If you’re looking for books set in Scotland that are quietly powerful and deeply moving, Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine is a must-read. This bestselling debut by Gail Honeyman takes readers into the life of a woman who appears fine on the surface but is hiding a world of loneliness and trauma underneath.
What is Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine about?
The novel follows Eleanor, a thirty-year-old woman living in Glasgow, who sticks rigidly to her routines. She works in an office, avoids social interaction and spends weekends alone with frozen pizza and vodka.
Her blunt honesty and awkward manner make her stand out, but not in the way she intends. Everything begins to change when she develops a crush on a local musician and, at the same time, becomes reluctantly entangled in the life of Raymond, the IT guy from her office.
As the story unfolds, we realise Eleanor’s past is far darker than we imagine. What begins as a quirky, character-driven story quickly develops into something more emotional and profound.
Why I loved it
This book surprised me. I expected light-hearted quirkiness but found a deeply affecting story about isolation, kindness and healing. Eleanor’s voice is funny, strange and occasionally brutal, but always original. Her observations often made me laugh, even while the reality of her loneliness crept in around the edges.
The novel handles heavy topics like mental health, childhood trauma and loneliness with sensitivity and care. It leaves a lasting impression.
Setting and atmosphere
One of my favourite things about the book is its subtle sense of place. While the Glasgow setting isn’t described in great detail, there’s a quiet Scottishness to the whole story. It belongs on any list of books set in Scotland, especially if you enjoy contemporary fiction that focuses on character development over dramatic plot twists.
Who should read this?
If you enjoy character-led novels like A Man Called Ove or The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry, you’ll probably love Eleanor. It’s also a great choice if you’re looking for books about mental health that are realistic but ultimately hopeful.
If you’re into modern Scottish fiction or just love stories that explore the human condition with honesty and heart, this one is worth your time.
Final thoughts
Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine is one of those rare novels that manages to be both funny and heart-wrenching. It’s a beautiful reminder that even when someone appears to be coping, there might be more going on beneath the surface. If you’re adding to your collection of books set in Scotland or want something quietly unforgettable, give this one a try.
Get yourself a copy: Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine
Leave a Reply