Will I love O Caledonia?

This short, dark novel hooked me from the beginning. Its beginning is, in fact, its ending when it is revealed that the protagonist, a young woman named Janet, has just been murdered. The story then jumps back in time to when Janet is born. I was drawn to the sharp, wry narrative voice and the gothic, stormy setting of northern mid-20th century Scottland.

The rest of the novel is an account of Janet’s coming-of-age instead of a typical and dull whodunit, which I loved because it felt fresh, true, and real to me—a revelation, in fact. I was so happy… show more.

I had absolutely no idea what I was getting myself into when I started this novel. What convinced me to read it was the stunning cover and the glowing endorsement from Maggie O'Farrell. But as soon as I read the first page, I knew I was going to enjoy the ride. This novel is reminiscent of Shirley Jackson, but has a vibe all its own and I couldn't put it down. I became so absorbed into the story that I forgot I was reading. That's the sign of a good author. This is a must read for anyone who enjoys… show more.

O Caledonia is a dark, unhappy, witty Scottish novel that delights and teases the reader. Populated by a family of unlovable malcontents whose motto is “Dying but Unconquered,” it is a murder mystery, although the murder—and its rebellious and disrespectful 16-year-old victim, Janet—doesn’t gain much attention in the grand scheme of things. Instead, the novel focuses on the people around poor dead Janet, who are self-absorbed and short-sighted. They regularly inflict casual cruelties on each other and themselves, often with results that are both sad and humorous. By the end of the novel, I was pretty sure I was related… show more.