Background The recovery movement has made significant gains in the past two decades providing a consumer‐driven paradigm for mental health service provision. Narrative inquiry is an established research method that allows for the synthesis of recovery stories, enabling them to be considered as a source of evidence that can facilitate a dialogue between consumers and clinicians. Method A systematic review of narrative studies of recovery is presented, including a synopsis of four studies and an amalgamation of themes. Results Key themes were that recovery from severe psychiatric is possible, that recovery involves a journey towards a meaningful life rather than simply the amelioration of symptoms and that despite the pivotal role of self‐determination a trusted network of support is vital. Conclusions Findings from this review serve as a reminder to clinicians to be wary of personal side effects when making diagnoses, to consider hidden strengths in assessment and therapy, and to access community members as a valuable resource where possible.