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Never Say Never, Never Say Always: Reflections on Love, Loss, and Loving Again
“Moving Forward, But Not Moving On”Susan S. Warner had a storybook marriage of 38 years and two magnificent children. She existed in the comfort of an extraordinary cocoon of family and friends. And then the unimaginable happened—the devastating suicide of her 32-year-old son, followed six months later with the death of her husband to a virulent cancer eight weeks after his diagnosis. How did she survive this catastrophic loss and find happiness again?
Susan’s story takes you on her journey to acceptance, pushing on and not being defined by societal norms. It’s a journey of self-discovery, self-actualization and ultimately working to live her best life, her way. And while she has moved forward, she has not moved on from her son and husband, who are part of this journey — keeping their memories alive has helped her heal.
By sharing her story, she hopes to help others who have suffered loss – loss of a spouse, a child, a friend, a parent, a sibling—understand that with loss, life doesn’t have to end, and it doesn’t need to define them. Everyone deserves happiness. However, happiness is not to be found, but to be made. The path to the next chapters of life can be empowering and exciting.
Praise for Never Say Never, Never Say Always
We all experience loss at some point or another, but each experience of grief is as unique as the person who died and the person grappling with that death. This is why stories of loss, like Susan S. Warner’s “Never Say Never, Never Say Always,” are so important. In struggling through the shocking and criminal death of my sister, I pushed the many offered platitudes aside and found meaningful comfort in the other people’s stories of dealing with loss. Knowing that other people have also felt lost themselves in that deep well of sadness–that’s where the comfort is. It’s knowing we’re not alone as grief challenges and changes us.
Warner so generously shares the raw emotion of her journey after losing her son and then her husband in devastating succession. Hers is the type of scenario that we might imagine we would never recover from. And yet, she does. She describes so clearly how the grief process is not about learning how to move on but learning how to move with the loss. She says, “I am comfortable accepting that great love affairs never end. Although they may change in body and structure, they exist all time… Understanding that I don’t need to erase my past, but find a comfortable place for it, keeps me whole.”
“Never Say Never, Never Say Always,” is a beautiful and brave read in which Warner offers help, healing, and hope for anyone grappling with loss.
~ Jean Brown, co-author of “This Sweet how we lived after Kirby died”
Susan Warner knows all too well the truth that bad things happen to good people. Jewish tradition has forever faced the reality that this is not a matter of if, but when, for each of us. You do not have to have faced the tragedies that Susan has, to benefit from her grace and wisdom. Anyone interested in living a full and expansive life should read her story. She has increased my capacity to face the morrow with humility, joy, and hope.
~Rabbi Maurice A. Salth, Central Synagogue, New York City
There are no words to describe the monumental challenges Susan Warner has overcome. Never before have I seen a person handle a double devastating blow to the heart, and push through life as though she was chosen to live this. My admiration for this family goes beyond words. I encourage you to dive into this story simply to realize there is a way through anything, you just have to believe.
~Stacey Griffith, master Soul Cycle instructor, author of Two Turns From Zero Energize
Susan’s story takes you on her journey to acceptance, pushing on and not being defined by societal norms. It’s a journey of self-discovery, self-actualization and ultimately working to live her best life, her way. And while she has moved forward, she has not moved on from her son and husband, who are part of this journey — keeping their memories alive has helped her heal.
By sharing her story, she hopes to help others who have suffered loss – loss of a spouse, a child, a friend, a parent, a sibling—understand that with loss, life doesn’t have to end, and it doesn’t need to define them. Everyone deserves happiness. However, happiness is not to be found, but to be made. The path to the next chapters of life can be empowering and exciting.
Praise for Never Say Never, Never Say Always
We all experience loss at some point or another, but each experience of grief is as unique as the person who died and the person grappling with that death. This is why stories of loss, like Susan S. Warner’s “Never Say Never, Never Say Always,” are so important. In struggling through the shocking and criminal death of my sister, I pushed the many offered platitudes aside and found meaningful comfort in the other people’s stories of dealing with loss. Knowing that other people have also felt lost themselves in that deep well of sadness–that’s where the comfort is. It’s knowing we’re not alone as grief challenges and changes us.
