[Review] Bittersweet in the Hollow by Kate Pearsall

Mysterious. Creepy. And enchanting. This book is a beautiful example of magical realism. The subtle magic of the witchy sisters is so interwove with the mundane that it feels like a perfectly believable aspect of the story—as if there are indeed witchy women with otherworldly powers that have deep roots in the Appalachian area.

Great world building, as well. Very atmospheric. Through food, scent and taste, as well as the close family unite of the James women, readers are delivered into the region and culture of Appalachian West Virginia. Rich and fully detailed.

A bit of a slow start, but the second half of the book kept me on my toes as I was swayed back and forth trying to figure out who the killer was and if they were indeed otherworldly or simply a human.

Note: I received this book as an ARC. It is scheduled to be released Oct 10, 2023.

4 stars