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From the New York Times bestselling author of River of Shadows and A Ship of Bones and Teeth comes a smutty spooky dark academia gothic romance retelling of The Legend of Sleepy Hollow , where Kat Van Tassel doesn't have to choose between Brom Bones and Ichabod Crane, and there are worse things haunting them than the Headless Horseman.
Ever since she was a child, Kat Van Tassel knew that her parents had arranged for her to marry her best friend, Brom Bones, when she became of age. That was until Brom mysteriously vanished from the secretive village of Sleepy Hollow when he was just a teenager. Now, at nineteen, Kat is fulfilling the tradition of attending Sleepy Hollow Institute, a shadowy and prestigious school that is run by her powerful family. There she starts to fall for her new teacher, the enigmatic, smart, and much older Ichabod Crane, whose fascination with dark magic and the occult brings out a new side of Kat-in more ways than one. Until Brom Bones suddenly appears in her class. Her childhood friend doesn't remember what happened to him in the four years that he's been gone, all he knows is that he's back in Sleepy Hollow for good. The only problem is, he's not the same man that Kat knew. Cocky and brash as a youth, this Brom is violent and prone to bouts of madness. It doesn't help that his reappearance coincides with gruesome decapitations that are plaguing the town, with rumors swirling about a vengeful ghost called The Headless Horseman. Determined to get to the bottom of the murders and Brom's volatility, Crane takes Brom under his wing to study him, and they begin to grow close, just as they do with Kat. But the more that the threesome submits to their sexual desires on the path to the truth, the more dangerous Sleepy Hollow becomes. The Headless Horseman might claim them as his next victims...if something even more terrifying doesn't get to them first.
Ever since she was a child, Kat Van Tassel knew that her parents had arranged for her to marry her best friend, Brom Bones, when she became of age. That was until Brom mysteriously vanished from the secretive village of Sleepy Hollow when he was just a teenager. Now, at nineteen, Kat is fulfilling the tradition of attending Sleepy Hollow Institute, a shadowy and prestigious school that is run by her powerful family. There she starts to fall for her new teacher, the enigmatic, smart, and much older Ichabod Crane, whose fascination with dark magic and the occult brings out a new side of Kat-in more ways than one. Until Brom Bones suddenly appears in her class. Her childhood friend doesn't remember what happened to him in the four years that he's been gone, all he knows is that he's back in Sleepy Hollow for good. The only problem is, he's not the same man that Kat knew. Cocky and brash as a youth, this Brom is violent and prone to bouts of madness. It doesn't help that his reappearance coincides with gruesome decapitations that are plaguing the town, with rumors swirling about a vengeful ghost called The Headless Horseman. Determined to get to the bottom of the murders and Brom's volatility, Crane takes Brom under his wing to study him, and they begin to grow close, just as they do with Kat. But the more that the threesome submits to their sexual desires on the path to the truth, the more dangerous Sleepy Hollow becomes. The Headless Horseman might claim them as his next victims...if something even more terrifying doesn't get to them first.
364 pages, Paperback
First published September 28, 2023
1366 people are currently reading
31761 people want to read
About the author
Karina Halle
123 books19.7k followersKarina Halle is a screenwriter, former music & travel journalist, and the New York Times bestselling author of Grave Matter, Blood Orange, & The Royals Next Door, as well as 80 other romances across all sub-genres, ranging from spicy rom coms to gothic horror and dark fantasy. Needless to say, whatever you're into, she's probably written an HEA for it.
When she's not traveling, she, her husband, and their pup Perry, split their time between a possibly haunted 120 year-old house in Victoria, BC, and their condo in Los Angeles.
When she's not traveling, she, her husband, and their pup Perry, split their time between a possibly haunted 120 year-old house in Victoria, BC, and their condo in Los Angeles.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,514 reviews
October 9, 2025
☆☆☆☆☆
Thanks to Netgalley and Tantor Media | Tantor Audio for this ALC.
Karina Halle’s Hollow is a hauntingly atmospheric and utterly captivating retelling that perfectly captures the eerie vibes of classic gothic tale while adding her own unique twists. From the very first page, I was completely immersed in its dark, chilling world.
As a retelling, Hollow stays true to the spirit of the original story but adds its own fresh and individual takes, which I absolutely appreciated. It felt familiar yet excitingly new, and I found myself eagerly turning the pages to see how the plot would unfold.
Halle knows exactly how to write a spicy scene. Normally, I’m pretty picky about steamy moments in books, but somehow, Halle made it work flawlessly. It wasn’t cringey like I often find in romance-heavy books. It was fun, intense, and genuinely added to the tension and chemistry between the characters.
Speaking of characters, I really loved the trio at the heart of this story. They each have such distinct personalities that bring so much depth to the narrative. Their dynamics were compelling, and watching their relationships evolve was one of my favorite parts. There’s a bit of everything -passion, tension, and some genuine emotional depth.
That plot twist in the middle (in the school, if you know, you know), didn’t see that coming at all!
It could have surely been predicted, but honestly, I didn’t try to overanalyse the book beforehand. I wanted to just let the story unfold and experience the surprises as they came, and I’m so glad I did.
For anyone who enjoys a dark, gothic romantic fantasy, this book is an absolute must-read. If you loved An Academy for Liars by Alexis Henderson, you’ll definitely want to dive into this one.
Thanks to Netgalley and Tantor Media | Tantor Audio for this ALC.
Karina Halle’s Hollow is a hauntingly atmospheric and utterly captivating retelling that perfectly captures the eerie vibes of classic gothic tale while adding her own unique twists. From the very first page, I was completely immersed in its dark, chilling world.
As a retelling, Hollow stays true to the spirit of the original story but adds its own fresh and individual takes, which I absolutely appreciated. It felt familiar yet excitingly new, and I found myself eagerly turning the pages to see how the plot would unfold.
Halle knows exactly how to write a spicy scene. Normally, I’m pretty picky about steamy moments in books, but somehow, Halle made it work flawlessly. It wasn’t cringey like I often find in romance-heavy books. It was fun, intense, and genuinely added to the tension and chemistry between the characters.
Speaking of characters, I really loved the trio at the heart of this story. They each have such distinct personalities that bring so much depth to the narrative. Their dynamics were compelling, and watching their relationships evolve was one of my favorite parts. There’s a bit of everything -passion, tension, and some genuine emotional depth.
That plot twist in the middle (in the school, if you know, you know), didn’t see that coming at all!
It could have surely been predicted, but honestly, I didn’t try to overanalyse the book beforehand. I wanted to just let the story unfold and experience the surprises as they came, and I’m so glad I did.
For anyone who enjoys a dark, gothic romantic fantasy, this book is an absolute must-read. If you loved An Academy for Liars by Alexis Henderson, you’ll definitely want to dive into this one.
November 17, 2025
firstly, thank you to the publisher for an arc and an alc!
whewww this was so hot omg 😭 was it really cringey and corny? without a doubt. but did i eat it up? absolutely.
surprisingly, there was more plot than i expected! full of magical mysteries and intrigue, this was a decently written headless horseman retelling taking place in an academy for witches. the disappearance and reappearance of one of the mmcs was very interesting, and the revelation was well done.
this is mmf but currently, the ménage à trois has not happened yet.
not to mention there’s dual narration and i loveeee a dual narrated romance book. the male narrator??? so good.
can’t wait to read book two asap!
