Black Woman Grief: A Guide to Hope and Wholeness

by Natasha Smith

Dear Black woman, you are not alone.

God has not disregarded your pain and suffering. God sees you. God knows you. God understands.

In Black Woman Grief, Natasha Smith unearths a painful reality that is tangled within our nation’s roots and trauma, loss, and grief are embedded in the lived experience of the Black woman in the United States. Smith talks about grief that is specifically applicable to Black women, providing them with affirmation and a safe place to exhale. Yet, amid a broken world and broken systems that have weighed down Black women for generations, Smith reminds us that there is hope because the kingdom of God is at hand. In Black Woman Grief, Natasha Smith

• Takes us readers through narrative and biblical truths,
• Provides a space made by and for Black women to be seen and understood by God, and
• Encourages Black women to live a God-filled life in a grief-filled world.

Genres: Nonfiction, Audiobook, Grief, Christian, Self Help

183 pages, Kindle Edition

Published February 25, 2025

Reviews

[Lois · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is extremely Christian focused with multiple Bible quotes used to enhance or explain advice, suggestions, or exercises offered by the author. As a non-Christian, I did not find the focus abrasive. I'd label this as Black Christian and Feminist-light. I found the type of Christianity presented to be kind, loving, and inclusive. If only all Christians practiced this way!

This is timely given our current political climate. I'm sure at least half of all Americans are dealing with grief as we watch our nation being dismantled before our very eyes. Definitely, Black Women are dealing with a disproportionate amount of that shared grief at this time. I hoped this would have healthy suggestions and coping methods. In fact, this offers multiple studied methods for dealing with and managing grief. This also delves into trauma, which was really handled in a delicate and well-balanced manner.

Of course, much of this advice and associated activities involve praying, reading the Bible, and church fellowship. As a non-Christian I still found plenty that was useful for me, and with slight modifications, I created a plan for myself. I meditate instead of praying or light candles on my Ancestor altar. I read history, which allows me to understand what has happened before so I can deal with my present situation with knowledge and forethought. I fellowship with my loved ones who form my community. With a tiny bit of ingenuity, I was able to make this very Christian centered viewpoint work for me as a practicing pagan.

This references well-known psychology texts on grief such as The Grieving Brain by Mary Frances O'Connor and The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der Kolk, amongst others. The author has done lots of research and offers tried and true methods for managing grief with a focus on the impact on Black Woman.

The author is from a family that sounds a bit like it was steeped in Respeactability Politics, which leaches into the work slightly. I reject the Christian doctrine around 'forgiveness' and found some of the authors' statements on forgiveness to not be in line with my views on forgiveness. Aside from that, this was surprisingly relatable for me. I will be using multiple techniques highlighted in this narrative myself.

This audiobook is read by the author Natasha Smith. It was a treat to have this read by the author herself because hearing the words voiced by the author always helps to understand their frame of mind. The listener hears which word the author, as the narrator, draws out or pauses after. It can illuminate the entire paragraph. The authors voice is smooth, cultured, soft, and firm.

Thank you to Natasha Smith, IVP Audiobooks, and NetGalley for the opportunity to listen to and review this audiobook. All opinions and viewpoints expressed in this review are my own.

[Lay Tonic · Rating 5 out of 5]

*** NetGalley ARC ***

The author hit a good amount of points and not just grief from a loved one but, all part of life that you could be going through as a woman of color. Racial grief is a thing and the personal experiences helped see that those things can be spoke on and looking to God may be the best thing to stay on the right track to pull us up of those times that it decides to come around Very informative on the what to do and coping. I would recommend someone to read and use the Bible along side if you’re looking for something to help along side with finding a way to deplete your seasonal grief.

[kaitlyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

**ARC from NetGalley**

I will start out by saying I am not the target demographic for this novel by any means. When I saw the cover in NetGalley, I was intrigued and wanted to give it a listen. I am so glad I did, as I found an inspiring and hopeful narrative about what it's like to live as a Black woman grieving in America. This is a quick read but filled with so many thoughtful nuggets about the societal and historical expectations placed on Black women. Despite being outside of the intended audience, I found the story both eye-opening and deeply insightful, with a nuanced portrayal of grief, resilience, and the complexities of identity. I’m grateful for the opportunity to experience it.

