floral_knight 's review for:

The Collected Regrets of Clover by Mikki Brammer

3.0

emotional hopeful inspiring reflective medium-paced

Plot or Character Driven: Character

Strong character development: Yes

Loveable characters: Complicated

Diverse cast of characters: No

Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

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I can't deny that I found Clover insufferable, as well as the simultaneously stiff yet romanticized approach to non-American cultures. The writing also did feel... amateur-ish at times (

in what universe would school admin be the ones to tell a child their parents died??

). However, there was wisdom in this book that everyone benefits from remembering once in a while. While half of the characters were unlikeable, half were lovely. And it's impossible not to tear up at least once while reading, which gives the novel an emotional edge that makes it memorable. I can't say it was life-changing or profoundly moving, but it reminded me of what matters to me and I'm glad I read it.

P.S. — Meeting Hugo and suddenly realizing Clover would end up with him instead of Sebastian was VERY fun (and a huge relief lol)

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Content Warnings

Graphic: Grief

Minor: Bullying, Cancer, Sexism, Death of parent