“House of Hollow” by Krystal Sutherland is a hauntingly beautiful and dark tale that weaves together elements of fantasy, horror, and mystery. The story follows seventeen-year-old Iris Hollow, who, along with her two older sisters, mysteriously disappeared as children only to return a month later with no memory of the event but bearing identical scars. As they grow older, the sisters find themselves enveloped in an aura of strangeness that they cannot shake off.

The novel shines in its ability to create a chilling atmosphere that blurs the lines between the real and the surreal. Sutherland’s prose is lush and evocative, drawing readers into a world where beauty is intertwined with a sense of foreboding. The narrative is compelling, driven by the enigmatic past of the Hollow sisters and the urgent need to uncover the truth behind their disappearance.

Iris, as the protagonist, is a well-crafted character whose desire for normalcy is at constant odds with the eerie legacy of her family’s history. Her journey is one of self-discovery, fraught with danger and dark revelations. The book’s strength lies in its exploration of the bonds of sisterhood and the lengths to which one will go to protect family.

“House of Hollow” is recommended for fans of young adult fantasy and horror who appreciate stories that are both enchanting and unsettling. It’s a book that lingers with you long after you’ve turned the last page, a testament to Sutherland’s skill as a storyteller. With its blend of the macabre and the magical, “House of Hollow” is a standout novel that captivates and unnerves in equal measure.

About the author:

Krystal Sutherland is an Australian author known for her young adult novels that often explore themes of love, mental health, and the supernatural. She gained international attention with her debut novel, “Our Chemical Hearts,” which was published in 2016 and later adapted into a film. Her writing style is praised for its emotional depth and vivid storytelling.

Sutherland’s works have been translated into over twenty languages, and she has been recognized for her unique voice in the YA literary scene. Her novels are characterized by their heartfelt narratives and complex characters, often dealing with the challenges of adolescence and the journey towards self-discovery.In addition to “Our Chemical Hearts,” Sutherland has written other notable books such as “A Semi-Definitive List of Worst Nightmares” and the critically acclaimed “House of Hollow.” She continues to be an influential figure in contemporary young adult fiction, with a talent for crafting stories that resonate with a wide audience of readers.