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Everything's Still There
For fans of Alison Hammer and Caroline Leavitt, Kalyn Fogarty weaves an emotionally rich tale in her powerfully moving novel Everything’s Still There, exploring postpartum depression, female friendship, and new motherhood.
Professional party planner turned stay-at-home-mom, Brynn Hallman always imagined she’d be the ideal mother for her little boy, Cody. But her plans go awry with a series of medical complications that send her into a tailspin. Fueled by bad reality TV and a growing obsession with an Instafamous mommy influencer, Brynn falls deeper into her growing depression and turns inward, shutting out her pre-baby friends and pretending to her husband, Kyle, that everything is just fine.
During the early morning hours, Brynn sees a flashing light from her back porch across the expanse of her yard. Is it a trick of her tired eyes? For the first time in months, she ventures out of the house to discover the source of the light. What she finds will draw her into the life of an eccentric new friend, forcing her to confront her changing identity and the pressures of motherhood.
Imbued with an emotional resonance that will draw in fans of Ann Napolitano—but cast in an utterly unique voice—Kalyn Fogarty’s Everything’s Still There is sure to take a welcome place in the literary pantheon.
Professional party planner turned stay-at-home-mom, Brynn Hallman always imagined she’d be the ideal mother for her little boy, Cody. But her plans go awry with a series of medical complications that send her into a tailspin. Fueled by bad reality TV and a growing obsession with an Instafamous mommy influencer, Brynn falls deeper into her growing depression and turns inward, shutting out her pre-baby friends and pretending to her husband, Kyle, that everything is just fine.
During the early morning hours, Brynn sees a flashing light from her back porch across the expanse of her yard. Is it a trick of her tired eyes? For the first time in months, she ventures out of the house to discover the source of the light. What she finds will draw her into the life of an eccentric new friend, forcing her to confront her changing identity and the pressures of motherhood.
Imbued with an emotional resonance that will draw in fans of Ann Napolitano—but cast in an utterly unique voice—Kalyn Fogarty’s Everything’s Still There is sure to take a welcome place in the literary pantheon.
336 pages, Paperback
Published May 2, 2023
7 people are currently reading
332 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews
May 3, 2023
This is a moving look at new motherhood, postpartum depression, the deep need for connection, and the pitfalls of perfectionism.
Brynn Hallman should feel lucky that she is able to stay home with her newborn son Cody. But when she compares herself to all of the moms she sees around town and online, she knows she's pretty much a failure at this motherhood thing. She can barely take care of her son, much less do anything about losing the baby weight and actually getting a few hours of sleep. One bleary night, she looks out of the window and sees a light flash six times. Then she sees it again the next night. When she takes Cody for a walk to investigate, she becomes acquainted with her elderly neighbor, Joy, and the two forge a connection.
Brynn's story hit very close to home for me, I could completely identify with every emotion she was going through. It took me back to those days in vivid detail. I think it's so important to point out that postpartum depression looks different in everyone. We can't blame or shame Brynn's husband for not noticing, because it's not always easy to spot and those who suffer from it feel so much shame that it's often disguised or covered up. I was a little disappointed after so much setup for the healing process to occur off the page, but it was only a minor disappointment.
This is an emotional story that many moms will connect with intimately. However, it's not a book that everyone will enjoy. Unless you have been through the wringer of new motherhood, the endless talk about breastfeeding and everything else involved will be more tedious than touching.
I really appreciated the author's vulnerability at the true difficulties of new motherhood, which is made all the more complicated with the inclusion of social media and the comparison trap it promotes. I'm encouraged by this book to reach outside of my online world and connect more with others around me. It really does take a village.
I listened to this as an audiobook and the two narrators gave the book life and were perfect for Brynn's and Joy's voices.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, all opinions are my own.
Brynn Hallman should feel lucky that she is able to stay home with her newborn son Cody. But when she compares herself to all of the moms she sees around town and online, she knows she's pretty much a failure at this motherhood thing. She can barely take care of her son, much less do anything about losing the baby weight and actually getting a few hours of sleep. One bleary night, she looks out of the window and sees a light flash six times. Then she sees it again the next night. When she takes Cody for a walk to investigate, she becomes acquainted with her elderly neighbor, Joy, and the two forge a connection.
Brynn's story hit very close to home for me, I could completely identify with every emotion she was going through. It took me back to those days in vivid detail. I think it's so important to point out that postpartum depression looks different in everyone. We can't blame or shame Brynn's husband for not noticing, because it's not always easy to spot and those who suffer from it feel so much shame that it's often disguised or covered up. I was a little disappointed after so much setup for the healing process to occur off the page, but it was only a minor disappointment.
This is an emotional story that many moms will connect with intimately. However, it's not a book that everyone will enjoy. Unless you have been through the wringer of new motherhood, the endless talk about breastfeeding and everything else involved will be more tedious than touching.
I really appreciated the author's vulnerability at the true difficulties of new motherhood, which is made all the more complicated with the inclusion of social media and the comparison trap it promotes. I'm encouraged by this book to reach outside of my online world and connect more with others around me. It really does take a village.
I listened to this as an audiobook and the two narrators gave the book life and were perfect for Brynn's and Joy's voices.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, all opinions are my own.
May 14, 2023
Another great book from this author! I love stories that delve into the challenges of early motherhood and this one certainly doesn't shy away from the tough topics people are all too often afraid to admit or talk about!
Told in alternating perspectives from new mother Brynn who is struggling with mom-guilt and undiagnosed post-partum depression and anxiety and her elderly neighbor, Joy who becomes the friend and confidante Brynn didn't know she needed.