——
my first karina halle book!! excited for a spooky romance retelling 😋🎃
whewww this was so hot omg 😭 was it really cringey and corny? without a doubt. but did i eat it up? absolutely.
surprisingly, there was more plot than i expected! full of magical mysteries and intrigue, this was a decently written headless horseman retelling taking place in an academy for witches. the disappearance and reappearance of one of the mmcs was very interesting, and the revelation was well done.
this is mmf but currently, the ménage à trois has not happened yet.
not to mention there’s dual narration and i loveeee a dual narrated romance book. the male narrator??? so good.
can’t wait to read book two asap!
——
my first karina halle book!! excited for a spooky romance retelling 😋🎃
October 5, 2023
“I would die to kiss you right now,” he says, leaning in closer, his charcoal eyes burning on my lips. “And I would happily accept that death.”
a VERY spicy, why choose, retelling of sleepy hollow. the cozy, spooky autumnal vibes of this book were 10/10, and the plot was 8/10, but Karina’s spice scenes are a little too much for me - THATS A PERSONAL PREFERENCE THO i’m not much of a dark romance/smut girly so take that with a grain of salt. and Crane felt a smidge predatory to me. however, if you took out the spice scenes, you would still have a solid plot and I would’ve rated it higher. will continue with the next book simply because I need to know what happens.
a VERY spicy, why choose, retelling of sleepy hollow. the cozy, spooky autumnal vibes of this book were 10/10, and the plot was 8/10, but Karina’s spice scenes are a little too much for me - THATS A PERSONAL PREFERENCE THO i’m not much of a dark romance/smut girly so take that with a grain of salt. and Crane felt a smidge predatory to me. however, if you took out the spice scenes, you would still have a solid plot and I would’ve rated it higher. will continue with the next book simply because I need to know what happens.
September 16, 2025
Spooky and Spicy 🔥🎃
ARC Review — Hollow by Karina Halle
Okay listen… a sexy why choose gothic romance fairytale retelling of Sleepy Hollow?? YES PLEASE. From the moment I saw the summary, I was running to request this eARC — and I was lucky enough to be chosen.
We meet Kat Van Tassel in the eerie village of Sleepy Hollow. She’s been promised to her childhood friend, Brom Bones, but her heart has always been tangled with Ichabod Crane, her enigmatic teacher. When Brom returns after a four-year disappearance, he’s changed… darker, unstable, and tied to a chilling string of decapitations connected to the Headless Horseman.
As Kat, Brom, and Ichabod are pulled deeper into the mystery, passions ignite and danger looms. Love, desire, and blood spill across the pages — and yes, the Horseman is always lurking.
🌶️ Spicy, but not too scary 🩸
While Hollow is marketed as a dark romance, I’d call it a really good entry point for readers curious about the genre. It’s intense at times, but not overwhelmingly dark. Think: moody atmosphere, forbidden desire, and gothic tension without drowning you in hopelessness.
That said — ⚠️ trigger warnings apply: drug use, attempted sexual assault, violence, domestic violence, dub-con, praise and degradation kinks, one-time spit play, softer BDSM elements, dom/sub/switch dynamics, and mental health struggles. This is not YA and not intended for readers under 18.
💜 Why I loved it
✨ Kat, Brom, and Ichabod’s dynamic was magnetic. Childhood promises, lost years, dark secrets — it was giving everything.
✨ The gothic Sleepy Hollow atmosphere = perfection. A little spooky, a little seductive, and completely immersive.
✨ Balance of mystery + romance. The plot wasn’t just an excuse for steam — it had teeth.
🕯️ Final Thoughts
Spooky. Spicy. Addictive. I gave Hollow 4.5 stars and highly recommend it if you love gothic retellings, unconventional romance, and a touch of Halloween magic.
But be warned… this one ends on a cliffhanger. You’ll definitely want to have Legend, the sequel, waiting before you dive in.
Releasing October 3rd with a stunning new cover, this is the perfect read for spooky season. Preorder it now, witches. 🖤✨
Thank you so much to NetGalley, Berkley, and Karina Halle for the early access copy and the chance to share my honest thoughts.
ARC Review — Hollow by Karina Halle
Okay listen… a sexy why choose gothic romance fairytale retelling of Sleepy Hollow?? YES PLEASE. From the moment I saw the summary, I was running to request this eARC — and I was lucky enough to be chosen.
We meet Kat Van Tassel in the eerie village of Sleepy Hollow. She’s been promised to her childhood friend, Brom Bones, but her heart has always been tangled with Ichabod Crane, her enigmatic teacher. When Brom returns after a four-year disappearance, he’s changed… darker, unstable, and tied to a chilling string of decapitations connected to the Headless Horseman.
As Kat, Brom, and Ichabod are pulled deeper into the mystery, passions ignite and danger looms. Love, desire, and blood spill across the pages — and yes, the Horseman is always lurking.
🌶️ Spicy, but not too scary 🩸
While Hollow is marketed as a dark romance, I’d call it a really good entry point for readers curious about the genre. It’s intense at times, but not overwhelmingly dark. Think: moody atmosphere, forbidden desire, and gothic tension without drowning you in hopelessness.
That said — ⚠️ trigger warnings apply: drug use, attempted sexual assault, violence, domestic violence, dub-con, praise and degradation kinks, one-time spit play, softer BDSM elements, dom/sub/switch dynamics, and mental health struggles. This is not YA and not intended for readers under 18.
💜 Why I loved it
✨ Kat, Brom, and Ichabod’s dynamic was magnetic. Childhood promises, lost years, dark secrets — it was giving everything.
✨ The gothic Sleepy Hollow atmosphere = perfection. A little spooky, a little seductive, and completely immersive.
✨ Balance of mystery + romance. The plot wasn’t just an excuse for steam — it had teeth.
🕯️ Final Thoughts
Spooky. Spicy. Addictive. I gave Hollow 4.5 stars and highly recommend it if you love gothic retellings, unconventional romance, and a touch of Halloween magic.
But be warned… this one ends on a cliffhanger. You’ll definitely want to have Legend, the sequel, waiting before you dive in.
Releasing October 3rd with a stunning new cover, this is the perfect read for spooky season. Preorder it now, witches. 🖤✨
Thank you so much to NetGalley, Berkley, and Karina Halle for the early access copy and the chance to share my honest thoughts.
Want to read
September 8, 2023runyx added this to her tbr so i added it to my tbr
October 21, 2023
God, I’m such a sucker for retellings…and this October I learned that I’m an absolute whore for Sleepy Hollow retellings!!! This one is my favorite so far. Come on, Brom Bones, Katrina Van Tassel, AND Ichabod Crane?! Me likey. Especially since they’re all witches. Did I get ahead of myself? Let me rewind.
Katrina is the apple of her father’s eye, and when he died, it left a void in her life. Specifically, a void usually filled by someone who loves her and has her best interests at heart. It seems as though her mother may not, but that’s just speculation. She’s been betrothed to Brom since birth, a pact between Brom’s parents and Sarah, Katrina’s mother. But after spending their lives growing up together, Katrina and Brom don’t really have a problem with it. Until Brom disappears when he’s 18. And doesn’t reappear for four years.
In the meantime, though broken hearted, Katrina has been living her life. Most recently, she’s been sent to the mysterious academy to hone her magic, where she meets brooding and handsome Professor Crane. Naturally, they become close, but everything grinds to a halt when Brom shows up from the ether, with no memory of where he has been or why. But he remembers one thing. He loves Katrina, and he’s not pleased to see her with Crane.
There is a supernatural/paranormal element at play, and of course the Headless Horseman we all hate to love, but I think I’ll keep the mystery alive. Suffice it to say, I’m salivating for book two to come out next week. I need more Crane/Katrina/Brom, and I need them in the form of a sandwich and STAT!
