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Everything That Was
From the day she is born, Prudence Spellmeyer’s world is guided by her charismatic, 1980’s-band-obsessed older brother. But when Davis passes away before Pru’s senior year of high school, everything changes. Lost in grief, she formulates a graduate, move to the city, and leave behind her dinky Podunk town full of painful memories. Pru’s only solace comes through drawing pictures of Davis in her art journal, and hiding out in the back seat of the Gherkin, her brother’s 1971 pickle-green Monte Carlo. Wrapped in the letterman’s jacket that still smells just like him, Pru tumbles into dreams of Davis. Dreams so vivid, even his hugs feel real. It’s the perfect escape.
Until…
Skating through school, Pru realizes the only way she will graduate is to accept tutoring from none other than Steve Nolan. Her childhood crush and ex-BFF who turned into her enemy for life when he caused her brother’s death.
To make matters worse, Pru’s recurring dreams of Davis take a dark turn, pushing her to depend on Steve for more than just geometry and learning that, sometimes, the very person who shattered your world might be the only one to help you rebuild it.
A Darcy Coates/You’ve Reached Sam mashup meets emotional Colleen Hoover vibes in a bittersweet book of grief, forgiveness, and the magic of dreams.
Until…
Skating through school, Pru realizes the only way she will graduate is to accept tutoring from none other than Steve Nolan. Her childhood crush and ex-BFF who turned into her enemy for life when he caused her brother’s death.
To make matters worse, Pru’s recurring dreams of Davis take a dark turn, pushing her to depend on Steve for more than just geometry and learning that, sometimes, the very person who shattered your world might be the only one to help you rebuild it.
A Darcy Coates/You’ve Reached Sam mashup meets emotional Colleen Hoover vibes in a bittersweet book of grief, forgiveness, and the magic of dreams.
Paperback
Published February 6, 2024
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About the author
K.R. Hansen
1 book28 followersK.R. Hansen has been obsessed with stories—both reading and writing them—for as long as she can remember. With a deep passion for creating narratives that resonate on a profound emotional level, she delights in blending the ordinary with the extraordinary, infusing her tales with magical realism that invites readers to find enchantment in the everyday.
When not crafting tales or daydreaming about her next literary adventure, you’ll discover her traveling, puttering in the garden, creating award-winning fractal art, experiencing the thrill of live concerts—especially 80s bands that resonate with her GenX spirit, and engaging in epic board game battles.
When not crafting tales or daydreaming about her next literary adventure, you’ll discover her traveling, puttering in the garden, creating award-winning fractal art, experiencing the thrill of live concerts—especially 80s bands that resonate with her GenX spirit, and engaging in epic board game battles.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
February 6, 2024
Thank you to the publisher and the author for providing an ARC copy of Everything That Was in exchange for an honest review. I was not compensated for this. My thoughts and opinions are my own.
K. R. Hansen’s novel, Everything that Was, introduces you to Prudence Spellmeyer. A senior with a talent for art and a love of all things 80s music. In a world once colored by the love of her brother and BFF, suddenly Pru finds herself lost in the dark of an all-encompassing grief of losing her brother Davis to a tragic accident.
As Pru begins to slowly awaken from the grief that has gripped her life for a year, she must face the fact that she has not only lost her beloved sibling, but everything that was as well. Everyone in her periphery is also profoundly affected by devastating consequences of the life changing event- her former BFF whom she holds responsible, Sleazle Steve, Robot dad, just going through the motions and Zombie mom, not even a fully functional version of her former self.
Add to the mix that she must somehow find a way to pass Geometry to graduate when she could care less about school or graduation and would happily sleep away her days in the Gherkin, classic muscle car of her brother’s—the only thing remaining of him. Throw in the mix being bullied by her childhood nemesis who is now dating her former BFF and it’s a combination that sends Pru searching for escape.
In her trying to escape the crap that has become her life, Pru accidentally discovers the car is her only remaining connection to her brother, she slowly begins to awaken from her grief as she begins to learn the truth behind the tragedy. Facts come to light and the truth is painfully revealed and she realizes how grief can color things to be different than reality. Steve has it right when he tells her, “We all die. It’s the suckiest part of living.” And it’s not necessarily anyone’s fault.
The car, her vessel to her brother, and reconnecting to him through her dreams, takes a terrifying turn when the dreams turn to vivid nightmares and Pru fears she is losing Davis all over again in the deterioration of their ‘dream world’. Pru journals in artform her dreams and the memories she holds so dear but realizes that the art is fading as the dreams begin to deteriorate and she faces the dilemma of holding on to her brother at risk of losing his soul, or helping guide him to the light, and moving on with her own life, finding new beginnings in a world post Davis.
The reader is easily transported to Pru’s world with true to life details that one can feel, see, hear and taste… like the taste of Watermelon Jolly Ranchers, or sucking the candy coating off jellybeans. Hansen’s storytelling and descriptions paint the story in the imagination as clearly as watching it on a screen in the mind.
Pru’s personality and even her sense of humor comes to life even with her grief in moments that make the reader laugh out loud. Pru’s sarcastic humor in responding to her world, like her answer to her teacher’s question, “What ended in 1896?” “Um… 1895.”
Alternatively, the reader is also pulled into the depths of Pru’s fears and grief in the dreamworld as the dreams turn from the happy sappy sugary to the horrific images of decay and death with gut punching details that will haunt your own nightmares. In a perfect metaphor, as Pru’s world is finally coming together and she is clawing her way out of the depts of grief, the dreams go from a happy escape from her reality to cartwheeling out of control and chaos as her subconscious fears losing her brother forever as she finds herself moving forward from the tragedy that has ruled her world for over a year.
