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Ashley Phillips

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Pale Demon (The Hollows, #9)

by Kim Harrison (Goodreads Author)

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Ashley Phillips said: " Pale Demon is The Hollows at its absolute peak—tense, funny, emotional, and full of the kind of character chemistry that makes this series unforgettable. Even without spoilers, it’s clear why this book stands out so strongly: it’s a road‑trip story w Pale Demon is The Hollows at its absolute peak—tense, funny, emotional, and full of the kind of character chemistry that makes this series unforgettable. Even without spoilers, it’s clear why this book stands out so strongly: it’s a road‑trip story with teeth, heart, and some of the best character development Harrison has ever written.

One of the most defining lines comes when Rachel reflects, “I’m done apologizing for what I am.” It’s a moment that captures the entire emotional core of the book—identity, power, and the courage to finally stop shrinking from yourself. Harrison threads these moments of raw honesty through the humor and danger, grounding the magic with real vulnerability.

The character dynamics are nothing short of electric. Trent and Rachel’s uneasy alliance is one of the book’s greatest strengths—sharp, tense, and layered with unspoken history. Jenks remains the perfect blend of humor and heart, dropping lines like, “You’re going to get us pixy‑dead, Rache,” which hits with both comedy and genuine affection. Their banter, their friction, their loyalty—it all shines here.

The worldbuilding is vivid and expansive. The journey across the country feels “like traveling through a map stitched with magic, danger, and old grudges,” and every stop adds depth to the supernatural politics and lore. The pacing is relentless, the stakes high, and the emotional beats land with precision.

What makes Pale Demon especially magical is how personal it feels. Rachel’s growth is messy, brave, and deeply human. Her relationships evolve in complicated, sometimes surprising ways, and the story pushes her to confront truths she’s been avoiding for far too long.

And the fact that this was the first Hollows book you ever picked up—without even knowing it was part of a series—makes its impact even more remarkable. It hooked you instantly, and honestly, that says everything about its power.

For readers who crave urban fantasy with razor‑sharp dialogue, emotional depth, and a heroine who refuses to break even when the world pushes back, Pale Demon is a masterpiece—bold, addictive, and absolutely unforgettable. ...more "

Jan 25, 2026 07:01PM · see review