Thank you to the author and NetGalley for providing a copy in exchange for an honest review!

[Kiara Kenney · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book was only ok. It felt like a pep talk of sorts but I’m not sure I got that much out of it. Maybe it was too short? There were a few practical tips given and scripture sprinkled with life examples. Overall it didn’t give me much in the way of application. I wouldn’t read it again.

[Valencia · Rating 5 out of 5]

I. LOVE. THIS. BOOK.

If you’re a Black woman, know a Black woman, love a Black woman, or want to support a Black woman—this book is for you. It speaks to the heart of our struggles, our resilience, and the grief we’ve been conditioned to carry without question.

Through the lens of Christian faith, this book gives language to the grief we’ve normalized, the wounds we’ve ignored, and the healing we deserve. It doesn’t just name the pain—it offers a way through it.

Black woman, what made you so afraid of rest?

This question lingers, demanding reflection. We’ve been taught to push through, to endure, to be strong at all costs. But what if rest isn’t weakness? What if it’s a form of resistance?

Because let’s be real—what doesn’t kill us doesn’t always make us stronger. Sometimes, it just gives us trauma. And overcoming isn’t just something we do; it’s in our bones, our bloodline, our birthright.

This book is a must-read. It’s a love letter, a challenge, and a call to healing all in one.

[BetweentheCoversLiterary · Rating 5 out of 5]

Black woman grief by Natasha Smith is a Christian non fiction book that is for black women trying to embrace the complex ideals of mental health and wellness tied to our belief in God and how we navigate grief. This book almost felt like I was reading the pages of my own story that my voice was finally being heard. I loved the personal anecdotes and the relatability between the audience and the author as she pens this guide for black women to heal the broken areas of our hearts and spirit.
This book is definitely unique in expressing the challenges and struggles that oftentimes black women face in this world not only historically but also spiritually. I thank the author for creating this safe space for black women to get to the depths of our grief and giving us instructions and inspiration on how to navigate these spaces of new and old.
Five stars and I do recommend this book to all readers.
Thank you to Intervarsity Press via Netgalley for the ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own

[Wendy English · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great read for issues that concern black women.

[Keena · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very relatable and informative. The narrator's tone and cadence werent my favorite but it didnt take away from the message and my enjoyment of the book.

[AL · Rating 5 out of 5]

Although I am not a black woman (mixed fil-am), the author invites all readers to partake in this exploration of deep, faithful admissions of grief and managing what is passed down generation over generation. I found God’s word throughout so deeply meaningful relative to her perspective and I feel I’ve gain a great deal of knowledge of how others may feel and how my own mother must feel at times due to her own background and experiences.

A deeply insightful novel for anyone struggling.

[Shauntelle (myglamorousreads) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Black Woman Grief by Natasha Smith is a raw, reflective, and healing read. It’s part memoir, part guide, and all heart. Smith shares her personal journey through loss, and she speaks directly to the experience of Black women grieving in a world that often expects them to be strong no matter what.

The author takes readers through the stages of grief and opens up about what it means to grieve as a Black woman, highlighting the pressure to stay composed, the silence around emotional pain, and the importance of finding space to feel and heal. Along the way, she offers gentle encouragement and validation for others walking similar paths. The book also touches on our struggles as Black women and the resilience we possess that is ingrained in us.

What I really appreciated was how real and unfiltered her voice is. She doesn’t sugarcoat the pain, but she also reminds readers that grief doesn’t have to look one certain way and that it’s okay to fall apart. Her words feel like a hug and a reality check all at once.

This is a must-read for anyone experiencing grief, especially Black women who may feel unseen in their grief. It’s vulnerable, validating, and a reminder that healing is a journey—not a race.

Thank you NetGalley and IVP Audiobooks for the ALC in exchange for my honest review.

[Emily Shanahan · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Book Review by Emily Shanahan

Natasha Smith is a self-described “grief advocate, author, speaker, podcaster, and content creative.” Please, feel free to meet Tasha at her website, listen to her podcast, and follow her on Instagram and Facebook.

Back in 2023, I received an email from Natasha on August 15, inviting me to be on her launch team for “Can You Just Sit With Me?” The link for my review of Natasha Smith’s work from 2023 can be found here. Thank you, Natasha, for your continued friendship, as I have truly enjoyed being on your launch team for the second time! Fast-forward to present day, I am delighted to be a part of the launch team for Natasha’s newest book, Black Woman Grief: A Guide to Hope and Wholeness.