Hansen captures the human element of her characters so well that the reader finds themself laughing and even crying throughout the novel. Small habits like Steve tugging his ear, or Larry jingling keys in his pocket out of nervousness make the characters so real, it’s hard to believe they’re fictional.
The reader becomes involved, and invested in Pru and her story, but also in the stories of those around her as well, the Giallanzas, her parents, The Nolans and her friend Bruce.
K R Hansen brings Pru and her love of all that is retro, sweet and sugary to life vividly. The song titles for chapter titles work so well to show the tone of Pru’s journeys and holds a nostalgia for the adult readers who grew up with the bands mentioned. A novel for young adults, Everything that Was will touch readers of all ages with its familiar themes of love, loss, grief, bullying, suicide and recovery leaving an imprint that will not soon be forgotten.
K. R. Hansen’s novel, Everything that Was, introduces you to Prudence Spellmeyer. A senior with a talent for art and a love of all things 80s music. In a world once colored by the love of her brother and BFF, suddenly Pru finds herself lost in the dark of an all-encompassing grief of losing her brother Davis to a tragic accident.
As Pru begins to slowly awaken from the grief that has gripped her life for a year, she must face the fact that she has not only lost her beloved sibling, but everything that was as well. Everyone in her periphery is also profoundly affected by devastating consequences of the life changing event- her former BFF whom she holds responsible, Sleazle Steve, Robot dad, just going through the motions and Zombie mom, not even a fully functional version of her former self.
Add to the mix that she must somehow find a way to pass Geometry to graduate when she could care less about school or graduation and would happily sleep away her days in the Gherkin, classic muscle car of her brother’s—the only thing remaining of him. Throw in the mix being bullied by her childhood nemesis who is now dating her former BFF and it’s a combination that sends Pru searching for escape.
In her trying to escape the crap that has become her life, Pru accidentally discovers the car is her only remaining connection to her brother, she slowly begins to awaken from her grief as she begins to learn the truth behind the tragedy. Facts come to light and the truth is painfully revealed and she realizes how grief can color things to be different than reality. Steve has it right when he tells her, “We all die. It’s the suckiest part of living.” And it’s not necessarily anyone’s fault.
The car, her vessel to her brother, and reconnecting to him through her dreams, takes a terrifying turn when the dreams turn to vivid nightmares and Pru fears she is losing Davis all over again in the deterioration of their ‘dream world’. Pru journals in artform her dreams and the memories she holds so dear but realizes that the art is fading as the dreams begin to deteriorate and she faces the dilemma of holding on to her brother at risk of losing his soul, or helping guide him to the light, and moving on with her own life, finding new beginnings in a world post Davis.
The reader is easily transported to Pru’s world with true to life details that one can feel, see, hear and taste… like the taste of Watermelon Jolly Ranchers, or sucking the candy coating off jellybeans. Hansen’s storytelling and descriptions paint the story in the imagination as clearly as watching it on a screen in the mind.
Pru’s personality and even her sense of humor comes to life even with her grief in moments that make the reader laugh out loud. Pru’s sarcastic humor in responding to her world, like her answer to her teacher’s question, “What ended in 1896?” “Um… 1895.”
Alternatively, the reader is also pulled into the depths of Pru’s fears and grief in the dreamworld as the dreams turn from the happy sappy sugary to the horrific images of decay and death with gut punching details that will haunt your own nightmares. In a perfect metaphor, as Pru’s world is finally coming together and she is clawing her way out of the depts of grief, the dreams go from a happy escape from her reality to cartwheeling out of control and chaos as her subconscious fears losing her brother forever as she finds herself moving forward from the tragedy that has ruled her world for over a year.
Hansen captures the human element of her characters so well that the reader finds themself laughing and even crying throughout the novel. Small habits like Steve tugging his ear, or Larry jingling keys in his pocket out of nervousness make the characters so real, it’s hard to believe they’re fictional.
The reader becomes involved, and invested in Pru and her story, but also in the stories of those around her as well, the Giallanzas, her parents, The Nolans and her friend Bruce.
K R Hansen brings Pru and her love of all that is retro, sweet and sugary to life vividly. The song titles for chapter titles work so well to show the tone of Pru’s journeys and holds a nostalgia for the adult readers who grew up with the bands mentioned. A novel for young adults, Everything that Was will touch readers of all ages with its familiar themes of love, loss, grief, bullying, suicide and recovery leaving an imprint that will not soon be forgotten.
February 19, 2024
Great
Such a cute, simple yet deep and relatable story that had me tearing up quite a few times. I didn't expect to resonate with Pru as much as I did. It brought back memories of being a teen struggling with grief, isolating, angry at the world just like Pru and pouring out my heart onto the canvas, that I had forgotten all about. I liked the bits of supernatural and hope to see more of that in future books. While this book is not the sort of thing I typically read I loved it and devoured it in about two nights of accidentally reading till 5am, oops! The story does a good job of taking you through a family's journey through loss, while also remaining light enough that it doesn't send you into a heavy whirlwind of emotion. It was well written and edited. There were only a couple of times I got tripped up and had to re-read a sentence or two. I often found myself wishing for Steve's POV as well, that's probably just my personal preference though. I would love a short novella about Pru and Steve all grown up too.
