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The Hollow
They told him the Hollow was forever.
They weren’t kidding.
When fourteen-year-old Lucas Hale wakes up on a domed island full of sword-wielding guards, the rules are already written—and survival isn’t guaranteed. Students disappear, questions get you noticed, and no one seems to care how any of it actually works. The guards call it discipline. The survivors call it luck. Most kids treat this place as some kind of twisted summer camp. Lucas can’t shake the feeling that it’s a trap.
But he isn’t like the others. He doesn’t remember how he got here, and he’s already behind on whatever “training” he’s supposed to be doing. The deeper he digs, the more he realizes: the Hollow isn’t just weird. It’s hiding something. It’s watching. And it wants something from him.
Because here, magic isn’t the only thing that wants to break you.
And Lucas? He’s not planning on breaking quietly.
They weren’t kidding.
When fourteen-year-old Lucas Hale wakes up on a domed island full of sword-wielding guards, the rules are already written—and survival isn’t guaranteed. Students disappear, questions get you noticed, and no one seems to care how any of it actually works. The guards call it discipline. The survivors call it luck. Most kids treat this place as some kind of twisted summer camp. Lucas can’t shake the feeling that it’s a trap.
But he isn’t like the others. He doesn’t remember how he got here, and he’s already behind on whatever “training” he’s supposed to be doing. The deeper he digs, the more he realizes: the Hollow isn’t just weird. It’s hiding something. It’s watching. And it wants something from him.
Because here, magic isn’t the only thing that wants to break you.
And Lucas? He’s not planning on breaking quietly.
- GenresFantasy
390 pages, Paperback
Published November 1, 2025
About the author
J & J Kellaway
8 books8 followersJ & J Kellaway have been passionate about storytelling since childhood. What began as building characters for fun eventually grew into a world of its own. Their debut novel, The Game of Champions, begins the journey filled with mystery, magic and adventure. Follow their work on Instagram at @eternastudioshq
What was one just a dream is now coming to life.
What was one just a dream is now coming to life.
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
August 20, 2025
4.5⭐️
Huge thanks to J&J Kellaway for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Think Harry Potter, but darker, deadlier, and with no one you can trust or so you think👀
Lucas, haunted by fragments of a past life, finds himself trapped in The Hollow and forced to survive at Drekorn Hall, where secrets and danger lurk in every corner. I was hooked from the first chapter, Lucas makes an unforgettable protagonist as he struggles to uncover who he is, why he’s there, and how to escape a place no one leaves. This book kept me up all night, I just had to figure out how he got there. The author did an amazing job setting up the story and pulling me straight into the dangers of The Hollow.
I’m super ready for The Hollow 2 to follow along with Lucas—and hopefully Thea 👀👀👀. I know he has some work to do on himself, but I think they would be sooooo cute together 🤪❤️
Huge thanks to J&J Kellaway for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Think Harry Potter, but darker, deadlier, and with no one you can trust or so you think👀
Lucas, haunted by fragments of a past life, finds himself trapped in The Hollow and forced to survive at Drekorn Hall, where secrets and danger lurk in every corner. I was hooked from the first chapter, Lucas makes an unforgettable protagonist as he struggles to uncover who he is, why he’s there, and how to escape a place no one leaves. This book kept me up all night, I just had to figure out how he got there. The author did an amazing job setting up the story and pulling me straight into the dangers of The Hollow.
I’m super ready for The Hollow 2 to follow along with Lucas—and hopefully Thea 👀👀👀. I know he has some work to do on himself, but I think they would be sooooo cute together 🤪❤️
August 24, 2025
ARC Review*
The Hollow has the makings of an awesome fantasy series. I loved the characters and the setting. Think Hogwarts, but much darker. The beginning felt pretty rushed, I would have like more time introducing characters and setting the scenes. Overall a great read.
The Hollow has the makings of an awesome fantasy series. I loved the characters and the setting. Think Hogwarts, but much darker. The beginning felt pretty rushed, I would have like more time introducing characters and setting the scenes. Overall a great read.
August 17, 2025
Synopsis – When Lucas wakes up in a shipping container with no memories, he is thrust into a world where nothing is as it seems, filled with shadows and secrets. From the moment he is dragged from the box, disoriented and frightened, he finds himself in a frantic flight for his life, pursued by malignant forces that will stop at nothing to capture him. As he struggles to piece together the fragments of his identity, he meets Professor Steele, an enigmatic figure who becomes both a mentor and a guide. Lucas soon discovers he is enrolled in Drekorn Hall – a mysterious school where he is already behind in his “training,” a term that feels more like a threat than an education. The sprawling hallways seem to speak of power and peril, and it is soon very apparent that Lucas is not like the others; his abilities stir curiosity and fear among his peers, marking him as both an outsider and a target in this strange new realm filled with danger and intrigue.
Thoughts- I thoroughly enjoyed this book. From the first page, I was transported into a world of mystery and intrigue, which piqued my interest instantly. The author’s vivid descriptions and compelling characters drew me in deeper, making it impossible to put the book down. Every twist and turn kept me on the edge of my seat, creating an atmosphere of suspense that lingered long after I finished reading. As the story unfolded, I found myself emotionally invested in the fates of the characters, eagerly anticipating their next moves and the secrets that were yet to be revealed. This enthralling narrative not only entertained me but also sparked a sense of curiosity that made me reflect on the intricate layers of the plot long after the final page was turned.
