I've heard buzz about this novel for a few months and had the chance to grab a copy at the library just before my long weekend. Oh, I loved this one. It's definitely in my top ten favorite reads for 2023. And yes, I did get weepy.
Clover Brooks is a death doula. What, you may ask, is that? It's someone who sits with those who are in their last weeks; usually someone who has no one else. They help guide them through some of their last requests, talk about memories, and hold their hand. Clover is really good as a death doula.
Clover is also very alone. She lost her parents at a very early age, and moved to New York City to live with her Grandfather. Now thirty-six, Clover's Grandfather has been gone for over ten years, and Clover misses him so much she hasn't changed anything in the apartment they shared for so long. She's introverted, only playing mahjong with her elderly neighbor Leo and otherwise living quietly with her dog and cats. Life is passing her by, but the universe intervenes and begins pushing Clover towards a more meaningful, happy life.
A new neighbor moves in, and Sylvie is vivacious and super friendly. She charms Clover and slowly starts becoming friends. Sebastian meets Clover at a death cafe--yes, a place where people gather to talk about death. Even though Clover isn't interested at all in a friendship with Sebastian, he keeps popping up and being friendly. His grandmother, Claudia, is dying, and Sebastian wants Clover to be her death doula. Clover reluctantly agrees, and soon begins a firm friendship with Claudia--and so much happens because of this relationship.
It was wonderful to see Clover change as her interactions with Sylvie, Sebastian, and Claudia prove to be catalysts towards Clover living a life of purpose and joy. She's got a lot of unprocessed grief over her grandfather to work through, and the difficulty that comes with leaving her comfort zone for the unknown. All of the characters who populate Clover's world are the kind of people you'd want to have in your life.
This was a quick read, with many poignant moments. It will have you reflecting on the life you live, and how important it is to live so you have no regrets at the end of your life. As one character says, "The secret to a beautiful death is to live a beautiful life".
Rating: 6/6 for a fantastic novel that made me smile, cry, and reflect. Just a joyful novel that will stick with me for a long time.
Available in hardcover, ebook, and audio.