At the start of this review, I wanted to acknowledge that as a book reviewer, I am not the target audience for this book; an African American female. Quite the opposite, I am a 36-year-old Caucasian woman who happens to be differently enabled with Cerebral Palsy. While I am not the intended target audience for this book, I did enjoy learning from Natasha’s experience as a female Christ follower, who is African American.

However, as a human being and as a differently enabled person, I have experienced loss on a physical, emotional, and spiritual level. While Natasha wrote Black Woman Grief intended primarily for African American female audiences, I feel that anyone who has or is currently experiencing grief can benefit from Natasha’s latest work.

It is imperative to acknowledge that a person’s value lies not in their ethnicity, but rather in that fact that each human being is made in God’s Image and the fact that Jesus died and rose again so that each person can choose to have a personal saving relationship with Him (Genesis 1:26-27, John 17-21).

While I have not experienced systemic racism as a Caucasian female, I do know what it is like to be thought of as less than, in my own experience as a differently enabled person with Cerebral Palsy. In Black Woman Grief, Natasha shares a time when she was discriminated against for an engineering job both as a woman and an African American. In her writing, Natasha shares that instead of letting that pain fester in her heart, Natasha encourages her readers to bring that hurt to God, letting Him heal and renew that hurt for His purposes. For example, because of this pain Natasha experienced in her own life, she decided that she would not discriminate against another and open doors for others when possible.

A second aspect of this particular volume that I wanted to highlight was the topic of work and rest. In her book, Natasha posits that the culture at large suggests that strong black women do not need to rest and simply continue pushing through no matter what life throws at them. Natasha counters this cultural fallacy with this biblical truth spoken by Jesus “Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light (Matthew 11:28-30, ESV). Natasha continues suggesting that when we truly rest in Christ physically, spiritually, and emotionally, we are rejuvenated to continue to be creative as He intended us to be. Furthermore, and this was personally convicting to me, when we do not rest, we are causing ourselves harm by trying to continue to work from a place of emptiness and exhaustion.

When I experience a loss of any kind, my natural tendency is to keep myself overly busy so that I don’t have to think about or experience the pain of the loss. What I forget about in my soul-damaging busyness is that I don’t have to carry the burden by myself, God Himself will carry the burden for me as Matthew 11:28-30 states.

While Natasha Smith is a much more experienced and educated author than myself, one improvement I might suggest for future published editions is to include several lined blank pages at the end of the book. That way, the reader who might be experiencing grief can process their feelings and emotions directly in the back of the book they are reading. These thoughts can then be shared with God, a licensed counselor, or kept private, whatever makes the reader feel most comfortable.

One thought I want to leave you with is all of Natasha Smith’s main points are undergirded by Scripture, as her book promoted healthy, biblical grieving. If you want to gain more tools in your grieving process, I recommend you order this book by clicking on this link.

I was provided with an advance copy of Black Woman Grief: A Guide to Hope and Wholeness to review as part of a launch team. My opinions are my own and I was not financially compensated in any way.

**Cover photo taken from Amazon

***This review was lovingly typed by Ally Link and Sarah Minor.

[Queens of the Pages Bookclub · Rating 5 out of 5]

Natasha Smith’s The Black Woman’s Guide to Grieving is more than just a book—it’s a safe haven for Black women navigating the complex, deeply personal, and often misunderstood terrain of grief. Smith writes with a voice that feels like a trusted confidant, blending personal anecdotes, cultural critique, and practical wisdom to create a guide that is as much about healing as it is about honoring the multifaceted experience of Black womanhood.

What makes this book so impactful is its unapologetic acknowledgment of the unique challenges Black women face when it comes to grieving. Smith weaves in the historical and societal layers of strength that Black women are often expected to embody, creating space for the vulnerability that is too often denied. Her words are affirming and empathetic, meeting readers where they are, whether in the early stages of loss or well into their journey of healing.

The book is a poignant reminder that grief is not linear, nor is it something to be rushed through. Smith gently dismantles myths about “strong Black woman” resilience, offering instead a liberating perspective that allows grief to coexist with hope, joy, and renewal. Her inclusion of mindfulness exercises, journaling prompts, and affirmations makes the book feel interactive, turning it into a tool that readers can return to time and time again.

