Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine by Gail Honeyman – Book Review

Introduction

When a debut novel wins the Costa First Novel Award and becomes a Sunday times Bestseller, expectations are comparatively high. GailHoneyman’s Eleanor Oliphant Completely Fine not only meets the readers expectations but also surprises us with its unique blend of heartbreak, hope and humour.

The Story

Eleanor Oliphant is a 29-year-old woman who leads an organized and solitary life. She wears the same clothes to work, eats the same meals, and avoids unnecessary human contacts. To the outside world she seems to be fine but she felt lonely and depressed inside with scars of traumatic childhood.

Her life begins changes when she unexpectedly meets Raymond, a kind IT guy from her office. They help an elderly man who faints on the street and this small act of kindness becomes a catalyst for Eleanor’s journey of healing, self-discovery and connection.

What Works

• A unique protagonist: Eleanor is a unique character with quite odd habits, awkward social life, and straight forward unlike in condemnatory novels.
• Blending humor and pain: The novel humorous moments with heart wrenching revelations about trauma, survival and loneliness.
• Emotional depth: As Eleanor’s past unfolds, readers are drawn in to deep exploration of abuse, resilience, and need for human companionship.
• Hopeful message: Despite of its negative themes, this book celebrates healing, kindness and possibility to change at any stage in life.

 

Where It Falls Short

• Slow pacing at the start: Some readers say that Eleanor’s rigid routines are described in repetitively in first few chapters.
• Predictability of the twist: The revelation about past is predictable to seasoned readers
• Heavy themes: For sensitive readers, the depictions of trauma and emotional neglect can be triggering.

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📌 Quick Summary
✅ Pros

• Unique and unforgettable memories
• Mix of humor and emotional twist
• Explores loneliness, trauma, and healing with sensitivity in the life
• Uplifting and hopeful ending in the climax
• Easy-to-read yet thought-provoking

❌ Cons

• Slow pacing in the beginning of the story
• The big twist feels predictable for some readers
• Heavy themes may be triggering for sensitive readers

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Conclusion

Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fineis not just a good novel. It is sensitive, sharply written  exploring, healing wrapped in wit and warmth. Honeyman has created a character who his unforgettable, flawed yet endearing, broken yet brave.

This is a story that reminds us that kindness, both from others and toward ourselves, can be life-changing. It’s a book that lingers with you long after you turn the final page.

⭐ Rating: 4.5/5 – A touching, funny, and inspiring debut that deserves its acclaim.

👉 Perfect for readers who enjoy character-driven fiction, emotional depth, and stories of resilience.