As we learn more about Lucas, it is hard not to admire the sass that seems to embody this character. His hilarious one-liners add a layer of lightheartedness that contrasts with his perplexing situation, allowing readers to engage with his journey in a more enjoyable way. Each quip he delivers not only showcases his sharp wit but also serves as a coping mechanism for the challenges he faces. As the narrative unfolds, we see how Lucas uses humor to navigate the complexities of his world, turning moments of tension into opportunities for levity, which ultimately deepens our connection to him and makes his struggles all the more relatable.
Throughout the story, Lucas makes many friends along the way, each one uniquely contributing to his journey. No matter how much he fought against it, these friendships serve as a powerful reminder that sometimes the right friends will always have your back, providing unwavering support and compassion during difficult times. They stand by him, even when he makes incredibly questionable choices, often challenging him to reflect on his actions while simultaneously offering understanding and loyalty. As Lucas navigates through various challenges, the bonds he forms with these friends not only help him grow but also illuminate the profound impact genuine connections can have on his life and decisions.
Overall, this book was an enjoyable read, filled with intriguing plot twists and well-developed characters that kept me engaged from start to finish. The author skillfully crafted a world that was rich in detail, making it easy to become completely immersed in the narrative. It has been left open for a second book, which has me eagerly anticipating the next installment. I am looking forward returning to The Hollow and continuing Lucas’ journey in future books, as I believe there are many more adventures and challenges awaiting him that will further explore his character and relationships.
Thoughts- I thoroughly enjoyed this book. From the first page, I was transported into a world of mystery and intrigue, which piqued my interest instantly. The author’s vivid descriptions and compelling characters drew me in deeper, making it impossible to put the book down. Every twist and turn kept me on the edge of my seat, creating an atmosphere of suspense that lingered long after I finished reading. As the story unfolded, I found myself emotionally invested in the fates of the characters, eagerly anticipating their next moves and the secrets that were yet to be revealed. This enthralling narrative not only entertained me but also sparked a sense of curiosity that made me reflect on the intricate layers of the plot long after the final page was turned.
As we learn more about Lucas, it is hard not to admire the sass that seems to embody this character. His hilarious one-liners add a layer of lightheartedness that contrasts with his perplexing situation, allowing readers to engage with his journey in a more enjoyable way. Each quip he delivers not only showcases his sharp wit but also serves as a coping mechanism for the challenges he faces. As the narrative unfolds, we see how Lucas uses humor to navigate the complexities of his world, turning moments of tension into opportunities for levity, which ultimately deepens our connection to him and makes his struggles all the more relatable.
Throughout the story, Lucas makes many friends along the way, each one uniquely contributing to his journey. No matter how much he fought against it, these friendships serve as a powerful reminder that sometimes the right friends will always have your back, providing unwavering support and compassion during difficult times. They stand by him, even when he makes incredibly questionable choices, often challenging him to reflect on his actions while simultaneously offering understanding and loyalty. As Lucas navigates through various challenges, the bonds he forms with these friends not only help him grow but also illuminate the profound impact genuine connections can have on his life and decisions.
Overall, this book was an enjoyable read, filled with intriguing plot twists and well-developed characters that kept me engaged from start to finish. The author skillfully crafted a world that was rich in detail, making it easy to become completely immersed in the narrative. It has been left open for a second book, which has me eagerly anticipating the next installment. I am looking forward returning to The Hollow and continuing Lucas’ journey in future books, as I believe there are many more adventures and challenges awaiting him that will further explore his character and relationships.
September 8, 2025
Imagine waking up in a crate, on a ship with no memory in a strange place you didn't even know existed! That's exactly what happens to Lucas in The Hollow. Lucas is captured and sent to The Hollow, only being told he was being watched and believing he is special to someone. He spends his time running from guards, making friends and learning to survive this strange place all while not knowing who he is. As Lucas makes more connections to people, he starts to uncover things about himself. The problem is, with everything he discovers, the mystery gets deeper and darker. Will Lucas escape The Hollow or admit defeat and accept his fate?!
This story was really intriguing! I was hooked from the start. The world and character building was really nice. The author gives you enough to be able to follow the story, without taking away from the story with too many unnecessary details. There is mystery, a whole slew of magical things, love, funny banter, and some heartbreak. I cannot wait for the next book!
This story was really intriguing! I was hooked from the start. The world and character building was really nice. The author gives you enough to be able to follow the story, without taking away from the story with too many unnecessary details. There is mystery, a whole slew of magical things, love, funny banter, and some heartbreak. I cannot wait for the next book!
September 3, 2025
I do actually rate it 4.5 stars 🤩 what an amazing story!! I've been up late finishing this ARC and wow it hasn't disappointed!! Would love to see some artwork of what the Wilshee looks like to see if it matches the visual in my head. There is suspense, twists and magical creativity splashed across this story. Recommend reading if you love a fantasy mystery 🙏🏻❤️
August 27, 2025
Another badass little ARC read. This one was a perfect blend of YA magic and mystery. The school aspect was done well, and I really liked all the different characters and personalities. Lucas was hilarious, and I can't wait to see what's next!
August 23, 2025
This was my first visit to this universe. I will be going back and reading the others! I can't wait for the next one!
I have fallen in love with this school and these characters. It was like living in this magical world. I was cheering Luke on and feeling my heart break along with him. I got so caught up in it that I didn't realize that I was on the last page! I am having withdrawals from the hallow now! 5 stars!!