One of the book’s greatest strengths lies in its cultural specificity. Smith speaks directly to Black women’s experiences, but her insights are universally valuable. The reflections on generational trauma, community care, and spiritual practices resonate deeply, grounding the book in a shared cultural reality while still leaving room for individuality.

Reading The Black Woman’s Guide to Grieving feels like a cathartic release. It encourages readers to embrace grief as a process that can deepen their connection to themselves and others. Smith’s writing is both poetic and practical, striking a balance that is rare and deeply appreciated.

If you are a Black woman seeking solace, understanding, or simply permission to grieve on your own terms, this book is a must-read. And even if you’re not, The Black Woman’s Guide to Grieving is an eye-opening resource that challenges assumptions about grief and sheds light on the power of collective healing. Natasha Smith has given us a gift—a testament to the strength found in softness, the power in vulnerability, and the beauty of finding oneself in the midst of sorrow.

[Destini_Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

I can’t give this book more than 5 stars, but I wish I could. Natasha Smith’s Black Woman Grief left me cracked wide open and somehow stitched back together. This book made me feel seen—truly seen—in a way I didn’t even know I needed.

Smith narrating her own work? Phenomenal. Her voice hits every note of pain, healing, frustration, and resilience. It’s irreverent and raw, yet somehow soothing. She dives into stereotypes, child-rearing, corporate America, and how grief threads itself into how we, as Black women, show up to the world and how the world sees us.

We’re expected to be the “strong Black woman”—resilient, unbreakable—while silently carrying grief and burdens most people can’t even fathom. And Natasha gives a name to that weight. She reframed so much of what I’d dismissed as avoidance or frustration, showing me it was really grief.

What I love most is how she provides a perfect guide on how to heal, nurture our souls, and take care of ourselves while pouring into our community. Natasha Smith’s words aren’t just an acknowledgment of our pain; they’re a roadmap to the healing and wholeness we deserve. She weaves in biblical references as affirmations and reminders that God fights for us, even when we feel too worn down to fight for ourselves.

Through her words, she invites us to start a journey of healing, wholeness, and all the good God has for us. It made me realize the weight of what we carry and the importance of caring for ourselves unapologetically.

I was emotional reading this book. Angry. Relieved. Validated. Empowered. It’s rare to find something that acknowledges our grief and shows us a way to transform it into something beautiful and life-affirming. This book is so underhyped, and it deserves all the praise. Natasha Smith created something special here, something that will stay with me for a long time.

If you’re a Black woman, you need to read Black Woman Grief. Period. And if you have a Black friend or want to understand the Black woman’s plight, read this book then check on your “strong Black friends.” Trust me, it’ll open your eyes.

[Shanté Grossett O'Neal · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed reading Black Woman Grief by Natasha Smith.

I admit that the introduction and first chapter of Black Woman Grief were challenging to read. It reminded me of the collective grief that Black women and men have encountered over the years – especially recently with the increase in police brutality and systemic injustices in our country.

After reading the book, I'm so glad that the introduction opened the way that it did. Black women endure so much grief, often without realizing it.

This book offers a necessary encouragement to sit with grief, process it, and allow God to bring healing through it. I deeply appreciated how Natasha Smith artfully handles the biblical text while also beautifully incorporating research from psychology and other disciplines.

For example, she explains how Tamar's story in Genesis 38 can help Black women feel seen, heard, and understood. Her story demonstrates God's care for the marginalized and overlooked. Similarly, the book addresses important topics such as spiritual bypassing (a very real issue in Christian communities) and how trauma and grief can affect our behavior, cognitive state, emotions, and even biochemistry.

What makes the book stand out is that it doesn't only highlight the grief Black women experience, it offers a path forward. Each chapter includes actionable steps to help Black women process their grief as well as a heartfelt, encouraging message to help Black women on their journey through grief.

I believe this is an essential read for Black women, whether or not you think you have grief to work through. It’s also an important resource for women of other ethnicities who want to learn how to sit with and share in the grief of their Black sisters in the faith.

