Are There Books Like 'The Beauty That Remains'?

If you loved 'The Beauty That Remains' for its raw exploration of grief, music, and the messy process of healing, you're in luck—there are some fantastic books that hit similar emotional chords. One that immediately comes to mind is 'History Is All You Left Me' by Adam Silvera. Like Ashley Woodfolk's novel, it dives deep into loss and the complicated relationships we have with those who are gone, but it also layers in themes of mental health and queer identity. The way Silvera writes about memory and regret feels so visceral, almost like you're flipping through someone's private journal. Another great pick is 'You’ve Reached Sam' by Dustin Thao, which blends contemporary grief with a touch of magical realism. The protagonist’s ability to call her late boyfriend one last time creates this hauntingly beautiful exploration of letting go, and it wrecked me in the best way.

For something with a stronger musical thread, 'The Serpent King' by Jeff Zentner might resonate. It’s a quieter, more Southern Gothic take on tragedy and friendship, but the way music weaves through the characters’ lives—especially for one aspiring musician—gives it that same soulful vibe as 'The Beauty That Remains.' And if you’re open to a graphic novel, 'Fun Home' by Alison Bechdel is a masterpiece about unpacking family secrets after a loss, though it’s definitely more memoir-style. What ties all these together is that unflinching look at how grief doesn’t follow a neat timeline—it’s messy, nonlinear, and deeply personal. I’ve ugly-cried through every one of these, so consider yourself warned!