A review by jess_sherlock
Hare House by Sally Hinchcliffe

mysterious tense slow-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Loveable characters? No
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.5

Our protagonist, whose name remains unknown, seeks solace in the serene Scottish countryside after a disturbing incident at a private school. Settling in the isolated Hare House estate, she gradually becomes enmeshed in the lives of the family and their close-knit circle of friends as winter descends. Yet, in true gothic fashion, the story takes an eerie turn as witchcraft, folklore, and local customs intertwine with feelings of paranoia, loneliness, and isolation.

While Hare House possesses all the elements for an intriguing and atmospheric tale, it falls short of expectations. The use of an unreliable narrator is skillful, but the ambiguity occasionally falters. While the leisurely pace of the relatively short book creates an atmospheric build-up, the ending feels suddenly rushed, detracting from its overall impact.
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