Jen's Jewels Author Interview: The Phoebe Variations

In this week’s Jen’s Jewels, I had the absolute pleasure of chatting with Jane Hamilton about her beautifully crafted new novel, The Phoebe Variations, that delves into the timeless themes of mothers, daughters, and the lifelong journey of self-discovery. At the heart of the story is Phoebe, a young woman whose world is turned upside down when she comes face-to-face with the truth about her birth family. Through her eyes, we witness the struggles of identity, the complexities of adoption, and the unshakable bond she shares with her adoptive mother, Greta.

Jane also shines a light on the friendships that help us through life’s most challenging seasons, including Phoebe’s close connection with her best friend Luna, as well as the chaotic, unforgettable household of Patrick and his thirteen siblings. Each relationship pushes Phoebe to grow, question, and redefine who she is meant to be.

From tender moments of self-realization—like when Phoebe makes the bold decision to cut her hair—to the broader questions of belonging and purpose, Jane’s novel captures the heart of what it means to come of age. In our conversation, she opens up about the inspiration behind these characters, the real-life stories that influenced the narrative, and what she hopes readers will take away once they’ve turned the final page. To read more, click here.