Warner so generously shares the raw emotion of her journey after losing her son and then her husband in devastating succession. Hers is the type of scenario that we might imagine we would never recover from. And yet, she does. She describes so clearly how the grief process is not about learning how to move on but learning how to move with the loss. She says, “I am comfortable accepting that great love affairs never end. Although they may change in body and structure, they exist all time… Understanding that I don’t need to erase my past, but find a comfortable place for it, keeps me whole.”
“Never Say Never, Never Say Always,” is a beautiful and brave read in which Warner offers help, healing, and hope for anyone grappling with loss.
~ Jean Brown, co-author of “This Sweet how we lived after Kirby died”
Susan Warner knows all too well the truth that bad things happen to good people. Jewish tradition has forever faced the reality that this is not a matter of if, but when, for each of us. You do not have to have faced the tragedies that Susan has, to benefit from her grace and wisdom. Anyone interested in living a full and expansive life should read her story. She has increased my capacity to face the morrow with humility, joy, and hope.
~Rabbi Maurice A. Salth, Central Synagogue, New York City
There are no words to describe the monumental challenges Susan Warner has overcome. Never before have I seen a person handle a double devastating blow to the heart, and push through life as though she was chosen to live this. My admiration for this family goes beyond words. I encourage you to dive into this story simply to realize there is a way through anything, you just have to believe.
~Stacey Griffith, master Soul Cycle instructor, author of Two Turns From Zero Energize
168 pages, Paperback
Published August 29, 2023
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews
March 5, 2026
I came across Never Say Never, Never Say Always through Silent Book Club Seattle, and I’m grateful for the recommendation. It’s a book that encourages readers to stay open to life’s unexpected opportunities.
March 5, 2026
I found Never Say Never, Never Say Always through the February 26 Silent Book Club Seattle feature, and it turned out to be one of the best books I’ve read recently. Kindly buy it too so you can enjoy this inspiring story.
November 9, 2023
You won’t be able to put this book down till you finish this true, heartfelt story of love and hope.
March 5, 2026
I found this book through Silent Book Club Seattle, and it’s definitely a read that makes you reflect on life and possibilities.
March 5, 2026
This memoir beautifully captures grief, love, and moving forward. Our Silent Book Club Seattle spotlight on February 26 makes it a must-read, enjoy!
June 6, 2026
Never Say Never, Never Say Always is one of the most moving memoirs I have read in years. Susan S. Warner shares her deeply personal journey through unimaginable heartbreak with remarkable honesty, grace, and courage. Losing a child and a spouse within such a short period would be enough to break most people, yet Warner's story demonstrates the resilience of the human spirit.
What impressed me most was her refusal to offer simplistic answers to grief. Instead, she presents healing as a complex and ongoing process. Her reflections are thoughtful, heartfelt, and inspiring without ever feeling forced. This book serves as a powerful reminder that while loss changes us forever, it does not have to define our future. A beautiful, compassionate, and unforgettable read.
What impressed me most was her refusal to offer simplistic answers to grief. Instead, she presents healing as a complex and ongoing process. Her reflections are thoughtful, heartfelt, and inspiring without ever feeling forced. This book serves as a powerful reminder that while loss changes us forever, it does not have to define our future. A beautiful, compassionate, and unforgettable read.
June 6, 2026
Susan Warner's memoir is a shining example of how personal tragedy can be transformed into a source of hope for others. From the opening pages, I was drawn into her story and moved by her honesty. The losses she endured are unimaginable, yet she writes with such clarity and grace that readers can feel both her pain and her determination to keep moving forward.