I have fallen in love with this school and these characters. It was like living in this magical world. I was cheering Luke on and feeling my heart break along with him. I got so caught up in it that I didn't realize that I was on the last page! I am having withdrawals from the hallow now! 5 stars!!
December 12, 2025
The Hollow hooked me from the very first chapter and held me captive all the way through. Eternity Island is one of the most immersive, vividly crafted settings I’ve read in a long time. The world-building has that magic-meets-mystery feeling reminiscent of Harry Potter, where every corner of the world feels alive and pulsing with secrets. At the same time, the structured society, hidden dangers, and slow-burning unraveling of truth gave me major Divergent vibes — a world that feels familiar yet thrillingly unpredictable.
The authors create an atmosphere that’s haunting, gothic, and deeply cinematic. Misty forests, eerie bridges, glowing castle windows… every detail pulls you deeper into the island’s chilling beauty.
The characters are just as captivating. They feel raw, flawed, and emotionally complex. Watching the protagonist navigate the shadows of Eternity Island felt like watching someone step into their own power chapter by chapter. The emotional stakes climb with every twist, and trust me—there are twists you will NOT see coming.
This is one of those books that you think about long after you’ve closed it. If you love immersive fantasy worlds, gothic mystery, and the addictive tension of discovering the truth piece by piece, The Hollow is a must-read. Absolutely unforgettable.
The authors create an atmosphere that’s haunting, gothic, and deeply cinematic. Misty forests, eerie bridges, glowing castle windows… every detail pulls you deeper into the island’s chilling beauty.
The characters are just as captivating. They feel raw, flawed, and emotionally complex. Watching the protagonist navigate the shadows of Eternity Island felt like watching someone step into their own power chapter by chapter. The emotional stakes climb with every twist, and trust me—there are twists you will NOT see coming.
This is one of those books that you think about long after you’ve closed it. If you love immersive fantasy worlds, gothic mystery, and the addictive tension of discovering the truth piece by piece, The Hollow is a must-read. Absolutely unforgettable.
September 20, 2025
ARC review
Love being thrown into another world and this book has you waking up in an unknown world where there are flying creatures and magic is possible, I absolutely love a fantasy book that takes you on a journey but also leaves you wanting more... which is exactly what you get with The Hollow!
Lucas wakes up not knowing who or where he is, he quickly finds some allies. Taking him on a magical education.
Has coming of age vibes and with being book 1, we will be able to see the growth of these characters and watch them overcome all sorts of magical hurdles
Love being thrown into another world and this book has you waking up in an unknown world where there are flying creatures and magic is possible, I absolutely love a fantasy book that takes you on a journey but also leaves you wanting more... which is exactly what you get with The Hollow!
Lucas wakes up not knowing who or where he is, he quickly finds some allies. Taking him on a magical education.
Has coming of age vibes and with being book 1, we will be able to see the growth of these characters and watch them overcome all sorts of magical hurdles
October 3, 2025
Got this book as an ARC and it was pretty good. I really enjoyed how the characters grew. I'm excited to read the next book.
September 22, 2025
THE HOLLOW: 2.5/5 Rounded Up to 3 ARC READ
The Blurb:
They told him the Hollow was forever.
They weren’t kidding.
When fourteen-year-old Lucas Hale wakes up on a domed island full of sword-wielding guards, the rules are already written—and survival isn’t guaranteed. Students disappear, questions get you noticed, and no one seems to care how any of it actually works. The guards call it discipline. The survivors call it luck. Most kids treat this place as some kind of twisted summer camp. Lucas can’t shake the feeling that it’s a trap.
But he isn’t like the others. He doesn’t remember how he got here, and he’s already behind on whatever “training” he’s supposed to be doing. The deeper he digs, the more he realizes: the Hollow isn’t just weird. It’s hiding something. It’s watching. And it wants something from him.
Because here, magic isn’t the only thing that wants to break you.
And Lucas? He’s not planning on breaking quietly.
I want to thank J & J Kellaway for providing me with this opportunity to read this book as an ARC! Being a part of this community and giving authors and readers a platform to support one another is something I am beyond grateful for. I had the pleasure of getting to know the character Lucas, and the realm that is The Hollow.
Plot:
The plot and premise of the book has great potential. Following fourteen year old Lucas, when he wakes up suddenly under a crate with no knowledge of his former life or anything about himself. When almost hauled off the docks, he runs for freedom and finds himself under the wings of the people of the Hollow. Enrolling in the Hallows “Drekorn Hall,” he begins his tutelage in many classes that start to aid him in unravelling who he is. With multiple moments where he gains more about himself, this coming of age magic fueled story has great promise of a flushed out world.
For me personally I had trouble with some of the behaviours of the main male character, even at fourteen years old where making decisions are often not thought through- I felt myself angry at the character during his development for some of the choices Lucas made.
Characters:
For me the characters all had very clear identities, values and desires. From those struggling with loss, grief, and finding their true selves- I feel as if the characters will only blossom throughout the coming novels in this series.
Themes:
Identity & Memory: Search of Self and Lucas’s unreliable memories as he pieces himself together
Trust : Unable to trust others, or to trust too willingly as young individuals have trouble keeping things to themselves- tend to trust easily
Betrayal & Jealousy: Handling jealousy, and insecurity with oneself seems to be prevalent throughout this story.
Survival & Hope: The wish for freedom, even though he has no remembrances of freedom itself. The Hallow presses on Lucas’s desire to move about freely in his life, suppressing and oppressing him and fellow residents of the Hallow.
