Thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for giving me the opportunity to read this ARC.

Taking place in a small Appalachian town,, the author creates suitably creepy vibe. The characters need more depth.. The plot could use editing. While the premise is a good one, the execution lags..

This is my honest review.

Bittersweet in the Hollow is a book pitched as House of Hollow meets Wilder Girls and seeing as I’m a fan of both of those books (and the body horror/creepy girl genre in general) I had a feeling this book would be right up my alley. The plot is so enticing, with four sisters who have unusual abilities (such as tasting other people’s feelings), but also a forest where people who enter either vanish without a trace or show up dead. Linden, however, somehow survived going into the forest the year prior, but has gaps in her memory and suffers from nightmares of that night. When Linden’s friend Dahlia shows up in the forest murdered, strange events start to happen that make her realize that what happened to Dahlia is connected to what happened to her the year before. All of this ties into the town’s urban legend, the Moth Winged Man. This book definitely falls into the super weird, speculative fiction category.

Reading this was the ultimate form of escapism and reminded me of why I love reading so much. This small, creepy town nestled near some of the oldest mountains in the world, filled with legends and lore, could not be more different than what my standard suburbia life is like. The small town of Caball Hollow kind of reminds me of Stars Hollow, if it were creepy. It’s like the Gilmore Girls town on steroids. I could see Tim Burton wanting to make a movie adaptation of this.

This is a story rooted in small town urban legends and hereditary magic, with everything from tea leaf reading giving cryptic predictions to a bone tree that may or may not exist in a place where time moves differently. One of the sisters even speaks to the dead. But in Caball Hollow, none of these things are out of the norm. The setting and atmosphere are the standout points in this book.

I gave this 3 stars because as nice as the atmosphere was, this book never really compelled me to want to pick it back up. It took me forever to finish because it just wasn’t enticing or gripping enough to make me want to keep reading it. The ending was also so frustrating. I don’t know why people always reveal to the murderers that they know what they did, like obviously it would be smarter to hide it and keep it to yourself because they’re def going to try to kill you once they find out you know lol? This really was well written though, and very creative.

Thank you to Netgalley for sending me an advanced copy in return for my honest review.

Solid creepy small-town mystery with an added bonus--weird superpowers! It was a dark but fun book. I can't imagine tasting feelings. The setting was very atmospheric and I really felt like I was in Mothman territory. I love books that include a small town festival--I think its such great way to bring so many different people together and I am always surprised more books don't use this to their advantage. It really sets the scene in a seamless way.

Thank you NetGalley, and Kate Pearsall for giving me the opportunity to read this ARC for an honest review.

The cover of the book is lovely. The writing style was incredible. I enjoyed reading this teen book.
Very well done.

If you're a fan of enchanting tales featuring magical families residing in quaint, eerie little towns, then Bittersweet in the Hollow is the perfect book for you. This is one of those captivating stories where I believe it's best to approach it with a hint of mystery, allowing the narrative to unfold organically and reveal its true brilliance. I can assure you that if you're drawn to the likes of Practical Magic and House of Hollow, this book will capture your heart.

What truly captivated me were the intricate familial storylines interwoven throughout the pages. The depth of the lore surrounding the town, the family, and their magic was simply mesmerizing. It transported me to a world brimming with wonder and fascination.

While my enjoyment was abundant, if I were to offer any critique, it would be that I wished the Appalachian ambiance had been more pronounced. Don't get me wrong, there were several subtle elements that captured the essence of the region, but there were instances where, had I not consciously reminded myself, I might have forgotten that the story was specifically set in the Appalachians.

Nevertheless, the magic system within the book was remarkably unique, and I relished every moment exploring its intricacies. The mystery aspect of the story was also particularly strong. As an avid reader of mystery novels, I often find myself deciphering the culprit's identity early on, but in this case, the reveal took me by surprise in the most satisfying way.

In conclusion, I wholeheartedly recommend Bittersweet in the Hollow to all readers seeking a bewitching read. Its enthralling blend of magic, family dynamics, and a touch of mystery will keep you enthralled from start to finish. Allow yourself to be transported to the captivating world within these pages, and prepare for an unforgettable journey.

