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Cosmic Goodness: Surrendering the Shadows to Live in the Light
“
Cosmic Goodness
reminds you what I had to learn the hard life gets better the moment you stop trying to control everything, trust the pull inside you, and let yourself become who you’re meant to be.”—Mel Robbins,
New York Times
bestselling author and host of
The Mel Robbins Podcast
Cassidy Gard embodied the energy of a 2000s rom-com heroine, exactly what she envisioned as a teen watching journalist Andie Anderson in How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days. Sharp, intuitive, and lit by ambition, she built a career at Good Morning America, navigating a hybrid world of investigative reporting, exclusive interviews with cultural icons, and the adrenaline of breaking national news.
Beneath the achievement was the generational trauma she carried as the daughter of a volatile alcoholic. A girl conditioned to survive by dimming her light, she was no longer willing to let her family’s dysfunction define her future.
At seventeen, she left Florida for New York City, craving expansion. What followed was a whirlwind of early YouTube journalism, the identity-shaping landscapes of Los Angeles and New York, and rising through the industry while battling anxiety, depression, and perfectionism. Serendipitously, a golden thread of run-ins with “The Rockstar,” her musical hero, appeared at pivotal moments like mystical guideposts, leading her toward new people, places, and possibilities.
As the world shut down, she woke up. An inner revolution pulled her toward conscious sobriety. She left the burnout loop for Montana sunsets, a cabin called Cosmic Goodness, and a partner lovingly nicknamed Squirrel she met on 2/22/22, followed by a metamorphosis into motherhood.
“Cassidy Gard doesn’t just intellectually understand spiritual principles. She has lived them. She viscerally gets it, aligning the earthy and the divine in a fantastic way. What a heart, what a brain, what a writer. She hits you right between the eyes and you feel blessed.”—Marianne Williamson
Cassidy Gard embodied the energy of a 2000s rom-com heroine, exactly what she envisioned as a teen watching journalist Andie Anderson in How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days. Sharp, intuitive, and lit by ambition, she built a career at Good Morning America, navigating a hybrid world of investigative reporting, exclusive interviews with cultural icons, and the adrenaline of breaking national news.
Beneath the achievement was the generational trauma she carried as the daughter of a volatile alcoholic. A girl conditioned to survive by dimming her light, she was no longer willing to let her family’s dysfunction define her future.
At seventeen, she left Florida for New York City, craving expansion. What followed was a whirlwind of early YouTube journalism, the identity-shaping landscapes of Los Angeles and New York, and rising through the industry while battling anxiety, depression, and perfectionism. Serendipitously, a golden thread of run-ins with “The Rockstar,” her musical hero, appeared at pivotal moments like mystical guideposts, leading her toward new people, places, and possibilities.
As the world shut down, she woke up. An inner revolution pulled her toward conscious sobriety. She left the burnout loop for Montana sunsets, a cabin called Cosmic Goodness, and a partner lovingly nicknamed Squirrel she met on 2/22/22, followed by a metamorphosis into motherhood.
“Cassidy Gard doesn’t just intellectually understand spiritual principles. She has lived them. She viscerally gets it, aligning the earthy and the divine in a fantastic way. What a heart, what a brain, what a writer. She hits you right between the eyes and you feel blessed.”—Marianne Williamson
- GenresMemoirNonfiction
352 pages, Paperback
Published May 12, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews
May 13, 2026
I didn't know anything about Cassidy coming into this, but it was still an engaging read; you don't really need to know who she is or what she does beforehand. She explains everything of importance about herself well enough to carry you through the book.
It is essentially the story of her life up until now—how she fought through difficult circumstances, pulled herself up, broke the cycle, and found her own footing in the world. It’s uplifting and relatable, providing a mirror for the reader to see if those same solutions might work for them.
I think it resonated with me because I’m over thirty now, which is the same perspective Cassidy writes from. The only chapters that felt a bit foreign to me were the ones on motherhood, as I’m not a mother and don’t plan to be. Otherwise, this was a well-thought-out memoir. It’s almost like a guide for any woman who might feel lost in a big city, trying to break through a reality of poverty or the emotional loneliness of their childhood.
