The Rabbit Hutch

Publisher: One World Publications

Date Published: 2022

Book Length: 353

Format: Paperback I purchased myself

Star Rating: 2** It's n ot really for me

About Book: Vacca Vale, Indiana: recently voted number 1 on Newsweek's list of dying American cities. According to the developers, however, it's a city with a whole history of reinvention, one that 'buzzes with the American spirit.'Not everyone agrees though - certainly not the residents of the Rabbit Hutch, a low-cost housing complex in the once bustling industrial centre, populated by a cast of unforgettable, disenfranchised characters. There's an online obituary writer, a woman waging a solo campaign against rodents and, most notably, eighteen-year-old Blandine, recently released from foster care and determined to stop the developers whatever the cost.

My Thoughts: The Rabbit Hutch" by Tess Gunty was chosen as part of my reading challenge to read a book that was the winner of a National Book Award. The book is a curious blend of mystery and domestic drama, offering you a story that meanders through its plot with a mixture of suspense and family intrigue. Gunty's writing is solid, and the story is filled with intriguing moments that keep the reader guessing. The characters are a diverse and complex bunch, each with their own quirks and hidden agendas, which adds depth to the narrative. The novel explores themes of family dynamics, trust, and the consequences of buried secrets, making for an engaging psychological drama. However, "The Rabbit Hutch" suffers from a pacing issue that might test the patience of some readers. The story moves at a slow and deliberate pace, which, while allowing for character development, occasionally feels overly drawn out. Additionally, the narrative tends to jump between perspectives and timelines, making it a bit challenging to keep track of the various plot threads. The mystery element of the story, while intriguing, may not offer the same level of suspense and excitement as some readers might expect from a thriller. The resolution, when it finally arrives, feels somewhat rushed and leaves a few loose ends untied. In conclusion, "The Rabbit Hutch" by Tess Gunty is a book that showcases promise but falls short of reaching its full potential. It's a story with moments of brilliance, especially in its character development and exploration of family dynamics. However, its pacing and plot structure may not resonate with every reader. If you enjoy character-driven mysteries with a leisurely pace and don't mind a bit of ambiguity in the resolution, "The Rabbit Hutch" might still be worth a read but it was not for me.