Such a cute, simple yet deep and relatable story that had me tearing up quite a few times. I didn't expect to resonate with Pru as much as I did. It brought back memories of being a teen struggling with grief, isolating, angry at the world just like Pru and pouring out my heart onto the canvas, that I had forgotten all about. I liked the bits of supernatural and hope to see more of that in future books. While this book is not the sort of thing I typically read I loved it and devoured it in about two nights of accidentally reading till 5am, oops! The story does a good job of taking you through a family's journey through loss, while also remaining light enough that it doesn't send you into a heavy whirlwind of emotion. It was well written and edited. There were only a couple of times I got tripped up and had to re-read a sentence or two. I often found myself wishing for Steve's POV as well, that's probably just my personal preference though. I would love a short novella about Pru and Steve all grown up too.
February 18, 2024
Just wow
I was given this to read as a ARC; this isn't my usual read but the description grabbed my attention and silently me Whitbread it.
K R Hansens' description of scenes are incredible - they make you feel like you're actually there with Pru. To the horror experience she had babysitting the 2 terrors, which in parts had my gasping and also laughing out loud at the imagery.
When Pru started dreaming about her brother, I was hooked and found dreamland sounded like something out of J R Tolkiens film ( Tolkien) based on how the hobbit came to be.
All of the characters are so well written, the grief, .... I went through more tissues from crying than I have in a long time.
You know you're reading an amazing book, when the author is capable of making you redundant the characters are feeling, very few people can achieve that.
I'm not going to give a description of the book as that's whatever blurb is for.
But I will say, be prepared to be transported into a new world of unimaginable pain and loss and how 2 families find a way to help their kids heal.
I was given this to read as a ARC; this isn't my usual read but the description grabbed my attention and silently me Whitbread it.
K R Hansens' description of scenes are incredible - they make you feel like you're actually there with Pru. To the horror experience she had babysitting the 2 terrors, which in parts had my gasping and also laughing out loud at the imagery.
When Pru started dreaming about her brother, I was hooked and found dreamland sounded like something out of J R Tolkiens film ( Tolkien) based on how the hobbit came to be.
All of the characters are so well written, the grief, .... I went through more tissues from crying than I have in a long time.
You know you're reading an amazing book, when the author is capable of making you redundant the characters are feeling, very few people can achieve that.
I'm not going to give a description of the book as that's whatever blurb is for.
But I will say, be prepared to be transported into a new world of unimaginable pain and loss and how 2 families find a way to help their kids heal.
February 12, 2024
YA readers need good novels that address the issues of death and grief - is this story a good addition to what is already there? Absolutely! Pru’s story of how she comes to terms with the loss of her brother (saying this is hardly a spoiler) is heart wrenching and sincere, and the author has a refreshing take on the issue. I didn’t always agree with Pru’s decisions, but I really felt for her, and the way she found herself all alone felt both believable and heart gripping. The story also raises the important question about how we (parents, teachers, friends) deal with death and grief, when they hit someone close to us.
The book is written in a rich language, sometimes a bit too dramatic for my liking, but perhaps well suited for the YA audience.
I love the idea of a soundtrack to a book, and this was a great soundtrack, but it just didn’t work for me. As much as I tried, I simply couldn’t connect each song to the chapter, not even by going back to the song at the end of each chapter. In the end I had to give up.
I find it’s an amazing debut novel and one I would absolutely recommend to both YA and adult readers of emotional, heartfelt novels.
Thank you to the publisher and the author for providing an ARC copy of "Everything That Was" in exchange for an honest review. I was not compensated for this; my thoughts and opinions are entirely my own.
March 25, 2024
Copy provided via NetGalley.
A magical realism take on grief, Everything That Was is meant to look at the different ways we hurt and cope after an unexpected loss. Pru's entire remaining family is a disaster, and none of them have done any work to move past what happened. Pru has completely isolated herself, blamed the only person who could've provided her comfort, and is so wrapped up in missing her brother that she sleeps in his car and starts seeing him in her dreams. Pru realizes the dreams might be visits, but that those visits are having a strain on her brother's spirit. As dream Davis gets sicker, things get worse in the waking world as well.
This was a little bit frustrating to read because the communication between these people is horrific, but it also felt real in the way that people would shut down when something bad happens. Too many people infantilized Pru and she didn't even realize it, she let them, and it felt really good when she figured out how she wanted to fight what was happening around her.
It ends way more hopefully than I expected, and was fantastic catharsis as a reader to go through all of these people reaching a turning point. I was sad and stressed for most of it, high emotions, but felt very much at peace when it was done.
A magical realism take on grief, Everything That Was is meant to look at the different ways we hurt and cope after an unexpected loss. Pru's entire remaining family is a disaster, and none of them have done any work to move past what happened. Pru has completely isolated herself, blamed the only person who could've provided her comfort, and is so wrapped up in missing her brother that she sleeps in his car and starts seeing him in her dreams. Pru realizes the dreams might be visits, but that those visits are having a strain on her brother's spirit. As dream Davis gets sicker, things get worse in the waking world as well.
This was a little bit frustrating to read because the communication between these people is horrific, but it also felt real in the way that people would shut down when something bad happens. Too many people infantilized Pru and she didn't even realize it, she let them, and it felt really good when she figured out how she wanted to fight what was happening around her.
It ends way more hopefully than I expected, and was fantastic catharsis as a reader to go through all of these people reaching a turning point. I was sad and stressed for most of it, high emotions, but felt very much at peace when it was done.
