Everything Here is Under Control by Emily Adrian

For anyone whose become a new parent, the early days of adjustment can be a tremendous challenge. With sleep deprivation, changing maternal hormones, the often difficult challenges of breastfeeding and learning the baby’s needs it is likely one of the greatest challenges in a woman’s life. Everything Here is Under Control is a discussion of early motherhood and the importance of active support and friendship.

Amanda is a new mother and is struggling to cope. Her partner Gabe has not been the support she so desperately needs. Desperate for some help, Amanda drives herself and baby from New York back to her hometown in Ohio. Not to seek help from her mother who still lives in the town, but to the home of her estranged childhood friend Carrie.

The reasons she chooses Carrie are slowly revealed throughout the book. Carrie’s daughter is now twelve years old – much older than the last time Amanda has visited. The story is told from the Then and Now perspective which illustrates the complex and highly intimate relationship between the two women. Indeed, there is a bond that allows the two to not only support, but to challenge one another. Furthermore, the book highlights the unique characteristics of perception and personal experience and does so with compassion.

I love a book that addresses common experiences of women. Let’s face it – childbirth and the early postpartum period is not for the faint of heart. This book acknowledges this and, to some extent, normalizes it. It also celebrates those that actively support us through trying times and stay with us through the good days and bad days.

I listened to the audiobook version which was narrated by Madeleine Lambert. I enjoyed her performance when there was dialogue, but found that the narration of the book was quite flat otherwise. Therefore, I would recommend reading this book over choosing the audiobook version.

Thanks to Netgalley and Blackstone Publishing for the ARC of this audiobook in exchange for the honest review provided here.

My rating: ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️/5.