Pacing & Descriptions :
I had a very hard time with the pacing and the descriptions of certain events. I found myself rereading areas where something didn’t line up or there was a lack of description for what was happening during the scene. I had a very difficult time with how often the pacing of the book went from very fast- to tediously slow. This isn’t to say the scenes were uninteresting, but for my personal reading style I struggled with how this was laid out.
Thoughts & Conclusion:
As someone who treasures worldbuilding and the need to understand why something is the way it is, this book tends to not explain a lot of things. This is a personal preference where for example when being chased by someone with wings: why do they have wings? What are they? We got away? How did we get away when they could fly?
I tend to end with more questions than answers and for me this is how I felt. This just happened to personally not be up my alley, but I am beyond thrilled by the premise of the book and for what the experience of reading it brought me. I believe reading about a character who was young, insecure and unsure of what path they should take was a vast difference from what I would normally read. I value every perspective I’ve been given as YES this IS how a fourteen year old Main Character would act.
I would say “The Hollow,” in the Eternity Island Universe, has immense promise, and would cater to many readers. Thank you for providing me with the ability to read it!
The Blurb:
They told him the Hollow was forever.
They weren’t kidding.
When fourteen-year-old Lucas Hale wakes up on a domed island full of sword-wielding guards, the rules are already written—and survival isn’t guaranteed. Students disappear, questions get you noticed, and no one seems to care how any of it actually works. The guards call it discipline. The survivors call it luck. Most kids treat this place as some kind of twisted summer camp. Lucas can’t shake the feeling that it’s a trap.
But he isn’t like the others. He doesn’t remember how he got here, and he’s already behind on whatever “training” he’s supposed to be doing. The deeper he digs, the more he realizes: the Hollow isn’t just weird. It’s hiding something. It’s watching. And it wants something from him.
Because here, magic isn’t the only thing that wants to break you.
And Lucas? He’s not planning on breaking quietly.
I want to thank J & J Kellaway for providing me with this opportunity to read this book as an ARC! Being a part of this community and giving authors and readers a platform to support one another is something I am beyond grateful for. I had the pleasure of getting to know the character Lucas, and the realm that is The Hollow.
Plot:
The plot and premise of the book has great potential. Following fourteen year old Lucas, when he wakes up suddenly under a crate with no knowledge of his former life or anything about himself. When almost hauled off the docks, he runs for freedom and finds himself under the wings of the people of the Hollow. Enrolling in the Hallows “Drekorn Hall,” he begins his tutelage in many classes that start to aid him in unravelling who he is. With multiple moments where he gains more about himself, this coming of age magic fueled story has great promise of a flushed out world.
For me personally I had trouble with some of the behaviours of the main male character, even at fourteen years old where making decisions are often not thought through- I felt myself angry at the character during his development for some of the choices Lucas made.
Characters:
For me the characters all had very clear identities, values and desires. From those struggling with loss, grief, and finding their true selves- I feel as if the characters will only blossom throughout the coming novels in this series.
Themes:
Identity & Memory: Search of Self and Lucas’s unreliable memories as he pieces himself together
Trust : Unable to trust others, or to trust too willingly as young individuals have trouble keeping things to themselves- tend to trust easily
Betrayal & Jealousy: Handling jealousy, and insecurity with oneself seems to be prevalent throughout this story.
Survival & Hope: The wish for freedom, even though he has no remembrances of freedom itself. The Hallow presses on Lucas’s desire to move about freely in his life, suppressing and oppressing him and fellow residents of the Hallow.
Pacing & Descriptions :
I had a very hard time with the pacing and the descriptions of certain events. I found myself rereading areas where something didn’t line up or there was a lack of description for what was happening during the scene. I had a very difficult time with how often the pacing of the book went from very fast- to tediously slow. This isn’t to say the scenes were uninteresting, but for my personal reading style I struggled with how this was laid out.
Thoughts & Conclusion:
As someone who treasures worldbuilding and the need to understand why something is the way it is, this book tends to not explain a lot of things. This is a personal preference where for example when being chased by someone with wings: why do they have wings? What are they? We got away? How did we get away when they could fly?
I tend to end with more questions than answers and for me this is how I felt. This just happened to personally not be up my alley, but I am beyond thrilled by the premise of the book and for what the experience of reading it brought me. I believe reading about a character who was young, insecure and unsure of what path they should take was a vast difference from what I would normally read. I value every perspective I’ve been given as YES this IS how a fourteen year old Main Character would act.
I would say “The Hollow,” in the Eternity Island Universe, has immense promise, and would cater to many readers. Thank you for providing me with the ability to read it!
June 4, 2026
Do you ever find yourself locked in a crate? Just like my puppy every time I leave the house, Lucas Hale wakes up to find himself locked in a crate, unable to escape. Unlike my puppy, however, he is not locked up because he chews the remote and is known to climb onto tables to eat an entire box of jelly donuts (as far as we know). In fact, he does not even know why he is imprisoned, who is behind it, or anything about his life before he woke up in a box.
He is brought to the Hollow, an island used as a prison, and yet, he does not know why. He escapes the guards, a professor at the Hollow’s school, which aside from teaching typical subjects, like writing and history, educates the Hollow’s adolescents in how to use their unique special abilities. Professor Steele enrolls Lucas in Drekorn Academy to protect him from the Hollow’s terrifying Arsenal Guards, who are determined to bring him to The Nest, the mysterious center of the prison from which no one ever returns.
