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Secrets in the Hollow
Carrie Peters is a forty-year-old riddled with guilt and secrets, struggling to understand how she and her ex-boyfriend could have gotten things so wrong. Carrie's life is complicated when she returns to her hometown of Sleepy Hollow after her parents die. She still feels tremendous guilt for the deaths of her high school friends as a result of her indiscretions. Her best friend, a homicide detective, grows increasingly concerned about her erratic behavior.Carrie has no one to turn to except her ex-boyfriend because he shares her secrets. But she finds it too painful to connect with him. He is a constant reminder of the life she lived and tried to leave behind. Carrie needs to deal with her guilt, but to do so she may have to confess her part in a life-changing incident and possibly risk her freedom.Barbara Dullaghan grew up in Sleepy Hollow and Tarrytown and is enthralled with the magic and energy of the towns. She is published in gifted education with Kendall Hunt and Prufrock Press and her short stories and poetry can be found in three anthologies. She and her husband, Jack, now live in coastal North Carolina and love spending time at the beach with their three children, spouses, and six energetic grandchildren.
244 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 13, 2023
3 people are currently reading
20 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
March 21, 2024
Secrets in the Hollow by Barbara Dullaghan is a debut mystery set in the small town of Sleepy Hollow. Not only does the storyline follow Carrie Peters - a woman of forty who has yet to figure out her life because she has been hiding her past, but it also provides readers with a great sense of place.
Throughout the story, we learn of the history of Sleepy Hollow, its cemetery, and its ghosts. At the same time, we learn of Carrie's secrets - her own personal ghosts that haunt every waking minute.
What happens when secrets final come out? Do friendships remain? Can Carrie find her happily-ever-after?
I enjoyed Dullghan's first novel. Those who enjoy mystery will certainly find this to be a good read.
Throughout the story, we learn of the history of Sleepy Hollow, its cemetery, and its ghosts. At the same time, we learn of Carrie's secrets - her own personal ghosts that haunt every waking minute.
What happens when secrets final come out? Do friendships remain? Can Carrie find her happily-ever-after?
I enjoyed Dullghan's first novel. Those who enjoy mystery will certainly find this to be a good read.
May 21, 2023
Emotionally heavy thriller
Everyone has their secrets, but these are monumental! Although the plot line was very intriguing and kept me reading, this very slow burn thriller was frustrating with the constant swapping between the present (1990) and the past (late 1960s). At first, the past sections were mainly backstory, introducing you to the characters and setting the scene before “the event.“ Unfortunately, the author added some unnecessary points to the present that did not meld with the story. Also, I found our two main characters, Carolyn Peters, and Danny Clooney, very weak-willed characters that do not really evolve. Plus, there are just so many emotional situations in this book (rape, teen pregnancy/giving up the baby, accidental death, and multiple varieties of self-destruction) then you add in a stalker, and it was just too much. Finally, to have it end in practically a “happily ever after“ for everyone? It was a bit unbelievable.
Everyone has their secrets, but these are monumental! Although the plot line was very intriguing and kept me reading, this very slow burn thriller was frustrating with the constant swapping between the present (1990) and the past (late 1960s). At first, the past sections were mainly backstory, introducing you to the characters and setting the scene before “the event.“ Unfortunately, the author added some unnecessary points to the present that did not meld with the story. Also, I found our two main characters, Carolyn Peters, and Danny Clooney, very weak-willed characters that do not really evolve. Plus, there are just so many emotional situations in this book (rape, teen pregnancy/giving up the baby, accidental death, and multiple varieties of self-destruction) then you add in a stalker, and it was just too much. Finally, to have it end in practically a “happily ever after“ for everyone? It was a bit unbelievable.
September 16, 2023
Secrets in the Hollow is a well-written, well-plotted mystery with lots of twists & turns, and unexpected happenings. Carrie, the main character is believable as someone haunted by her past, afraid of facing the present and her part in some pretty terrible stuff. Ms. Dullaghan keeps you guessing throughout. I did find this book hard to put down once I got deep into the mysterious events and wondering about the secrets of Carrie's life.
I also enjoyed the setting of the real place, Sleepy Hollow in NY, the setting of another famous story of the Headless Horseman. This time we read about another true legend--the Bronze Lady-- and the stories & legends surrounding her- fascinating info. The places & legends lend a kind of brooding, ominous, mysterious tone to the story, along with the graveyard scenes.
And for fun, Ms. Dullaghan includes stories and music from the era (60s) that bring realism and nostalgia to the novel. All together, these elements make for a fast-paced, compelling mystery with facts & fun included!
