Only The Beautiful

I loved this book because its vineyard setting pulled me in and then the controversial history of female sterilization kept me glued to the page. I was shocked to learn of how far into the twentieth century women were being forced into procedures that prevented them from having children. An important read, for sure.

History has so much to teach us if we will only pay attention.

Only the Beautiful is one of the most important books I’ve ever read.

I’ve read many excellent books, but this one highlights the value of human life in such a profound way. It’s weighty, and definitely not an easy “beach” read. Yet, for all the emotions that rise to the surface throughout, I was left with a cord of hope. I’m a mother of a couple of children with special needs.

Historically, society has not placed a high value on the lives of children like mine. However, each day I see the light and beauty they bring to the world.… show more.

This is another gripping story by Susan Meissner. In this novel, she brings us a piece of women’s history not often spoken of, though so important to remember, with characters alive on the page.

I listened to this captivating story on audio and kept my earbuds in while walking, gardening, cooking, dressing – actually, I never wanted to take them out.

I love a book that has strong, determined female characters and one that brings up issues to discuss. This novel has it all.

I was originally intrigued by this story's exploration of a character with synesthesia. But the deeper I waded into the story, the more I cared about the characters!

Meissner has a gift for creating characters so real you catch yourself wondering what they're doing since the story ended. Keep your tissues handy, knowing those tears will eventually be happy ones!

We like to think eugenics was something the Nazis did. But it was something America dabbled in as well. I appreciate Meissner reminding us that casting the first stone is always dangerous.

Unlike many authors of historical fiction who write about people who actually lived, Meissner creates fictitious characters and sets them in historical times. I also craft my novels in that fashion so I can’t help but smile at our one similarity.

This is a heart-wrenching story about a mother’s fight to keep her daughter and the appalling injustice that tears them apart. Meissner brings us Rosy, a strong, determined young girl in 1938 California, and Helen, a middle-aged brave, courageous woman in 1947 Austria.

Both must fight against the crushing restrictions forced upon them by the politics and beliefs of… show more.