A review by silverthistle
The Hundred-Year House by Rebecca Makkai
dark
emotional
mysterious
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
"This plot feels auspicious, not like a place he's seen before but a place he's always meant to see. What is the opposite memory? What is the inverse of an echo?"
5 shining gold stars. I adore this book.
As a reader, I am immediately drawn to any story that includes a "house is also a character" trope and/or family secrets, and this was a perfect example of both. The story structure of The Hundred Year House is the hero of this book. I love that the story is told in reverse, and that there is a plethora of information revealed as you travel from 1999 to 1900. I liked seeing the pieces of the puzzle fall in place and the little moments when you witness other secrets get lost to time. The characters are flawed in the most human way. I was so invested in their stories from start to finish.
5 shining gold stars. I adore this book.
As a reader, I am immediately drawn to any story that includes a "house is also a character" trope and/or family secrets, and this was a perfect example of both. The story structure of The Hundred Year House is the hero of this book. I love that the story is told in reverse, and that there is a plethora of information revealed as you travel from 1999 to 1900. I liked seeing the pieces of the puzzle fall in place and the little moments when you witness other secrets get lost to time. The characters are flawed in the most human way. I was so invested in their stories from start to finish.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Suicide
Minor: Rape