Time well spent. I’d recommend this if you’re looking for a bit of inspiration or a roadmap for self-improvement.
Thank you to the author, the publisher and NetGalley for an advanced copy.
It is essentially the story of her life up until now—how she fought through difficult circumstances, pulled herself up, broke the cycle, and found her own footing in the world. It’s uplifting and relatable, providing a mirror for the reader to see if those same solutions might work for them.
I think it resonated with me because I’m over thirty now, which is the same perspective Cassidy writes from. The only chapters that felt a bit foreign to me were the ones on motherhood, as I’m not a mother and don’t plan to be. Otherwise, this was a well-thought-out memoir. It’s almost like a guide for any woman who might feel lost in a big city, trying to break through a reality of poverty or the emotional loneliness of their childhood.
Time well spent. I’d recommend this if you’re looking for a bit of inspiration or a roadmap for self-improvement.
Thank you to the author, the publisher and NetGalley for an advanced copy.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I went into Cosmic Goodness completely blind, not knowing who Cassidy was, and wow… I was not prepared for what I found.
This memoir cracked something open in me.
At times, it didn’t just feel relatable—it felt like a mirror. I caught myself scribbling notes, “Are we the same person?” which quickly escalated to “I’m pretty sure we’re the same person.” (I wish I were kidding.)
The way she writes about grief—the specific, suffocating kind that takes root when the people who are supposed to protect you don’t—hit somewhere deep and familiar. And the way she names the quiet, consuming shame that comes with poverty… I felt that in my chest. That kind of knowing doesn’t need explanation. It just is.
And yet, where our stories overlap, they also diverge.
I found myself in awe of the strength Cassidy cultivated so young. The way she began to take the wheel of her own life as a teenager. It’s not just admirable, it’s remarkable. There’s a grit and clarity to her journey that feels both raw and hard-earned, and she doesn’t soften any of it for the reader. It’s honest in a way that takes your breath away a little.
But what stayed with me most wasn’t just the hardship; it was what she did with it, how she endured, survived, and how she expanded.
The thread of “cosmic goodness” woven through her life… the way she recognized it, trusted it, stepped toward it—that’s what shifted something in me. It made me wonder what might be quietly waiting for me, and what doors I might be missing simply because I’m not looking for them, or don’t yet recognize them.
Since finishing this book, I feel different. Softer, maybe. More open. Hopeful in a way that feels grounded, not forced. Like there might be something extraordinary available for me, too, if I’m willing to see it.
Reading her words felt like an honor, and I’m so thankful the universe put her book in front of me.
And if I ever cross paths with Cassidy in real life, I already know I will absolutely be having my first John Mayer moment 😁.
Special thanks to the author, Post Hill Press, and NetGalley for the gifted copy 🫶🏼
This memoir cracked something open in me.
At times, it didn’t just feel relatable—it felt like a mirror. I caught myself scribbling notes, “Are we the same person?” which quickly escalated to “I’m pretty sure we’re the same person.” (I wish I were kidding.)
The way she writes about grief—the specific, suffocating kind that takes root when the people who are supposed to protect you don’t—hit somewhere deep and familiar. And the way she names the quiet, consuming shame that comes with poverty… I felt that in my chest. That kind of knowing doesn’t need explanation. It just is.
And yet, where our stories overlap, they also diverge.
I found myself in awe of the strength Cassidy cultivated so young. The way she began to take the wheel of her own life as a teenager. It’s not just admirable, it’s remarkable. There’s a grit and clarity to her journey that feels both raw and hard-earned, and she doesn’t soften any of it for the reader. It’s honest in a way that takes your breath away a little.
But what stayed with me most wasn’t just the hardship; it was what she did with it, how she endured, survived, and how she expanded.
The thread of “cosmic goodness” woven through her life… the way she recognized it, trusted it, stepped toward it—that’s what shifted something in me. It made me wonder what might be quietly waiting for me, and what doors I might be missing simply because I’m not looking for them, or don’t yet recognize them.
Since finishing this book, I feel different. Softer, maybe. More open. Hopeful in a way that feels grounded, not forced. Like there might be something extraordinary available for me, too, if I’m willing to see it.