What makes this book stand out is its authenticity. Warner does not portray healing as a straight path. Instead, she acknowledges the setbacks, uncertainties, and emotional complexities that accompany grief. Her story is ultimately one of resilience, self-discovery, and finding purpose after profound loss. A deeply touching and inspirational read.
What makes this book stand out is its authenticity. Warner does not portray healing as a straight path. Instead, she acknowledges the setbacks, uncertainties, and emotional complexities that accompany grief. Her story is ultimately one of resilience, self-discovery, and finding purpose after profound loss. A deeply touching and inspirational read.
June 30, 2026
Never Say Never, Never Say Always is one of the most authentic books about grief I've read. Susan Warner doesn't pretend there are easy answers or quick fixes. Instead, she shares the messy, complicated reality of rebuilding a life after unimaginable tragedy.
What makes this memoir stand out is its message that moving forward doesn't require forgetting the people we've lost. The author's reflections on love, resilience, and personal growth feel genuine rather than preachy.
Even readers who haven't experienced a similar loss will appreciate the lessons about gratitude, resilience, and embracing life's unexpected chapters. This is a deeply human story that lingers long after the final page.
What makes this memoir stand out is its message that moving forward doesn't require forgetting the people we've lost. The author's reflections on love, resilience, and personal growth feel genuine rather than preachy.
Even readers who haven't experienced a similar loss will appreciate the lessons about gratitude, resilience, and embracing life's unexpected chapters. This is a deeply human story that lingers long after the final page.
June 6, 2026
Susan Warner has written a memoir that is both heartbreaking and uplifting. From the very first chapter, I felt connected to her story and deeply moved by her vulnerability. The pain of losing her son and husband is described with such authenticity that readers cannot help but empathize with her journey.
What makes this book exceptional is its message of hope. Warner does not pretend that healing is easy, but she demonstrates that happiness can coexist with grief. Her wisdom, gained through profound personal loss, shines throughout every page. This book offers comfort to anyone facing life's challenges and serves as a testament to the enduring power of love.
What makes this book exceptional is its message of hope. Warner does not pretend that healing is easy, but she demonstrates that happiness can coexist with grief. Her wisdom, gained through profound personal loss, shines throughout every page. This book offers comfort to anyone facing life's challenges and serves as a testament to the enduring power of love.
June 6, 2026
This memoir is a remarkable exploration of grief, resilience, and personal transformation. Susan Warner invites readers into some of the darkest moments of her life while showing how she gradually rebuilt a meaningful future.
Her writing is sincere and deeply reflective. Rather than focusing solely on tragedy, she highlights the importance of honoring loved ones while continuing to embrace life. The lessons she shares about acceptance, growth, and self-discovery are universal and deeply meaningful. Whether you have experienced significant loss or simply seek inspiration, this book delivers a powerful and memorable message.
Her writing is sincere and deeply reflective. Rather than focusing solely on tragedy, she highlights the importance of honoring loved ones while continuing to embrace life. The lessons she shares about acceptance, growth, and self-discovery are universal and deeply meaningful. Whether you have experienced significant loss or simply seek inspiration, this book delivers a powerful and memorable message.
June 6, 2026
Susan Warner has created an extraordinary memoir that speaks directly to the heart. Her experiences are deeply personal, yet the emotions she describes are universally relatable. Through her story, readers witness the devastating impact of loss as well as the remarkable strength required to move forward.
What stands out is Warner's authenticity. She does not offer clichés or easy solutions. Instead, she shares her struggles, victories, and lessons learned with honesty and humility. The result is a book that feels both intimate and empowering. This is an essential read for anyone seeking encouragement during difficult times.
What stands out is Warner's authenticity. She does not offer clichés or easy solutions. Instead, she shares her struggles, victories, and lessons learned with honesty and humility. The result is a book that feels both intimate and empowering. This is an essential read for anyone seeking encouragement during difficult times.
June 6, 2026
Susan Warner delivers an unforgettable memoir that captures the complexities of grief with extraordinary sensitivity and insight. Her story is both deeply personal and universally relevant, touching on themes of family, love, loss, and renewal.