April 7, 2024
Everything That Was is a beautiful novel about loss. It follows Pru, a senior in high school, and how she struggles with the death of her brother. It is a book that goes through how the passing of a loved one can rip a multitude of families apart, rippling through the community. A very enjoyable read from front to back, it includes plenty of 80s nostalgia to entertain.
February 27, 2024
Thank you to the author for providing an ARC copy of Everything That Was in exchange for an honest review. My thoughts are my own.
“Everything That Was” is an engaging and thought-provoking book! With a unique blend of realism and intense fantasy/surealism, it is not the kind of book that I would typically grab off the shelf, however I thoroughly enjoyed the read. Hansen piqued my curiosity right from the start and kept me so engaged that I had difficulty putting the book down. Her vivid, rich descriptions bring the characters and events to life, pulling the reader into Pru’s world. The characters are very relatable, and the author provides a heartfelt perspective on the different ways people manage grief and loss. “Everything That Was” also delves into other heavy topics including suicide, sexual assault, bullying, and forgiveness in a raw, thought-provoking way. Hansen’s writing style and exploration of this wide range of emotions, invites readers to take a deeper look at their own experiences and beliefs about the world and life after death.
“Everything That Was” is an engaging and thought-provoking book! With a unique blend of realism and intense fantasy/surealism, it is not the kind of book that I would typically grab off the shelf, however I thoroughly enjoyed the read. Hansen piqued my curiosity right from the start and kept me so engaged that I had difficulty putting the book down. Her vivid, rich descriptions bring the characters and events to life, pulling the reader into Pru’s world. The characters are very relatable, and the author provides a heartfelt perspective on the different ways people manage grief and loss. “Everything That Was” also delves into other heavy topics including suicide, sexual assault, bullying, and forgiveness in a raw, thought-provoking way. Hansen’s writing style and exploration of this wide range of emotions, invites readers to take a deeper look at their own experiences and beliefs about the world and life after death.
April 2, 2024
Great YA fiction. Addresses real issues and the the difficulty of a family dealing with grief. I loved Pru, and that she's so into 80s music. The music makes the story accessible to an older generation too. I'm just not so sure if any teenager would be that into 80s music. Drops a few f-bombs, but I guess most teens do.
A satisfying magical-realism novel and something I wouldn't mind my grandkids reading.
A satisfying magical-realism novel and something I wouldn't mind my grandkids reading.
February 27, 2024
A very well written and poignant YA book that tells a story of Pru, a high school student, dealing with grief, anger, isolation and questions of her own. It is real, raw and engaging. A read that will stay with the reader long after the last line is read.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 9, 2024
Thank you to the publisher and author and netgalley for an arc read copy of everything that was.
4 star read.
This was such a lovely read , definitely more towards the YA section, it takes you through how young teenagers go through grief differently and how it can affect your relationships and life.
I really enjoyed this , was a breathtaking read for sure. Seeing how pru was dealing with her grief and how to make her own relationships better with everyone aswell as her own heart breaking.
4 star read.
This was such a lovely read , definitely more towards the YA section, it takes you through how young teenagers go through grief differently and how it can affect your relationships and life.
I really enjoyed this , was a breathtaking read for sure. Seeing how pru was dealing with her grief and how to make her own relationships better with everyone aswell as her own heart breaking.
March 12, 2024
This YA book was amazing and relatable all at once. There were so many emotions in this book, and it is the type of book I would've wished I had in my youth. The book keeps you engaged, & I would recommend it.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
September 20, 2024
Captivating and Emotional. Venturing beyond my usual genres, I just finished reading 'Everything That Was'. The book takes the reader through a captivating and emotional journey involving loss, grief, and self-discovery. The story follows Pru, a high school girl deeply troubled by the death of her older brother and best friend, Davis. Her tortured journey is imaginative, well-written, and decidedly compelling. Highly recommended, especially for YA readers!
March 26, 2024
"Everything That Was" was a wild ride. I had some trouble getting into it do to a bad reading slump, nothing to do with the book itself, my brain just didn't want to.
I absolutely loved this book. The details just popped right off the page, especially the nightmares she had. Those were more than a little terrifying.
I really liked how the book played out. It was kind of depressing at times but I think we needed the depressing side to see the overcoming of grief.
Without going into details, one of my favorite scenes in the book was Bruce and the others asking for her help, and the big thing Bruce did for her to help her out.
Favorite characters
~Pru
~Steve
~Bruce
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I absolutely loved this book. The details just popped right off the page, especially the nightmares she had. Those were more than a little terrifying.
I really liked how the book played out. It was kind of depressing at times but I think we needed the depressing side to see the overcoming of grief.
Without going into details, one of my favorite scenes in the book was Bruce and the others asking for her help, and the big thing Bruce did for her to help her out.
Favorite characters
~Pru
~Steve
~Bruce
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 28, 2024
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for the digital copy.
TRIGGER WARNINGS (as stated by the publisher): death, grief, suicide attempt and recovery, sexual assault, bullying.
It's been almost a year since Pru's brother died and her life and heart were shattered. Her mother left the dining room as messy as the night it happened and never leaves her bedroom, her father only thinks about work and sleeps on the couch and hers best friend Steve - who was also Davis' best friend - doesn't have the right to be a part of her life anymore since her father told her that he is responsible for Davis' death.
Over the course of this last year, Pru has lost all her most important relationships because her family disintegrated and her best friend was the cause of it, so it was even more natural to isolate herself from everything and everyone and take refuge in her art, in the 80s music for which she and Davis shared a passion and in the sweets that are her salvation when everything goes wrong - which is always.