I related to so much of this story! It brought back all the struggles of that first year of becoming a new mother. From raw nipples, latching problems, mom-guilt, blow-outs, feeling touched out, adjusting to your new body, not feeling comfortable in your new body or desirable or wanting to engage in intimacy at all. There's also the extra layer of guilt/envy every mom feels watching the seemingly 'perfect' moms doing it all on social media.
The post-partum depression, anxiety and therapy rep in this book were excellent! I also adored the intergenerational friendship between Joy and Brynn and how we got to hear about Joy's heartbreaking journey to motherhood that included so many miscarriages and bouts of loneliness with an often absent husband.
Highly recommended for fans of books like When I ran away by Ilona Bannister or Just like home by Sarah Gailey. We need more books like this one that normalize the hardships and mental health struggles so many women experience as new mothers.
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for early digital and audio copies in exchange for my honest review. The audio narration by Mia Hutchinson-Shaw and Bernadette Dunne was very well done and I so enjoyed the To the lighthouse quotes and references sprinkled throughout the book too!
Told in alternating perspectives from new mother Brynn who is struggling with mom-guilt and undiagnosed post-partum depression and anxiety and her elderly neighbor, Joy who becomes the friend and confidante Brynn didn't know she needed.
I related to so much of this story! It brought back all the struggles of that first year of becoming a new mother. From raw nipples, latching problems, mom-guilt, blow-outs, feeling touched out, adjusting to your new body, not feeling comfortable in your new body or desirable or wanting to engage in intimacy at all. There's also the extra layer of guilt/envy every mom feels watching the seemingly 'perfect' moms doing it all on social media.
The post-partum depression, anxiety and therapy rep in this book were excellent! I also adored the intergenerational friendship between Joy and Brynn and how we got to hear about Joy's heartbreaking journey to motherhood that included so many miscarriages and bouts of loneliness with an often absent husband.
Highly recommended for fans of books like When I ran away by Ilona Bannister or Just like home by Sarah Gailey. We need more books like this one that normalize the hardships and mental health struggles so many women experience as new mothers.
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for early digital and audio copies in exchange for my honest review. The audio narration by Mia Hutchinson-Shaw and Bernadette Dunne was very well done and I so enjoyed the To the lighthouse quotes and references sprinkled throughout the book too!
March 20, 2024
This was so tough to read at times. But also so validating. I've never read such a compelling, candid look at postpartum depression. I cried through nearly every chapter.
This story is centrally about Brynn and her struggles as a new mom, but it's very much about Joy too, the elderly neighbour who becomes an unexpected confidant in her life. With alternating chapters between these two lonely women, I absolutely loved seeing the experience of motherhood through a different generational lens.
Joy was an angel. Compared to Brynn, her backstory was more of a slow reveal, which I have to admit was a bit of a snoozefest at times—but yes, I'm still giving this five stars. The ending, the way it all came together, destroyed my heart and pieced it back together. An intense but hopeful story that will stick with me!
(heat level: closed door)
This story is centrally about Brynn and her struggles as a new mom, but it's very much about Joy too, the elderly neighbour who becomes an unexpected confidant in her life. With alternating chapters between these two lonely women, I absolutely loved seeing the experience of motherhood through a different generational lens.
Joy was an angel. Compared to Brynn, her backstory was more of a slow reveal, which I have to admit was a bit of a snoozefest at times—but yes, I'm still giving this five stars. The ending, the way it all came together, destroyed my heart and pieced it back together. An intense but hopeful story that will stick with me!
(heat level: closed door)
April 25, 2023
This was definitely an emotional story about the hardships of new motherhood. The MC, Brynn, is dealing with postpartum depression. Anyone who has ever experienced that, will be able to relate to her. I have dealt with that, along with horrible anxiety after having my second son. So I definitely connected to this one. Brynn then meets an elderly lady named Joy while out for a walk with her baby. The bond and friendship that she develops with her is very heartwarming. She really helps Brynn, and keeps her from sinking deeper into the depths of her depression. Then you also read about the things in Joy's life that she has been through. Although I'd say this was a slow burn, I still enjoyed this story. It was tough to read some parts , because it really brought me back, but the subject was handled well.
Out May 2.
Thank you to the publisher for the gifted copy. All opinions are my own. My review will be posted on Instagram, Bookbub, and Amazon once it is published.
Out May 2.
Thank you to the publisher for the gifted copy. All opinions are my own. My review will be posted on Instagram, Bookbub, and Amazon once it is published.
May 13, 2023
Narrated by Mia Hutchinson-Shaw; Bernadette Dunne ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Story by Kalyn Fogarty ⭐⭐⭐⭐
This book is beautiful and raw. I caught myself nodding my head in agreement with Bryn feeling those feelings. Motherhood is bullshit and hard.
Story by Kalyn Fogarty ⭐⭐⭐⭐
This book is beautiful and raw. I caught myself nodding my head in agreement with Bryn feeling those feelings. Motherhood is bullshit and hard.
September 27, 2023
Awww 😢
Sweet, tender, heartbreaking.
Two women at opposing stages of life who form an unlikely friendship that helps them both truly survive.
Also a treatise on the challenges of new motherhood.
Sweet, tender, heartbreaking.
Two women at opposing stages of life who form an unlikely friendship that helps them both truly survive.
Also a treatise on the challenges of new motherhood.
March 31, 2023
Brynn is a new mother struggling to adjust when her idealized vision of motherhood doesn’t align with reality. One day while Brynn is on a walk with her infant son, she meets an elderly neighbor named Joy. The two strike up an unlikely friendship, each finding comfort and support in the other.
