In 'Circle of Wonders', Kathryn Heyman introduces Roni, a charismatic yet unreliable woman facing death in her home in the Blue Mountains, Australia. Surrounded by her complicated relationships with her daughter Belle, half-sister Anna, and friend Pip, Roni's journey towards death raises profound questions about how to live and die well. Each woman grapples with their past hurts and the legacy of their mother, Sylvie, who dies alone in a hospital, contrasting sharply with Roni's desire for a vibrant farewell. Heyman skillfully captures the nuances of their interactions, highlighting the women's struggles against a backdrop of patriarchal expectations. As Roni stages a living wake and compiles a 'book of wonders', the narrative shifts between perspectives, revealing the characters' vulnerabilities and growth. Ultimately, Roni's death becomes a catalyst for healing, offering the women new models for love and forgiveness. This novel serves as a poignant exploration of familial bonds and the quest for meaning amidst chaos.