But her grades have also plummeted and Pru risks not graduating and not being able to leave Podunk - too bad everyone came up with the brilliant idea of assigning her Steve as a tutor. And Pru wants nothing to do with it, especially considering that she doesn't even recognize him anymore and he's not the same boy who grew up with her and Davis - not only because of how this last year seems to have changed him, but also because he's dating Maddison and the Steve she knew would never have gotten together with her bully since middle school.
The only thing she has left of Davis - after her father emptied his room and gave everything to charity - is his car still parked in the garage and when Pru sleeps in the backseat she manages to dream of Davis, she can to hug him again when he welcomes her into an apartment he has chosen just for them. But, as the dreams continue, the apartment becomes more and more disturbing and less bright and Davis himself seems to feel increasingly unwell and become a shadow of his former self.
I'm an only child, so I don't know what it's like to have a sibling.
But my mother did, she had a brother - a brother who died before I was born and therefore an uncle who I never met. And even without ever knowing him, I know how much this changed my family's life and how my mother and my grandmother always carry a shadow and a pain that never goes away.
Pru's story is touching and emotional, peppered with a hint of magical realism when Pru dreams of Davis and these dreams become vivid and almost real - so real that even the drawings on Pru's art journal change. It's the story of a bond and a love so deep that there are no words to express it and that I, as an only child, may not even be able to understand what it's like to lose someone who literally grew up with you.
It's difficult for Pru to get out of that black hole, to even think about living again when every single molecule in her body knows that Davis no longer has a life - when she knows she has lost her best friend, her confidant, her shoulder to lean on, her pillar, the one who encouraged her and protected her and took care of her.
It's hard for Pru to deal with Steve again--even harder when she discovers some things about that night that she didn't know. And I would have liked to have some chapter from Steve's point of view - who, after losing his mother as a child, felt like he had lost his family a second time when Davis died. And I can understand what pushed him to get involved with Maddison given the circumstances, but in reality I didn't fully appreciate the way the relationship developed - perhaps I would have made a different choice but, I repeat, perhaps I'm not even able to fully understand.
At some points the story is not always easy to follow - especially when Pru dreams and although everything is described graphically and vividly, I often had to re-read some sentences to really understand them.
This is also a book that pushes a lot on the importance of therapy and healing - more than one character here turns outward for help, whether for a suicide attempt or grieving.
Everything That Was is a touching book that you will remember for a long time and you won't forget its characters easily - above all, it will make you want to hug your loved ones tightly after you've finished crying.
TRIGGER WARNINGS (as stated by the publisher): death, grief, suicide attempt and recovery, sexual assault, bullying.
It's been almost a year since Pru's brother died and her life and heart were shattered. Her mother left the dining room as messy as the night it happened and never leaves her bedroom, her father only thinks about work and sleeps on the couch and hers best friend Steve - who was also Davis' best friend - doesn't have the right to be a part of her life anymore since her father told her that he is responsible for Davis' death.
Over the course of this last year, Pru has lost all her most important relationships because her family disintegrated and her best friend was the cause of it, so it was even more natural to isolate herself from everything and everyone and take refuge in her art, in the 80s music for which she and Davis shared a passion and in the sweets that are her salvation when everything goes wrong - which is always.
But her grades have also plummeted and Pru risks not graduating and not being able to leave Podunk - too bad everyone came up with the brilliant idea of assigning her Steve as a tutor. And Pru wants nothing to do with it, especially considering that she doesn't even recognize him anymore and he's not the same boy who grew up with her and Davis - not only because of how this last year seems to have changed him, but also because he's dating Maddison and the Steve she knew would never have gotten together with her bully since middle school.
The only thing she has left of Davis - after her father emptied his room and gave everything to charity - is his car still parked in the garage and when Pru sleeps in the backseat she manages to dream of Davis, she can to hug him again when he welcomes her into an apartment he has chosen just for them. But, as the dreams continue, the apartment becomes more and more disturbing and less bright and Davis himself seems to feel increasingly unwell and become a shadow of his former self.
I'm an only child, so I don't know what it's like to have a sibling.
But my mother did, she had a brother - a brother who died before I was born and therefore an uncle who I never met. And even without ever knowing him, I know how much this changed my family's life and how my mother and my grandmother always carry a shadow and a pain that never goes away.
Pru's story is touching and emotional, peppered with a hint of magical realism when Pru dreams of Davis and these dreams become vivid and almost real - so real that even the drawings on Pru's art journal change. It's the story of a bond and a love so deep that there are no words to express it and that I, as an only child, may not even be able to understand what it's like to lose someone who literally grew up with you.
It's difficult for Pru to get out of that black hole, to even think about living again when every single molecule in her body knows that Davis no longer has a life - when she knows she has lost her best friend, her confidant, her shoulder to lean on, her pillar, the one who encouraged her and protected her and took care of her.
It's hard for Pru to deal with Steve again--even harder when she discovers some things about that night that she didn't know. And I would have liked to have some chapter from Steve's point of view - who, after losing his mother as a child, felt like he had lost his family a second time when Davis died. And I can understand what pushed him to get involved with Maddison given the circumstances, but in reality I didn't fully appreciate the way the relationship developed - perhaps I would have made a different choice but, I repeat, perhaps I'm not even able to fully understand.
At some points the story is not always easy to follow - especially when Pru dreams and although everything is described graphically and vividly, I often had to re-read some sentences to really understand them.
This is also a book that pushes a lot on the importance of therapy and healing - more than one character here turns outward for help, whether for a suicide attempt or grieving.