I'm screaming, this was such an intricate and well-written YA thriller. There were so many cool plot twists and shocking revelations (I legit sat up at one point), and the reveal about the true killer/villain/whatever was so bone-chilling. I also love loved the sisterly bonds, as well as the soft second chance romance the MC has <3
If you like thrillers, I would definitely recommend you read this!

TWs - murder, attempted murder, sacrifice, kids/teens who disappear and are found dead, drowning, death of parents/grandparents due to various ailments (mentioned, secondary characters)

-- ty to the author, the publisher and Netgalley for an advanced copy!

Bittersweet in the hollow had me by the throat from the very get go. What a wonderfully described book with a rich setting and strong characters. I was hooked, eating up page after page, needing to find out the secrets of the James sisters. The twist at the end I didn't see coming and it made me fall more in love with the book. The ending was truly bittersweet and absolutely perfect.

I really liked this book! It was mysterious and magical, with a strong protagonist and tension-filled romance. I thought the book was paced really well and fit the kind of thriller-pacing I’m used to. However, the ending didn’t wrap things up as I would have liked it to so it was kind of unsatisfying. Which is because there’s supposed to be a sequel! But I went into this book thinking that it was a standalone, so I was disappointed and a little frustrated when I realized that it wasn’t.

Before I start, I want to thank the Penguin Group’s Penguin Young Readers Group for the arc through Netgalley.

Overall, this was a wonderful little magical realism book.
The story is about 17-year-old Linden James, unraveling the case of a friend’s murder on the night of the Moth Queen crowning one year after her own disappearance. Throughout her quest, she uncovers secrets from her small West Virginia town, including how her family is interweaved into the history of the town, and why a certain legend about a winged man is connected.

I tried to be spoiler free with my review, but please thread-lightly there may be some spoilers.

What I loved:
I loved how active the protagonist was in searching for clues, and following her instincts and not necessarily waiting for permissions to do something. Act first, ask for forgiveness later.
I also loved her family’s involvement in the story. Linden has 3 sisters, all with special abilities of their own and I love how Kate Pearsall used all the girls’ skills, especially with Linden towards the end with the antagonist. I love how matriarchal the whole story is, finding support within one another and embracing everyone’s differences. It definitely reminded me of Practical Magic, but it was all its own.
I like that the love interest was not necessarily the whole of the story. That said, I kind of wish we had more lovely scenes between Cole and Linden, BUT that is just me being selfish because I like a little romance. However, with what is on the pages, there’s history there, not enough to really convince me that they truly love each other at the end, more like they could grow, but it is okay, I enjoyed it as is.
I liked that they owned a little café, and that the girls grew up there cooking, and that linden attaches her feelings to food and shares those feelings with food too. I like that they had a little family business.

Favorite Quotes:
“Salty, sour, bitter, sweet- all my strongest memories are steeped in flavor.”

“There’s only one predator who covers his tracks.”

“When we sleep, we’re more open than when we’re awake,”

“Forcing your intention on the universe shouldn’t be painless.”

“It’s more than that, Mama. I don’t want them to hang their heads, but I don’t want them to risk their necks to prove how high we can hold them, either.”

“If living in West Virginia has taught us anything, it’s that difficult roads lead to beautiful places.”

“People aren’t gardens where you can plant whatever you want. You can only grow what’s already there.”


What I did not like:
This is my own pet peeve, but the fact Linden kept calling her father “Daddy”. Maybe it was to make her seem younger, but she is supposed to be 16/17 and it felt odd having a 16/17-year-old called their father “Daddy”.
That’s it :)

Others (i.e, me nit-picky):
In the writing, there are some sentences and chosen words that do not necessarily have to be included. For example, I read a couple of “anyhows” that were not needed. It did not flow the cadence of the quote/sentence/paragraph.

P.S. There are some grammatical errors in the arc I would like to share if reached out by the publisher.

