Mikki Brammer’s debut novel, The Collected Regrets of Clover, is an emotionally profound and thought-provoking journey that lingers long after you turn the final page. As someone who’s always been captivated by stories that explore the human experience, I found myself deeply moved by Clover’s journey as a death doula—a role that forces her to confront the weight of regrets, both her own and those of the people she cares for. This book resonated with me in ways I didn’t expect, sparking reflection on how we live, love, and, ultimately, say goodbye.
Plot Summary:
The story centers around Clover, a death doula in New York City who helps individuals in their final moments. With every client she assists, Clover collects their regrets, piecing together what it means to live a meaningful life. However, as Clover becomes more immersed in the lives of the dying, she’s forced to confront her own fears, missed opportunities, and loneliness. Her journey takes a turn when she’s asked to fulfill a dying woman’s final wish, which sets Clover on an adventure that challenges her to face her own regrets and rediscover her passion for life.
Characters:
Clover is an incredibly nuanced character, and it’s impossible not to be drawn into her world. She is someone who has spent so much time caring for others that she’s forgotten to care for herself. What I love most about Clover is how relatable she is—her vulnerability, her fears, and her longing for connection feel real.
The supporting characters, particularly Sebastian, who adds a dash of spontaneity and warmth to the narrative, and Claudia, the elderly woman who ignites Clover’s self-exploration, are both compelling in their own ways. Each character contributes to Clover’s growth and the overall emotional depth of the story.
Themes:
At its core, The Collected Regrets of Clover is about life and death, but more specifically, it’s about the regrets we accumulate and how they shape us. It’s a call to action to live fully and authentically, not to wait until the end to realize what truly matters. Brammer also delves into themes of loneliness and human connection, exploring how we often put walls up around ourselves and deny the relationships that could enrich our lives. The book beautifully illustrates that death is not something to be feared but a reminder to cherish the time we have.
Writing Style:
Mikki Brammer’s writing is both poetic and accessible. She manages to take a heavy subject like death and infuse it with hope, humor, and wisdom. The pacing is gentle yet compelling, allowing readers to savor each moment of Clover’s journey while still keeping them engaged. Brammer has a way of making even the smallest observations about life feel significant, and her ability to create a sense of intimacy between the reader and the characters is remarkable.
Personal Reflection:
Reading The Collected Regrets of Clover felt like a quiet conversation with a wise friend. It made me think about my own life—the choices I’ve made, the things I’ve put off, and the moments I may have taken for granted. There was one scene that particularly resonated with me, where Clover reflects on a client’s regret of not telling her loved ones how much they meant to her. It’s such a simple thing, but it hit me hard. How often do we hold back, thinking we have more time? This book made me realize how important it is to speak from the heart and live without waiting for the perfect moment.
Conclusion:
The Collected Regrets of Clover is a beautiful meditation on life, death, and the space in between. It’s the kind of book that will stay with you long after you’ve finished it, gently urging you to live more authentically and love more deeply. I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys stories that challenge you to think about the bigger picture—what it means to live a life with no regrets. If you’re a fan of introspective, character-driven novels, this one is for you.
Happy Reading,
Love,
Emma
EmmaCohan.com 