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.

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.

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.

Emotional / Bittersweet / Contemplative / Melancholic / Heartwarming

**Rosanne Maras (A.K.A. "Rosie" and "Anne")**  
Rosanne is the primary protagonist who faces numerous personal challenges and is known for her unique condition that impacts how she perceives the world. She is initially a 16-year-old with distinctive traits such as wavy brown hair and sea blue eyes.

**Helen Calvert**  
Helen is a significant character whose narrative perspective dominates the second half of the novel and is initially known to Rosie through letters. She is an unmarried, independent woman who has a strong desire to improve the world and help those around her.

**Truman Calvert**  
Truman is a caretaker of a vineyard and is characterized as a quiet, reserved man who defers to his wife in many matters. He is depicted as a large man with a battle injury from the Great War and plays a complex role in Rosanne's life.

**Celine Calvert**  
Celine is a tertiary character known for her active and pragmatic nature and is less personally invested in Rosanne's well-being than her sister-in-law, Helen. She agrees to take Rosanne into her home but remains emotionally distant from her.

Susan Meissner

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Part 1: “Rosanne”

Part 1, Chapters 1-10

Only the Beautiful Part 1, Chapters 1-10 Summary & Analysis

Part 1, Chapters 11-20

Only the Beautiful Part 1, Chapters 11-20 Summary & Analysis

Part 2: “Helen”

Part 2, Chapters 21-28

Only the Beautiful Part 2, Chapters 21-28 Summary & Analysis

Part 2, Chapter 29-Epilogue

Only the Beautiful Part 2, Chapter 29-Epilogue Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

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