The Hollow Inside

Gr 7 Up–Debut author Davis takes readers on a wild ride in this suspense novel featuring abduction, murder, revenge, and redemption. At age nine, Phoenix left her father’s home with his girlfriend, Nina, who she now calls “Mom.” Phoenix and Nina have been planning for the day when they will return to Nina’s idyllic hometown of Jasper Hollow, OH, to exact revenge on Ellis Bowman, Nina’s nemesis. When Phoenix comes to care for many of the people in the Ellis family and becomes romantically involved with Ellis Bowman’s daughter, Melody, allegiances are tested. While readers may struggle to understand Phoenix’s loyalty to Nina, who took her from a comfortable life to live in a van and steal food, the story’s action and pace are compelling. The unfolding relationship between Phoenix and Melody is believable and engaging. Most characters are coded as white.