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The Seven Imperfect Rules of Elvira Carr

A big-hearted and charming story about ordinary lives

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The Seven Imperfect Rules of Elvira Carr

By: Frances Maynard
Narrated by: Charlie Sanderson
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Summary

Funny, heart-warming and ultimately triumphant, The Seven Imperfect Rules of Elvira Carr by Frances Maynard is a story for anyone who doesn’t quite fit in – and for everyone who chooses not to. Perfect for fans of Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine.

'Wonderful' – Rosie Walsh, author of The Man Who Didn't Call

Elvira Carr is twenty-seven, neurodivergent and has never lived alone. But her father – who she suspects was in the secret service – is dead, and when her mother has a stroke and is taken into care, Elvira suddenly finds herself home alone. In order to cope, Elvira – who knows a lot about biscuits and supermarkets, but not much about life – develops Seven Rules for interacting with others. Not even her rules can help her, however, when she’s faced with solving a mystery she didn’t know existed . . .

'Big-hearted and charming' – James Hannah, author of The A to Z of You and Me

 Coming of Age Dark Humour Family Life Fiction Genre Fiction Literature & Fiction Women's Fiction Heartfelt Feel-Good Inspiring Witty Thought-Provoking Comedy
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Critic reviews

Big-hearted and charming . . . Elvira manages to conjure up the one thing we could all do with: a cheat sheet for the painful puzzle of everyday life (James Hannah, author of The A to Z of You and Me)
Charming . . . Ellie will make readers smile and occasionally want to take her under a protective arm (Booklist)
'A heartwarming coming-of-age story. Perfect for book clubs and for readers who enjoyed The Rosie Project'
A novel which will stick in your mind long after reading, stalking your thoughts as you go about everyday life . . . When I finished the book, I couldn’t help but wish there was a sequel . . . Marvellous (Ronnie Turner, blogger)
Funny and heartwarming
Memorable and touching . . . The Seven Imperfect Rules of Elvira Carr is an important novel and a great read, with elements of mystery, discovering friendship, and working out how to be independent in the world
Sometimes characters come along in books that are so utterly exquisite you feel blessed to have experienced them and indebted to their author for having gifted to them. Such is the case with Elvira Carr . . . A tale that is full of joy, empathy, honesty and warmth (Jade Craddock, nudge-book.com)
Funny and heart-warming, Elvira is our new hero
Fans of The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time and The Rosie Project will love this endearing book . . . Heartwarming with a mystery at its centre . . . Elvira’s character is written with such genuine affection that you can’t help but root for her
All stars
Most relevant
Lovely read direct and insightful - good narration and funny throughout- would recommend as a cuddle of a book

Sweet uplifting

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Anyone who experiences any element of autism will relate to and enjoy this story. Whilst Elvira is a challenging voice to listen to at first, Charlie Sanderson does a great job of emulating the character’s speech, so difficult for an actor who deals in performing emotions and expressions. This performance is beautifully restrained, an excellent balance bridging Elvira & her readers understanding. The book also offers an accessible insight into autism for those unfamiliar with it. I shall miss Elvira. Perhaps we’ll hear from her later on in her life?

Endearing & sensitive tale

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I did enjoy this book but there was something that didn't quite ring true about it, maybe the protagonists upward character trajectory felt a bit unrealistic and possibly even oversimplified autism and challenges for autistic people. in general, I'm glad this book exists but I think it could be better

enjoyable story, likeable protagonist, a bit reductive

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Just finished listening to the book, and (always the sign of a good read/listen), feel sad that it has come to an end as will miss the characters - which were brought to life by the fantastic narration. Made me laugh and cry. Reminded me of Eleanor Oliphant is absolutely fine, as writing style and sense of humour were similar. The book gives a fascinating insight into atypical people and how they navigate through life. Also deals sensitively with issues around loneliness, loss and grief. Beautifully written and narrated. Great book, give it a listen.

Beautiful, didn’t want it to end

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Loved this audiobook. An engaging, thought-provoking and enlightening story that was a really easy and enjoyable listen

A heartwarming listen

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