What I admired most was her commitment to living fully despite immense pain. Her reflections are wise, compassionate, and refreshingly honest. This book demonstrates that healing does not require leaving the past behind; instead, it involves finding a way to integrate loss into a meaningful future. A beautifully written and emotionally impactful work.
What I admired most was her commitment to living fully despite immense pain. Her reflections are wise, compassionate, and refreshingly honest. This book demonstrates that healing does not require leaving the past behind; instead, it involves finding a way to integrate loss into a meaningful future. A beautifully written and emotionally impactful work.
June 6, 2026
Few books capture the realities of grief as honestly and compassionately as Never Say Never, Never Say Always. Susan Warner shares her experiences with extraordinary openness, creating a narrative that is both deeply emotional and profoundly inspiring.
The book's greatest strength lies in its message that life can continue to hold meaning, purpose, and happiness after tragedy. Warner's resilience and determination to honor her loved ones while embracing new opportunities are truly inspiring. This memoir offers comfort, wisdom, and hope to anyone facing loss or seeking inspiration to move forward. An exceptional and unforgettable read.
The book's greatest strength lies in its message that life can continue to hold meaning, purpose, and happiness after tragedy. Warner's resilience and determination to honor her loved ones while embracing new opportunities are truly inspiring. This memoir offers comfort, wisdom, and hope to anyone facing loss or seeking inspiration to move forward. An exceptional and unforgettable read.
June 6, 2026
Never Say Never, Never Say Always is a beautifully written memoir that offers comfort, wisdom, and perspective. Susan Warner shares her journey through grief with remarkable courage, inviting readers into her world during its most difficult moments.
I found her reflections on love particularly powerful. She demonstrates that the bonds we share with those we love do not disappear when they are gone. Instead, those connections continue to shape our lives and guide us forward. This book is both emotionally moving and uplifting, making it a valuable resource for anyone navigating loss or seeking inspiration.
I found her reflections on love particularly powerful. She demonstrates that the bonds we share with those we love do not disappear when they are gone. Instead, those connections continue to shape our lives and guide us forward. This book is both emotionally moving and uplifting, making it a valuable resource for anyone navigating loss or seeking inspiration.
June 6, 2026
Susan Warner has created a memoir that is both deeply personal and universally meaningful. Her story of losing her son and husband within such a short period is heartbreaking, yet her determination to continue living with purpose is truly inspiring.
The book offers valuable insights into the nature of grief and the importance of embracing life's next chapter. Warner's writing is honest, compassionate, and filled with wisdom gained through experience. This memoir provides hope without minimizing pain, making it an important and impactful read for anyone seeking encouragement during difficult times.
The book offers valuable insights into the nature of grief and the importance of embracing life's next chapter. Warner's writing is honest, compassionate, and filled with wisdom gained through experience. This memoir provides hope without minimizing pain, making it an important and impactful read for anyone seeking encouragement during difficult times.
June 30, 2026
Susan Warner's memoir is deeply personal and emotionally moving. She writes openly about the devastating loss of both her son and husband while exploring how she gradually found purpose and hope again.
The book's greatest strength is its honesty. Warner doesn't claim to have mastered grief; instead, she shows how healing is an ongoing process. Her reflections are heartfelt and often profound.
At times, I wished some sections had explored certain moments in greater depth, but that doesn't diminish the overall impact of the story. Readers looking for comfort, inspiration, or simply an honest account of surviving loss will find much to appreciate here.
The book's greatest strength is its honesty. Warner doesn't claim to have mastered grief; instead, she shows how healing is an ongoing process. Her reflections are heartfelt and often profound.
At times, I wished some sections had explored certain moments in greater depth, but that doesn't diminish the overall impact of the story. Readers looking for comfort, inspiration, or simply an honest account of surviving loss will find much to appreciate here.