Everything That Was is a touching book that you will remember for a long time and you won't forget its characters easily - above all, it will make you want to hug your loved ones tightly after you've finished crying.
July 30, 2024
One of the most powerful stories I’ve come across in years!
As both a parent and educator, this story tugs at so many emotional heart strings. I cried, I raged, and I found joy in the pages of this book. There’s a huge part of me that wants to scream about the complete negligence of the school. I want to rage about how it’s completely impossible for an entire staff to be this utterly neglectful. Unfortunately, I know that’s not true. Over the past 20 years, I’ve come to know so many wonderful teachers and administrators, but I also know that there are still far too many schools that are failing to adequately address the mental health needs of their students. This book is a powerful reminder of why mental health support in school should be paramount to all else.
As a teacher educator, I look forward to sharing this story with future teachers—both as a reminder about why supporting students’ mental well being is so important, and also as a resource for them to share with their own students (as a powerful story about grief). Thank you K.R. Hansen. The world is better off as a result of your work!
As both a parent and educator, this story tugs at so many emotional heart strings. I cried, I raged, and I found joy in the pages of this book. There’s a huge part of me that wants to scream about the complete negligence of the school. I want to rage about how it’s completely impossible for an entire staff to be this utterly neglectful. Unfortunately, I know that’s not true. Over the past 20 years, I’ve come to know so many wonderful teachers and administrators, but I also know that there are still far too many schools that are failing to adequately address the mental health needs of their students. This book is a powerful reminder of why mental health support in school should be paramount to all else.
As a teacher educator, I look forward to sharing this story with future teachers—both as a reminder about why supporting students’ mental well being is so important, and also as a resource for them to share with their own students (as a powerful story about grief). Thank you K.R. Hansen. The world is better off as a result of your work!
June 9, 2024
A Real Gut-Punch Book About Grief
Everything That Was by K. R. Hansen is really punches you in the gut with its heavy story about losing a brother.
K.R. Hansen paints such a real picture of Prudence's life after her brother Davis dies.
The book mixes different genres like magical realism, coming-of-age, and even some creepy horror vibes. But at its core, it captures the raw, brutal feelings of grief while giving you hope that healing is possible.
Be prepared for an emotional departure as Prudence deals with her pain, has some sweet moments, and tries to forgive the guy who caused her brother's death.
If you've ever lost someone close, this book will hit you right in the feels. But Hansen also gives you a warm, uplifting message by the end that'll leave you thinking.
Everything That Was by K. R. Hansen is really punches you in the gut with its heavy story about losing a brother.
K.R. Hansen paints such a real picture of Prudence's life after her brother Davis dies.
The book mixes different genres like magical realism, coming-of-age, and even some creepy horror vibes. But at its core, it captures the raw, brutal feelings of grief while giving you hope that healing is possible.
Be prepared for an emotional departure as Prudence deals with her pain, has some sweet moments, and tries to forgive the guy who caused her brother's death.
If you've ever lost someone close, this book will hit you right in the feels. But Hansen also gives you a warm, uplifting message by the end that'll leave you thinking.
September 7, 2024
A very captivating story of love and loss
I really enjoyed this book. It has an amazing story of loss and how that can keep people from being who they should be. It uncovers the sadness and the joy of losing someone close and how we often go inside ourselves with grief. It also explores what it is like trying to come out the other side of grief. The characters are well rounded and built over the story and the knowledge that we never really know what someone else is suffering until you ask is a lesson in being a human being. I really enjoyed reading this book even though I wasn't sure I would at first.
I really enjoyed this book. It has an amazing story of loss and how that can keep people from being who they should be. It uncovers the sadness and the joy of losing someone close and how we often go inside ourselves with grief. It also explores what it is like trying to come out the other side of grief. The characters are well rounded and built over the story and the knowledge that we never really know what someone else is suffering until you ask is a lesson in being a human being. I really enjoyed reading this book even though I wasn't sure I would at first.
September 6, 2024
I’m a huge fan of the narrator Caitlin Davies and listen to any book she reads which is how I found this one and I’m so glad I did as I really enjoyed this book. The way the author described the inbetween of where Davis was, kept me wanting more. The sadness and deep loss Prue felt as her family fell apart was so lifelike but the dream world was so vivid I could picture it so perfectly as I listened. I’m really hoping KR Hansen writes more books as I was disappointed to find this was the only one!!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 11, 2025
Raw Greif
This was such a good read. Having experienced many deaths of my loved ones, K. R. Hansen did a wonderful job writing a story about the grieving process. I felt all of the emotions and felt like I was experiencing what the characters were going through.
Pru and her brother, Davis, were extremely close. Tragedy takes Davis away and Pru is navigating life without him. She uses her art to cope with the pain and capture her dreams of her brother. She eventually realizes that she isn’t alone with her pain and has to learn that life does continue.
This was such a good read. Having experienced many deaths of my loved ones, K. R. Hansen did a wonderful job writing a story about the grieving process. I felt all of the emotions and felt like I was experiencing what the characters were going through.
Pru and her brother, Davis, were extremely close. Tragedy takes Davis away and Pru is navigating life without him. She uses her art to cope with the pain and capture her dreams of her brother. She eventually realizes that she isn’t alone with her pain and has to learn that life does continue.
July 4, 2025
I wanted to keep reading
This is a great story of loss, the effects of that loss on family and friends and the possibility of healing. It goes into the afterlife in a way I’ve never thought of. I really enjoyed this story.
This is a great story of loss, the effects of that loss on family and friends and the possibility of healing. It goes into the afterlife in a way I’ve never thought of. I really enjoyed this story.
June 24, 2024
I loved this book. It was an easy read!
May 15, 2024
Loved this book! My first signed copy ❤️😍
September 4, 2024
Dark
Everything that was is Everythi g it is. The story is highly imaginative due Prudence's older brother untimely death. This book is a great read.
Everything that was is Everythi g it is. The story is highly imaginative due Prudence's older brother untimely death. This book is a great read.
February 28, 2024
Book Review: Everything That Was
by K.R. Hansen 📚
Rating:5/5
Review:
👉Prepare to be swept away on a whirlwind of emotions in K.R. Hansen's "Everything That Was." 🔥 From the moment you crack open the spine, you're transported into the tumultuous world of Prudence Spellmeyer, a young woman grappling with the aftermath of loss and the complexities of grief. 💔
👉Hansen's prose is like a symphony of emotions, weaving together threads of nostalgia, heartache, and hope to create a narrative that is as captivating as it is gut-wrenching. 🎶 As Pru navigates the jagged terrain of her shattered reality, readers are drawn into a web of intricate relationships, profound revelations, and moments of breathtaking beauty. 🌟
👉But what truly sets "Everything That Was" on fire is its unflinching portrayal of the human experience. 🔥 Through Pru's journey—from the depths of despair to the heights of resilience—we are reminded of the raw power of love, loss, and the bonds that tie us together. 💖 Hansen's characters leap off the page with a vitality that is both electrifying and heartrending, each one bearing scars of their own and seeking redemption in their own way. 🎭
👉As Pru grapples with the ghosts of her past and confronts the demons of her present, readers are taken on a rollercoaster ride of emotions, experiencing moments of laughter, tears, and everything in between. 🎢 But amidst the chaos and turmoil, there is a glimmer of hope—a light at the end of the tunnel that promises healing, forgiveness, and the promise of new beginnings. 🌈
👉"Everything That Was" is more than just a book—it's a journey, a revelation, a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. 💫 It's a reminder that even in our darkest moments, there is always a flicker of hope waiting to be ignited. 🔥 So grab a copy, buckle up, and get ready for a ride you won't soon forget. 📖✨
#BookReview #EmotionalJourney #MustRead 📚
Happy reading 😁😁
by K.R. Hansen 📚
Rating:5/5
Review:
👉Prepare to be swept away on a whirlwind of emotions in K.R. Hansen's "Everything That Was." 🔥 From the moment you crack open the spine, you're transported into the tumultuous world of Prudence Spellmeyer, a young woman grappling with the aftermath of loss and the complexities of grief. 💔
👉Hansen's prose is like a symphony of emotions, weaving together threads of nostalgia, heartache, and hope to create a narrative that is as captivating as it is gut-wrenching. 🎶 As Pru navigates the jagged terrain of her shattered reality, readers are drawn into a web of intricate relationships, profound revelations, and moments of breathtaking beauty. 🌟
👉But what truly sets "Everything That Was" on fire is its unflinching portrayal of the human experience. 🔥 Through Pru's journey—from the depths of despair to the heights of resilience—we are reminded of the raw power of love, loss, and the bonds that tie us together. 💖 Hansen's characters leap off the page with a vitality that is both electrifying and heartrending, each one bearing scars of their own and seeking redemption in their own way. 🎭
👉As Pru grapples with the ghosts of her past and confronts the demons of her present, readers are taken on a rollercoaster ride of emotions, experiencing moments of laughter, tears, and everything in between. 🎢 But amidst the chaos and turmoil, there is a glimmer of hope—a light at the end of the tunnel that promises healing, forgiveness, and the promise of new beginnings. 🌈
👉"Everything That Was" is more than just a book—it's a journey, a revelation, a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. 💫 It's a reminder that even in our darkest moments, there is always a flicker of hope waiting to be ignited. 🔥 So grab a copy, buckle up, and get ready for a ride you won't soon forget. 📖✨
#BookReview #EmotionalJourney #MustRead 📚
Happy reading 😁😁
July 5, 2024
"Everything That Was" by K.R. Hansen is a beautifully written novel that delves into the complexities of grief and the process of healing. The story follows Prudence Spellmeyer, a relatable and deeply moving protagonist who navigates the turbulent emotions following the tragic loss of her older brother.
Hansen's writing is lyrical and evocative, painting vivid scenes that bring Pru's world to life. The use of dream sequences adds a unique and mystical layer to the narrative, enhancing the emotional depth of Pru's journey. Despite some predictable elements, the character development and emotional resonance make the story compelling and engaging.
The novel expertly balances heavy themes of loss and grief with moments of subtle romance and humor, making it a multifaceted and immersive read. Pru's coping mechanisms, particularly her art and memories, are portrayed with authenticity, making her struggles and triumphs feel real and relatable.
"Everything That Was" is a poignant exploration of love, loss, and redemption that will stay with readers long after they finish the last page. It's a highly recommended read for young adults and anyone who appreciates a heartfelt and emotionally rich story.
Hansen's writing is lyrical and evocative, painting vivid scenes that bring Pru's world to life. The use of dream sequences adds a unique and mystical layer to the narrative, enhancing the emotional depth of Pru's journey. Despite some predictable elements, the character development and emotional resonance make the story compelling and engaging.
The novel expertly balances heavy themes of loss and grief with moments of subtle romance and humor, making it a multifaceted and immersive read. Pru's coping mechanisms, particularly her art and memories, are portrayed with authenticity, making her struggles and triumphs feel real and relatable.
"Everything That Was" is a poignant exploration of love, loss, and redemption that will stay with readers long after they finish the last page. It's a highly recommended read for young adults and anyone who appreciates a heartfelt and emotionally rich story.
February 6, 2024
I thoroughly enjoyed ‘Everything That Was’ which was provided to me as an ARC reader. I was not compensated for this and this review is my own.
This is more than just a ‘coming of age’ novel; it’s an empathetic story of the impacts of loss of a sibling on teenager Pru. The author takes the reader through the fragility of relationships torn apart by tragedy and sensitively shares the personal impacts across family and friends.
K. R. Hansen’s touches of humour drew me closer to Pru in her attempts to navigate through her grief, and showed the inner strength of her character to survive. The juxtaposition of the chapter playlist was a nice touch, particularly as it reconnected me with my own memories.
The action flows well and the pace is so good, taking the reader through the churns of teenage life at school and building upon revelations to reach the outcome of the story.
This is more than just a ‘coming of age’ novel; it’s an empathetic story of the impacts of loss of a sibling on teenager Pru. The author takes the reader through the fragility of relationships torn apart by tragedy and sensitively shares the personal impacts across family and friends.
K. R. Hansen’s touches of humour drew me closer to Pru in her attempts to navigate through her grief, and showed the inner strength of her character to survive. The juxtaposition of the chapter playlist was a nice touch, particularly as it reconnected me with my own memories.
The action flows well and the pace is so good, taking the reader through the churns of teenage life at school and building upon revelations to reach the outcome of the story.
December 18, 2025
I cried, probably four times. I've never experienced grief through a story the way Kimberly Hansen shares it in Everything that was. It made me miss my mom and I'm so grateful for that. Remembering the moments that are special to us, sharing memories about those we've lost, is important. I think we get lost in our grief to such an extent that it becomes part of our comfort zone over the years. Reading about Pru's experience and her realizing that everyone hurts in their own ways, reminded me of the things I've learned after 25 years of grief. I'd recommend this story to anyone who likes a good cry, but also to those who enjoy a good story that features an artist who expresses her dream worlds through her art journal. It's so expressive, I could see every crazy details of the ever shifting "Home" that Davis tried to perfect, even if those are moments I cried the most.
February 7, 2024
EPIC! That is all I can say!
It’s a YA story that has amazing adult themes. It's not for the faint of heart, you will get emotional as it deals with sexual assault and death and grief. But because of this and my own loss, I could feel Pru. And every step she took, I felt. But beyond that, the pain coming from her parents and her friend/ex friend, I could feel. Grief has no reason, and everyone handled it the best they could. What it showed was just how sometimes you're barely above water!
And the sweet love tale there. The closeness, to lose it, and to come full circle, so sweet. I wanted to yell at Pru a few times, but she finally got the memo. It's a story I so highly recommend!
It’s a YA story that has amazing adult themes. It's not for the faint of heart, you will get emotional as it deals with sexual assault and death and grief. But because of this and my own loss, I could feel Pru. And every step she took, I felt. But beyond that, the pain coming from her parents and her friend/ex friend, I could feel. Grief has no reason, and everyone handled it the best they could. What it showed was just how sometimes you're barely above water!
And the sweet love tale there. The closeness, to lose it, and to come full circle, so sweet. I wanted to yell at Pru a few times, but she finally got the memo. It's a story I so highly recommend!
June 28, 2025
Exceptionally written YA Story covering Grief and Love
I’ll start by saying that this story was a bit darker than the books I typically read. As a writer, myself, I truly admired the descriptive flow of the author’s narrative.
As a lover of dreams, I really appreciated how Hansen spiritually connects Pru and Davis through the dreamworld and Pru’s art. She handles the heavy topic of grief well in this story. Being a empath, I was happy to read through it without getting triggered.
It definitely gave me fear and loathing in Las Vegas vibes at times & the 80’s nostalgia and song chapter titles were so cool! I will definitely be keeping my eye out for future works from this author! Well done! 👏 👏
I’ll start by saying that this story was a bit darker than the books I typically read. As a writer, myself, I truly admired the descriptive flow of the author’s narrative.
As a lover of dreams, I really appreciated how Hansen spiritually connects Pru and Davis through the dreamworld and Pru’s art. She handles the heavy topic of grief well in this story. Being a empath, I was happy to read through it without getting triggered.
It definitely gave me fear and loathing in Las Vegas vibes at times & the 80’s nostalgia and song chapter titles were so cool! I will definitely be keeping my eye out for future works from this author! Well done! 👏 👏
February 11, 2024
Thank you to the publisher and the author for providing an ARC copy of Everything That Was in exchange for an honest review. My thoughts are my own.
I found Everything That Was to be an engaging book in which I was able to easily identify with Pru. I found the drama and dream scenes to be a little intense for my liking, but I believe it will be just what YA readers need to hear as they walk through their own life circumstances.
The writing style was rich in description and characters are well developed. I found myself at a point of not wanting to put it down, as I cared about what was happening in the lives of Pru, her family and friends as they all dealt with loss in their own way.
I found Everything That Was to be an engaging book in which I was able to easily identify with Pru. I found the drama and dream scenes to be a little intense for my liking, but I believe it will be just what YA readers need to hear as they walk through their own life circumstances.
The writing style was rich in description and characters are well developed. I found myself at a point of not wanting to put it down, as I cared about what was happening in the lives of Pru, her family and friends as they all dealt with loss in their own way.
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