I was touched to the core by this tender and heartfelt novel of found family. The story develops gently and gradually but is heavy with emotional themes of love, loss, grief, and heartache. The raw and unflinching examination of early motherhood is a searing commentary on societal expectations and social media. The depiction of postpartum depression is so authentic; anyone who has ever endured PPD will feel seen and validated. Brynn and Joy are compelling, relatable, and vulnerable, and their connection is heartwarming. The symbolism of lighthouses, depicting the ways in which the women are a beacon and shelter to each other, is poetic and moving.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Alcove Press for providing me an advance copy of this book.
I was touched to the core by this tender and heartfelt novel of found family. The story develops gently and gradually but is heavy with emotional themes of love, loss, grief, and heartache. The raw and unflinching examination of early motherhood is a searing commentary on societal expectations and social media. The depiction of postpartum depression is so authentic; anyone who has ever endured PPD will feel seen and validated. Brynn and Joy are compelling, relatable, and vulnerable, and their connection is heartwarming. The symbolism of lighthouses, depicting the ways in which the women are a beacon and shelter to each other, is poetic and moving.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Alcove Press for providing me an advance copy of this book.
December 27, 2024
Reading this book postpartum is like getting coffee with a dear friend. I'm not sure I would rate this book so highly at any other time in life.
May 3, 2023
Thank you to libro.fm for providing me with an ALC of this audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
This was one that came highly recommended to me by a friend I really trust, so I obviously had to read it. And I'm so glad I did, because it really addresses some important mental health issues that need to be talked about more often, and it does it in a sensitive way.
Brynn is a new mom, and she's struggling with not only a lack of support, but also postpartum anxiety and depression. It's interfering with her ability to sleep and function, but she doesn't really have anyone that she can talk to about it. Until she encounters Joy, an older woman who lives nearby.
Watching the friendship develop between Brynn and Joy was one of the best parts of this book. These two women find common ground slowly but surely, and discover the healing that can be found in a strong female friendship, as Brynn opens up to Joy, and Joy recounts stories from her past. Through all of this, we get to experience the claustrophobic feeling of postpartum depression and anxiety, and see firsthand how it affects so many different areas of life, and I truly gained a new perspective on this disorder.
I love that this book focused on such an important topic, because it's one that isn't talked about enough, and there's a stigma associated with it. Each of Brynn's chapters start with a post from a mother who posts about her experiences on social media, and it also addresses how the social media that we're exposed to so often influences our own views of ourselves - except we're comparing someone else's best take, where we don't see what happens behind the scenes and all the stress to get that good pic/video, to our worst takes, and it sets us up for dissatisfaction and unhappiness.
Overall, this was a gook read, and I'm glad that I picked it up. I wasn't expecting it to be as heavy as it turned out to be, but it was done so well I can't complain about any of it.
This was one that came highly recommended to me by a friend I really trust, so I obviously had to read it. And I'm so glad I did, because it really addresses some important mental health issues that need to be talked about more often, and it does it in a sensitive way.
Brynn is a new mom, and she's struggling with not only a lack of support, but also postpartum anxiety and depression. It's interfering with her ability to sleep and function, but she doesn't really have anyone that she can talk to about it. Until she encounters Joy, an older woman who lives nearby.
Watching the friendship develop between Brynn and Joy was one of the best parts of this book. These two women find common ground slowly but surely, and discover the healing that can be found in a strong female friendship, as Brynn opens up to Joy, and Joy recounts stories from her past. Through all of this, we get to experience the claustrophobic feeling of postpartum depression and anxiety, and see firsthand how it affects so many different areas of life, and I truly gained a new perspective on this disorder.
I love that this book focused on such an important topic, because it's one that isn't talked about enough, and there's a stigma associated with it. Each of Brynn's chapters start with a post from a mother who posts about her experiences on social media, and it also addresses how the social media that we're exposed to so often influences our own views of ourselves - except we're comparing someone else's best take, where we don't see what happens behind the scenes and all the stress to get that good pic/video, to our worst takes, and it sets us up for dissatisfaction and unhappiness.
Overall, this was a gook read, and I'm glad that I picked it up. I wasn't expecting it to be as heavy as it turned out to be, but it was done so well I can't complain about any of it.
April 26, 2023
What a web this one weaves. Yet another novel about how social media can impact our mental health negatively- a subject that is so darn important to highlight. I also think it’s important to note that this one discusses postpartum depression which is another important topic that people tend to shy away from. A lot of heavy topics in here but it’s written very well and I loved all the stuff about the lighthouse.
🌀Synopsis
Brynn is convinced she’ll be the perfect mom. Things go wrong right away when her labor doesn’t go as planned and from there it seems to be downhill. She’s shutting people out of her life- including her husband- and feels like she’s not good enough. Add on the fact that she’s obsessed with influencer moms on social media plus she’s quit her job as a party planner and you’ve got the perfect storm of postpartum depression.
Some blinking lights in the morning finally draw her out of her home and over to a neighbor’s home. Joy tells her the stories of her kids and husband and even steps up to watch Kyle. This is at a time when Brynn starts to spiral out of control. She finally walks off one day and that’s the last straw. Both her husband and Brynn realizes she needs help and together they start to get her out of the depression.
🌀Synopsis
Brynn is convinced she’ll be the perfect mom. Things go wrong right away when her labor doesn’t go as planned and from there it seems to be downhill. She’s shutting people out of her life- including her husband- and feels like she’s not good enough. Add on the fact that she’s obsessed with influencer moms on social media plus she’s quit her job as a party planner and you’ve got the perfect storm of postpartum depression.