Reading her words felt like an honor, and I’m so thankful the universe put her book in front of me.
And if I ever cross paths with Cassidy in real life, I already know I will absolutely be having my first John Mayer moment 😁.
Special thanks to the author, Post Hill Press, and NetGalley for the gifted copy 🫶🏼
July 11, 2026
**An Honest and Transformative Memoir About Healing, Purpose, and Becoming the Person You Were Always Meant to Be**
*Cosmic Goodness* is far more than a memoir of personal growth—it is a deeply vulnerable exploration of what it means to release inherited pain, embrace self-discovery, and create a life guided by authenticity rather than fear.
Cassidy Gard writes with remarkable honesty about the tension between external success and internal healing. Her journey through journalism, ambition, anxiety, perfectionism, and ultimately spiritual awakening reminds readers that achievement alone cannot quiet the deeper questions of identity, purpose, and peace.
What resonated with me most is the way the book approaches healing without pretending it is a straight path. Cassidy shares the emotional realities of generational trauma, burnout, conscious sobriety, and personal transformation with openness and compassion, allowing readers to see both the struggle and the hope that emerge through the process.
I especially appreciated how moments of synchronicity, unexpected encounters, and quiet reflection are woven into the narrative not as easy answers, but as meaningful reminders that growth often begins when we stop trying to control every outcome and instead become willing to trust our own inner wisdom.
The transition from chasing achievement to cultivating a life rooted in presence, love, and purpose gives the memoir a universal appeal. Whether readers relate through family experiences, career pressure, mental health challenges, or the desire for a more intentional life, *Cosmic Goodness* offers encouragement without sacrificing authenticity.
Cassidy Gard has written a heartfelt and inspiring memoir that reminds us healing is not about becoming someone new it is about uncovering the person who has always existed beneath fear, expectation, and survival.
A beautifully reflective book that invites readers to embrace growth, courage, and the quiet strength found in living with greater intention.
*Cosmic Goodness* is far more than a memoir of personal growth—it is a deeply vulnerable exploration of what it means to release inherited pain, embrace self-discovery, and create a life guided by authenticity rather than fear.
Cassidy Gard writes with remarkable honesty about the tension between external success and internal healing. Her journey through journalism, ambition, anxiety, perfectionism, and ultimately spiritual awakening reminds readers that achievement alone cannot quiet the deeper questions of identity, purpose, and peace.
What resonated with me most is the way the book approaches healing without pretending it is a straight path. Cassidy shares the emotional realities of generational trauma, burnout, conscious sobriety, and personal transformation with openness and compassion, allowing readers to see both the struggle and the hope that emerge through the process.
I especially appreciated how moments of synchronicity, unexpected encounters, and quiet reflection are woven into the narrative not as easy answers, but as meaningful reminders that growth often begins when we stop trying to control every outcome and instead become willing to trust our own inner wisdom.
The transition from chasing achievement to cultivating a life rooted in presence, love, and purpose gives the memoir a universal appeal. Whether readers relate through family experiences, career pressure, mental health challenges, or the desire for a more intentional life, *Cosmic Goodness* offers encouragement without sacrificing authenticity.
Cassidy Gard has written a heartfelt and inspiring memoir that reminds us healing is not about becoming someone new it is about uncovering the person who has always existed beneath fear, expectation, and survival.
A beautifully reflective book that invites readers to embrace growth, courage, and the quiet strength found in living with greater intention.
August 9, 2026
Cosmic Goodness is an honest, compelling, and deeply reflective memoir about releasing the patterns that keep us small and finding the courage to build a life that feels genuinely our own.
What I appreciated most is Cassidy Gard's willingness to look beneath outward success. Her journey through journalism and the high-pressure world of national media could easily have been presented as a straightforward professional success story, but instead she examines the generational trauma, anxiety, perfectionism, and emotional patterns that accompanied that achievement.
One of the book's greatest strengths is the transformation that follows. The movement from New York and Los Angeles toward Montana, conscious sobriety, deeper self-awareness, partnership, and motherhood gives the memoir a powerful sense of evolution. Rather than suggesting that success alone brings fulfillment, Gard explores what happens when we stop measuring our lives solely by external achievement and begin listening more closely to what we actually need.