Katrina is the apple of her father’s eye, and when he died, it left a void in her life. Specifically, a void usually filled by someone who loves her and has her best interests at heart. It seems as though her mother may not, but that’s just speculation. She’s been betrothed to Brom since birth, a pact between Brom’s parents and Sarah, Katrina’s mother. But after spending their lives growing up together, Katrina and Brom don’t really have a problem with it. Until Brom disappears when he’s 18. And doesn’t reappear for four years.
In the meantime, though broken hearted, Katrina has been living her life. Most recently, she’s been sent to the mysterious academy to hone her magic, where she meets brooding and handsome Professor Crane. Naturally, they become close, but everything grinds to a halt when Brom shows up from the ether, with no memory of where he has been or why. But he remembers one thing. He loves Katrina, and he’s not pleased to see her with Crane.
There is a supernatural/paranormal element at play, and of course the Headless Horseman we all hate to love, but I think I’ll keep the mystery alive. Suffice it to say, I’m salivating for book two to come out next week. I need more Crane/Katrina/Brom, and I need them in the form of a sandwich and STAT!
September 4, 2025
I’ve said it once, and I’ll say it again. Karina Halle is the queen of dark fantasy romances. She is the absolute best at a good dark retelling and this absolutely delivered.
With spooky season right around the corner, this was the perfect way for me to get into the Halloween vibes. I absolutely LOVE a good smutty book with some creepy vibes. I cannot wait to see where things go with Brom, Crane and Kat 😏 Running to the next one!
If you are a fan of Karina you know what you’ll be getting with this one.
Hollow will be available for rerelease, with a brand new cover, on 10/7/25!
Tropes
🖤Dark academia vibes
💀Professor x student
👻Age gap
🎃Sleepy Hollow retelling
🔮Witches and dark magic
❤️🔥Spicy
🐦⬛A possible why choose?
🦋One horse
🌙Hidden identities
*Thank you NetGalley, Berkeley publishing, and the amazing Karina Halle for the ARC!*
With spooky season right around the corner, this was the perfect way for me to get into the Halloween vibes. I absolutely LOVE a good smutty book with some creepy vibes. I cannot wait to see where things go with Brom, Crane and Kat 😏 Running to the next one!
If you are a fan of Karina you know what you’ll be getting with this one.
Hollow will be available for rerelease, with a brand new cover, on 10/7/25!
Tropes
🖤Dark academia vibes
💀Professor x student
👻Age gap
🎃Sleepy Hollow retelling
🔮Witches and dark magic
❤️🔥Spicy
🐦⬛A possible why choose?
🦋One horse
🌙Hidden identities
*Thank you NetGalley, Berkeley publishing, and the amazing Karina Halle for the ARC!*
October 21, 2024
Ok I can’t believe I’m about to say this, but I wish there was less smut. I KNOW I KNOW. But hear me out, this concept and world is so freaking cool, sometimes the smut came out of nowhere and in my opinion, took away from this, again, REALLY COOL world she’s created. Now don’t get me wrong, the smut was very hot when it did happen, I just finished this book wishing there was more world building and character development.
Also, as a historical romance girly, the phrase “daddy” was so random and unnecessary lmao.
Also, as a historical romance girly, the phrase “daddy” was so random and unnecessary lmao.
October 6, 2025
“𝙔𝙤𝙪 𝙖𝙧𝙚 𝙢𝙖𝙙𝙚 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙨𝙞𝙣𝙣𝙚𝙧𝙨. 𝙔𝙤𝙪 𝙬𝙚𝙧𝙚 𝙢𝙖𝙙𝙚 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙢𝙚.”
4⭐️
-Sleepy Hollow retelling
-dark academia
-witches/mages
-professor x student
-friends to lovers
-morally gray MMCs
-love triangle to why choose/MMF
-multi POV
Ahhh this was such a fun and spooky read, perfect for the season! It’s bringing back all the nostalgia from the classic Sleepy Hollow movie but make it spicy and make it a “love triangle to why choose” trope (PSA to any authors reading this, you write a LT/WC, I will EAT. IT. UP.)
“𝙒𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙝𝙖𝙥𝙥𝙚𝙣𝙨 𝙞𝙛 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙗𝙚𝙘𝙤𝙢𝙚 𝙢𝙮 𝙣𝙚𝙬 𝙖𝙙𝙙𝙞𝙘𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣?”
I don’t remember much of the original lore, so going into this book blind was kinda thrilling because I really didn’t know what to expect. But it had all the perfect, dark gothic vibes.
And, not to mention hot professor (with a slight god complex 🤭) x student trope which is executed deliciously. But Brom also serves up some childhood friends to lovers/betrothed which makes this even more tension-packed.
“𝙔𝙤𝙪 𝙢𝙖𝙮 𝙗𝙚 𝙜𝙚𝙩𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙪𝙣𝙙𝙚𝙧 𝙢𝙮 𝙨𝙠𝙞𝙣, 𝙨𝙬𝙚𝙚𝙩 𝙬𝙞𝙩𝙘𝙝. 𝙄 𝙬𝙤𝙣’𝙩 𝙝𝙞𝙙𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙛𝙧𝙤𝙢 𝙮𝙤𝙪. 𝙔𝙤𝙪’𝙧𝙚 𝙪𝙣𝙧𝙖𝙫𝙚𝙡𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙖𝙡𝙡 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙙𝙨 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙝𝙖𝙫𝙚 𝙗𝙚𝙚𝙣 𝙝𝙤𝙡𝙙𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙢𝙚 𝙩𝙤𝙜𝙚𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙧.”
The mystery to it all is intriguing because I became so suspicious from the very beginning. But yet I couldn’t put all the pieces together so you’re still left guessing and looking for book 2 at the end of this. It was the best way to leave us hanging.
Thank you to @berkleypub @acebookspub and NetGalley for the advanced copy!
4⭐️
-Sleepy Hollow retelling
-dark academia
-witches/mages
-professor x student
-friends to lovers
-morally gray MMCs
-love triangle to why choose/MMF
-multi POV
Ahhh this was such a fun and spooky read, perfect for the season! It’s bringing back all the nostalgia from the classic Sleepy Hollow movie but make it spicy and make it a “love triangle to why choose” trope (PSA to any authors reading this, you write a LT/WC, I will EAT. IT. UP.)
“𝙒𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙝𝙖𝙥𝙥𝙚𝙣𝙨 𝙞𝙛 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙗𝙚𝙘𝙤𝙢𝙚 𝙢𝙮 𝙣𝙚𝙬 𝙖𝙙𝙙𝙞𝙘𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣?”
I don’t remember much of the original lore, so going into this book blind was kinda thrilling because I really didn’t know what to expect. But it had all the perfect, dark gothic vibes.
And, not to mention hot professor (with a slight god complex 🤭) x student trope which is executed deliciously. But Brom also serves up some childhood friends to lovers/betrothed which makes this even more tension-packed.
“𝙔𝙤𝙪 𝙢𝙖𝙮 𝙗𝙚 𝙜𝙚𝙩𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙪𝙣𝙙𝙚𝙧 𝙢𝙮 𝙨𝙠𝙞𝙣, 𝙨𝙬𝙚𝙚𝙩 𝙬𝙞𝙩𝙘𝙝. 𝙄 𝙬𝙤𝙣’𝙩 𝙝𝙞𝙙𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙛𝙧𝙤𝙢 𝙮𝙤𝙪. 𝙔𝙤𝙪’𝙧𝙚 𝙪𝙣𝙧𝙖𝙫𝙚𝙡𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙖𝙡𝙡 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙙𝙨 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙝𝙖𝙫𝙚 𝙗𝙚𝙚𝙣 𝙝𝙤𝙡𝙙𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙢𝙚 𝙩𝙤𝙜𝙚𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙧.”
