BOOK REVIEW: Hole: A Place That Needs To Be Filled by Sal Starling

TITLE: Hole: A Place That Needs To Be Filled
AUTHOR: Sal Starling
PUBLISHED BY: Pentad Books

Laura and her young daughter Beth, find themselves lost whilst driving to see Beth’s father. They end up in Hole, a quiet village with secrets; the locals are helpful and friendly enough; maybe a little over-friendly. Wildwood Cottage seems to be their saviour but the woman who lives there is rather strange, ethereal almost. Laura doesn’t believe in magic but she begins to question her memory and sanity when she is unable to separate reality from what seems to be a horrific nightmare. They try to leave but find themselves imprisoned in an encounter with something that has no intention of releasing them.

This short creepy horror story is well-paced and concise, it is a chilling read. The writing is atmospheric with many twists and turns in such a short read. I was drawn in from page one; the plot was compelling enough to keep me reading and I found it hard to put down until I’d finished it.

The characters are interesting and worth investing in; the flashbacks worked well and held the plot together.

The unpredicted ending revealed a commendable surprise, something I was not expecting. The storyline certainly gave me chills and the build-up of the reveal was handled skilfully by the author which showcased her talent.

Readers who enjoy a short creepy horror tale will devour this innovative rollercoaster of a novella.

Reviewer - Anne Pritchard