Literary Notes on What Remains
A Memoir of Fate, Friendship, and Love by Carole Radziwill
What Remains was a recommendation from my sister
. She knew I was a fan of Carole Radziwill from OG RHONY and that memoirs aren’t usually my cup of tea, but I’m glad she nudged me out of my comfort zone. I really enjoyed this book. Keep reading for a quick summary and a CBK signature scent mention.
More than a memoir, What Remains is a love story capturing Carole’s marriage to Anthony Radziwill, a man of quiet courage battling cancer, and her close friendship with John F. Kennedy Jr. and Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy. Through Carole’s lens, John and Carolyn emerge as warm, complex individuals rather than untouchable icons—John as effortlessly cool and charismatic yet burdened by his family’s legacy, and Carolyn as deeply loyal, stylish, and kind. Their tragic deaths in 1999 left Carole shattered all while bracing for the inevitable loss of Anthony. As both a journalist and a widow, Carole writes with a balance of sharp observation and emotional restraint. It’s raw, honest, and somehow full of hope.
Fragrance has a way of evoking memories long after someone is gone. The only perfume mention in the book is none other than CBK’s signature scent: Egyptian musk oil. This subtle, clean scent is highlighted by Carole as a reflection of Carolyn’s understated elegance and would linger on her clothes after Carolyn’s visits. In interviews, Radziwill describes the scent as a unisex, yet feminine fragrance. She also mentions discovering it from subway vendors in NYC and getting it by the medicine jar, which only adds to its low-key charm.
You got me so curious about the scent! The NYC subway part is surreal! Como assim?! Thanks for the reco, the book sounds appealing. I predict I will finally have time to read and write 😘
Sofia nice to read your book review… with a little special scent.