March 5, 2026
I came across Never Say Never, Never Say Always through the February 26 feature at Silent Book Club Seattle, and I’m really glad I did. The book offers a thoughtful look at life’s uncertainties and reminds readers that we should never limit what is possible. I enjoyed how the story encourages reflection about choices, resilience, and personal growth. Being part of Silent Book Club Seattle always introduces me to meaningful reads, but the February 26 feature was definitely one of the best for me. I’m grateful the club highlighted this inspiring book.
June 6, 2026
Rarely does a memoir balance sorrow and hope as effectively as Never Say Never, Never Say Always. Susan Warner's story is deeply emotional, yet it is ultimately a celebration of resilience and the enduring bonds of family.
I appreciated the author's candid approach to discussing grief. She acknowledges the pain without allowing it to overshadow the possibility of joy and renewal. Her journey demonstrates that healing does not mean forgetting—it means learning how to carry love and loss together. This is a beautifully written book that will stay with readers long after the final page.
I appreciated the author's candid approach to discussing grief. She acknowledges the pain without allowing it to overshadow the possibility of joy and renewal. Her journey demonstrates that healing does not mean forgetting—it means learning how to carry love and loss together. This is a beautifully written book that will stay with readers long after the final page.
June 6, 2026
This book is a powerful testament to the resilience of the human spirit. Susan Warner's willingness to share her journey through unimaginable grief is both courageous and generous. Her story reminds readers that healing is not a destination but an ongoing process.
The author's reflections on love, memory, and personal growth are insightful and deeply moving. I found myself highlighting numerous passages because of their wisdom and emotional depth. This memoir offers comfort, inspiration, and a renewed appreciation for life's possibilities. An outstanding and deeply meaningful read.
The author's reflections on love, memory, and personal growth are insightful and deeply moving. I found myself highlighting numerous passages because of their wisdom and emotional depth. This memoir offers comfort, inspiration, and a renewed appreciation for life's possibilities. An outstanding and deeply meaningful read.
June 6, 2026
This memoir left a profound impression on me. Susan Warner's journey through devastating loss is told with remarkable grace and emotional intelligence. Her story is heartbreaking, but it is also filled with moments of courage, self-discovery, and hope.
The author's insights into grief are especially valuable because they come from lived experience rather than theory. She offers readers reassurance that it is possible to find joy again without diminishing the love we hold for those we have lost. This is a deeply inspiring book that deserves a wide audience.
The author's insights into grief are especially valuable because they come from lived experience rather than theory. She offers readers reassurance that it is possible to find joy again without diminishing the love we hold for those we have lost. This is a deeply inspiring book that deserves a wide audience.
June 6, 2026
This memoir is a testament to the enduring strength of the human spirit. Susan Warner's story is heartbreaking, but it is also filled with moments of growth, healing, and hope. Her ability to share such personal experiences with honesty and grace is truly admirable.
The book offers meaningful insights into grief without ever becoming overwhelming. Warner reminds readers that healing does not mean forgetting; it means learning to carry loss while continuing to embrace life. Her wisdom resonates long after the final page. I highly recommend this powerful memoir.
The book offers meaningful insights into grief without ever becoming overwhelming. Warner reminds readers that healing does not mean forgetting; it means learning to carry loss while continuing to embrace life. Her wisdom resonates long after the final page. I highly recommend this powerful memoir.
June 6, 2026
Never Say Never, Never Say Always is an extraordinary memoir that combines emotional honesty with profound wisdom. Susan Warner takes readers through the darkest chapters of her life while demonstrating that healing and happiness remain possible.
Her reflections on family, love, and personal growth are insightful and inspiring. The book is not only about surviving loss but also about discovering new purpose and embracing life again. Warner's courage shines through every page, making this a truly memorable and uplifting read.
Her reflections on family, love, and personal growth are insightful and inspiring. The book is not only about surviving loss but also about discovering new purpose and embracing life again. Warner's courage shines through every page, making this a truly memorable and uplifting read.
June 6, 2026
Reading this book felt like having a heartfelt conversation with a trusted friend. Susan Warner's writing is warm, honest, and deeply relatable. She shares her pain openly, but she also shares the lessons she learned through her journey.
What impressed me most was her determination to live fully despite experiencing unimaginable heartbreak. Her story encourages readers to find strength within themselves and to remain open to life's possibilities. This memoir is both inspiring and comforting, offering valuable guidance to anyone facing difficult circumstances.
What impressed me most was her determination to live fully despite experiencing unimaginable heartbreak. Her story encourages readers to find strength within themselves and to remain open to life's possibilities. This memoir is both inspiring and comforting, offering valuable guidance to anyone facing difficult circumstances.
June 6, 2026
This memoir touched me in ways I did not expect. Susan Warner's story is heartbreaking, but it is also filled with wisdom, compassion, and hope. What stood out most was her refusal to let grief define her entire existence. She acknowledges the pain of loss while demonstrating that joy and purpose can still exist alongside sorrow. Her writing is sincere and accessible, making readers feel as though they are sitting with a trusted friend. Anyone who has experienced loss will likely find comfort and understanding within these pages.
June 6, 2026
I was deeply moved by this book. Susan Warner shares her experiences with such vulnerability that it is impossible not to become emotionally invested in her journey. Her discussion of grief felt refreshingly honest because she does not present healing as a straightforward process. Instead, she shows that recovery is complicated, personal, and ongoing. The book offers valuable insights into resilience without relying on clichés or easy answers. It is a heartfelt memoir that remains with you long after the final chapter.
June 29, 2026
Reflections on Love, Loss, and Loving Again is a deeply moving memoir that captures the unimaginable pain of losing both a child and a spouse in such a short period. Susan S. Warner writes with remarkable honesty, sharing not only her grief but also her gradual journey toward healing and hope. Rather than offering unrealistic promises, she reminds readers that happiness can be rebuilt, even after life's darkest moments. This is an emotional, inspiring read that will resonate with anyone who has experienced profound loss.
June 29, 2026
Susan S. Warner shares a powerful personal story that resonates with anyone who has experienced grief. Her reflections on loss, resilience, and finding happiness again are sincere and relatable. The book's greatest strength is its emotional authenticity, showing that healing is not about forgetting but learning to live alongside loss. While some sections are repetitive, the overall message is uplifting and encouraging. Readers looking for a compassionate memoir about love, resilience, and second chances will find this book worthwhile.
June 30, 2026
Susan Warner's memoir is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. The losses she endured are almost beyond comprehension, yet she chooses to focus not only on sorrow but also on gratitude, growth, and the possibility of happiness.
The writing is honest, heartfelt, and easy to read. Rather than telling readers how to grieve, Warner simply shares her own experience, allowing each person to take away what they need. I found it deeply moving and would gladly recommend it to anyone looking for a memoir filled with hope and humanity.
The writing is honest, heartfelt, and easy to read. Rather than telling readers how to grieve, Warner simply shares her own experience, allowing each person to take away what they need. I found it deeply moving and would gladly recommend it to anyone looking for a memoir filled with hope and humanity.
June 6, 2026
This is a beautifully written account of love, loss, and personal transformation. Susan Warner's ability to express profound emotions with grace and honesty is remarkable. Her story illustrates that healing does not mean forgetting those we have lost; it means finding a way to continue living while honoring their memory. The book is emotional, inspiring, and deeply human. It offers hope to readers who may feel trapped by grief and uncertainty.
June 6, 2026
Few memoirs have affected me as strongly as this one. Susan Warner's journey through devastating loss is heartbreaking, but her determination to keep moving forward is inspiring. I found her reflections on self-discovery particularly meaningful. Rather than focusing solely on what she lost, she explores how she rebuilt her identity and found purpose again. The result is a thoughtful and uplifting memoir that speaks to the resilience of the human spirit.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews