Hollow Dolls by MarcyKate Connolly

Abstract

Reviewed by: Hollow Dolls by MarcyKate Connolly Natalie Berglind Connolly, Marcykate Hollow Dolls. Sourcebooks, 2020 [272p] Trade ed. ISBN 978-1-4926-8819-8 $16.99 E-book ed. ISBN 978-1-4926-8820-4 $16.99 Reviewed from galleys R Gr. 5-7 In this companion novel to the Shadow Weaver duology (Shadow Weaver, BCCB 1/18), Simone, a mind reader formerly under the control of a noblewoman who collected magical talent, tries to find her way home while recovering from the terror of the noblewoman's reign. Since her memories have been magically removed, Simone only has the single, written name of a long-lost town to go on, so she and fellow survivor Sebastian first embark on an expedition to the renowned library to get the information they seek. As people around them act abnormally, Sebastian [End Page 161] and Simone realize they're dealing with a dangerous magic user that can possess others—a body walker—and their problems are far from over. Fans of the original duology will delight in this supplemental storyline that meets some of the side characters where it left off, though new readers will also find plenty to digest here. Simone is a resourceful protagonist recovering from the psychological trauma she faced at the hands of Lady Aisling; readers familiar with trauma and loss may find her a kindred spirit, and Sebastian is the supportive, kind friend everyone needs to adequately recuperate. Though the story stands well on its own, just enough strings are left untied for the potential for another adventure. Copyright © 2019 The Board of Trustees of the University of Illinois