I was a bit unsure about this book at first, as the initial premise reminded me of The Maze Runner, but I was quickly drawn into the story. Lucas is a friendly, likable character with deep thoughts and emotions, and yet his interactions with the other students and his teachers are refreshingly realistic for a 14-year-old character. I appreciated that they wrote a main character who likes to read and learn, and who takes his academics seriously, despite trying to escape the Hollow. No matter what is thrown at him, he fights to be his own beacon of hope in a world of oppressing futility. I thoroughly enjoyed the world building; the authors took a well-worn trope (a magic school) and made it their own. By the end of the book, the reader is left wondering why such a school exists on a prison island, what the professors are up to, and where Lucas fits into the tension between Drekorn and the Nest. I’m hoping to find out in the next book!
He is brought to the Hollow, an island used as a prison, and yet, he does not know why. He escapes the guards, a professor at the Hollow’s school, which aside from teaching typical subjects, like writing and history, educates the Hollow’s adolescents in how to use their unique special abilities. Professor Steele enrolls Lucas in Drekorn Academy to protect him from the Hollow’s terrifying Arsenal Guards, who are determined to bring him to The Nest, the mysterious center of the prison from which no one ever returns.
I was a bit unsure about this book at first, as the initial premise reminded me of The Maze Runner, but I was quickly drawn into the story. Lucas is a friendly, likable character with deep thoughts and emotions, and yet his interactions with the other students and his teachers are refreshingly realistic for a 14-year-old character. I appreciated that they wrote a main character who likes to read and learn, and who takes his academics seriously, despite trying to escape the Hollow. No matter what is thrown at him, he fights to be his own beacon of hope in a world of oppressing futility. I thoroughly enjoyed the world building; the authors took a well-worn trope (a magic school) and made it their own. By the end of the book, the reader is left wondering why such a school exists on a prison island, what the professors are up to, and where Lucas fits into the tension between Drekorn and the Nest. I’m hoping to find out in the next book!
May 20, 2026
The moment you begin The Hollow by, you’re immediately thrust into a world of distrust, danger, and disaster. Your emotions barely have a moment to settle before tragedy strikes, and from there the story refuses to let up. It captures that tense, spiraling feeling so well that I found myself completely engrossed from the very first page.
You can’t help but feel for Lucas, the MMC. One of my favorite things about this book was how accurately the authors replicated the mindset and attitude of a teenage boy. The dialogue throughout the first half especially highlights his internal battle between wanting to be brave, mature, and capable, while still very much being held back by the impulsiveness and emotional chaos of an underdeveloped teenage brain. The touches of teenage lust and confusing emotions, all while he’s navigating what is probably the most dangerous situation imaginable, made his character feel incredibly believable and human.
If I had to find a negative, I’d say there was a slight overuse of em dashes at times. Not in the stereotypical “there’s an em dash so it must be AI” sense, I don’t believe that at all, but more that the repetitive sentence breaks occasionally felt a little jarring while reading. However, even that stylistic choice works in the book’s favor in some ways, because those sudden jolts and interruptions in sentence structure mirror the frantic, rapidly changing thoughts of a teenager under pressure.
Overall, I really loved this story. It felt like being thrown straight back into the golden era of 2010s dystopian fiction, in the best possible way. Emotional, tense, chaotic, and genuinely fun. The Hollow was an absolute rollercoaster, and I’m so glad I got the chance to read it as an ARC reader.
You can’t help but feel for Lucas, the MMC. One of my favorite things about this book was how accurately the authors replicated the mindset and attitude of a teenage boy. The dialogue throughout the first half especially highlights his internal battle between wanting to be brave, mature, and capable, while still very much being held back by the impulsiveness and emotional chaos of an underdeveloped teenage brain. The touches of teenage lust and confusing emotions, all while he’s navigating what is probably the most dangerous situation imaginable, made his character feel incredibly believable and human.
If I had to find a negative, I’d say there was a slight overuse of em dashes at times. Not in the stereotypical “there’s an em dash so it must be AI” sense, I don’t believe that at all, but more that the repetitive sentence breaks occasionally felt a little jarring while reading. However, even that stylistic choice works in the book’s favor in some ways, because those sudden jolts and interruptions in sentence structure mirror the frantic, rapidly changing thoughts of a teenager under pressure.
Overall, I really loved this story. It felt like being thrown straight back into the golden era of 2010s dystopian fiction, in the best possible way. Emotional, tense, chaotic, and genuinely fun. The Hollow was an absolute rollercoaster, and I’m so glad I got the chance to read it as an ARC reader.
May 16, 2026
I really wanted to read this book, and I do not regret it one bit. The world created by the author is incredibly well built. It is a dystopian world filled with mystery, magic, and danger. Think Harry Potter meets Divergent. You definitely get addicted.
And then there is Lucas. That boy is truly the heart of this book. He brings the mystery, the action, the struggle… but also the bad luck. And sometimes, the funniest moments too. You find yourself rooting for him without even realizing it, and suddenly feeling frustrated that others cannot see what he sees.
The author took great care in giving depth to all the characters, not just Lucas. They become a real part of the world she created, and you genuinely enjoy reading about them too. Some are frustrating, others are much kinder. And yet, sometimes you are led to believe that someone is good or cruel, only to discover the opposite. I thought that was very well done; it keeps you constantly on edge.
I cannot help but feel that this story mirrors parts of our own society. Especially the way everyone blindly follows the rules without questioning why they are imprisoned on that island. Lucas is treated like the rebel simply because he dares to think differently — much like what happens in our own world.
