In the realm of poignant literature, The Collected Regrets of Clover by Mikki Brammer stands as a beacon of raw emotion and introspection. This review delves into the heart of Clover’s regrets, unearthing the profound wisdom nestled within the pages of this unforgettable narrative.
Clover finds herself in the company of solitude. As a death doula, her existence is woven into the fabric of those on the precipice of life’s final curtain call, guiding them toward their next journey with a blend of dignity and grace. Yet, the nature of her vocation, coupled with her dread of regret, has rendered her social circle to a singular entity – her octogenarian neighbor, Leo.
She isn’t truly alive, but rather, she’s submerged in a sea of sorrow, merely drifting through existence. Her attempts at new experiences are not born from personal desire but are echoes of the regrets she has gathered from others in their final moments.
In the midst of her solitude, Clover finds companionship, bears witness to the final chapter of a sagacious woman’s life, and encounters a man who leaves an indelible mark on her existence.
Giving someone the chance to be seen at their most vulnerable is much more healing than any words.
Mikki Brammer – The Collected Regrets of Clover
Brammer’s inaugural novel is a captivating tapestry of narrative threads that I found enchanting. The book is peppered with profound insights on the nature of grief, the courage to embrace new opportunities, and the process of confronting mortality, making it a worthwhile literary journey.
Looking other peope’s pain in the eye was much easier than facing your own.
Mikki Brammer – The Collected Regrets of Clover
Certain aspects of the book could have benefited from additional refinement. The emphasis on Clover’s solitude and the underlying reasons for it were reiterated excessively, resulting in a somewhat one-dimensional portrayal of her character. While I was fond of her neighbor’s character, I found him to be lacking in complexity as well. With the exception of one, all characters seemed to be mere caricatures, confined to their roles in Clover’s narrative, rather than fully fleshed-out individuals.
You’ll never find the right thing to say because the right thing to say doesn’t exist. The fact that your’re there, and present, says so much more.
Mikki Brammer – The Collected Regrets of Clover
Whenever the narrative pivoted towards themes of grief and mortality, a palpable rawness permeated the prose, suggesting that Brammer has shared a profound intimacy with sorrow. Her insights, both poignant and deeply instructive, resonate with the reader as invaluable lessons about life.
The secret to a beautiful death is to live a beautiful life.
Mikke Brammer
While the storyline of the book may have followed a predictable trajectory, it still managed to charm with its heartfelt narrative. The tale served as a gentle reminder of some essential life lessons, particularly focusing on our perception of interpersonal relationships and the true essence of what matters in life. Despite its predictability, the story’s endearing quality and its ability to impart wisdom about the human condition make it a worthwhile read.
My Rating: 🌸🌸🌸
Trigger warnings: abandonment, death, illness
This was my June Book of the Month pick. Join Book of the Month and get a hardback each month for $14.99!