[gladness · Rating 4 out of 5]

“Black woman, what made you so afraid of rest?”

this book isn’t just about grief—it’s about the grief we don’t even realize we’re carrying because we’ve been told to push through, to endure, to always be strong. it’s about the collective weight of history, family, faith, and survival, and how all of that shapes the way Black women experience loss, pain, and healing. natasha smith doesn’t just talk about the grief; she holds space for it. and then, gently, she shows a way through.

tropes to expect:
• Black women carrying the weight of the world (but shouldn’t have to)
• faith as a lifeline
• naming pain, facing grief, finding healing
• “strong Black woman” myth? we’re unpacking that.
• a love letter & a call to rest

as a Christian Black woman, i felt seen in these pages. smith weaves biblical truths with personal stories, offering something that’s both deeply spiritual and deeply practical. she doesn’t sugarcoat the pain, but she also doesn’t leave you there. she reminds us that healing isn’t just possible—it’s promised.

and let’s be clear: this book is for everyone. if you are a Black woman, love a Black woman, or want to support a Black woman, read this. full stop. it speaks to our struggles, our resilience, and the rest we deserve. because what doesn’t kill us doesn’t always make us stronger. sometimes, it just gives us trauma. and this book? it’s a step toward healing.

*thank you netgalley, the author, and the publishing team for the arc in exchange for an honest review.

[sweetconnectionswithtoni · Rating 5 out of 5]

First, the cover of the book is beautiful!

This book is centered about Christianity which teaches the biblical principle of Jesus The Christ.
I love how she narrated the book and lined it up with scripture, it is an important key factor when teaching or sharing the word of God that you back up your knowledge and believe with scripture. The book touched on political and cultural and personal beliefs that shed light on the experiences of black women. God sees me and He loves me!

Natasha showed empathy and love as she shared some hard truths about the gospel and what all God's love entails. I really enjoyed this book, as a believer she reaffirmed several things for me, scriptures were aligned with the author's notes. The book brought some insight and touched on many subjects for me. The book was very encouraging and inspiring. We are seen by God and that is the most important element in our lives.

This book was more than just talking about the death of a loved one, but grief growing and being an unapologetically black women int today's society where we as black women, are treated unfairly in relationships, the workplace, and in community.

This is a book for all season of life, whether you're going through a loss of a loved one, feeling stuck in a mental place, needing solace, or reassurance, this book is highly recommended.

Thank you Netgalley, Natasha Smith, and InterVarsity Press for such a lovely book full of truths in exchange for my honest review!

[Griefy Girls Book Club · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read this book—requested by the @griefygirlbookclub on NetGalley—because of its powerful exploration of grief. Natasha is a remarkable author: compassionate, patient, and deeply attuned to the complexities of loss. As a white woman, I found this book incredibly eye-opening in the way it highlights how grief manifests differently across genders, races, and cultures—particularly through Natasha’s lens as a Black woman.

She weaves together the intersectionality of religion, culture, history, motherhood, community, trauma, violence, and civil unrest, layering them onto the already heavy and isolating experience of grief. At the end of each chapter, she offers thought exercises grounded in biblical scripture, yet she doesn’t shy away from exploring the nuanced role that religion plays in grief, history, and the lived experience of Black women. I deeply appreciated her honesty and vulnerability.

This book is raw and tender in its portrayal of loss, yet it remains uplifting and hopeful. Whether reading (I listened to the audiobook, narrated by Natasha herself), it felt like sitting with a comforting friend who truly understands. At its heart, this book sees and honors the grief carried by Black women.

For me, it was not only a touching companion in my own grieving process but also a valuable resource for understanding how grief looks different across communities. I finished it feeling both comforted and more equipped to be a better neighbor, ally, and friend. - @kendelr4

[NeiNey.ThaReadinDoula · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to Natasha Smith for writing this book and sharing it with the world! I'm purchasing a physical copy! Thank you Netgalley for the audio book!

Listening to this book felt like being seen, heard, and gently guided through the emotional storm so many of us know too well—but don’t always have the words for. The author didn’t just touch on grief from losing a loved one; she opened the door to a broader, deeper understanding of what it means to carry grief as a woman of color.

She spoke on racial grief—something we often keep buried, unsure if it’s “okay” to name it. But here, it’s named. It’s honored. And through her personal stories, you begin to feel like maybe… just maybe… it’s safe for you to start unpacking your own.