So The Hollow is not just a story. If you allow it to, it will make you think, and that is what I appreciated most about this book.
Now, Velunians, do not miss your chance to travel through this story. The Hollow 2 is already out, so you may want to catch up before the third book arrives.
And then there is Lucas. That boy is truly the heart of this book. He brings the mystery, the action, the struggle… but also the bad luck. And sometimes, the funniest moments too. You find yourself rooting for him without even realizing it, and suddenly feeling frustrated that others cannot see what he sees.
The author took great care in giving depth to all the characters, not just Lucas. They become a real part of the world she created, and you genuinely enjoy reading about them too. Some are frustrating, others are much kinder. And yet, sometimes you are led to believe that someone is good or cruel, only to discover the opposite. I thought that was very well done; it keeps you constantly on edge.
I cannot help but feel that this story mirrors parts of our own society. Especially the way everyone blindly follows the rules without questioning why they are imprisoned on that island. Lucas is treated like the rebel simply because he dares to think differently — much like what happens in our own world.
So The Hollow is not just a story. If you allow it to, it will make you think, and that is what I appreciated most about this book.
Now, Velunians, do not miss your chance to travel through this story. The Hollow 2 is already out, so you may want to catch up before the third book arrives.
May 17, 2026
The Hollow was such an interesting start to what I think could become a really strong fantasy series. From the very beginning, you are thrown into the mystery alongside Lucas, and I loved that sense of confusion and discovery. Because Lucas has had his memories wiped, we as readers are learning everything at the same pace he is, trying to piece together the secrets of the Hollow and work out who can actually be trusted.
The setting itself felt unsettling in the best way. A domed island full of strict rules, sword wielding guards, disappearing students, and unanswered questions creates this constant feeling that something is deeply wrong beneath the surface. The Hollow feels mysterious, dangerous, and almost alive at times.
Lucas was easy to root for as a main character. Even when he is confused, behind everyone else, and struggling to understand what is happening around him, he keeps pushing for answers instead of just accepting things as they are. I really enjoyed following his perspective throughout the story.
There is also a surprising amount of sadness woven throughout this book. Beneath the fantasy and mystery elements there is this heavier emotional layer that gave the story more depth and made certain moments hit harder than I expected.
Overall, I gave The Hollow 4 stars. It is a unique and intriguing YA fantasy with a lot of potential, and I am very interested to see where the series goes next and what other secrets the Hollow is hiding.
The setting itself felt unsettling in the best way. A domed island full of strict rules, sword wielding guards, disappearing students, and unanswered questions creates this constant feeling that something is deeply wrong beneath the surface. The Hollow feels mysterious, dangerous, and almost alive at times.
Lucas was easy to root for as a main character. Even when he is confused, behind everyone else, and struggling to understand what is happening around him, he keeps pushing for answers instead of just accepting things as they are. I really enjoyed following his perspective throughout the story.
There is also a surprising amount of sadness woven throughout this book. Beneath the fantasy and mystery elements there is this heavier emotional layer that gave the story more depth and made certain moments hit harder than I expected.
Overall, I gave The Hollow 4 stars. It is a unique and intriguing YA fantasy with a lot of potential, and I am very interested to see where the series goes next and what other secrets the Hollow is hiding.
September 17, 2025
first i want to say thank you to j & j kellaway for letting me arc read the hollow!
so… i liked this book but i didn’t love it. it started off slow for me and i was honestly confused about what was going on, but i think that was kind of the point since lucas himself had no clue what he was getting into either. the problem is lucas drove me up the wall. i tried to like him, i really did, but he irritated me the entire way through. since the whole story followed him, that made it tough for me to fully enjoy. when i first signed up for the arc, i thought this was going to be a spooky halloween thriller, but it turned out to be more of an eerie fantasy. the magic and the creatures? super interesting! the concept was solid. but lucas’s hyperfixation on escaping (while ignoring literally everyone trying to help him) and his obsession with his supposed best friend’s girlfriend? major ick.
the ending though? after what happened with danny, i was actually hurt. he really pulled me back into the story and also helped highlight professor steele’s character, who i actually liked. steele tried so hard to guide lucas and ground him, but lucas just didn’t care. if this had followed a different character (ryder, maybe?), i think i would’ve loved it so much more. the story itself gets 4, but because lucas was THAT unbearable, my overall rating had to drop.
so… i liked this book but i didn’t love it. it started off slow for me and i was honestly confused about what was going on, but i think that was kind of the point since lucas himself had no clue what he was getting into either. the problem is lucas drove me up the wall. i tried to like him, i really did, but he irritated me the entire way through. since the whole story followed him, that made it tough for me to fully enjoy. when i first signed up for the arc, i thought this was going to be a spooky halloween thriller, but it turned out to be more of an eerie fantasy. the magic and the creatures? super interesting! the concept was solid. but lucas’s hyperfixation on escaping (while ignoring literally everyone trying to help him) and his obsession with his supposed best friend’s girlfriend? major ick.
the ending though? after what happened with danny, i was actually hurt. he really pulled me back into the story and also helped highlight professor steele’s character, who i actually liked. steele tried so hard to guide lucas and ground him, but lucas just didn’t care. if this had followed a different character (ryder, maybe?), i think i would’ve loved it so much more. the story itself gets 4, but because lucas was THAT unbearable, my overall rating had to drop.