Some blinking lights in the morning finally draw her out of her home and over to a neighbor’s home. Joy tells her the stories of her kids and husband and even steps up to watch Kyle. This is at a time when Brynn starts to spiral out of control. She finally walks off one day and that’s the last straw. Both her husband and Brynn realizes she needs help and together they start to get her out of the depression.
March 15, 2023
I received a digital ARC from Alcove Press through NetGalley.
This is a story of women coming together to help each other in ways they do not even realize. The reader meets Brynn - a new mom, and Joy - a grandmother. Their unlikely friendship is both heart-breaking, and heart-warning.
This is a story of women coming together to help each other in ways they do not even realize. The reader meets Brynn - a new mom, and Joy - a grandmother. Their unlikely friendship is both heart-breaking, and heart-warning.
March 31, 2023
English:
It was an amazing read. This story focuses on maternity at it's crudest. Not everything is pretty and easy, sometimes we are not ready for that kind of challenge and women are judged hard because of it.
I like the tone of the book. It raises questions about the cultural roles for men and women on parenting. Is the "maternal instinct" real?
I recommend every woman who has doubts about maternity to read this book. Not because I want to discourage them, but because I think they would benefit from it. The most we know, the better.
Don't forget! Come back to your
Español:
Que buen libro sobre la depresión posparto.
Pese a ser una historia ficticia, entrelaza perfectamente dos historias sobre maternidad: una deseada que no sale como se esperaba y una impuesta socialmente, en la que la madre años después comprende que quizás no tomó las mejores decisiones y por eso no se encuentra con el futuro prometido socialmente de estar rodeada de hijos y nietos.
Me parecen dos historias bastante realistas y crudas, toca temas que generalmente están romantizados u ocultos en otras historias. Invita mucho a al reflexión sobre la salud mental y la importancia de asistencia psicológica en las distintas etapas de nuestra vida.
Se los recomiendo si están buscando libros que hablen sobre maternidad, cuidados, la soledad y la importancia de la autonomía corporal.
It was an amazing read. This story focuses on maternity at it's crudest. Not everything is pretty and easy, sometimes we are not ready for that kind of challenge and women are judged hard because of it.
I like the tone of the book. It raises questions about the cultural roles for men and women on parenting. Is the "maternal instinct" real?
I recommend every woman who has doubts about maternity to read this book. Not because I want to discourage them, but because I think they would benefit from it. The most we know, the better.
Don't forget! Come back to your
Español:
Que buen libro sobre la depresión posparto.
Pese a ser una historia ficticia, entrelaza perfectamente dos historias sobre maternidad: una deseada que no sale como se esperaba y una impuesta socialmente, en la que la madre años después comprende que quizás no tomó las mejores decisiones y por eso no se encuentra con el futuro prometido socialmente de estar rodeada de hijos y nietos.
Me parecen dos historias bastante realistas y crudas, toca temas que generalmente están romantizados u ocultos en otras historias. Invita mucho a al reflexión sobre la salud mental y la importancia de asistencia psicológica en las distintas etapas de nuestra vida.
Se los recomiendo si están buscando libros que hablen sobre maternidad, cuidados, la soledad y la importancia de la autonomía corporal.
September 24, 2022
I’m not sure how to rate something like this. It’s SO relatable. Brynn describes her feelings about motherhood and how they are not at all what she pictured as BeforeBrynn. It takes me back to those early days where the minutes seem like hours and you don’t feel like you can do anything right. But with that being said, it’s also hard to read. It takes a lot out of you. And it’s slow going.
Brynn forms an unlikely friendship with elderly Joy and this keeps her from sinking entirely below the surface. But Joy has demons of her own, too.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Brynn forms an unlikely friendship with elderly Joy and this keeps her from sinking entirely below the surface. But Joy has demons of her own, too.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
April 25, 2023
Thanks NetGalley and Dreamscapes for the audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
I chose this story hoping for a good story on motherhood and it did well meeting my expectations. The main character, Brynn, is a new mom with a tiny baby. Though newborns are hard, Brynn is struggling with nursing her baby enough, sleep deprivation as baby Cody doesn’t sleep well either and her husband works a lot so Brynn carries the weight of the parenting. She feels inadequate, especially when she sees other moms that don’t seem to be struggling and the moms on social media who somehow are excelling at mommyhood. As she’s up with the baby she looks out of the window in the early morning hours and sees the flash of porch lights on her neighbor’s house that intrigues her. Brynn finds herself curious and drawn to the house and begins a lovely friendship with an older woman named Joy who sees the young mother struggling and cannot help drawing her in, sharing lemonade, rocking the baby as Brynn takes a needed nap.
The book is a decent interpretation of postpartum depression and also finds Brynn discovering and eventually treating other mental health struggles. I appreciated the author’s ability to show Brynn being in well-rounded treatment (medication, therapy, support groups) and I loved that her husband was supportive after she was diagnosed.
However, I struggled with the fact that the husband really didn’t see the signs and bother to push to spend more time with the baby. He must notice his wife isn’t sleeping.
I loved Joy as a character and as Brynn’s friend. She was a sweet old lady not without her own struggles though I think there could have been a bit more attention on her since her story was given equal story time but it wasn’t really until the end of the book that we saw her struggles and understand her.
Regardless, I did enjoy this book and it tugged at my heart reminding me of the births of my own children and my own struggles those years.