What made this journey even more powerful was the way she pointed back to God—not in a preachy way, but in a real, raw, and relatable way. Sometimes, when the weight of it all creeps back in, looking up and leaning into faith might just be the thing that steadies you.

This audiobook is not just informative—it’s soul work. It's a companion for those moments when grief feels like too much, especially in the quiet, seasonal waves that sneak in. I’d absolutely recommend listening with a Bible nearby. Let it be a part of your healing rhythm, your coping toolkit, your sacred space to feel and be held.

[Shelton Kiana · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a Black therapist, I’ve had the privilege of walking alongside many women who bear the weight of grief—grief that is complex, layered, and often compounded by societal expectations, cultural nuances, and historical trauma. In my years of practice, very few books have resonated with the depth and authenticity that Black Woman Grief does. This is one of those rare texts that feels like it was written just for us, for our experiences, for the grief that is sometimes so hard to name or even articulate.
The audio version of the book was a great read by the author made me feel as though I was sitting in a sacred space, listening to stories that mirror my own journey especially how it intersects with my faith. The author doesn’t shy away from the intersectionality of our grief—the way race, gender, and culture collide in ways that shape our mourning. What really stood out was how the book honored the strength and resilience of Black women through their faith. While I don't think you have to be a believer to read this book it will resonate with many who are.
Thank you to NetGalley for the opportunity to have an advanced copy of the audiobook.
Ps. Definitely bought the book for my library

[Sara · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was initially drawn to Black Woman Grief by its beautiful cover and the compelling concept of exploring grief and healing. Though this book was not specifically written for me, I approached it with the hope of deepening my compassion and understanding.

One of the aspects I appreciated most was the structure that encouraged self-reflection. The check-ins and moments for self-exploration were meaningful and gave me space to process emotions in a thoughtful way. These elements made the book feel interactive and personal, adding depth to the reading experience.

The overall tone of the book was uplifting and hopeful. Ultimately, Black Woman Grief expanded my awareness and sensitivity toward the grief experiences of those in my community. I appreciate the author’s heartfelt guidance and believe this book will be a source of comfort and encouragement to those who connect with its message.

[Adrienne Adrimano · Rating 2 out of 5]

Would make a great Bible study or Christian women's book club pick.

Beautiful cover.

Given the tough topic, this is not the type of book that one "enjoys" per se, but the target demographic should appreciate this, and others can learn a lot from the stories and general and poignant information included.

My main challenge with this book is that I think the author could have prioritized the grief and self-help pieces (hope, self-care, etc.) more, which is the main pull of the title. Instead, it felt like a recap of the causes of black grief in society and the author's personal grief with the self-help parts sprinkled in. The Bible scriptures were aptly placed and timely.

I don't think the majority of this book was "A Guide to Hope and Wellness," maybe about ~50%? Grief and its forms don't get defined until ~30% in. Nonetheless, the ending had activities that could make this a good reference book. 👌

**This review is based on an ARC.

[Anniee Bee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hey, hey my favorites 😀 💚 #annieethebookiee |Book Review: Black Woman Grief by Natasha Smith
Rating: ★★★★★ (5/5)

As a Black woman, Black Woman Grief was a necessary and deeply affirming read. Natasha Smith doesn’t just write about grief—she speaks to the very soul of what it means to carry pain, history, and healing in a world that often tells us to stay strong without ever offering space to break.

This book made me feel seen. It was honest, raw, and beautifully written, offering a language for the emotions we often suppress. Smith doesn’t shy away from the hard truths, and yet there’s a soft grace in her storytelling that makes room for both tears and hope.

I appreciated how she intertwined personal narrative with collective experience. This book is not just about loss; it’s about reclaiming power in vulnerability and understanding that our grief deserves attention, not shame.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the gifted copy in exchange for my honest review.

[Kayla Hare · Rating 5 out of 5]

When it comes to grief, a lot of time people don’t have any words, or they have… the wrong ones. Natasha Smith has not only found the words, making this book a must-read for grievers of any race, but her writing provides the best kind of comfort rooted in hope that comes from the Lord. While this book is specifically written for the audience of black women, in which Natasha does a phenomenal job, I believe this book could be a resource for so many people. Some parts of this book may feel very specific to black women, hence the title, and was insightful and thought provoking relating to the struggles and grief that black women experience. However, some parts are just as applicable to the grief experienced by the African American community as a whole, other parts to strong women who are grieving, regardless of race.

