By Elizabeth Verwey
BRAVE NEW ENDINGS: True Stories of Caring for an Ex
Non-fiction
‘Brave New Endings’ makes the invisible, visible. This book shares 30 stories from the growing number of people who have stepped up when their ex needed help.
They may shop, cook, take them to medical appointments or help them financially. There are unexpected paths back to one another, even when there are new spouses.
The 53 people interviewed for this book were clear that this was not something they ever expected to do. Some of them were quiet about it, as their friends and family remember the bad breakup rather than the love that they shared.
It’s time to ignite this conversation. Let’s consider how we can heal the bitterness and do the growth work needed to move forward. Healing ourselves is good for everyone.
Executive Director | Employee Wellbeing Council
Thyagi DeLanerolle
As someone who has experienced divorce, reading Brave New Endings by Elizabeth M. Verwey was deeply moving and affirming. This collection doesn’t just challenge the usual narrative of exes parting ways—it expands what love can look like after a romantic relationship ends.
What struck me most was how beautifully the book captures the emotional transformation that occurs when the intensity of divorce fades and what’s left is care, connection, and shared history. I saw myself in many of these stories. Like the author and her interviewees, I’ve come to understand that love doesn’t end—it changes. It evolves into something quieter but deeply meaningful: compassion.
These stories reminded me that caring for someone you once loved isn’t weakness—it’s a powerful kind of strength. The kind that says, I still see your humanity, even after everything.
Elizabeth Verwey’s storytelling is both practical and poetic. The “Heart Healing” exercises offer thoughtful ways to process grief and create space for connection. Whether you’re going through divorce, supporting someone who is, or simply curious about how love can evolve, this book offers insight, hope, and healing.
Brave New Endings is a beautiful reminder that relationships don’t always end—they can transform into something new through empathy and respect.
– Thyagi DeLanerolle
Exectuive Director | Employee Wellbeing Council
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I was deeply moved by this book [Brave New Endings]. The personal stories are honest, heart-wrenching, and tender—they stayed with me long after I finished reading. Elizabeth has done a beautiful job weaving in her own vulnerable story, which adds so much depth and authenticity. The book offers a thoughtful and compassionate perspective on relationships, care, and what it means to show up for someone, even after divorce and life changes. It’s a powerful and heartfelt read about human connection.
– Lidia Lae, PhD
Psychologist, Speaker
Can you imagine a situation where you would care for an ex-spouse/partner in times of a healthcare crisis? If you are a professional healthcare provider, can you imagine supporting a patient/client through such a situation? Imagine no longer. Read story after story of people doing exactly that for different reasons but with similar results. An amazing read!
– Harry van Bommel
Author of 55 books, including Caring for Loved Ones at Home and Family Hospice Care.
Brave New Endings is real and raw. The stories shared don’t shy away from the ups and downs of love, endings and everything in between. The common takeaway from every story? A deep sense of hope in the state of humanity. Elizabeth Verwey goes above and beyond by not only including additional context and information in between each short story, but a fascinating survey at the end. Highly recommend!