The mystery to it all is intriguing because I became so suspicious from the very beginning. But yet I couldn’t put all the pieces together so you’re still left guessing and looking for book 2 at the end of this. It was the best way to leave us hanging.
Thank you to @berkleypub @acebookspub and NetGalley for the advanced copy!
August 21, 2024
I’d recommend Hollow specifically to paranormal romance readers who want to try a steamy sleepy hollow reimagining.
It was so bingeable and addicting.
I got sucked into the gothic atmosphere, the autumn leaves, the witches, the headless horseman, and the magical university set in a castle.
I rated this book 5 ⭐️
HOWEVER, it’s a duology, so there’s a book after this one. And book 2 I absolutely HATED.
So I would tentatively recommend this to other readers.
I’ll post a separate review for book two explaining what I didn’t like about it if you’re curious.
Lastly, this duology is also a polyamorous romance between Katrina, Ichabod, and Brom. And that’s also not my vibe.
I prefer when romances are just two people, or if it’s a why choose.
In general though, I’d definitely loved Hollow specifically because the atmosphere was so fun, and would make a perfect steamy, fall read.
But it’s a tentative recommendation for both books since I really disliked book 2.
Of course, you would need to read both to see how the story concludes.
It was so bingeable and addicting.
I got sucked into the gothic atmosphere, the autumn leaves, the witches, the headless horseman, and the magical university set in a castle.
I rated this book 5 ⭐️
HOWEVER, it’s a duology, so there’s a book after this one. And book 2 I absolutely HATED.
So I would tentatively recommend this to other readers.
I’ll post a separate review for book two explaining what I didn’t like about it if you’re curious.
Lastly, this duology is also a polyamorous romance between Katrina, Ichabod, and Brom. And that’s also not my vibe.
I prefer when romances are just two people, or if it’s a why choose.
In general though, I’d definitely loved Hollow specifically because the atmosphere was so fun, and would make a perfect steamy, fall read.
But it’s a tentative recommendation for both books since I really disliked book 2.
Of course, you would need to read both to see how the story concludes.
October 4, 2023
I've learned my lesson: this author's writing just isn't for me. I've had issues in the past with a couple of her books, but I was intrigued by the premise of this and thought I'd give it a try. Unfortunately the setting and headless horseman lore wasn't enough to save the book.
Right off the bat, there's a sex scene between the fmc at 15 years old and an 18 year old. That should have been enough for me to dnf the book, honestly.
Both male love interests are off-putting, full of red flags (and not the fun ones we like to ignore as dark romance readers 😈), and I didn't think they had any chemistry with the fmc.
The plot goes into entirely too many directions and absolutely ✨️nothing✨️ is solved or answered by the end of the book. Yes, I know this is a duet and more is to come, but there are just too many loose threads to make this book feel like it was anything but a waste of time.
Right off the bat, there's a sex scene between the fmc at 15 years old and an 18 year old. That should have been enough for me to dnf the book, honestly.
Both male love interests are off-putting, full of red flags (and not the fun ones we like to ignore as dark romance readers 😈), and I didn't think they had any chemistry with the fmc.
The plot goes into entirely too many directions and absolutely ✨️nothing✨️ is solved or answered by the end of the book. Yes, I know this is a duet and more is to come, but there are just too many loose threads to make this book feel like it was anything but a waste of time.
October 5, 2023
—gothic romance
—MF and MM romance (book two will be MMF)
—dark academia
—witchy
—perfect for spooky season
—second chance
—age gap
Karina Halle just knows how to write an absolutely thrilling gothic romance. With witches, ghosts, oh my, Hollow was a wonderful start to the spooky season with its suspense, spice, twist and just overall plot.
*I’m giving it 3.75/5 stars because I wasn’t drawn in to this story (wasn’t as connected) as other works I’ve read by Karina. There was something missing that I couldn’t put my finger on. And the part at the beginning with two of the characters did not sit right with me with the age difference.*
But other than that, I really did enjoy myself with Hollow. It kicked off my October TBR perfectly, and I cannot wait for book two. I love Karina’s work, and her writing style and cannot wait to get more of Kat, Brom, and Crane. They are absolutely delicious.
Check TW and enjoy!
—MF and MM romance (book two will be MMF)
—dark academia
—witchy
—perfect for spooky season
—second chance
—age gap
Karina Halle just knows how to write an absolutely thrilling gothic romance. With witches, ghosts, oh my, Hollow was a wonderful start to the spooky season with its suspense, spice, twist and just overall plot.
*I’m giving it 3.75/5 stars because I wasn’t drawn in to this story (wasn’t as connected) as other works I’ve read by Karina. There was something missing that I couldn’t put my finger on. And the part at the beginning with two of the characters did not sit right with me with the age difference.*
But other than that, I really did enjoy myself with Hollow. It kicked off my October TBR perfectly, and I cannot wait for book two. I love Karina’s work, and her writing style and cannot wait to get more of Kat, Brom, and Crane. They are absolutely delicious.
Check TW and enjoy!
November 13, 2023
Just in time for spooky season, Karina Halle drops a MMF romance loosely based on The Legend of Sleepy Hollow. This was goooood!
This was the perfect amount of creepy and smutty. The book definitely leaves you with more questions than answers, but luckily this is a duet, so I'm assuming all of the answers will come in the next book. I was happy with the way this book ended. That last chapter was !!!!
I really enjoyed the world-building. I also loved that none of the characters were particularly stupid. I liked that they were all at least somewhat aware that the Sisters and Kat's mother are definitely part of the evil plot. I also really appreciated getting some insight on Brom's acceptance of being interested in men, particularly as the story is set in the 1800s. It seems like both Crane and Brom had to go through that self-discovery, and I appreciated that it was recognized/readers got background on their bi-awakening.
I know some readers chose to DNF because Brom and Kat first have sex when he was 18 and she was 15. I understand that decision completely. Obviously, I am not excusing this scene or justifying it. I personally tried to keep in mind that this book is set in the 1800s, and Kat and Brom were best friends who had known and loved each other their whole life ( and they're betrothed to be married). It's a Karina Halle book, so there are always some darker parts that might be triggering for some, so readers should keep in mind.
In true Karina Halle fashion, this book has a truly shocking smut moment that I promise that you will never see elsewhere. When LOL
Anyways, I'll read the next book. It was good and perfect for Halloween season.
This was the perfect amount of creepy and smutty. The book definitely leaves you with more questions than answers, but luckily this is a duet, so I'm assuming all of the answers will come in the next book. I was happy with the way this book ended. That last chapter was !!!!
I really enjoyed the world-building. I also loved that none of the characters were particularly stupid. I liked that they were all at least somewhat aware that the Sisters and Kat's mother are definitely part of the evil plot. I also really appreciated getting some insight on Brom's acceptance of being interested in men, particularly as the story is set in the 1800s. It seems like both Crane and Brom had to go through that self-discovery, and I appreciated that it was recognized/readers got background on their bi-awakening.
I know some readers chose to DNF because Brom and Kat first have sex when he was 18 and she was 15. I understand that decision completely. Obviously, I am not excusing this scene or justifying it. I personally tried to keep in mind that this book is set in the 1800s, and Kat and Brom were best friends who had known and loved each other their whole life ( and they're betrothed to be married). It's a Karina Halle book, so there are always some darker parts that might be triggering for some, so readers should keep in mind.
In true Karina Halle fashion, this book has a truly shocking smut moment that I promise that you will never see elsewhere. When LOL
Anyways, I'll read the next book. It was good and perfect for Halloween season.
September 30, 2025
I have enjoyed so many of the versions of the Legend of Sleepy Hollow. I just read a story that was reminiscent of the Legend of Sleepy Hollow and have seen both the film and tv series of the legend. This is yet another one, told from the introduction of Ichabod Crane and Katrina Van Tassel at the Institute, a local school for witches, run by Katrina’s aunts. This one also has an abundance of hot and spicy scenes that all the other versions definitely lacked.
The book summary lays out the entire storyline of this retelling of the legend and the three MC’s, Crane, Katrina and Brom, and the dark relationships between the three of them (key word here being “three”). What the book summary doesn’t say is that after Brom’s four-year absence from Sleepy Hollow, he is not the same Brom that Katrina first fell in love with. However, Katrina’s mother as well as the sisters/aunts are even more insistent on their marriage, despite Katrina’s second thoughts about Brom and their betrothal, and not just because of her developing feelings for Crane.
The story mostly flips back and forth between Crane and Katrina, but in the second half, after Brom returns, the story includes some chapters from Brom. From this point on, the story and pacing take on an even darker, intense and fevered pitch. My armchair detective begins to see the path this story will probably take to its tragic end. I was mostly right; however, the tragic end of this love triangle will have to wait until the sequel, Legend.
The character development of the MC’s was well done. However, I feel compelled to mention that this type of character development will not be to everyone’s liking or preference. Suffice it to say that the story includes R-rated scenes and themes. The pacing was steady to fast; however, I felt that some of the scenes regarding the relationship triangle between the MC’s kind of dragged on the pacing a little. The storyline was very interesting and the writing was good. However, once again, some of the interactions regarding the love triangle seemed a little…..awkward. What do I know, I’m not a writer, I’m just an avid reader, and maybe it was just my own feelings towards some of the scenes that were awkward or rather uncomfortable. For example, the way that Kat was pursued seemed more stalkerish and predatory than romantic. Hence, the term dark romance. Anyway, I’m looking at an overall rating of a solid four for a 4star review.
I want to thank NetGalley and Tantor Media for sending me this eARC in exchange for my honest review.
#NetGalley #TantorMedia #Hollow
The book summary lays out the entire storyline of this retelling of the legend and the three MC’s, Crane, Katrina and Brom, and the dark relationships between the three of them (key word here being “three”). What the book summary doesn’t say is that after Brom’s four-year absence from Sleepy Hollow, he is not the same Brom that Katrina first fell in love with. However, Katrina’s mother as well as the sisters/aunts are even more insistent on their marriage, despite Katrina’s second thoughts about Brom and their betrothal, and not just because of her developing feelings for Crane.
The story mostly flips back and forth between Crane and Katrina, but in the second half, after Brom returns, the story includes some chapters from Brom. From this point on, the story and pacing take on an even darker, intense and fevered pitch. My armchair detective begins to see the path this story will probably take to its tragic end. I was mostly right; however, the tragic end of this love triangle will have to wait until the sequel, Legend.
The character development of the MC’s was well done. However, I feel compelled to mention that this type of character development will not be to everyone’s liking or preference. Suffice it to say that the story includes R-rated scenes and themes. The pacing was steady to fast; however, I felt that some of the scenes regarding the relationship triangle between the MC’s kind of dragged on the pacing a little. The storyline was very interesting and the writing was good. However, once again, some of the interactions regarding the love triangle seemed a little…..awkward. What do I know, I’m not a writer, I’m just an avid reader, and maybe it was just my own feelings towards some of the scenes that were awkward or rather uncomfortable. For example, the way that Kat was pursued seemed more stalkerish and predatory than romantic. Hence, the term dark romance. Anyway, I’m looking at an overall rating of a solid four for a 4star review.
I want to thank NetGalley and Tantor Media for sending me this eARC in exchange for my honest review.
#NetGalley #TantorMedia #Hollow
October 17, 2023
spooky season, spicy, mmf sleepy hollow with hot witches and creepy mysteries.
i am obsessed. i need book two now.
i am obsessed. i need book two now.
October 9, 2025
I've never read anything by Karina Halle before, so I wasn't familiar with her game!
Hollow is a Sleepy Hollow reimagining, a short story I was vaguely aware of (and read after finishing this book). Not only does this reimagining veer quite a bit from its source material, it does it well! I genuinely felt like, for such a quick read, Kat, Brom, and Ichabod were extremely well-developed and dynamic. The secret politics of the town are insidious and captivating, and you never quite know who can be trusted. While it's obvious who The Headless Horseman is, the suspense is ratcheted up very strategically. The atmosphere of a spooky little town where people learn magic but forget what they learn if they leave was very intriguing, and I can't wait to read the finale of this duology!
I admittedly didn't know much about this book going into it. I am simple: I saw the series is called "A Gothic Shade of Romance" and I requested. In addition to this book being very captivating, it was unexpectedly hot as hell! And poly? And queer? It's not exactly poly in this book, but I literally wasn't expecting it! With that said, I also felt that part of it felt very natural and hot and well-written. I will definitely be reading book 2 and checking out other books by Halle!
The narrators were perfect for the characters for the most part. Sometimes I felt like the male narrator sounded like he was mimicking/mocking what Kat's character sounded like to him, and I don't know how to say that in a less confusing way. I also found the general tone of the story somewhat inconsistent in that it takes place way back when but the dialogue is somewhat modern, but it wasn't something I got caught up in.
Thank you to Tantor Media, Tantor Audio, and NetGalley for the ALC!
4.5 ⭐️s
4 🌶️
Hollow is a Sleepy Hollow reimagining, a short story I was vaguely aware of (and read after finishing this book). Not only does this reimagining veer quite a bit from its source material, it does it well! I genuinely felt like, for such a quick read, Kat, Brom, and Ichabod were extremely well-developed and dynamic. The secret politics of the town are insidious and captivating, and you never quite know who can be trusted. While it's obvious who The Headless Horseman is, the suspense is ratcheted up very strategically. The atmosphere of a spooky little town where people learn magic but forget what they learn if they leave was very intriguing, and I can't wait to read the finale of this duology!
I admittedly didn't know much about this book going into it. I am simple: I saw the series is called "A Gothic Shade of Romance" and I requested. In addition to this book being very captivating, it was unexpectedly hot as hell! And poly? And queer? It's not exactly poly in this book, but I literally wasn't expecting it! With that said, I also felt that part of it felt very natural and hot and well-written. I will definitely be reading book 2 and checking out other books by Halle!
The narrators were perfect for the characters for the most part. Sometimes I felt like the male narrator sounded like he was mimicking/mocking what Kat's character sounded like to him, and I don't know how to say that in a less confusing way. I also found the general tone of the story somewhat inconsistent in that it takes place way back when but the dialogue is somewhat modern, but it wasn't something I got caught up in.
Thank you to Tantor Media, Tantor Audio, and NetGalley for the ALC!
4.5 ⭐️s
4 🌶️
October 26, 2025
Oof no, I didn’t like this one. I was fully in spooky season mood, recently rewatched Sleepy Hollow, and just wanted all those vibes and this was just not it for me. I know it’s the first in a duet but I have no want/need to continue on.
This is basically a spicy MMF (I’m assuming that’s end game plan) with sleepy hollow retelling vibes as in the town, themes, and characters (Kat, Brom, and Ichabod). But make them all horny and witchy. Kat starts attending a school for witches in town where once you leave school you forget anything that goes on there (seems so totally safe), from your teachers to classes, etc. Her mom went there too and every one in town just doesn’t talk too much about it. Well on Kat’s first day she meets the new teacher Ichabod and when she leaves school she actually remembers him and the classes he taught, which isn’t supposed to happen. Things heat up between them two and then things get complicated when Kat’s beloved Brom (from childhood) shows back up with his memories all missing and messed up for the past 4ish years. All of them are/were involved and things go from there.
I don’t knowwww, this plot was messy, very much spice for spice (I guess), into each other for I don’t know what reason, and just ick with the dynamics at play too. Ugh sadly a miss for me, but now I know and can unhaul my copy at least. I’ve enjoyed other books from this author before so this one was just a miss.
This is basically a spicy MMF (I’m assuming that’s end game plan) with sleepy hollow retelling vibes as in the town, themes, and characters (Kat, Brom, and Ichabod). But make them all horny and witchy. Kat starts attending a school for witches in town where once you leave school you forget anything that goes on there (seems so totally safe), from your teachers to classes, etc. Her mom went there too and every one in town just doesn’t talk too much about it. Well on Kat’s first day she meets the new teacher Ichabod and when she leaves school she actually remembers him and the classes he taught, which isn’t supposed to happen. Things heat up between them two and then things get complicated when Kat’s beloved Brom (from childhood) shows back up with his memories all missing and messed up for the past 4ish years. All of them are/were involved and things go from there.
I don’t knowwww, this plot was messy, very much spice for spice (I guess), into each other for I don’t know what reason, and just ick with the dynamics at play too. Ugh sadly a miss for me, but now I know and can unhaul my copy at least. I’ve enjoyed other books from this author before so this one was just a miss.
October 7, 2024
4.5✨ intrigued, obsessed, addicted, entertained, and constantly questioning
i love kat so much. i love her bravery. her determination. the way she always followed the rules but didn’t hesitate to branch out when the opportunity arose. the learn and experience and grow. she so embraced change and a new reality and crane. and her unyielding, undying love for brom was so pure. my heart broke for her and what she had to go through having lost him. he really was her everything. all she had. the only person left who truly loved her.
ichabod crane. i love that man. his desire for kat was so stunning and raw, i couldn’t get enough. the stolen glances, long walks, lingering touches. i ate it up. his curiosity and his history are just so engaging and enticing. i want more. i know to know everything about this man. i think he and kat are so beautiful together. deserving of each other. the way they get to explore their desires together drives him. he would do anything for her.
oh my sweet brom. pretty boy. a delicious man. what happened to him? where has he been? why? what is haunting him? hunting him… who did this to him? one can only guess without spoiling it. i was just fucking enthralled and i needed to know everything. immediately.
some notes:
- mama be crazy and i don’t know why this girl keeps telling her shit
- famke is a gem and i love and want more of her. i think she knows a hell of a lot than she lets on
- the coven is fucking creepy
- i loved kat’s father
i predicted the outcome of this book the whole way through, but damn if i didn’t love it anyways. it was what i wanted. the tropes, the vibes, the mystery, just everything was so damn enticing, i couldn’t stop. the love, the sex, the depravity and desire. it was too good. i cannot wait to see where this goes and how hot it gets. karina killed it, as per usual. i am ready for what’s next. i think. i hope.
“Welcome to Sleepy Hollow. May you never leave.”
“I would die to kiss you right now. […] And I would happily accept that death.”
“My sweet witch has consumed my soul.”
“You may be getting under my skin, sweet witch. I won’t hide that from you. You’re unraveling all the threads that have been holding me together.”
“He might be the devil, and so this might be Hell. But why does Hell feel so good?”
“You have me under your spell, sweet witch. With every waking moment, I’m always coming back to you.”
“She is the balm on my wounded soul. She soothes where everything burns. She smooths the scars flat until I can pretend I’m whole again.”
• professor x student
• forbidden
• age gap
• slow burn
• childhood friends to lovers
• mystery / suspense / a lil horror
• praise & degradation kinks
• breath play
• dom/sub
i love kat so much. i love her bravery. her determination. the way she always followed the rules but didn’t hesitate to branch out when the opportunity arose. the learn and experience and grow. she so embraced change and a new reality and crane. and her unyielding, undying love for brom was so pure. my heart broke for her and what she had to go through having lost him. he really was her everything. all she had. the only person left who truly loved her.
ichabod crane. i love that man. his desire for kat was so stunning and raw, i couldn’t get enough. the stolen glances, long walks, lingering touches. i ate it up. his curiosity and his history are just so engaging and enticing. i want more. i know to know everything about this man. i think he and kat are so beautiful together. deserving of each other. the way they get to explore their desires together drives him. he would do anything for her.
oh my sweet brom. pretty boy. a delicious man. what happened to him? where has he been? why? what is haunting him? hunting him… who did this to him? one can only guess without spoiling it. i was just fucking enthralled and i needed to know everything. immediately.
some notes:
- mama be crazy and i don’t know why this girl keeps telling her shit
- famke is a gem and i love and want more of her. i think she knows a hell of a lot than she lets on
- the coven is fucking creepy
- i loved kat’s father
i predicted the outcome of this book the whole way through, but damn if i didn’t love it anyways. it was what i wanted. the tropes, the vibes, the mystery, just everything was so damn enticing, i couldn’t stop. the love, the sex, the depravity and desire. it was too good. i cannot wait to see where this goes and how hot it gets. karina killed it, as per usual. i am ready for what’s next. i think. i hope.
“Welcome to Sleepy Hollow. May you never leave.”
“I would die to kiss you right now. […] And I would happily accept that death.”
“My sweet witch has consumed my soul.”
“You may be getting under my skin, sweet witch. I won’t hide that from you. You’re unraveling all the threads that have been holding me together.”
“He might be the devil, and so this might be Hell. But why does Hell feel so good?”
“You have me under your spell, sweet witch. With every waking moment, I’m always coming back to you.”
“She is the balm on my wounded soul. She soothes where everything burns. She smooths the scars flat until I can pretend I’m whole again.”
• professor x student
• forbidden
• age gap
• slow burn
• childhood friends to lovers
• mystery / suspense / a lil horror
• praise & degradation kinks
• breath play
• dom/sub
October 20, 2023
4.5⭐️ So spooky and spicy! I had a lot of fun with this one.
Hollow is a gothic, dark academia retelling of The Legend of Sleepy Hollow and it’s perfect to read for spooky season. I didn’t expect to actually be creeped out, but I was! I wouldn’t say it’s scary, but it definitely made me shiver once or twice.
This book is a multi POV. Kat (19) is sent to attend the Sleepy Hollow Institute, which is a mysterious magical school for witches. She catches the eye of her handsome professor, Ichabod Crane. Her childhood bestie, Brom, has been missing for 4 years but he suddenly returns, and he attends the Institute as well. It’s all very dramatic and mysterious, I ate it up.
The vibes of this story were so dark and mysterious, I was on the edge of my seat the entire time. Such a fun reading experience.
There are MM/MF spicy scenes in this one, setting up a MMF situation. It’s hot hot hot!
I can’t wait to see what happens next!!
THANK YOU Karina for the gifted copy🖤
Hollow is a gothic, dark academia retelling of The Legend of Sleepy Hollow and it’s perfect to read for spooky season. I didn’t expect to actually be creeped out, but I was! I wouldn’t say it’s scary, but it definitely made me shiver once or twice.
This book is a multi POV. Kat (19) is sent to attend the Sleepy Hollow Institute, which is a mysterious magical school for witches. She catches the eye of her handsome professor, Ichabod Crane. Her childhood bestie, Brom, has been missing for 4 years but he suddenly returns, and he attends the Institute as well. It’s all very dramatic and mysterious, I ate it up.
