Discovering Strength in Sisterhood: A Review of The Change by Kirsten Miller
Happy publication day to The Change! I couldn’t resist diving into the pages of this bold, genre-defying novel by Kirsten Miller, and let me tell you—it did not disappoint. From the moment I read the first line, I was hooked: “No one had seen the woman who lived at 256 Woodland Drive since early November.” This mysterious opening immediately piqued my curiosity about Harriett Osborne. Why was she so isolated, and what secrets lay hidden behind those closed doors?
Miller’s narrative follows three remarkable women, each coping with their own struggles while harboring extraordinary abilities. We meet Harriett, a former advertising director who has recently been cast aside by her career and her marriage. There’s Jo Levinson, who runs a female-only fitness center and channels her menopausal rage into a fierce new power. Then there’s Nessa James, a widow with the unsettling gift of hearing the dead, guiding her to uncover hidden truths. Together, these three middle-aged women form an unbreakable bond, united not just by their hardships but by a desperate need to confront the malevolent forces haunting their community.
I was captivated by how Miller balances humor and poignancy. One moment, I found myself laughing out loud at the witty banter and relatable frustrations, and the next, I was grappling with the darker elements at play—a chilling crime and the societal failures that allow such atrocities to persist. The writing is sharp, and the pacing kept me on my toes, making it impossible to put the book down.
The depth of character development truly shines. Each woman has a rich backstory; Miller gives voice not only to them but to numerous side characters, illuminating their struggles and pain. The empathy she weaves into her writing allows readers to connect deeply with the victims and their families, navigating the complex interplay of grief and empowerment. This nuance is refreshing, especially in the context of a narrative that isn’t simply anti-male—it’s anti-inequity. It stands firmly against the societal structures that have held women down, showcasing their resilience and strength.
The camaraderie among Harriett, Jo, and Nessa becomes a rallying cry, and I found myself cheering for them as they embraced their powers and sought justice. Miller’s perspective on feminism is refreshing; it champions authenticity and unity among women rather than division. In the end, the women are shown as badasses who confront evil, not viciously targeting men but rallying against the systemic nonsense that plagues them.
While it’s a weighty read, every extra page counts. I was grateful for every moment I spent within these characters’ lives and couldn’t help but envision this as a powerful film.
Miller has crafted a story that resonates, and I can see it making waves in book clubs and among readers looking for stories infused with bravery and a celebration of female strength. If you’re seeking a gripping, thoughtful read that will have you laughing and gasping in equal measure, look no further. The Change is not just a book; it’s an experience.
So, mark your calendars! If you haven’t picked this one up yet, do yourself a favor and read it. You won’t be disappointed!