I also found the spiritual dimension particularly intriguing. The recurring encounters with “The Rockstar” create a fascinating thread of synchronicity throughout the story, while the broader message about surrendering control and trusting life's unfolding adds another layer to the memoir's exploration of transformation.
At its heart, Cosmic Goodness is about stepping out of inherited patterns, releasing perfectionism, and finding the freedom to live with greater authenticity, awareness, and purpose.
A powerful and inspiring read for anyone interested in memoir, personal transformation, spirituality, burnout recovery, sobriety, and the courage to create a life beyond other people's expectations.
What I appreciated most is Cassidy Gard's willingness to look beneath outward success. Her journey through journalism and the high-pressure world of national media could easily have been presented as a straightforward professional success story, but instead she examines the generational trauma, anxiety, perfectionism, and emotional patterns that accompanied that achievement.
One of the book's greatest strengths is the transformation that follows. The movement from New York and Los Angeles toward Montana, conscious sobriety, deeper self-awareness, partnership, and motherhood gives the memoir a powerful sense of evolution. Rather than suggesting that success alone brings fulfillment, Gard explores what happens when we stop measuring our lives solely by external achievement and begin listening more closely to what we actually need.
I also found the spiritual dimension particularly intriguing. The recurring encounters with “The Rockstar” create a fascinating thread of synchronicity throughout the story, while the broader message about surrendering control and trusting life's unfolding adds another layer to the memoir's exploration of transformation.
At its heart, Cosmic Goodness is about stepping out of inherited patterns, releasing perfectionism, and finding the freedom to live with greater authenticity, awareness, and purpose.
A powerful and inspiring read for anyone interested in memoir, personal transformation, spirituality, burnout recovery, sobriety, and the courage to create a life beyond other people's expectations.
July 14, 2026
I stumbled on this book completely by accident. It popped up on Amazon, I’d never heard of the author, but the cover was so stunning that I clicked to learn more. So glad I did.
I listened on Audible and the author narrates it herself, which made it feel like a long conversation with a friend. It was easy to have on while doing things around the house, but I kept finding myself stopping to actually listen because of her rare mix of wisdom and humor.
What surprised me most was how seen I felt. We had similar childhoods, and hearing her talk about it brought up things I hadn’t thought about in years. Her honesty about 12 step programs was eye opening too. I’ve been sober curious for a while and this gave me a lot to sit with, without ever feeling preachy.
As a mom, her path to meeting her partner and becoming a mother was fascinating to me. She does talk a lot about spirituality and manifesting so if you’re not into that it might be a bit much for you. By the end, I understood what “cosmic goodness” means through her lens, and I’ve started noticing it in my own life. Now when something kismet happens, I think, “oh! how cosmic goodness.”
If you love memoirs that talk about childhood trauma, coming of age stories, motherhood, entertainment career paths, so on, pick this one up. Bonus points for the audiobook.
I listened on Audible and the author narrates it herself, which made it feel like a long conversation with a friend. It was easy to have on while doing things around the house, but I kept finding myself stopping to actually listen because of her rare mix of wisdom and humor.
What surprised me most was how seen I felt. We had similar childhoods, and hearing her talk about it brought up things I hadn’t thought about in years. Her honesty about 12 step programs was eye opening too. I’ve been sober curious for a while and this gave me a lot to sit with, without ever feeling preachy.
As a mom, her path to meeting her partner and becoming a mother was fascinating to me. She does talk a lot about spirituality and manifesting so if you’re not into that it might be a bit much for you. By the end, I understood what “cosmic goodness” means through her lens, and I’ve started noticing it in my own life. Now when something kismet happens, I think, “oh! how cosmic goodness.”
If you love memoirs that talk about childhood trauma, coming of age stories, motherhood, entertainment career paths, so on, pick this one up. Bonus points for the audiobook.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you, Post Hill Press and NetGalley, for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I sat with this review for a while, as this is the author's debut memoir, and it's clear the book was written from a place of deep vulnerability and catharsis (how could a memoir not be!). While I appreciate the courage it takes to share such personal experiences, I found it difficult to stay fully engaged or feel connected to the narrative.
