The White Hare: Book Review
Have you ever picked up a book with no expectations, only to be completely taken aback by its brilliance? That's exactly what happened to me when I stumbled upon The White Hare by author Jane Johnson. This atmospheric and witchy read left me spellbound, with its compelling characters and haunting storyline. And months after finishing, I still find myself thinking about this memorable read. In fact, I was so captivated by Jane Johnson's writing that I couldn't resist adding her entire backlist to my shelves. If you're a fan of historical fantasy that's both approachable and enchanting, then The White Hare is a must-read. In this article, we'll dive into the world of this surprising and mesmerizing novel, and explore what makes it a standout in the genre.
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Quick Look
- post WWII magical realism
- 1950s Cornwall setting
- rich in folklore and ritual magic
- atmospheric and slightly gothic
- possession subplot
Pub Date: June 23, 2022
Thanks to the airport bookstore for introducing me to this terrific book!
Publisher's Synopsis
For fans of Alice Hoffman and Kate Morton, The White Hare is a spellbinding novel about mothers and daughters finding a new home for themselves, the secrets they try to bury, and the local legends that may change their lives.
In the far west of Cornwall lies the White Valley, which cuts deeply through bluebell woods down to the sea at White Cove. The valley has a long and bloody history, laced with folklore, and in it sits a house above the beach that has lain neglected since the war. It comes with a reputation and a strange atmosphere, which is why mother and daughter Magdalena and Mila manage to acquire it so cheaply in the fateful summer of 1954.
Magda has grand plans to restore the house to its former glory as a venue for glittering parties, where the rich and celebrated gathered for cocktails and for bracing walks along the coast. Her grown daughter, Mila, just wants to escape the scandal in her past and make a safe and happy home for her little girl, Janey, a solitary, precocious child blessed with a vivid imagination, much of which she pours into stories about her magical plush toy, Rabbit.
But Janey’s rabbit isn’t the only magical being around. Legend has it that an enchanted white hare may be seen running through the woods. Is it an ill omen or a blessing? As Mila, her mother, and her young daughter adjust to life in this mysterious place, they will have to reckon with their own pasts and with the secrets that have been haunting the White Valley for decades.
My Review
Jane Johnson's The White Hare is a beautifully crafted tale that takes readers through the rugged landscape of Cornwall and into the depths of one woman's and one home's troubled past. With stunning prose and captivating characters, this book delves into themes of loss, grief, and the power of love to heal. Johnson's skillful storytelling and attention to detail make The White Hare a must-read for anyone looking for an emotionally charged read.
Personally, I love a witchy read, and The White Hare was no exception. Are there actual witches? Debatable. Was it seeped in earth magic, rituals, and tons of local folklore? Yes! Was I spellbound and mesmerized? 100%! The atmospheric aspects of this one rivaled Spells for Forgetting by Adrienne Young. Like Spells, the location is a character in the story, something I enjoy. The landscape and local folklore made this book so much more meaningful, giving Celtic history and culture a leading role in the story.
While the ending was a little tidy, I honestly never would have guessed the twists and turns, so I was pleased with how the story concluded. I found the characters memorable, especially Janey. There were moments in Janey's story that had me biting my nails and flipping pages frantically to discover the truth behind the messages she was receiving. The tension between Magda and Mila was palpable at times, adding tension and drama that helps break up the more spooky storyline.
My Rating
The instant I saw this gorgeous cover and read the synopsis, I knew I MUST own a copy of The White Hare. Books that blend magical realism and historical fiction are some of my favorites, and The White Hare combines all the things I LOVE: magic, history, witchy vibes, and family drama. Needless to say, I was thrilled to find out that The White Hare is not just another pretty cover! Whether you're a fan of historical fiction or family dramas, or simply appreciate a well-written book, The White Hare is sure to captivate and stay with you long after you've turned the final page. Let this novel take you on a journey and perhaps even open your eyes to new perspectives.
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