hits that perfect sweet spot – she’s still grieving, but the rawness has softened just enough to let hope peek through. When her mother-in-law Ruth shows up unannounced (with five suitcases and zero filter), Barbara is the picture of patience – seriously, her restraint deserves an award. The puncy, witty dialogue between Barbara and Ruth had me hooked, and Barbara’s best friend Janet? Comic relief gold.
The Jewish representation throughout felt so rich and natural, seamlessly woven ito the story without overexplaining, but still offering meaningful moments that highlight culture, community, and tradition. I also loved the subtle (and not subtle) cameos from characters in Sara’s earlier books.
From honest reflections on single motherhood to unexpected matchmaking antics, this book had me laughing, nodding in empathy, and rooting for everyone (even prickly Ruth!). I’m so excited that Sara is now writing full-time. I truly can’t wait to see what she gives us next.
4.5 Stars

I'm a big fan of Sara Goodman Confino and after this book her place in my favorites list remains secure.
Set in 1963 it is the story of Barbara Feldman who, after losing her husband two years ago and having help in the way of her mother is ready to go it alone with her two children. After one celebratory day of no rules up shows her mother-in-law Ruth. Ruth is the thorn in Barbara's side and she is quick to devise plans to rid herself of her. What follows is an entertaining and endearing and at points heart-breaking tale of the two of them pushing each other forward in the most unlikely ways and finding their way through their shared grief.

4.5 ⭐️

Sara Goodman Confino again does what she does best, which is write hilarious and heartwarming stories—often featuring a particularly notable older maternal figure. Barbara and Ruth’s story is a special one, and there were certainly relatable moments for anyone with a mother-in-law or who has experienced grief. Her books are always a slam dunk for laughs and feel good moments.

Goodman Confino has some really strong books, but I think this one lost its momentum. The tragic loss of a husband and the need to “deal” with a mother-in-law, who means well, sets up the characters for a variety of run ins. No doubt Confino knows relationships and can write complex and interesting characters. This story was hard to stay invested in as it felt like it wasn’t moving anywhere by more than halfway through. Some good laughs that softens tragedy.

Despite the base of the story centering around a new widow and her mother-in-law this was a fun and entertaining read. I enjoyed the main characters and seeing the growth in both characters and how they came to understand each other and grew closer together as a family. Easy cute read would definitely recommend. I want to thank NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing for the arc in exchange for an honest review.

Sara Goodman Confino is a must-read author for me, and while Good Grief wasn’t my favorite of hers, I still thoroughly enjoyed it. Set in 1963, the story follows Barbara as she tries to navigate life with two young children after the sudden loss of her husband. When she finally sends her own mother home after two years of help, her mother-in-law Ruth unexpectedly moves in... and stays. Barbara and Ruth clash in both expected and surprising ways, but over time, they learn to understand and support each other. I loved the strong character development and the thoughtful look at the expectations placed on working women during that time period. I will recommend to readers of women's fiction and historical fiction that is on the lighter side. I’m already looking forward to Sara Goodman Confino's next book.

Another winner of a book from Sara!

Oh Ruth! How she made me laugh even when she was being the "monster"-in-law some women complain about. I could totally sense the frustration Barbara has with her though and I think that really appealed to me (maybe because my own MIL is quite wonderful and helpful in a way that is actually very helpful when needed).

Barbara was just doing her best after the loss of her husband. She had two wonderful young kids. She may, of course, have needed help for a bit after but did she really need her MIL to MOVE IN? But Barbara as a character was pretty classy and she was so good at being able to keep her cool even when I might have "blown a gasket" myself. Oh and can't forget sweet Eddie. So amazingly helpful and you could just feel his reasons shining through the page .

The conclusion was so heartwarming and I will miss these characters. Oh, plus the addition of a name and one character from previous novels showing up was a fun surprise.

"Death and taxes may have been the two certanties in life, but if I were in charge, husbands and pets would live exactly as long as we did."

"A puppy wont fill the hole left by fathers. But you'll see, puppies make hearts grow so that hole seems a little smaller."

"Life is too short to hate."

"My heart felt like a piece of Swiss cheese, and I worried that he would fall right through one of the holes."

I loved everything about Sara Goodman Confino's newest novel, Good Grief. It is a poignant story about a mother-in-law and her daughter-in-law, who are both widows trying to navigate move forward in their lives. At times, it is so funny that I laughed out loud several times. Other times, I was so touched by these womens' struggles that I almost cried. Beverly Diamond, a character from the author's previous book also make an appearance! Ms. Goodman Confino, please keep writing.....I look foward to more of your work. Thanks to NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing for the ARC.!