The vibes of this story were so dark and mysterious, I was on the edge of my seat the entire time. Such a fun reading experience.
There are MM/MF spicy scenes in this one, setting up a MMF situation. It’s hot hot hot!
I can’t wait to see what happens next!!
THANK YOU Karina for the gifted copy🖤
September 29, 2023
**ARC provided in exchange for an honest review**
Karina Halle's Hollow is like stepping into a world where desire and mystery dance hand in hand, drawing from the eerie legend of Sleepy Hollow. The trio of characters—Kat, Brom, and Crane—each have their own magnetic pull, creating a web of intriguing secrets and relationships.
“You may be getting under my skin, sweet witch. I won’t hide that from you. You’re unraveling all the threads that have been holding me together.”
While Kat and Crane's connection takes center stage, Brom's enigmatic presence hints at even more depth, leaving us hungry for what comes next. Hollow strikes a perfect balance between romance, otherworldly intrigue, and spine-tingling suspense. The atmosphere envelops you in a chilling embrace, firmly rooting you in the heart of Sleepy Hollow.
“He might be the devil, and so this might be Hell. But why does Hell feel so good?”
The intimate moments are passionate and unforgettable. Halle ignites the pages with desire and connection, adding an extra layer of heat to the tale. In Hollow, Karina Halle crafts a world where passion and fear intertwine, making hearts race from both fiery encounters and the lurking shadows. I'm dying to dive into the sequel, Legend.
Karina Halle's Hollow is like stepping into a world where desire and mystery dance hand in hand, drawing from the eerie legend of Sleepy Hollow. The trio of characters—Kat, Brom, and Crane—each have their own magnetic pull, creating a web of intriguing secrets and relationships.
“You may be getting under my skin, sweet witch. I won’t hide that from you. You’re unraveling all the threads that have been holding me together.”
While Kat and Crane's connection takes center stage, Brom's enigmatic presence hints at even more depth, leaving us hungry for what comes next. Hollow strikes a perfect balance between romance, otherworldly intrigue, and spine-tingling suspense. The atmosphere envelops you in a chilling embrace, firmly rooting you in the heart of Sleepy Hollow.
“He might be the devil, and so this might be Hell. But why does Hell feel so good?”
The intimate moments are passionate and unforgettable. Halle ignites the pages with desire and connection, adding an extra layer of heat to the tale. In Hollow, Karina Halle crafts a world where passion and fear intertwine, making hearts race from both fiery encounters and the lurking shadows. I'm dying to dive into the sequel, Legend.
August 15, 2025
Thank you NetGalley and Ace for the ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
A gothic, why choose, spicy retelling of Sleepy Hollow yes please!
When Katrina’s fiance goes missing, she enrolls in the Sleepy Hollow Institute where she meets professor Ichabod Crane. She of course is drawn to him. But then Brom returns with amnesia and Katrina is torn between her feelings for both men. But Brom isn’t the same person and his return has also brought a mysterious murder.
It was definitely entertaining and makes me want to read more books by the author. 3.5 stars rounded up.
A gothic, why choose, spicy retelling of Sleepy Hollow yes please!
When Katrina’s fiance goes missing, she enrolls in the Sleepy Hollow Institute where she meets professor Ichabod Crane. She of course is drawn to him. But then Brom returns with amnesia and Katrina is torn between her feelings for both men. But Brom isn’t the same person and his return has also brought a mysterious murder.
It was definitely entertaining and makes me want to read more books by the author. 3.5 stars rounded up.
January 22, 2025
2.5★ (collective thoughts of both the books)
As a dark academia professor x student why choose sleepy hollow retailing i expected it to be better.
I wish the world building was more explored in depth. Excessive out of blue smut was giving me ick. I only continued this duet only for the plot and mystery cuz romance was disconnecting and lost its momentum due to unnecessary smut but the revelation ended up underwhelming too and many questions were not answered which pissed me off and don’t even get me started on misplaced historical/modern slangs, tho i was prepared to overlook it since the author already warned about it in the beginning but still ugh, i was frustrated with the “daddy” one eww. I don’t like it in general so forcing it into a 19th century book? And you lost me. A big turn off.
I am much of a MFM girlie so i was intrigued by MMF, i always end up rooting for MM and the FMC feels like third wheel in most cases but here idk where it went wrong. Didn't like any of the characters especially Crane, he was creepy (and calling him “god”? calm tf down dude)
P.s. justice for those poor books. you will be remembered _/\_
As a dark academia professor x student why choose sleepy hollow retailing i expected it to be better.
I wish the world building was more explored in depth. Excessive out of blue smut was giving me ick. I only continued this duet only for the plot and mystery cuz romance was disconnecting and lost its momentum due to unnecessary smut but the revelation ended up underwhelming too and many questions were not answered which pissed me off and don’t even get me started on misplaced historical/modern slangs, tho i was prepared to overlook it since the author already warned about it in the beginning but still ugh, i was frustrated with the “daddy” one eww. I don’t like it in general so forcing it into a 19th century book? And you lost me. A big turn off.
I am much of a MFM girlie so i was intrigued by MMF, i always end up rooting for MM and the FMC feels like third wheel in most cases but here idk where it went wrong. Didn't like any of the characters especially Crane, he was creepy (and calling him “god”? calm tf down dude)
P.s. justice for those poor books. you will be remembered _/\_
October 3, 2025
3.5 ✨️ rounded up!
Big thanks to RBmedia and NetGalley for an advanced listening copy of "Hollow" for review purposes.
Good lord, I didn't know people got that freaky deaky in 1870 something. Very open-minded for that day and age. 🤭
In all seriousness, I enjoyed this. It bordered on horror, with Crane being haunted by the ghost of the previous professor and the town being harassed by the headless horseman. I was intrigued and guessing the whole time. Brom showing back up out of nowhere and not remembering anything? Ahhhh! 😬
Kat's mother and her sisters gave me all the wrong vibes. Those women were sketchy in every way and kinda scary. I'm not all that familiar with the original Sleepy Hollow, but I don't think that mattered much. There are still a lot of questions that need answering in the next book. I can't wait to see how the group dynamic is.
The narration was great! The male voice really put the time difference into perspective! This is the perfect book to start spooky season.
Big thanks to RBmedia and NetGalley for an advanced listening copy of "Hollow" for review purposes.
Good lord, I didn't know people got that freaky deaky in 1870 something. Very open-minded for that day and age. 🤭
In all seriousness, I enjoyed this. It bordered on horror, with Crane being haunted by the ghost of the previous professor and the town being harassed by the headless horseman. I was intrigued and guessing the whole time. Brom showing back up out of nowhere and not remembering anything? Ahhhh! 😬
Kat's mother and her sisters gave me all the wrong vibes. Those women were sketchy in every way and kinda scary. I'm not all that familiar with the original Sleepy Hollow, but I don't think that mattered much. There are still a lot of questions that need answering in the next book. I can't wait to see how the group dynamic is.
The narration was great! The male voice really put the time difference into perspective! This is the perfect book to start spooky season.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 7, 2025
First in duet
Gothic dark academia
Professor x student
Love triangle • spicy 🔥
A retelling of The Legend of Sleepy Hollow with witches, spice, and a mysterious magical institute ✨
I love Sleepy Hollow and was so excited when I read this synopsis. Hollow was the absolute best way to start October - spooky, bingeable, and a lot of fun!
“𝘔𝘺 𝘴𝘸𝘦𝘦𝘵 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘤𝘩 𝘩𝘢𝘴 𝘤𝘰𝘯𝘴𝘶𝘮𝘦𝘥 𝘮𝘺 𝘴𝘰𝘶𝘭.”