I also enjoyed the setting of the real place, Sleepy Hollow in NY, the setting of another famous story of the Headless Horseman. This time we read about another true legend--the Bronze Lady-- and the stories & legends surrounding her- fascinating info. The places & legends lend a kind of brooding, ominous, mysterious tone to the story, along with the graveyard scenes.
And for fun, Ms. Dullaghan includes stories and music from the era (60s) that bring realism and nostalgia to the novel. All together, these elements make for a fast-paced, compelling mystery with facts & fun included!
May 23, 2023
Carrie Peters, the protagonist of this captivating novel, grapples with guilt, secrets, and a haunting past. In her forties and burdened by remorse, Carrie returns to her hometown of Sleepy Hollow following the death of her parents. The weight of the deaths of her high school friends, caused by her own indiscretions, continues to torment her. As her behavior becomes increasingly erratic, her best friend, a homicide detective, grows concerned. Carrie's only confidant is her ex-boyfriend, who shares her secrets, but their connection is painful, reminding her of a life she tried to leave behind. In order to confront her guilt, she must face a life-altering incident and risk her own freedom. Barbara Dullaghan's intimate knowledge and love for the setting shine through in this enthralling tale, making Sleepy Hollow come alive.
May 26, 2023
The compelling thriller “Secrets in the Hollow” explores the complicated life of Carrie Peters, a tormented individual plagued by dangerous secrets and remorse. This fascinating story, written by Barbara Dullaghan, covers themes of regret, self-discovery and the devastating effects of prior errors.
After the devastating passing of her parents, forty-year-old Carrie returns to Sleepy Hollow where the narrative begins to develop. In a deft interweaving of the present-day story with flashbacks to the protagonist’s adolescent years, the author progressively reveals the sequence of events that resulted in the catastrophe that still haunts her. The story's depth and complexity are enhanced by the well realized characters, particularly Carrie's ex-boyfriend, who illustrates the effects of shame, concealment, and the weight of bearing one's history.
After the devastating passing of her parents, forty-year-old Carrie returns to Sleepy Hollow where the narrative begins to develop. In a deft interweaving of the present-day story with flashbacks to the protagonist’s adolescent years, the author progressively reveals the sequence of events that resulted in the catastrophe that still haunts her. The story's depth and complexity are enhanced by the well realized characters, particularly Carrie's ex-boyfriend, who illustrates the effects of shame, concealment, and the weight of bearing one's history.
May 26, 2023
Secrets in the Hollow.
Guilt, secrets, and past regrets, Carrie Peters returns to her hometown of Sleepy Hollow after her parents die. Tormented by the bad decisions of her past, she tries to deal alone with the guilt of the death of her friends at school. Her only support could be her ex-boyfriend, but he is the living memory of her mistakes. On the other hand is her best friend, a homicide detective, who grows increasingly concerned about her erratic behavior.
This is an engaging novel full of mystery, romance and secrets. It is interesting for me and it was very good how the author interspersed stories from the past and the present. The story built a little slowly but even so it kept me intrigued throughout the entire novel. I really liked the characters and the plot. I recommend it!
Guilt, secrets, and past regrets, Carrie Peters returns to her hometown of Sleepy Hollow after her parents die. Tormented by the bad decisions of her past, she tries to deal alone with the guilt of the death of her friends at school. Her only support could be her ex-boyfriend, but he is the living memory of her mistakes. On the other hand is her best friend, a homicide detective, who grows increasingly concerned about her erratic behavior.
This is an engaging novel full of mystery, romance and secrets. It is interesting for me and it was very good how the author interspersed stories from the past and the present. The story built a little slowly but even so it kept me intrigued throughout the entire novel. I really liked the characters and the plot. I recommend it!
May 25, 2023
I love stories that brim with mystery, romance, and drama and this is exactly the kind of book that I want to read when I am in the mood for these storylines. Secrets in the Hollow by Barbara Dullaghan has all the interesting elements to keep you from reading, making you guess what secrets the characters are keeping and how the story would unfold. I love how the story was written in a way where the plot was not in a hurried pace. The writing style and the dialogues compliment well with each other. I also love how we switch back and forth in different timelines from time to time and how the characters were very consistent all throughout the book. Over all, it was a unique, well-written mystery novel.
May 26, 2023
A twisted and absorbing novel
"Secrets in the Hollow", written by Bárbara Dullagham, is an absorbing novel. It delves into feelings of extreme sadness, guilt, secrecy, hatred and love.
The story is set in a tranquil Town called Sleepy Hollow. That is the birthplace of Carrie Peters who decides to leave due to her ex-boyfriend and other personal issues. But after her parents' death, she needs to return because of her guilt and sadness. Being there, she realizes that she must speak out before it's too late.
