In As Bright As Heaven, an aspiring mortician's family moves to Philadelphia during the 1918 Spanish flu pandemic. Through their new life and work, they encounter profound loss and resilience, transforming amidst historic challenges.

Reviews & Readership

4.3

41,748 ratings

82%

Loved it

15%

Mixed feelings

Not a fan

Review Roundup

Susan Meissner's As Bright As Heaven is praised for its evocative depiction of the 1918 Spanish flu pandemic and its impact on a family in Philadelphia. Reviews highlight Meissner's lyrical prose and strong character development. However, some critics note the pacing falters, and occasional predictability, though the emotional depth keeps readers engaged.

Who Should Read As Bright as Heaven?

Readers who appreciate historical fiction, especially those captivated by the emotional depth of novels like The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah and Orphan Train by Christina Baker Kline, will enjoy As Bright As Heaven. Ideal for those drawn to family sagas set against the backdrop of significant historical events, such as the 1918 influenza pandemic.