I received an advanced copy of this book through NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review. I was elated to get this ARC. Getting to meet the author in the spring was fantastic.

This book is set in the spring of 1963, before JFK was assassinated, and the same period when Dirty Dancing was set. Life was simpler before the internet and social media, sure, but women didn't have equal rights under the law when it came to sexual harassment in the workplace. It's astonishing to realize that while much has changed, it also really hasn't.

Barbara Feldman is a young widow raising two young children. Her mother stayed for two years and has gone home to Philadelphia. Barbara has her best friend Janet and Janet's brother Eddie, who manages the grocery store in their Rockville, MD town. Then Barbara's mother in law Ruth shows up.

Barbara also works part-time at the hospital as a patient advocate /liaison. Sort of like a social worker might? As soon as Ruth shows up, all the things that could happen...happen. I give Barbara credit for her patience when Ruth pushes all the buttons. Barbara schemes to get Ruth married off or move out.

I enjoyed the pacing and the themes of this book. Confino writes fully developed characters. You could feel them jump off the page. My own mother was just a teenager in 1963, but I think anyone who lived at the time would enjoy the book, especially the Jewish representation. Workplace sexual harassment being tolerated decades before the MeToo movement was astonishing. I also enjoyed references to other characters such as Marilyn Kleinman and Beverly Diamond. and the miniature schnauzer. Finding love again as a widow.
4.5 of 5 stars available August 26, 2025.

Good Grief is a captivating, beautiful book. I loved its warmth. I loved its humor. I loved its sincerity and authenticity. I loved the characters—even the annoying ones mostly redeemed themselves. I loved that it dealt honestly with the pain of losing someone that you loved with your whole heart. I loved that it showed both Barbara and the readers that it’s okay to accept help, that it’s okay to rely on others, that it’s okay to realize that sometimes we can’t do it all. I loved that these characters and their stories kept me company for a few hours, entertaining me, but mostly letting me in to see their joys, their pains, their worries, and their love for each other.

Raising two children as a widow in 1963 is not easy, but Barbara Feldman is doing it. After two years of mourning, she’s decided to start emerging from her grief. When her mother in law shows up to stay at her house unannounced, it puts a damper on her independence.

Ms. Confino has proven book after book that she can write. Her imagination literally has no limits, as she keeps delivering amazing characters, humorous and witty quips, and emotion filled plots. This one focused on a mother-daughter in love relationship, which any married woman can appreciate has many nuances. I loved the development over time of not just the characters, but all of the relationships in the story. This is one not to miss for all readers, and definitely not one to miss if you’ve read her books in the past, as you’ll recognize a few cameos.

“More mothers were just too many cooks in the kitchen, quite literally sometimes.”

Good Grief comes out 8/26.

5 mother-in-law stars

This author is gifted at creating unforgettable characters whom I root for. In this heartwarming family story, themes of grief are present, but it ultimately left me hopeful. There were some hilarious moments with strong, memorable women who light up the page.

Barbara has survived two years since her husband died, raising her two children. For most of that time, her mother lived with them to help. Barbara has decided she’s ready to do things on her own, so she sends her mother home.

She’s very surprised, then, to discover her mother-in-law, Ruth, on her doorstep with five suitcases, ready to move in to help. Do they think she is so incapable?

Her mother-in-law is also a widow and has also suffered the loss of her only child. Barbara decides she can stay for a short time, how bad could it be?

There are some funny moments between the two women (wallpaper vs. paint, cooking disasters, and nearly burning the house down) as both try to run the household. Barbara’s kids are delightful too!

Could either of the women find love again? They try setting each other up, to some hilarious hijinks!

One thing I love about this author is that she includes cameos from her other characters. I loved the brief return of Beverly Diamond and her role in this book!

I have now read all of this author’s books and loved them all. I’m eagerly awaiting the next one!

Good Grief is a delightful blend of humor and heart that showcases Sara Goodman Confino's talent for creating strong, determined women navigating life's curveballs. Set in 1963, the story follows recently widowed Barbara as she battles wits with her overbearing mother-in-law Ruth, who arrives unannounced and overstays her welcome.

What makes this novel shine is Confino's commitment to women taking charge of their own destinies. Both Barbara and Ruth refuse to be passive victims of circumstance—instead, they actively scheme to matchmake each other while rebuilding their own lives. The clever tie-ins to Confino's previous works add depth for returning readers, creating a satisfying sense of continuity in her literary universe.

The book flows naturally from the clash between two stubborn personalities, but beneath the laughs lies genuine insight about grief, family obligations, and the courage it takes to start over. Barbara's journey from grieving widow to a woman ready to spread her wings feels authentic and empowering.

I am a big fan of SGC books. I’ve read them all! I love the setting, the era she writes in, with strong female characters.

I loved the premise of this book but I couldn’t get past the things Ruth did and how Barbara continued to let them happen. I understand that she is your mother-in-law but I was getting angry at Barbara for tolerating Ruth's behavior. Barbara would get angry and then “be over it” within minutes. It didn’t read comedic to me.

I did enjoy the 2nd half of the book much more as both women grew and connected and the end was satisfying, I just needed Barbara to have more of a backbone

Another winner from one of my fav authors 😍 I devoured this book in one day, I couldn’t put it down.

Two years after her husband passed away, Barbara is about to be on her own after her mother, who was helping take care of her children, returns home. But the next day, her mother-in-law, Ruth, shows up on her door with 5 suitcases. The push & pull between the 2 women is surprising and funny to watch. All the side characters in the book are also well developed and I loved spending time with them. The fun cameos from characters in Sara’s other books also were incredibly important to the plot, and shaped Barbara & Ruth’s relationship from then on.

Romance isn’t the main plot of the book, but it was done perfectly in the story. I also enjoyed seeing how Barbara stood up for the other women, and seeing some early women’s rights moments during the 60s.

This book has great Jewish representation, and also deals with antisemitism, which is more important than ever now.

Thank you to Lake Union Publishing and NetGalley for providing the ARC for my honest review!

4.5
Good Grief was my first Sara Goodman Confino book, and I loved it. I didn't realize it was set in the '60s at first, but I loved that historical aspect. Barbara was a great FMC, and I enjoyed that the book was told from her point of view. It was interesting to see her dynamic with her children vs. her friends or even her mother-in-law. Ruth initially gave me Emily Gilmore vibes, but as a character, she grew on me immensely by the end of the story. There were several laugh-out-loud moments, as well as several instances of heartfelt and deeply moving storytelling. Goodman Confino delved into grief so well. I thought the ending was sweet, and I really enjoyed the journey of this book. Thank you to Get Red PR for the ARC to read and review!

Sara Goodman Confino has become an author on my short list of auto buy authors. She writes with a clever whit and characters that are relatable. In her latest story she introduces us to Barbara a recent widow with two kids. Her mother has finally moved back to her own house after staying with Barbara for 2 years. Suddenly her MIL shows up at her house and is getting ready to stay for an indefinite period of time. The story is heart felt and full of interesting moments. However, sometimes a story hits a little close to home and you didn’t realize you would feel triggered by a storyline that seems innocuous. Barbara’s MIL reminds me of my deceased mother in law in some ways. I did not get along with her and she did things without my permission. I didn’t realize that this plot line would bring up so many unhappy memories for me. With that said, Barbara does resolve her issues with her and so there’s consolation in the conflict but for me this was a difficult portion of the book to work through. Not every book works for every individual due to their life experiences so while this book wasn’t my favorite of this author’s I can say it was wonderfully well written.
So I just took off one star for the personal issues but highly recommend this book for so many reasons.

Thank you, thank you, thank you to @saraconfino @getredprbooks @netgalley and @lakeunionauthors for my #gifted galley!

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Good grief, she’s done it again, folks! My dear friend and one of my very favorite authors @saraconfino has topped herself and given me a new favorite book, even though every book she writes becomes my new favorite!

Full of heart and humor, this tale of grief and love in all of its many forms made me both laugh and cry. I adored all of the nurses Barbara worked with and stood up for, her best friend Fran, and of course, her mother-in-law Ruth 💗 She was over the top, but her antics made me love her even more 💗

Barb’s kiddos were amazing, as was Pepper, and I adored the romances that accompanied these strong, fiercely intelligent, and wonderful women. They stood by each other, and stood up for each other, and their bond made this book truly wonderful!!

Good Grief gave me Behind Every Good Man vibes too, and I simply ADORED it! Speaking of, the Bev and Stuart cameos were incredible!!

Sara, you are simply the best and I will forever stan for you! Love you so!! Can’t wait for your next book!

Pre-order this gem ASAP - it hits shelves Aug. 26!!