I chose this story hoping for a good story on motherhood and it did well meeting my expectations. The main character, Brynn, is a new mom with a tiny baby. Though newborns are hard, Brynn is struggling with nursing her baby enough, sleep deprivation as baby Cody doesn’t sleep well either and her husband works a lot so Brynn carries the weight of the parenting. She feels inadequate, especially when she sees other moms that don’t seem to be struggling and the moms on social media who somehow are excelling at mommyhood. As she’s up with the baby she looks out of the window in the early morning hours and sees the flash of porch lights on her neighbor’s house that intrigues her. Brynn finds herself curious and drawn to the house and begins a lovely friendship with an older woman named Joy who sees the young mother struggling and cannot help drawing her in, sharing lemonade, rocking the baby as Brynn takes a needed nap.
The book is a decent interpretation of postpartum depression and also finds Brynn discovering and eventually treating other mental health struggles. I appreciated the author’s ability to show Brynn being in well-rounded treatment (medication, therapy, support groups) and I loved that her husband was supportive after she was diagnosed.
However, I struggled with the fact that the husband really didn’t see the signs and bother to push to spend more time with the baby. He must notice his wife isn’t sleeping.
I loved Joy as a character and as Brynn’s friend. She was a sweet old lady not without her own struggles though I think there could have been a bit more attention on her since her story was given equal story time but it wasn’t really until the end of the book that we saw her struggles and understand her.
Regardless, I did enjoy this book and it tugged at my heart reminding me of the births of my own children and my own struggles those years.
April 22, 2023
Kalyn Fogarty's debut novel, What We Carry is one of my most recommended books because of the way it made me feel seen throughout the fear and uneasiness of a pregnancy after loss. Now that I have read her upcoming release Everything's Still There, I am confident that her books are must reads for all mothers, aspiring mothers and their friends and family.
This book focused on Byrnn, a new mom of a newborn, and her unlikely friendship with elderly neighbour. Brynn is experiencing post partum depression, and has become isolated from almost everyone around her, including her friends and husband.
Throughout this book, we get to see the ups, and downs of motherhood, and watch a new mom struggle with who exactly she needs to be to be the best for her baby (there is no perfect, right answer here). The struggles Brynn faces are so real and relatable, it dives into the pressures of early motherhood perfectly. I don't think there can ever be enough books like this that deal with big topics like this in truthful ways.
I'm a sucker for a dual timeline/flashback tale, and this book has exactly that.
Kalyn Fogarty is now on my auto buy, must read and share author list, and I absolutely can not wait to see what she comes out with next.
If you haven't read What We Carry, I highly recommend picking it up while you wait for Everything's Still Here to come out at the beginning of May.
This book focused on Byrnn, a new mom of a newborn, and her unlikely friendship with elderly neighbour. Brynn is experiencing post partum depression, and has become isolated from almost everyone around her, including her friends and husband.
Throughout this book, we get to see the ups, and downs of motherhood, and watch a new mom struggle with who exactly she needs to be to be the best for her baby (there is no perfect, right answer here). The struggles Brynn faces are so real and relatable, it dives into the pressures of early motherhood perfectly. I don't think there can ever be enough books like this that deal with big topics like this in truthful ways.
I'm a sucker for a dual timeline/flashback tale, and this book has exactly that.
Kalyn Fogarty is now on my auto buy, must read and share author list, and I absolutely can not wait to see what she comes out with next.
If you haven't read What We Carry, I highly recommend picking it up while you wait for Everything's Still Here to come out at the beginning of May.
April 25, 2023
Everything’s Still There by Kalyn Fogarty really punched me in the gut. This novel made me feel seen. I must say that Fogarty captured new motherhood perfectly. My gosh, did this novel ever take me back to my early “first-time-mom” days, and it even made me a bit emotional. I was never officially diagnosed with postpartum anxiety, but I know that I had it. I’ve always been an anxious person, but my anxiety levels definitely skyrocketed after I became a new mom. There’s no doubt about that. So yes, I related to the main character, Brynn Hallman like you would not believe. Motherhood can be beautiful, joyous, and rewarding, but it can also be very miserable, exhausting, and lonely. It’s an experience that definitely changed me, and will forever define me.
READ THIS IF YOU ENJOY:
- Multiple perspectives and timelines
- Honest, harsh, and realistic looks at new motherhood
- Stories about postpartum depression and anxiety
- Themes of marriage and parenthood
- Emotional reads
- Character-driven novels
- Unlikely friendships
- Female friendship
- Found family
- Ilona Bannister’s novels
This novel is very thoughtful, raw, and well written. The author handled the harsh realities of new motherhood with extreme care. Everything’s Still There releases on May 2nd, and it gets 4.5/5 stars from me! Highly recommend!
READ THIS IF YOU ENJOY:
- Multiple perspectives and timelines
- Honest, harsh, and realistic looks at new motherhood
- Stories about postpartum depression and anxiety
- Themes of marriage and parenthood
- Emotional reads
- Character-driven novels
- Unlikely friendships
- Female friendship
- Found family
- Ilona Bannister’s novels
This novel is very thoughtful, raw, and well written. The author handled the harsh realities of new motherhood with extreme care. Everything’s Still There releases on May 2nd, and it gets 4.5/5 stars from me! Highly recommend!
May 13, 2023
Brynn is a first-time new mom who seems to have the perfect life. She’s got a loving husband, financial security, ability to be a stay-at-home mom by choice. But she struggles to do everything perfect, care for her son Cody, take care of her home, be a good wife, make new mom friends…all glorified by social media advice from a supposedly perfect women. She’s struggling and it’s apparent she has some PPD.