May 17, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The Hollow by J & J Kellaway was such a dark, immersive, and addictive read. From the very beginning, the mystery surrounding Lucas and The Hollow completely hooked me, and I found myself constantly wanting to know more about the island, the secrets hidden within it, and the truth behind the characters.
The atmosphere in this book was honestly one of my favourite parts. The eerie setting, dangerous undertones, and gothic vibes made everything feel tense and mysterious in the best possible way. Drekorn Hall and the island itself almost felt like characters of their own.
I really enjoyed the balance between fantasy, suspense, and mystery. Every chapter seemed to reveal another secret or twist, and just when I thought I understood what was happening, the story surprised me again. The friendships, betrayals, and hidden motives added so much depth to the plot.
Lucas was a compelling main character, especially as he struggled to uncover who he really was and what connected him to The Hollow. Watching everything slowly unfold kept me fully invested the entire time.
If you love dark fantasy with mystery, dangerous secrets, atmospheric settings, and twists that keep you guessing, I definitely recommend picking this one up.
Thank you so much to J & J Kellaway and @tara.reeds24 for the ARC opportunity in exchange for an honest review.
The Hollow by J & J Kellaway was such a dark, immersive, and addictive read. From the very beginning, the mystery surrounding Lucas and The Hollow completely hooked me, and I found myself constantly wanting to know more about the island, the secrets hidden within it, and the truth behind the characters.
The atmosphere in this book was honestly one of my favourite parts. The eerie setting, dangerous undertones, and gothic vibes made everything feel tense and mysterious in the best possible way. Drekorn Hall and the island itself almost felt like characters of their own.
I really enjoyed the balance between fantasy, suspense, and mystery. Every chapter seemed to reveal another secret or twist, and just when I thought I understood what was happening, the story surprised me again. The friendships, betrayals, and hidden motives added so much depth to the plot.
Lucas was a compelling main character, especially as he struggled to uncover who he really was and what connected him to The Hollow. Watching everything slowly unfold kept me fully invested the entire time.
If you love dark fantasy with mystery, dangerous secrets, atmospheric settings, and twists that keep you guessing, I definitely recommend picking this one up.
Thank you so much to J & J Kellaway and @tara.reeds24 for the ARC opportunity in exchange for an honest review.
May 17, 2026
Thank you so much to J&J Kellaway for an ARC of their book.
14- year old Lucas wakes up in a strange place, he has no clue how he got there. He finds out that he’s in The Hollow, goes to a mansion, which is actually a prison, and is forced train and learn magic.
Lucas is a pretty smart teenager, he’s resilient, and he makes friends in the Hollow. Can he really trust them though? Lucas believes it’s watching him, and he goes on a quest to figure out why.
I enjoyed the premise of this book it’s like Harry Potter meets Alcatraz, because there’s no escape from The Hollow.
There’s a few cute moments as Lucas develops a crush, there’s hearty moments. There’s a feeling of figuring out who you’re going to be in hefty situations you have no control over. Lucas does this and more as he finds a way to navigate through the madness. I throughly enjoyed this book.
I think this is a great book for younger readers who want to dip their toes into the world of magical fantasy. Or really anybody who loves a mysterious adventure.
14- year old Lucas wakes up in a strange place, he has no clue how he got there. He finds out that he’s in The Hollow, goes to a mansion, which is actually a prison, and is forced train and learn magic.
Lucas is a pretty smart teenager, he’s resilient, and he makes friends in the Hollow. Can he really trust them though? Lucas believes it’s watching him, and he goes on a quest to figure out why.
I enjoyed the premise of this book it’s like Harry Potter meets Alcatraz, because there’s no escape from The Hollow.
There’s a few cute moments as Lucas develops a crush, there’s hearty moments. There’s a feeling of figuring out who you’re going to be in hefty situations you have no control over. Lucas does this and more as he finds a way to navigate through the madness. I throughly enjoyed this book.
I think this is a great book for younger readers who want to dip their toes into the world of magical fantasy. Or really anybody who loves a mysterious adventure.
October 5, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (5 stars)
I loved this book!
The suspense had me hooked from the very first page, I couldn’t stop wondering who to trust and what was really going on.
The world-building was amazing!
Drekorn Hall felt immensely alive and unpredictable. I adored Lucas as a protagonist, so brave, smart and the friendships, rivalries, and hidden agendas made everything more intense.
I highly enjoyed the dark/mysterious school theme (similar to HP), and hidden identities. The thrilling, the constant tension of the story left me wanting more. Some reveals could have come sooner, but the suspense made the ride worth it.
If you love dark fantasy, mysterious schools, and secrets at every turn, The Hollow is a must-read!
Thank You to J & J Kellaway for providing me with an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
I loved this book!
The suspense had me hooked from the very first page, I couldn’t stop wondering who to trust and what was really going on.
The world-building was amazing!
Drekorn Hall felt immensely alive and unpredictable. I adored Lucas as a protagonist, so brave, smart and the friendships, rivalries, and hidden agendas made everything more intense.
I highly enjoyed the dark/mysterious school theme (similar to HP), and hidden identities. The thrilling, the constant tension of the story left me wanting more. Some reveals could have come sooner, but the suspense made the ride worth it.
If you love dark fantasy, mysterious schools, and secrets at every turn, The Hollow is a must-read!
Thank You to J & J Kellaway for providing me with an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
August 18, 2025
ARC Review
Overall: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Genre: Action & Adventure Fantasy
This book is soooooo freaking good!! A prequel to the Eternity Island series, that follow Lucas and his friends thru school and lessons on hiw to survive.
