“The Hundred-Year House” - Rebecca Makkai

🎨 This is the first novel by Rebecca Makkai that I’ve read, and it will not be my last. She is a gifted writer. HYH is a whirlwind of intersecting characters, timelines, and secrets. Oh, the secrets! Makkai is remarkably nimble at leaping from one set to another without leaving the reader agog in confusion. 

🎨 For such an intricate, multi-generational plot line, HYH had a fast-paced narrative, studded with characters with deeper than expected history. Also, to keep things spicy, Makkai tells the story in reverse (from 1999 to 1900).

🎨 This particular novel caught my eye because various reviewers used a wide swath of words to describe it: suspense, satire, romance, chilling, gothic, comedy, and mystery, to name a few. I am pleased to report that all of these held true.

🎨 Too short to do justice summary: Makkai traces the history of Laurelfield, a mansion-turned artist community, and the fortunes of notables who passed through it. 

🎨 Try not to make assumptions about Laurelfied or any of its residents as you begin the novel. The house contains more than one puzzle. Also, here are some interesting questions: 1) what kind of world would we have without dreamers, and 2) how could artists create without community?

🎨 If you enjoy HYH, I think you’ll also enjoy: “The Dutch House” - Ann Patchett.

🎨 A book rec inspired by HYH: “Vanity Fair” - W. M. Thackeray