Joy is an octogenarian living alone (around the corner from Brynn) with children who are too caught up in their own lives to give her the attention/love that she needs. She spends much of her time reminiscing on her past and regretting many of her decisions/actions regarding both her children and her husband Freddie.
These two women characters are endearing and grow in a lovely, gentle manner. They become neighbor friends and that part of the story was very sweet albeit a little unrealistic to me. It tells the tale of an odd relationship while also taking a brutally honest look at parenting in the current day. The book focuses on the harsh demands and exaggerated expectations mothers carry daily.
I felt the writing was a little unpolished and the relationship between Brynn and her husband, Kyle were not completely flushed out. They came off like living strangers. I liked this book for the most part but felt it could have been much more detailed. It’s a slow go for sure but look forward to reading more of Kalyn’s writing in the future.
Joy is an octogenarian living alone (around the corner from Brynn) with children who are too caught up in their own lives to give her the attention/love that she needs. She spends much of her time reminiscing on her past and regretting many of her decisions/actions regarding both her children and her husband Freddie.
These two women characters are endearing and grow in a lovely, gentle manner. They become neighbor friends and that part of the story was very sweet albeit a little unrealistic to me. It tells the tale of an odd relationship while also taking a brutally honest look at parenting in the current day. The book focuses on the harsh demands and exaggerated expectations mothers carry daily.
I felt the writing was a little unpolished and the relationship between Brynn and her husband, Kyle were not completely flushed out. They came off like living strangers. I liked this book for the most part but felt it could have been much more detailed. It’s a slow go for sure but look forward to reading more of Kalyn’s writing in the future.
April 23, 2023
Rin is a planner but when she has her little boy nothing goes as planned and she feels like she is failing as a mother one thing out on a walk she meet her neighbor joy a widow and an experienced mother in Rin takes comfort in her new friendship with the help of joy Rin will slowly but surely find her feet when it comes to mothering and will gain a new chosen family at the end. This is not only a very interesting book but one that should be read by all new mothers. Unfortunately throughout my pregnancy I was addicted to True Crime not such a great topic when giving birth to new life and I wish I would’ve read more books like this. I love joy and no I would’ve also loved to been her friend as well written it’s like most new moms insecure and trying to find where she fits in her new role it all comes together at the end but what a great journey to get there. I love this book and love the two narrators and I think they both did a wonderful job most times when there are multiple narrators there’s usually one I have a dislike for but not in Everything Still There it’s a wonderful book with wonderful narration. I received this book from NetGalley and a publisher but I am leaving this review voluntarily please forgive any mistakes as I am blind and dictate my review.
June 16, 2023
first of all, i really appreciate the honesty and vulnerability displayed in this novel regarding new motherhood and postnatal depression. fiction like this plays such an important role in providing comfort to mothers who can relate to the protagonist's situation as well as giving others an insight of what such an experience might be like, leading to more understanding. though this was a little bit on the nose at times, I also liked how the novel talks about the role social media plays in the overly glorified and unrealistic portrayal of motherhood that leaves little room for acknowledging its more challenging aspects. moreover, I loved the intergenerational friendship develop between brynn and joy as it was lovely to see how two women of such different ages can be such a comfort to each other.
while I'm a big fan the themes and the overall idea of the novel, I did, unfortunately, not fully connect with the protagonist or the writing. some of the relationships, especially brynn's marriage to kyle, were difficult to grasp. even though I was quite into the novel at the start, it also began to drag on a little bit halfway through, and i found the ending slightly unsatisfactory.
overall, a decent debut with great themes but some room for improvement!
while I'm a big fan the themes and the overall idea of the novel, I did, unfortunately, not fully connect with the protagonist or the writing. some of the relationships, especially brynn's marriage to kyle, were difficult to grasp. even though I was quite into the novel at the start, it also began to drag on a little bit halfway through, and i found the ending slightly unsatisfactory.
overall, a decent debut with great themes but some room for improvement!
April 27, 2023
Everything's Still There by Kalyn Fogarty instantly brought me back to the early days of being a new mom. The worrying, not sleeping, and stressing about what you're doing compared to others all accurate. I enjoyed Brynn's journey through this and her friendship with Joy. I also liked the Mama Monty posts at the start of Brynn's chapters, but don't feel like the Agatha Christie passages at the start of Joy's added anything to the story.
I am disappointed to have glanced at a review that wasn't hidden for spoilers that stated something that distracted my reading, taking me out of the story a few times. I wish Goodreads would actually fix the posts that are reported instead of doing nothing and continuing to let the reviews ruin books for others.
Mia Hutchinson-Shaw and Bernadette Dunne are good narrators. My only complaint is that the narrator for Joy was too slow so I had to increase the speed to 1.25, making the narrator for Brynn a tad too fast since her pace was perfect. It would be nice if both voices could have been synchronized to allow for better flow.
Overall, I rate Everything's Still There 4 stars.
Thank you to Dreamscape Media for providing me with an ALC.
I am disappointed to have glanced at a review that wasn't hidden for spoilers that stated something that distracted my reading, taking me out of the story a few times. I wish Goodreads would actually fix the posts that are reported instead of doing nothing and continuing to let the reviews ruin books for others.
Mia Hutchinson-Shaw and Bernadette Dunne are good narrators. My only complaint is that the narrator for Joy was too slow so I had to increase the speed to 1.25, making the narrator for Brynn a tad too fast since her pace was perfect. It would be nice if both voices could have been synchronized to allow for better flow.
Overall, I rate Everything's Still There 4 stars.
Thank you to Dreamscape Media for providing me with an ALC.
May 7, 2023
Everything's Still There by Kalyn Fogarty did not disappoint. The story follows Brynn, a new mom struggling with nursing, sleep deprivation, and the pressures of motherhood. As she battles postpartum depression, she finds solace in an unlikely friendship with an older woman named Joy. The book delves into the reality of being a stay-at-home mother and the difficulties of balancing it all. I appreciated the author's portrayal of mental health treatment and the support Brynn receives from her husband. The book is told through the perspectives of both Brynn and Joy, creating complex and relatable characters. The writing is deep, making it hard to put down. Overall, a great read that I would highly recommend.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Dreamscapes Media for the audiobook copy.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Dreamscapes Media for the audiobook copy.
April 28, 2023
A new mother and octogenarian bond in this story that really communicates a serious message.
I almost didn't finish Everything's Still There, but so glad that I did.
As 55+ female who is not a mother, I had not expected to learn so much about breast feeding.
Thank you to NetGalley for introducing me to (yet again) another "new to me" author. Thank you to NetGalley, Kayln Fogarty the author, Dreamscape Media the publisher and Mia Hutchinson-Shaw and Bernadette Dunn the narrators. I was able to review the audiobook and the narrators did a fabulous job; I especially liked the chapter where both narrators worked together in the chapter. I especially liked the voice of Joy with the wonderful NE accent, it was perfect! The advance listen copy was provided in exchange for an honest review.
I almost didn't finish Everything's Still There, but so glad that I did.
As 55+ female who is not a mother, I had not expected to learn so much about breast feeding.
Thank you to NetGalley for introducing me to (yet again) another "new to me" author. Thank you to NetGalley, Kayln Fogarty the author, Dreamscape Media the publisher and Mia Hutchinson-Shaw and Bernadette Dunn the narrators. I was able to review the audiobook and the narrators did a fabulous job; I especially liked the chapter where both narrators worked together in the chapter. I especially liked the voice of Joy with the wonderful NE accent, it was perfect! The advance listen copy was provided in exchange for an honest review.
March 31, 2023
I loved this book, another masterpiece by Fogarty that had me captivated cover to cover. Everything's Still There is a story of struggle & redemption, regret & forgiveness. But mostly, it is a story of the power of the human spirit and the importance of female friendship.
Using her unique capacity to tell multiple narratives, Kalyn Fogarty simultaneously tells the story through her main characters Joy and Brynn. The dual narrative develops complex, multi-faceted characters who are vivid and palpable.
The narrative forces readers to confront the age old struggle of expectations not meeting reality, and learning self love and acceptance none the less. Highly recommend this book as a reminder of the beauty of humanity despite the darkness we all sometimes must face.
Using her unique capacity to tell multiple narratives, Kalyn Fogarty simultaneously tells the story through her main characters Joy and Brynn. The dual narrative develops complex, multi-faceted characters who are vivid and palpable.
The narrative forces readers to confront the age old struggle of expectations not meeting reality, and learning self love and acceptance none the less. Highly recommend this book as a reminder of the beauty of humanity despite the darkness we all sometimes must face.
January 14, 2023
This story would be a wonderful movie. I could not put it down. The characters are heartwarming and develop beautifully, gently. Intriguing with a surprise ending.
April 23, 2023
Thank you Net Galley for an audio ARC of Everything's Still Here. It's about a struggling woman new to parenting and her valuable friendship with a neighbor.
July 20, 2023
A well executed novel
December 11, 2023
I went into Everthing’s Still Here blind. I had the ALC audiobook thanks to @librofm, but hadn’t seen this book even once on booksta. Still, I was in between reads and decided to give it a try. I’m glad I did.
This book was painstakingly good. It’s an honest, raw account on the side of new motherhood that’s rarely talked about. But commonly experienced. Post-partum depression, the dark side, the loneliness, the anxiety, the panic, the sleepless nights, the incessant crying. The toll trying to instantly step into every role at once to keep a new life thriving. It’s tiresome, it leads to resentment, it’s maddening, and can be unfair.
I could deeply relate to Bryn’s difficult journey, trying to bond with her new baby. At this point in my life, I know that I don’t have the patience or desire to deal with a newborn. Yes, babies are precious blessings…but mom life is not for everyone.
Anyway, the part of the story I most loved was Bryn and her elderly neighbor, Joy. Joy would recall moments decades before when raising her two children, and she’d reflect over her marriage and how she was basically left alone to raise her children while her husband pursued his first love – the ocean.
These women took an instant liking to each other and I myself fell instantly in love with Joy. She was the sweetest, most adorable soul.
At some point I did tire of hearing about Bryn’s baby crying and thrusting his body about. (Like I said, babies are no longer a desire). I kept asking myself, why don’t you hire someone to help you out?! She was rich, but wouldn’t take advantage of the resources available to her. Had it not been for my mother’s help, I don’t know how I would’ve survived the first couple years of motherhood.
Towards the end, I was wanting to know about how Bryn made it out of her dark place, after “that night”, and I kind of changed my liking of her, until she redeemed herself in the end.
Overall, this was a very tender, relatable story and I really enjoyed it!! Beautifully written and narrated!
This book was painstakingly good. It’s an honest, raw account on the side of new motherhood that’s rarely talked about. But commonly experienced. Post-partum depression, the dark side, the loneliness, the anxiety, the panic, the sleepless nights, the incessant crying. The toll trying to instantly step into every role at once to keep a new life thriving. It’s tiresome, it leads to resentment, it’s maddening, and can be unfair.
I could deeply relate to Bryn’s difficult journey, trying to bond with her new baby. At this point in my life, I know that I don’t have the patience or desire to deal with a newborn. Yes, babies are precious blessings…but mom life is not for everyone.
Anyway, the part of the story I most loved was Bryn and her elderly neighbor, Joy. Joy would recall moments decades before when raising her two children, and she’d reflect over her marriage and how she was basically left alone to raise her children while her husband pursued his first love – the ocean.
These women took an instant liking to each other and I myself fell instantly in love with Joy. She was the sweetest, most adorable soul.
At some point I did tire of hearing about Bryn’s baby crying and thrusting his body about. (Like I said, babies are no longer a desire). I kept asking myself, why don’t you hire someone to help you out?! She was rich, but wouldn’t take advantage of the resources available to her. Had it not been for my mother’s help, I don’t know how I would’ve survived the first couple years of motherhood.
Towards the end, I was wanting to know about how Bryn made it out of her dark place, after “that night”, and I kind of changed my liking of her, until she redeemed herself in the end.
Overall, this was a very tender, relatable story and I really enjoyed it!! Beautifully written and narrated!
June 10, 2023
I actually really liked this one at first because it did a good job of painting a picture of postpartum depression. Then it just started getting kinda drawn out and boring. I definitely do appreciate the spotlight on PPD but I’m not sure a wide audience would appreciate this one.
June 4, 2023
Everything’s Still There by Kalyn Fogarty is a well-narrated story of an unlikely friendship between two women, Brynn and Joyce. I listened to an audiobook narrated by Mia Hutchinson-Shaw and Bernadette Dunne. They have done a marvellous job of bringing the characters to life.
Brynn, a new mother, is struggling emotionally and physically after the birth of her son, Cody. The reality of her situation is significantly different from what she had imagined. A perfectionist by nature and a party planner by profession, she is unable to accept the way she is losing control over her life. It breaks her heart to know that she is unlike those Instagram influencer moms who are always posting perfect pictures. Her husband fails to notice her signs and believes (or rather prefers to believe) the stories Brynn shares about her new friendship with other moms.
One early morning, Brynn notices a flash of light coming from her neighbour’s home. Intrigued, she drops in for a visit, unannounced. Joy, her neighbour, an 80+ woman, welcomes her not into her home, but into her life too. Thus begins an unlikely and heart-warming friendship between two women that helps them both equally.
The two characters are as opposite as one can be, and yet, they share common traits defined by womanhood and motherhood. The way they grow through the pages makes them endearing and unforgettable.
Fogarty’s writing is honest to the core. Any woman who has faced post-partum depression will be able to identify with Brynn’s character a lot. Brynn’s breastfeeding journey, latching issues, difficulty accepting her changed physique, disinterest in physical intimacy, disconnect with friends, mom's guilt, and even envy are depicted with utmost honesty. Joy’s loneliness, wisdom, and guilt are hard to miss. Her regret at her soured relationship with her children is heartbreaking.
While Brynn's actions, thoughts, and behaviour might feel repetitive and toxic, as someone who suffered from PPD, I know it's portrayed authentically.
I loved the dual timelines and the flashbacks.
Fogarty has given equal space to both narrators to share their stories. She has handled postpartum depression, loneliness, isolation, mother’s guilt, loss of loved ones, and the shift in timeliness expertly.
Everything’s Still There is a beautiful and honest story of motherhood and friendship. The happy ending makes the story all the more wonderful. Highly recommended!
Thanks to NetGalley and Dreamscape Media for the review copy. My review is honest and voluntary.
Wordsopedia Rating 4.45/5
Brynn, a new mother, is struggling emotionally and physically after the birth of her son, Cody. The reality of her situation is significantly different from what she had imagined. A perfectionist by nature and a party planner by profession, she is unable to accept the way she is losing control over her life. It breaks her heart to know that she is unlike those Instagram influencer moms who are always posting perfect pictures. Her husband fails to notice her signs and believes (or rather prefers to believe) the stories Brynn shares about her new friendship with other moms.
One early morning, Brynn notices a flash of light coming from her neighbour’s home. Intrigued, she drops in for a visit, unannounced. Joy, her neighbour, an 80+ woman, welcomes her not into her home, but into her life too. Thus begins an unlikely and heart-warming friendship between two women that helps them both equally.
The two characters are as opposite as one can be, and yet, they share common traits defined by womanhood and motherhood. The way they grow through the pages makes them endearing and unforgettable.
Fogarty’s writing is honest to the core. Any woman who has faced post-partum depression will be able to identify with Brynn’s character a lot. Brynn’s breastfeeding journey, latching issues, difficulty accepting her changed physique, disinterest in physical intimacy, disconnect with friends, mom's guilt, and even envy are depicted with utmost honesty. Joy’s loneliness, wisdom, and guilt are hard to miss. Her regret at her soured relationship with her children is heartbreaking.
While Brynn's actions, thoughts, and behaviour might feel repetitive and toxic, as someone who suffered from PPD, I know it's portrayed authentically.
I loved the dual timelines and the flashbacks.
Fogarty has given equal space to both narrators to share their stories. She has handled postpartum depression, loneliness, isolation, mother’s guilt, loss of loved ones, and the shift in timeliness expertly.
Everything’s Still There is a beautiful and honest story of motherhood and friendship. The happy ending makes the story all the more wonderful. Highly recommended!
Thanks to NetGalley and Dreamscape Media for the review copy. My review is honest and voluntary.
Wordsopedia Rating 4.45/5
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