The moment I started reading, I was glued to the pages. It has a twisted plot with unexpected turns that were changing my ideas all the time. The characters are dynamic and a bit dark but I think that they spice the story a lot. I devoured this novel and I highly recommend it.
"Secrets in the Hollow", written by Bárbara Dullagham, is an absorbing novel. It delves into feelings of extreme sadness, guilt, secrecy, hatred and love.
The story is set in a tranquil Town called Sleepy Hollow. That is the birthplace of Carrie Peters who decides to leave due to her ex-boyfriend and other personal issues. But after her parents' death, she needs to return because of her guilt and sadness. Being there, she realizes that she must speak out before it's too late.
The moment I started reading, I was glued to the pages. It has a twisted plot with unexpected turns that were changing my ideas all the time. The characters are dynamic and a bit dark but I think that they spice the story a lot. I devoured this novel and I highly recommend it.
May 27, 2023
Secrets in the Hollow is the intriguing story of Carrie Peterson, a remorseful mid-40s woman that returns to her hometown after her parents died. That town is Sleepy Hollow.
The story is set in the past and the present, where Carrie feels guilty about what happened to her friends a long time ago and now, she's keeping secrets that are eating her alive but she plans to reveal the truth once and for all.
In this book, Barbara Dullahagan made the infamous town come alive. The worst coming out of the pages and happening in my head. The plotline, as well as the character development, was dramatic and suspenseful. And to point out the obvious, I was hyped up and hooked on the story, with great dramatic writing and page-turner chapters. Highly recommend it!
The story is set in the past and the present, where Carrie feels guilty about what happened to her friends a long time ago and now, she's keeping secrets that are eating her alive but she plans to reveal the truth once and for all.
In this book, Barbara Dullahagan made the infamous town come alive. The worst coming out of the pages and happening in my head. The plotline, as well as the character development, was dramatic and suspenseful. And to point out the obvious, I was hyped up and hooked on the story, with great dramatic writing and page-turner chapters. Highly recommend it!
May 24, 2023
"You can run but you cannot hide, Carolyn"
Secrets in the Hollow tells the story of Carolyn Peters, a troubled woman who suddenly finds out her parents passed away in a car accident. She then returns to her hometown; a difficult but necessary choice after breaking up with her boyfriend. But the past always finds a way to come back, when you least expect it.
Barbara Dullaghan writes this novel keeping the suspense from page one. It is the kind of story that traps you and you can´t leave the couch till you finish it. Definitely, it's a recommended book for people looking for a captivating suspense story, suited for adults in my opinion due to the plot.
Secrets in the Hollow tells the story of Carolyn Peters, a troubled woman who suddenly finds out her parents passed away in a car accident. She then returns to her hometown; a difficult but necessary choice after breaking up with her boyfriend. But the past always finds a way to come back, when you least expect it.
Barbara Dullaghan writes this novel keeping the suspense from page one. It is the kind of story that traps you and you can´t leave the couch till you finish it. Definitely, it's a recommended book for people looking for a captivating suspense story, suited for adults in my opinion due to the plot.
May 24, 2023
Fun read
Secrets in the Hollow is a really enjoyable, engaging, and good read. The story doesn't move too quickly, but rather at just the right pace for me. It's a story of a woman who has to go back to her childhood home after her parents' sudden death. Secrets that her parents had kept begin to emerge soon after she arrives, and Carrie has to learn to deal with all this new information. Throw in some old flames, old friendships, all the old feelings of being back in her home town, not to mention her own dark secrets, along with Carrie's anxiety and panic attacks (dealt with by therapy and running) and you have a character that you are rooting for. Good book.
Secrets in the Hollow is a really enjoyable, engaging, and good read. The story doesn't move too quickly, but rather at just the right pace for me. It's a story of a woman who has to go back to her childhood home after her parents' sudden death. Secrets that her parents had kept begin to emerge soon after she arrives, and Carrie has to learn to deal with all this new information. Throw in some old flames, old friendships, all the old feelings of being back in her home town, not to mention her own dark secrets, along with Carrie's anxiety and panic attacks (dealt with by therapy and running) and you have a character that you are rooting for. Good book.
May 26, 2023
“Secrets in the Hollow” by Barbara Dullaghan is a very intense thriller about a woman dealing with a dark past. Carrie Peters returns to her home town, Sleepy Hollow. This triggers strange behaviour on Carrie’s part, which makes a detective who is also Carrie’s best friend suspicious of her role in the deaths of some of her former classmates.
The story builds gradually and maintains suspense by switching between episodes in the past and the present. This is definitely a good choice for slow-burn thriller fans. However, I think the book description needs to contain a trigger warning, as it deals with some topics that readers could find very triggering, including rape and self-harm.
The story builds gradually and maintains suspense by switching between episodes in the past and the present. This is definitely a good choice for slow-burn thriller fans. However, I think the book description needs to contain a trigger warning, as it deals with some topics that readers could find very triggering, including rape and self-harm.
May 26, 2023
A must read
Secrets in the Hollow by author Barbara Dullaghan is a middle length story that captured my attention from the very beginning. The description of the setting is so accurate that I am not surprised the author grew up in Sleepy Hollow, where the story is set. This gives the story a certain magnetism I adored.
The development of the scenes and of characters was marvelously done. I think the author is a very good storyteller and this is what captured my attention the most. The story is very good and was very well told. I recommend it because it hooks you from the very beginning and keeps your attention till the end.
Secrets in the Hollow by author Barbara Dullaghan is a middle length story that captured my attention from the very beginning. The description of the setting is so accurate that I am not surprised the author grew up in Sleepy Hollow, where the story is set. This gives the story a certain magnetism I adored.
The development of the scenes and of characters was marvelously done. I think the author is a very good storyteller and this is what captured my attention the most. The story is very good and was very well told. I recommend it because it hooks you from the very beginning and keeps your attention till the end.
March 7, 2024
Enjoyed this book and especially the setting of Sleepy Hollow, which is all too familiar to from my own young life. The cemetery has always had a "life" of its own (no pun intended) especially during the teen age years. The author accurately describes Tarrytown, the train station, the Tappan Zee Bridge, Hudson River, Sleepy Hollow and even the excitement of New Year's Eve in Times Square and gives the story such a descriptive background.
There are many secrets which kept me involved and turning pages. If you like the Hudson Valley and enjoy twists and turns "Secrets in the Hollow" is a good choice.
There are many secrets which kept me involved and turning pages. If you like the Hudson Valley and enjoy twists and turns "Secrets in the Hollow" is a good choice.
May 12, 2023
Going home after a long time away can be difficult, especially if you harbor a dark secret, as the protagonist does in Barbara Dullaghan's captivating debut novel. Carrie Peters has been consumed by guilt nearly her entire life. After her parents' deaths, she returns to her hometown, only to be forced to face those dark demons of the past. Will she do what is right after all this time? You'll have to read Secrets in the Hollow to find out!
February 1, 2024
A family legacy of keeping secrets, mistakes made when young, and living with consequences
I enjoyed the story of a young girl living with large mistakes. The questions of what happened between Danny and Carrie and whether their secrets would be found out kept me turning the pages until the end. I’ve never been to Sleepy Hollow, but now it’s on my bucket list, due to Dullaghan’s lovely descriptions. Her love for the town shines through her words.
I enjoyed the story of a young girl living with large mistakes. The questions of what happened between Danny and Carrie and whether their secrets would be found out kept me turning the pages until the end. I’ve never been to Sleepy Hollow, but now it’s on my bucket list, due to Dullaghan’s lovely descriptions. Her love for the town shines through her words.
December 2, 2023
I really enjoyed this book. I was enthralled wanting to know more and more about the “secrets” in the characters’ lives. The plot flowed well and answered all the questions you had about the story. I could see a sequel to this story easily be written.
Praise to Dullaghan on a well-written first novel. I hope to see more of her work in the future.
Praise to Dullaghan on a well-written first novel. I hope to see more of her work in the future.
July 3, 2023
I really enjoyed this book, the character development is great, and the story itself is a page turner. Can't wait to read more from Barbara Dullaghan
May 16, 2024
I really liked this book. Started reading and didn't put it down until it was done. It was thrilling and kept me involved up until the end. Well worth the time spent.
July 15, 2025
Phenomenal book.
Realistic characters in a fully realized setting telling a story with enough twists to keep you on the edge of your seat. Can’t wait for the movie!
Highly recommended
Realistic characters in a fully realized setting telling a story with enough twists to keep you on the edge of your seat. Can’t wait for the movie!
Highly recommended
June 14, 2023
Carrie can not understand how her life turned out such a mess. When her parents unexpectedly die, she is forced to return to her hometown of Sleep Hollow, NY. The past is catching up with her and she must face the decisions she made that led to tough choices and horrible consequences. What will happen if she finally releases her demons and talk? Her best friend, Nessa, is a police detective and wants to help, but Carrie continues to push her away. As Carrie's secrets come out, what will happen?
A deep story of choices and their consequences, told against the backdrop of Sleepy Hollow and its secrets. A good read! 4 Stars!
A deep story of choices and their consequences, told against the backdrop of Sleepy Hollow and its secrets. A good read! 4 Stars!
July 28, 2023
Great Read
I loved everything about this book a real page turner. Hard to put it down. I hope Barb writes another book.
I loved everything about this book a real page turner. Hard to put it down. I hope Barb writes another book.
Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews