Hollow House

~M.K. Ahearn

“To my FBI agent watching, this is what the research was for and I hope it makes you blush.” ~M.K. Ahearn

Sloane Hill is a journalist stuck under the thumb of Darren, her egotistical, misogynistic boss who happily piles on assignments but withholds the promotion she’s earned. When he springs an early performance review on her – complete with indecent “offers” in exchange for advancement – Sloane pushes back with a bold claim: she’ll land the story no one else in town has ever managed. An exclusive on Hollow House, the infamous once-a-year Halloween party steeped in rumor, myth, and scandal.

No one ever gets invited… until Sloane returns home from happy hour with her best friend, Alex, to find an envelope waiting in her kitchen. Now she has a choice: skip out as she usually does with social events, or step into Hollow House and uncover the story that could change her career – and maybe her life.

M.K. Ahearn delivers a tightly woven novella (I devoured it in a single sitting) that blends mystery, gothic atmosphere, and sharp social commentary. Sloane is instantly relatable – the hardworking, small-town woman fighting to break free from toxic environments and systemic harassment. The tension is palpable, and the degradation she endures feels uncomfortably real.

The imagery is striking, transporting readers into a world that’s dark, bold, and richly atmospheric. With brisk pacing and seamless transitions, Hollow House pulls you in and refuses to let go until the final page.

Ahearn doesn’t shy away from difficult or controversial themes, but they’re handled with intention, weight, and care. Be sure to check the trigger warnings before diving in.

My only critique – and the reason for four rather than five stars – is the ending, which left me wanting more resolution. Still, for readers who crave dark romance steeped in spice, paraphilia, and a dash of revenge, Hollow House is a wickedly perfect pick for the Halloween season.

I would like to thank M.K. Ahearn for the opportunity to Alpha/Beta/ARC read Hollow House. All opinions and reviews are of my own volition. I have not been promised any compensation by the author or publisher for a fair and honest review.

If you enjoyed this review, or any content on my page, please follow me on all social media as thetxlitchic – links can be found here on my  LinkTree 🙂

#thetxlitchic #bookreviewsandmore #bookstagram #booktok #bookcommunity #readersofinstagram #booklover #arcreader #bookreview #bingeworthy #tbr #supportindieauthors #bookobsessed #instareads #books #bookaddict #bookreviewer #bookreviews #keepreading #indiebooks #indieauthors #Supportyourlocalbook #genrewhore #ilikebigbooksandicannotlie #hollowhouse #mkahearn #darkromance #novella #halloweenreads