Corinne Westbrook

The Hollow One by Corinne Westbrook is a chilling and poignant novel, exploring grief, neglect, and the haunting presence of loss. Set in a decaying home on the edge of a forest, the story follows Ellie, a young girl burdened with the care of her infant brother, Sam, as she struggles to navigate a world of abandonment, isolation, and creeping dread.

Westbrook’s writing is deeply atmospheric, immersing readers in a world where the house itself feels alive, and the woods loom as a sinister force. Ellie is a compelling protagonist, a child forced to grow up too quickly in the absence of parental care. Her resilience and vulnerability are palpable, making her journey both heart-breaking and relatable. Her mother, a figure consumed by her own struggles, is a tragic character whose neglect leaves Ellie to shoulder the weight of responsibility for her brother. The eerie figure of her father—or what appears to be him—adds layers of tension and emotional complexity, as Ellie grapples with her longing for connection and the fear of what he truly represents.

Ellie’s longing for safety and love drives the narrative, and her interactions with the sinister figure of her father highlight the blurred lines between love, fear, and desperation. The novel’s supernatural elements are woven seamlessly into the story, creating a sense of psychological horror that is both terrifying and tragic. The creature that takes on the guise of Ellie’s father is a chilling embodiment of her grief and longing, and its presence in the story is haunting.

Westbrook’s ability to blend the supernatural with reality makes this novel a haunting and unforgettable experience. Highly recommended for those who appreciate a slow-burn, emotionally charged horror story.

Star rating: 5 Stars

Summary: A beautifully written and deeply unsettling debut that will resonate with fans of dark, character-driven narratives.