Content Warning: This section of the guide includes frank discussions of death and prolonged grief, as well as brief discussions of alcohol addiction.

Clover, the protagonist in The Collected Regrets of Clover, undergoes a significant character transformation. The narrative is written from the perspective of Clover using first-person narration. Clover is a dynamic character whose story arc structures the novel.

In the beginning, Clover is reserved, introspective, and somewhat detached. Her role as a death doula reveals her fascination with death and an innate curiosity about the dying process. Her meticulous record-keeping and the way she approaches her clients’ final moments show her need to connect with the fleeting nature of life. Clover’s emotional detachment and fear of opening up to love connections are also notable character traits that set the stage for her evolution.

As the narrative progresses, Clover’s character gradually begins to change. Her encounters with terminally ill clients, especially Claudia, serve as catalysts for her own emotional awakening. She evolves from a passive observer of death into an active participant in the lives of her clients and of the people she encounters. This transformation is underpinned by her growing emotional depth and willingness to confront her fear of love and intimate relationships.