[Iris Peterson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I recently read Black Woman Grief by Natasha Smith, and I can honestly say it is one of the most powerful books on the complexities of grief I have ever encountered. From the very first page, I felt seen as Natasha Smith beautifully captures the complexity of Black Woman Grief.

Discussing ambiguous and disenfranchised grief is rare in our community, yet this book sheds light on these often-overlooked experiences. It will be a blessing to many who may not even realize the weight of the grief they have carried for much of their lives.

If you have ever been called "a strong Black woman" or often feel the weight of the world without the words to fully articulate it, this book is for you. It’s a must-read—an essential gift that speaks to experiences many of us have felt but struggled to express.

[Charell · Rating 4 out of 5]

Audiobook Review: Black Woman Grief by Natasha Smith
Narrated by the author
Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars

This book hit home. It’s honest, heartfelt, and full of truth. I really appreciated that Natasha Smith narrated it herself—her voice brought so much weight and care to the words. You can tell she’s lived what she’s writing about.

Whether you’re grieving now, have grieved before, or know grief will come—as it does—this book is for you. It creates space for Black women to feel seen, understood, and reminded that God is near in the pain. I loved that the foundation of the book is God’s love—it doesn’t shy away from hard things but meets them with faith.

I definitely want a physical copy so I can go back through it, highlight, and sit with it more.
Highly recommend.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the advanced listener copy.

[GurlMeetsWhirled · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was just what I needed in today’s current social climate and in my time of stress. It’s so hard to mourn the dead but no one really talks about how to mourn the living. How to mourn situations, people, personal belongings, faith, etc. the way that black wimen experience grief daily amongst many different parts of their life goes frequently unnoticed and this book was somewhat validation for me that I was not alone in this grief and I was given a multitude of ideas and suggestions on how to handle and process that grief. I want to purchase this book once it comes out for a few of my best friends in my circle because it’s not only an incredibly read but I think a necessary read. I’m really impressed and this was an 5 star read for me.

[Kiara Marie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Beautifully written!

The authors brings light on discrimination, BLM, christianity and support topics.
I know this might be a sensitive topic for some given the religion is highly involved but it gives a sense of hope and strength.

You are stronger than what you think, grief can be very dark but I encourage you to never loose hope!

A subject that the author touched on that a white individual signaled her out because she was being to “exclusive to the black community” is eye opening to some. People do not comprehend the circumstances and obstacles that people of color go through. Ans it’s not to minimize anybody. But it’s bringing to light situations that people tend to give very little importance.

[Alexis · Rating 4 out of 5]

Never have I said "Mhm" and "True" more than when I read this book about Black Woman Grief! The author (Natasha Smith) is spot-on with her observations and skilled in her storytelling of these experiences that most (if not ALL) Black women face! Smith gives voice to the pain that most of us suppress. She helps us feel seen, heard, understood and supported in our journey in ways that most people cannot begin to provide. This book took me deep into my own personal pain but also gave me glimmers of hope too. It was well-written and comprehensive in its approach to addressing this invisible load that Black women carry every day. Our pain is invisible to most but seen in this book. Well-done!

[Shay · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed listening to this book on audio. The narrator’s voice was soothing and easy to follow.

This book centered around Christian themes and faith, but it also shared personal stories. Having experienced grief myself, it really helped me understand how to cope. Black women often feel pressure to be strong, but it’s perfectly okay to grieve in your own way. The book highlighted healthy ways to grieve and how to express what you need. Overall, it’s a book that’s incredibly valuable, and I would highly recommend it to any Black woman navigating grief on their own.

Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher, and the author for providing this ARC. All opinions are my own.

[Raine M. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Black Women Grief is a great read for this current climate. While listening to this audio book, I felt like the author was writing just to me and her voice was soothing like a hug. Her personal feelings were shared but backed up with biblical applications and tips on how to identify, navigate and thrive through the different levels of grief. It was a quick listen, but could very much be lengthen for used as a counseling tool or bible study guide.

Thank you Netgalley, Natasha Smith, and InterVarsity Press for the opportunity to listen to this book.