Wicked Is the Hollow Book Review: A Haunting Gothic Mystery

Ok, before I start this post. Do I realize this is a Young Adult book? Yes, but 40 is still considered young so thank you for your attention to this matter. 😂

If you love atmospheric mysteries, sprawling estates, family secrets, and a touch of supernatural intrigue, Wicked is the Hollow by K.E. Ganshert may be a book worth adding to your reading list. The first installment in the Tales from the Hollow series introduces readers to Foggy Hollow, a town where mysteries linger beneath the surface and the past refuses to stay buried.

After her mother mysteriously vanished years ago, Selah Whitlock has always been drawn to unanswered questions. When her father accepts a position at the historic Vandenberg estate, Selah finds herself living in Foggy Hollow, a town known for strange legends and unsolved mysteries. There, she becomes entangled with the powerful Vandenberg family and their long-buried secrets.

As Selah investigates a decades-old cold case, she discovers a centuries-old portrait that looks exactly like her. Suddenly, the mystery becomes deeply personal. Alongside Jude Vendenberg, she uncovers secrets that connect generations and reveal that something sinister may still be lurking beneath the surface of Foggy hollow.

What I Loved

One of the strongest aspects of the novel is its atmosphere. The city of Foggy Hollow has a very spooky setting, mysterious history, and eerie small-town charm. Readers who enjoy gothic fiction will likely appreciate the haunting estate (think Haunting of Hill House), family secrets, and creeping sense of danger throughout the story.

The mystery unfolds gradually, keeping readers engaged while layering clues and twists throughout the story. The romantic subplot adds emotional depth without overshadowing the larger mystery (like in fucking Fourth Wing). making the story appealing to readers who enjoy both suspense and romance.

Characters

Selah is a compelling protagonist whose determination and curiosity drive the story forward. Her personal connection to the mystery raises the stakes and keeps readers invested in her journey.

The Vandenberg cousins bring additional complexity to the story. Jude, in particular, provides an intriguing romantic interest, while the dynamics between the characters add tension and unpredictability.

Themes

Throughout the novel, Ganshert explores the themes such as family secrets, identity and belonging, trust and deception, the impact of the past on the present, and good versus evil. These themes add emotional weight to the mystery and encourage readers the think beyond the immediate plot.

My Thoughts

This was a fun little book that I really enjoyed. Again, I know I'm 40 but I love a little YA series every now and again. It helps me escape the real world. I could have done without the romance but let's be for real. What is a YA series without a romance? Not a YA series. I am glad that the romance aspect did not really hinder the storyline or plot. I really love the spooky setting. I know, I know. I am Gothic. I am going to love anything set in the fall around Halloween time. But, the spookiness really does add to the mystery and cozyish setting. Now, will I be reading Book 2 when it comes out July 1st? I absolutely will be.

Who Would Love This Book

If you enjoy gothic mysteries, eerie small towns, atmospheric settings, family secrets, and young adult suspense with a touch of romance, Wicked is the Hollow is likely to appeal to you. Its blend of mystery, supernatural elements, and emotional storytelling creates an engaging start to what promises to be an intruiguing series.

My Rating: 4 ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Have you read Wicked is the Hollow? Let me know your thoughts in the comments below.

Contact

Reach out with your gothic tales and thoughts.

Email

thegothicrasta@gmail.com

© 2025. All rights reserved.