cats_coffee_books 's review for:

Hollow by Karina Halle

5.0

dark tense fast-paced

Plot or Character Driven: A mix

Strong character development: Complicated

Loveable characters: Yes

Diverse cast of characters: No

Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

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Once again I have fallen in love with a brooding man in a Karina Halle book- Crane can use his ruler on me any day. I remember when the Johnny Depp and Christina Ricci Sleepy Hollow came out in 1999- I was 15 and it tickled a Gothic bi-panic itch that I didn't know I had. This book threw me back into those memories, and the vibe is just as delicious now as it was then. I also didn't  expect to be so emotional seeing that aspect of sexuality explored in this story- the bi-awakening experience and subsequent fear so many experience due to antiquated societal 'norms' that can taint love and acceptance. Yes, this is set in 1875, but that staggering reality makes this even more impactful- those same outdated beliefs are still so prevalent today. So, Bravo for this social commentary while delivering immaculate Gothic witchy vibes and delectable spicy scenes. The dark, suspenseful, sinister setting and characters makes you wonder who is truly good or evil. I cannot wait to dive into Legend!