This book is truly phenomenal. From start to finish, I was on the edge of my seat, completely engrossed in the story. The author's ability to convey Linden's emotions is truly remarkable, and it adds an extra layer of depth to the already captivating plot. Speaking of the plot, the twists and turns this story takes are nothing short of mind-blowing. Just when you think you have it all figured out, the story takes an unexpected turn that will leave you reeling. I cannot recommend this book enough. If you're looking for a thrilling, emotional, and unforgettable read, this is the book for you. Don't miss out on the opportunity to experience this incredible story for yourself.

Thank you to Penguin Teen and NetGalley for an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

If you like magical families in sleepy-creepy little towns, Bittersweet in the Hollow is the book for you. This is one of those books where I feel like it's best to go into it semi-blind, as I feel that the story really shines when you're looking at it objectively. If you want to know anything about it aside from the summary, I can tell you that it definitely gave me Practical Magic/House of Hollow vibes, and that is exactly what I look for in a book.

I loved the familial storylines at play and more than that, I loved how deep the lore of their town, their family, and their magic went.

If there were any complaints, I'd say that I wish the Appalachian tones were a bit stronger. That's not to say they weren't there - there were a lot of small things that were great, but there were times when, if I hadn't minded myself, I would not have recalled it was specifically set in the Appalachians.

The magic system itself was incredibly unique, and I loved every second. The mystery aspect of this book is strong, too. I read a lot of mystery, and typically end up guessing whodunnit pretty early on, but the reveal was actually pretty surprising, in a good way.

All in all, I highly recommend Bittersweet in the Hollow.

**review to be posted near publication date**

Content Warning: violence, vandalism, threats

There is so much I loved about this book. I love the Appalachian history of the small town that is Cabal Hollow. And the James women, especially the sisters, Sorrel, Rowan, Linden and Juniper, who have powers, but they are a tight knit group and I loved the sisterly bond between them. My favorite has to be Rowan, who has an outspoken personality. I thought Linden was a great character too though since the murder mystery revolves around her. I like how the suspect was hard to figure out and the explanation for their motives were interestingly tied to an urban legend, the Moth-Winged Man. Coincidentally, this is the second book this year I’ve read about a mothman!

I was intrigued with how curses, trades, magic, and consequences play a big role in this story. It starts off with one plea for life that ends up being a bargain that devastates people and families.

I also thought the childhood romance between Linden and Cole was so sweet. There was something creepy, yet heartwarming about this story once everything is revealed. I love the James family. And although they had powers and were known as witches, there isn’t a lot of witchcraft in this book but I thought it was a nice balance. I was really immersed in the story and I hope book two is about Rowan and Hadrian because the sparks between the two are off the charts!

Tropes: slow burn romance

Why you should read it:
*the James women and their family bond – love how they are strong, capable women
*the witchcraft and urban legend about the Moth-Winged Man, creepy vibes
*intrigued from beginning to end

Why you might not want to read it:
*this is being compared to House of Hollow but that book was darker than this one. I’d say this one is mild compared to House of Hollow and was more a mystery thriller. No body horror in this one.

My Thoughts:

I thoroughly enjoyed this book even though sometimes I struggle with mysteries. I like the pacing of this story, it wasn’t as slow as most mysteries and I love the James women. I love the sisterly bond, and how strong these women are. I also adored the slow burn romance between Cole and Linden even though it wasn’t a main focus of the story. I was invested in the urban legend and I hope we get more of Rowan and Hadrian in book two!

The premise sounded interesting, but this really missed the mark for me. The plot was all over the place. It took me forever to get engaged, and then it didn't keep me there, sadly. Cole was a stereotypical golden boy ... very predictable. Some parts felt quite unnecessary (such as the James Family Book of Mountain Wisdom). Characters weren't that unique, so the sisters blended together, which was confusing. The points that were, I believe, supposed to be the big twists weren't a huge "Wow" for me. They felt forced, and the ending was very anticlimactic.

(Sorry in advance for this review being all over the place)

First thing we need to talk about is her name. Linden?? Really?? You couldn't have picked a better name? There are thousands of name and in world and you pick LINDEN. Come on.

Also, the way Cole was introduced made his character so predictable. Like he is your basic golden boy.
And the tension between Cole and Linden was a lot. The writing made me feel the tension (which I liked).

I could barely follow the first like 60 pages. It felt like some of the writing was forced. I also didn't get why they included the "James Family Book Of Mountain Wisdom". If I'm being honest, I just skipped those pages. This book could have been so much shorter if Cole had just told her what was going to happen that night. Also, she had already told him her biggest, darkest secret and he was too scared to tell her? That just doesn't make sense. It felt like whenever there was like a supposed "major" plot twist, I wasn't that excited. Like the book kept me guessing, but I didn't really care about the answer. The way the twists come out, it seems very forced. Also, the ending sucked. I feel like she should have given up their love or something not just the diablerie. It just seemed anticlimactic.

The trope of backwoods witches, mysterious creatures, horrific sacrifices, and high school ex-lovers reunited feels a little overdone these days, But I did enjoy most of this novel about a clan of witches, food magic, missing kids, and a small town's dark history. I don't love the themed family names; the cutesy other names, like "Caball Hollow" (really?); and the lack of everyday things most people would have, like insurance on their businesses and such, but despite these things, the plot moved along well enough and the characters were fairly interesting and grew through the book. A fine summer read with a glass of blackberry wine and some lemon scones.

Big thank you NetGalley and to the publisher for the chance to review this book pre-release. I really enjoyed this book, and did so just as much as I did House of Hollow. A more formal review will be available on my IG/TikTok and Goodreads.

Thank you NetGalley for a copy of this book! This book was phenomenal, I was on the edge of my seat the entire time I was reading. When reading, you could really understand and feel every emotion our main character Linden was feeling, which is a nice touch because that's her main ability. The plot twists and different turns this story took were insane, every time you thought you had figured something out, it turned out to be even crazier! I highly highly recommend checking out this book and giving it a chance!

The characters and world they live in are so vividly real, and beautifully described it makes me want to be transported into their magical place! I read this in one sitting, and it felt like I was reading about a friend’s adventure-cozy/magical/suspenseful/satisfying!

To say I am disappointed would be an understatement. I didn't come into this book thinking it would be an all-time favorite, but I was still expecting a good time. I didn't get that. Initially, I was intrigued by this book, but it was ultimately a dull and lackluster read. The concept of four sisters with unusual talents drew me in, but the characters bored me. The plot was all over the place and did not hold my attention. I expected Bittersweet in the Hollow to be more of a story similar to House of Hollow, but instead, this is more like Dark and Shallow Lies, a book that I did not personally enjoy. If you did like Dark and Shallow Lies, give this book a chance, but otherwise, I would not recommend this. Thank you Netgalley and Penguin Teen for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Thank you, NetGalley and PENGUIN GROUP Penguin Young Readers Group, for allowing me to read an ARC of Bittersweet in the Hollow.

A family of women with secret abilities in a small town in the Appalachian mountains finds themselves directly involved with the mysteries of the mountains and the people of their small town. A year after Linden went missing, nothing has been the same, and mystery still surrounds what happened to her that day. When another town member goes missing, echoing what happened to Linden and the small town mystery of a missing boy over a decade ago, Linden is determined to find out what is going on, but can she keep her family protected at the same time?

Practical Magic meets House of Hollow meets Appalachian lore and mysteries! I really enjoyed this! It was mysterious, magical, and a little dark, all things that make an enjoyable read. The plot goes along really steadily and is similar to the pacing of what you would expect in a YA novel. My only critique is I felt like there were a few things at the end that weren't wrapped up as I was hoping, or rather, I was hoping for them to be a bit more fleshed out as they felt like they kind of just wrapped up a little too neatly, or things that were brought up were just kind of left to the wayside, that being said, I would love a sequel that delved into what came next after this book. How did the woman of her family continue on after? Do her parents ever reconcile? How does Linden come to terms with her evolving powers? What happens to the town after these events? And other questions I can't ask without spoilers!

Definitely recommend!