“What Remains After by Pauline J. Grabia is a chilling psychological thriller that is deeply affecting and emotional. Some may be triggered by the mentions of physical abuse, sexual assault, and suicidal ideation, and the author cautions readers to tread carefully. That being said, it’s also a novel about courage and healing as Beth’s recollections transport us back to her tumultuous childhood, where she experiences immense personal growth and overcomes adversity. Themes of coming of age, family, and faith are explored throughout.
Grabia’s writing is unflinching and raw, which elicited a visceral reaction from me as I read. There were times when I wanted to transport myself into the book and strangle the people who were hurting Beth, and other times I had to take a moment to breathe and rein in my sobbing as I didn’t think I could handle more diabolical behavior by people with whom she shared blood. The author has also done an excellent job of highlighting how the child welfare system fails so many innocent children. It was infuriating that Beth and her brother’s voices were left unheard for so long; just another example of the heartbreaking consequences Beth faced when the buck kept getting passed to another adult who didn’t follow through.
What Remains After will appeal to mature readers who enjoy a rising-from-the-ashes type of novel and are capable of handling deeply disturbing topics. Abuse is portrayed through a childhood lens, prompting important questions. Grabia’s writing illustrates the inspiring regenerative ability of the human spirit through Beth’s transformation. ”
— Stephanie Elizabeth Long for Reader Views (05/2026)Reader Reviews
“What a wonderful debut novel from a local Alberta author. This story touches on so many things, trauma, systemic failure and most importantly faith and hope. Hope in the form of tie relationships we form and the champions who do the right thing even when the right thing isn’t easy to do. This book is heartfelt and sad, but also suspenseful and encouraging. A page turner, I found myself wanting to read just one more chapter to see what comes next. I enjoyed it from start to finish.”
— Anonymous Amazon Reader (5 Stars)“Seriously couldn't put it down on many different occasions! Such a great read. Addressed so many tough topics from abuse to overall systemic failure in a very raw but somehow still tasteful way. My heart ached for Beth at times and at others was so enraged. Can't wait to see what else this author pulls out of her pen!
— shawn R. (5 Stars)“Wow!! Just finished this book in two days. Very well written. It’s a page turner that I had a hard time to put it down. This book will stay in my heart for many years. It’s sad and heartbreaking - get ready to feel all the emotions. It really made you feel for the characters in every situation that they were put in.”
— Jen (5 Stars)“Pauline Grabia’s debut novel, What Remains After, is written in a way the reader can feel for a young girl, Beth, with an understanding of her trauma, frustrations, confusion, and broken trust without graphic details. I found myself reading “just one more page” well into the night. If you enjoy quiet, psychological suspense novels, don’t miss reading this book.”
— Jane Simpson (5 Stars)“The theme of this book is a difficult one, and is not often discussed.. Pauline crafted a fine narrative which allows the reader to enter into the subject with some trepidation, but not without hope. Her writing style is very tight while at the same time moving the subject forward. Her book concludes with an optimistic ending. I recommend you read this book both for its fine craftsmanship, but also to apprise yourself of a sensitive subject.”
— Walter Goos (4 Stars)