A reader who appreciates What Comes After by JoAnne Tompkins likely enjoys emotional and introspective novels that explore themes of loss, healing, and community. Fans of Celeste Ng’s Little Fires Everywhere or Ann Patchett’s The Dutch House would find similar depth and character-driven storytelling.

What Comes After by JoAnne Tompkins is a novel exploring themes of loss, grief, and community healing. Set in a Pacific Northwest town, it follows individuals recovering from a tragedy involving two teenage boys. A mysterious girl’s arrival impacts their journey, revealing interconnected relationships and leading to potential reconciliation and hope.

Melancholic / Emotional / Contemplative / Heartwarming / Hopeful

What Comes After by JoAnne Tompkins has been praised for its profound exploration of grief and redemption, characterized by well-developed characters and gripping storytelling. Critics appreciate the novel's emotional depth and atmospheric setting. However, some note a slow pace and complex narrative threads that may challenge some readers. Overall, it is a compelling and thought-provoking read.

**Isaac Balch**  
A middle-aged high school chemistry teacher characterized by his soft-spoken and polite demeanor, whose journey of internal change is a central focus of the narrative. He grapples with personal challenges as he navigates complex relationships, particularly with Evangeline.

**Evangeline McKensey**  
A 16-year-old girl with brilliant red hair who is pregnant and forms emotional connections with the other characters. Her strength and perspective catalyze Isaac's realizations and development.

**Jonah Geiger**  
A quiet and introspective young man who is deeply self-reflective and has a profound inner connection to the Divine. His actions are a critical catalyst for the novel’s plot developments.

**Daniel Balch**  
Isaac's son, who is remembered through the perspectives of other characters. He is depicted as strong and charismatic but also revealed to have tendencies toward cruelty and brutality.

**Lorrie Geiger**  
Jonah’s mother, who becomes a maternal figure for Evangeline and represents both conflict and potential healing for Isaac. Her strength and nurturing nature provide support amidst the community's anger and personal hardship.

JoAnne Tompkins

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