What would you do if you woke up tomorrow, a prisoner, not knowing how you got where you are, or WHO you are? Lucas is a 14 year old who has found himself in this exact situation, but he's a fighter. He doesnt sit and wallow about his situation. He fights and bites, claws and runs. Through his escape attempts he makes a few friends and ends up at a school where he can hopefully learn who and what he is, make and keep his friends before The Hollow engulfs them all. Who can he trust, is everything all that it seems, and why does the keeper of The Hollow want him so bad?
Overall: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Genre: Action & Adventure Fantasy
This book is soooooo freaking good!! A prequel to the Eternity Island series, that follow Lucas and his friends thru school and lessons on hiw to survive.
What would you do if you woke up tomorrow, a prisoner, not knowing how you got where you are, or WHO you are? Lucas is a 14 year old who has found himself in this exact situation, but he's a fighter. He doesnt sit and wallow about his situation. He fights and bites, claws and runs. Through his escape attempts he makes a few friends and ends up at a school where he can hopefully learn who and what he is, make and keep his friends before The Hollow engulfs them all. Who can he trust, is everything all that it seems, and why does the keeper of The Hollow want him so bad?
May 24, 2026
The Hollow had me hooked almost immediately. The whole atmosphere is tense, eerie, and weirdly claustrophobic in a way that never really lets up. I loved how Lucas actually feels his age — confused, stubborn, scared, but still determined to figure out what’s really going on instead of blindly accepting the Hollow’s rules.
Between the disappearances, the guards, and the constant feeling of being watched, there’s this underlying paranoia throughout the entire book that made it impossible to stop reading.
Definitely recommend if you like dark fantasy with survival vibes, mysteries layered underneath everything, and protagonists who refuse to go down quietly.
Between the disappearances, the guards, and the constant feeling of being watched, there’s this underlying paranoia throughout the entire book that made it impossible to stop reading.
Definitely recommend if you like dark fantasy with survival vibes, mysteries layered underneath everything, and protagonists who refuse to go down quietly.
October 6, 2025
🖤 𝐑𝐄𝐕𝐈𝐄𝐖 🖤
The Hollow didn’t just pull me in, it dragged me under.
A brutal, eerie, edge-of-your-seat read where nothing is what it seems, and the island itself feels like it’s alive.
Lucas Hale is the kind of protagonist you root for with clenched fists—sharp, scared, and absolutely unwilling to break, no matter what the Hollow throws at him.
Disappearing students. Cracked magic. Secrets layered like traps.
This story burns, and it doesn’t let go.
🌘 Dark. Addictive. Unsettling in the best way.
this one’s going to leave a mark.
The Hollow didn’t just pull me in, it dragged me under.
A brutal, eerie, edge-of-your-seat read where nothing is what it seems, and the island itself feels like it’s alive.
Lucas Hale is the kind of protagonist you root for with clenched fists—sharp, scared, and absolutely unwilling to break, no matter what the Hollow throws at him.
Disappearing students. Cracked magic. Secrets layered like traps.
This story burns, and it doesn’t let go.
🌘 Dark. Addictive. Unsettling in the best way.
this one’s going to leave a mark.
August 21, 2025
*ARC Reader*
The Hollow is such an amazing adventure, from start to finish! I fell in love with the main character, Lucas! The authors did such a great job with these characters, their mannerisms, their attitudes, all the way down to the specific ways they each speak. You are able to FEEL their personalities & create a bond with them. I had an amazing time reading this book, not my usual genre, but it has pulled me in! I cannot wait to get my hands on The Hollow #2!
The Hollow is such an amazing adventure, from start to finish! I fell in love with the main character, Lucas! The authors did such a great job with these characters, their mannerisms, their attitudes, all the way down to the specific ways they each speak. You are able to FEEL their personalities & create a bond with them. I had an amazing time reading this book, not my usual genre, but it has pulled me in! I cannot wait to get my hands on The Hollow #2!
September 18, 2025
Thank you to the author and publishers for giving me the chance to ARC for my honest review.
The Hollow was such a fun read. Think Harry Potter but darker and more mysterious. I loved the setting, the friendships, and Lucas’s humor. It kept me hooked from start to finish, and I can’t wait for the next book.
The Hollow was such a fun read. Think Harry Potter but darker and more mysterious. I loved the setting, the friendships, and Lucas’s humor. It kept me hooked from start to finish, and I can’t wait for the next book.
September 20, 2025
I loved following the characters through this book! The characters were easy to fall in love with and the chapters were quick and action packed. There was always something that made me want to keep reading. It was very hard to put down! It started off a bit dark, but it definitely made me laugh! These characters were very fun to read about. Love love love. Can’t wait for the next one
October 5, 2025
After being given the opportunity to read this book before print, I found it to be well written to the point that I found myself completely lost within the pages, I love this type of book with an atmospheric aurora but with a well written premis and structure around it, please read this book it is so good and is well worth taking the time to delve deep
October 25, 2025
hit or miss
I love the idea of this story
I did have parts where I laughed
But I had more parts of trying to figure out what was going on. Like my brain just couldn’t stay connected.
If you want something light and about a prison on another world then here you are
I love the idea of this story
I did have parts where I laughed
But I had more parts of trying to figure out what was going on. Like my brain just couldn’t stay connected.
If you want something light and about a prison on another world then here you are
Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews