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)