Rabbitface is a poignant, deeply emotional coming-of-age story that follows Rita, a gifted young figure skater navigating trauma, poverty, and relentless bullying. Once known simply as Rita, her life takes a dark turn after a tragic accident that scars both her face and her soul. Her talent on the ice once offered a sanctuary, but everything changes when she crosses paths with Vladimir, a Russian skating prodigy. One cruel nickname “Rabbitface” erases her identity in an instant and defines her in the eyes of her peers.

Set between Oregon and Moscow, the novel alternates perspectives, revealing interconnected stories of loss, guilt, and ambition across generations. As Rita seeks solace and strength on the rink, her journey unfolds alongside that of Vlad, who’s haunted by his own family’s secrets and trauma. Their lives collide in a world where love, cruelty, and skating are intertwined and survival means more than just landing the perfect jump.

From the very first chapter, Rabbitface grips you emotionally. The prose is evocative, almost cinematic, with moments that feel like slow-motion heartbreak. Annika Rosendahl excels at immersing readers in Rita’s inner world a place full of loneliness, strength, and unexpected hope. You don’t just read this story you feel it. Whether it’s the chilling grief of a funeral or the magic of gliding on ice, the emotions are raw and beautifully conveyed.

⏱️ Narrative Flow

The pacing is skillfully managed, balancing character development with story movement. It alternates between introspective moments and impactful scenes, such as confrontations at the skating rink or emotional family breakdowns. The layered storytelling blending past and present adds texture without slowing the plot.

Each chapter adds momentum, not just in action but in emotional stakes, which escalate gracefully. The tension between Rita and Vlad, and the mounting cruelty from classmates, is palpable but never overdone. The pacing allows readers to deeply invest in each character.