Karina Halle’s writing is perfectly eerie. A foggy forest, dangerous secrets, and of course a headless horseman. The chemistry between the MC’s really made this addicting!
I loved the mystery surrounding Brom, the school, and the witches. I can’t wait to step back into the shadows for the next book 🐦⬛
📖 Thank you Ariana from Berkley Publishing, Ace Books for sending me this eARC
Gothic dark academia
Professor x student
Love triangle • spicy 🔥
A retelling of The Legend of Sleepy Hollow with witches, spice, and a mysterious magical institute ✨
I love Sleepy Hollow and was so excited when I read this synopsis. Hollow was the absolute best way to start October - spooky, bingeable, and a lot of fun!
“𝘔𝘺 𝘴𝘸𝘦𝘦𝘵 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘤𝘩 𝘩𝘢𝘴 𝘤𝘰𝘯𝘴𝘶𝘮𝘦𝘥 𝘮𝘺 𝘴𝘰𝘶𝘭.”
Karina Halle’s writing is perfectly eerie. A foggy forest, dangerous secrets, and of course a headless horseman. The chemistry between the MC’s really made this addicting!
I loved the mystery surrounding Brom, the school, and the witches. I can’t wait to step back into the shadows for the next book 🐦⬛
📖 Thank you Ariana from Berkley Publishing, Ace Books for sending me this eARC
September 5, 2025
3.5 stars
Listen, I LOVE Sleepy Hollow, so I jumped at the opportunity to read Hollow because who doesn't love a reimagining of one of their favorite legends/movies?!
Overall, I loved the spooky vibes, all around gloomy gothic atmosphere, and the horror leaning plot. However, I wasn't really a fan of Kat, Brom, and Crane's triad. It was a bit too insta-lovey for me, which isn't a favorite trope of mine, but the spice was excellent. Despite that, I am looking forward to Legend!
Thank you Berkley Publishing Group | Ace | Netgalley for the arc!
Listen, I LOVE Sleepy Hollow, so I jumped at the opportunity to read Hollow because who doesn't love a reimagining of one of their favorite legends/movies?!
Overall, I loved the spooky vibes, all around gloomy gothic atmosphere, and the horror leaning plot. However, I wasn't really a fan of Kat, Brom, and Crane's triad. It was a bit too insta-lovey for me, which isn't a favorite trope of mine, but the spice was excellent. Despite that, I am looking forward to Legend!
Thank you Berkley Publishing Group | Ace | Netgalley for the arc!
October 11, 2025
arc review to come 🖤
November 7, 2023
Spooky, Victorian, why choose? Yes! A sleepy hollow retelling?! Double yes!
This story has everything it advertised and more. I struggled a bit with the story because I personally am not a fan of the teacher student trope (personal preference) and trying to read it during the chaos that was the week of my wedding made it hard for me to focus on the story. There were some moments where i had trouble connecting to the characters or found their responses to situations unbelievable but overall i thought the story was enjoyable and would recommend to anyone looking for a spicy spooky book.
This story has everything it advertised and more. I struggled a bit with the story because I personally am not a fan of the teacher student trope (personal preference) and trying to read it during the chaos that was the week of my wedding made it hard for me to focus on the story. There were some moments where i had trouble connecting to the characters or found their responses to situations unbelievable but overall i thought the story was enjoyable and would recommend to anyone looking for a spicy spooky book.
September 27, 2025
Ghost Story meets Witchy Why Choose Romance in a Historical Fiction setting.
I wasn’t expecting the story to pack as much plot as it did into the book. It was definitely an erotic novel, but I didn’t notice any plot holes while listening to it. The smut was fun and highly enjoyable but the story was interesting (and haunting) enough to stand on its own.
The story is told with multiple POVs via 3 narrators in a dual narration style. Each narrator has an interesting (dare I say sultry) voice, but dual narration always annoys me just a little because each character ends up with multiple voices during the storytelling process. With that said it was still easy enough to follow along because it’s was well written.
Historical Fantasy/ Witchy Romance
Why Choose Romance (MMF)
Sleepy Hollow Retelling
Dark Academia
Second Chance Romance
Hot for Teacher
Erotic Novel
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
I wasn’t expecting the story to pack as much plot as it did into the book. It was definitely an erotic novel, but I didn’t notice any plot holes while listening to it. The smut was fun and highly enjoyable but the story was interesting (and haunting) enough to stand on its own.
The story is told with multiple POVs via 3 narrators in a dual narration style. Each narrator has an interesting (dare I say sultry) voice, but dual narration always annoys me just a little because each character ends up with multiple voices during the storytelling process. With that said it was still easy enough to follow along because it’s was well written.
Historical Fantasy/ Witchy Romance
Why Choose Romance (MMF)
Sleepy Hollow Retelling
Dark Academia
Second Chance Romance
Hot for Teacher
Erotic Novel
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
September 28, 2023
Getting started on Spooky season with this delicious and mysterious romance by the one and only Karina Halle!
🧙 Professor and Student
🌙Witches and ghosts
🧙Spooky and full of mystery
🌙Dark Academia
🧙MF and MM (with the second book hoping for MMF)
🌙 Amnesia/Possession
🧙Kinky with D/S vibes
Katrina Von tassel comes from a line of witches. Under her moms thumb, she does whatever she says even if she’s elusive about who she is, what she is, and the things she does at night….
Ichabod Crane is the new professor at Sleepy Hollow Institute. Also a witch, he realizes this academy is holding secrets. The magic here feels dark. And he’s seeing bloody ghost that go bump in the night.
What in hell is happening?
Brom Bones. Kat’s childhood best friend and lover. Also been in an arranged marriage to Kat since she was born.
But he went missing. For four years.
And he’s back without memory of where he went or why…
Strange things are happening in this Sleepy Hollow town. It’s year 1875. The history and rumors of this town starts now….
I really do fall in love with all of this authors books. But this one is totally spooky and steamy and full of mystery. I absolutely love the atmosphere that Karina Halle built for us. It’s a hot and steamy throuple romance and I’m all here for it!
🧙 Professor and Student
🌙Witches and ghosts
🧙Spooky and full of mystery
🌙Dark Academia
🧙MF and MM (with the second book hoping for MMF)
🌙 Amnesia/Possession
🧙Kinky with D/S vibes
Katrina Von tassel comes from a line of witches. Under her moms thumb, she does whatever she says even if she’s elusive about who she is, what she is, and the things she does at night….
Ichabod Crane is the new professor at Sleepy Hollow Institute. Also a witch, he realizes this academy is holding secrets. The magic here feels dark. And he’s seeing bloody ghost that go bump in the night.
What in hell is happening?
Brom Bones. Kat’s childhood best friend and lover. Also been in an arranged marriage to Kat since she was born.
But he went missing. For four years.
And he’s back without memory of where he went or why…
Strange things are happening in this Sleepy Hollow town. It’s year 1875. The history and rumors of this town starts now….
I really do fall in love with all of this authors books. But this one is totally spooky and steamy and full of mystery. I absolutely love the atmosphere that Karina Halle built for us. It’s a hot and steamy throuple romance and I’m all here for it!
January 4, 2026
I absolutely LOVED where the author went with this retelling!
I am beyond geeked that I already have Legend and can get right back into this story.
The characters are full, the plot is captivating, the spice is spicing, the intrigue is on point and landscape is perfect!
I am beyond geeked that I already have Legend and can get right back into this story.
The characters are full, the plot is captivating, the spice is spicing, the intrigue is on point and landscape is perfect!
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