The author has clearly endured significant challenges, and the title accurately signals the spiritual framing of the book, so I don't feel the narrative itself is misleading. That said, much of the reflection felt preachy to me, leaning heavily on the universe or spiritual principles as explanation. I found myself hoping for more depth and a broader consideration of external factors - including intersections of privilege, race and social context. That additional layer of analysis might have deepened the impact of an otherwise sincere and heartfelt story.
I sat with this review for a while, as this is the author's debut memoir, and it's clear the book was written from a place of deep vulnerability and catharsis (how could a memoir not be!). While I appreciate the courage it takes to share such personal experiences, I found it difficult to stay fully engaged or feel connected to the narrative.
The author has clearly endured significant challenges, and the title accurately signals the spiritual framing of the book, so I don't feel the narrative itself is misleading. That said, much of the reflection felt preachy to me, leaning heavily on the universe or spiritual principles as explanation. I found myself hoping for more depth and a broader consideration of external factors - including intersections of privilege, race and social context. That additional layer of analysis might have deepened the impact of an otherwise sincere and heartfelt story.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
4/5 Stars
Cassidy has lived an interesting life. She’s traveled widely, met her share of celebrities, and explored a range of spiritual paths. Throughout the book, it’s clear she’s a hard worker who has faced real challenges. However, the narrative occasionally overlooks how her appearance may have contributed to some of her early advantages, rather than attributing so much to the universe.
The most compelling part of the book comes near the end, when she reflects on settling down, finding a partner, and wanting children. These moments feel the most relatable. I also appreciated that she doesn’t try to wrap everything up in a neat bow. Instead, she acknowledges that life is rarely a straight or easy path, and she captures that beautifully.
Cassidy has lived an interesting life. She’s traveled widely, met her share of celebrities, and explored a range of spiritual paths. Throughout the book, it’s clear she’s a hard worker who has faced real challenges. However, the narrative occasionally overlooks how her appearance may have contributed to some of her early advantages, rather than attributing so much to the universe.
The most compelling part of the book comes near the end, when she reflects on settling down, finding a partner, and wanting children. These moments feel the most relatable. I also appreciated that she doesn’t try to wrap everything up in a neat bow. Instead, she acknowledges that life is rarely a straight or easy path, and she captures that beautifully.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Cassidy did a great job in telling her story.
She is not afraid to admit that she is just a human. Human with flaws and strength.
I could understand her feelings toward her parents and how it unconsiously shape her relationship toward other people.
Sometimes determination to change your fate could bring you far away, but sometimes you just have to know when to let it go. And let the cosmic do the rest.
Thank you Netgalley for the eARC.
She is not afraid to admit that she is just a human. Human with flaws and strength.
I could understand her feelings toward her parents and how it unconsiously shape her relationship toward other people.
Sometimes determination to change your fate could bring you far away, but sometimes you just have to know when to let it go. And let the cosmic do the rest.
Thank you Netgalley for the eARC.
May 14, 2026
Thank you to Post Hill Press and NetGalley for an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
Cosmic Goodness was an impactful and eye opening read. I felt that I could truly relate to the content I was reading and the author did a great job of keeping it real, but not overbearing. If you are looking for a book that meets you where you are this is a great read to pick up.
Cosmic Goodness was an impactful and eye opening read. I felt that I could truly relate to the content I was reading and the author did a great job of keeping it real, but not overbearing. If you are looking for a book that meets you where you are this is a great read to pick up.
June 2, 2026
Great memoir overall! I love the themes of loss, motherhood, and creating a path for yourself where it feels impossible. At times, it did read like a guide to manifestation kind of self help book which I wasn't expecting and I didn't really love those parts of it as much, but they might really work for someone else.
July 22, 2026
oh wow. this was one of those pieces of media that feels like it was made after looking inside my brain. the fact that the author sent me this book to read is definitely divine and meant for my eyes.
May 31, 2026
Sometimes a book finds you just at the right moment in life. Thank you Cassidy for sharing your story with the world.
Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews