Member Reviews
The tension between the characters, heightened by an impending storm, was palpable. As a Floridian, I could practically feel the charged electricity in the air before the chaos struck. The stormy setting combined with the unraveling relationships created a captivating atmosphere. When the characters began turning on each other and the bodies started piling up, I couldn’t put the book down.
And let’s talk about that twist! Just when I thought I had it figured out, Shannon Hollinger delivered not one, not two, but several unexpected outcomes. Each twist felt like a gift, keeping me hooked right to the last page.
That said, the story starts off a bit slow. It wasn’t until I hit the 65%-70% mark that the plot truly took off. But once it did, the pace didn’t let up.
One aspect that stood out was the tragic storyline involving the child in the attic. The helplessness of her situation, entirely at the mercy of Charlotte’s aid, was heartbreaking. I couldn’t stop wondering how anyone could leave her trapped like that.
While I enjoyed the novel overall, I did have one gripe. Many chapters ended with overly dramatic cliffhangers that felt a bit forced. Some of the “duh duh duuuuuuh” moments made me chuckle, even when they probably weren’t supposed to.
This novel would translate beautifully to the screen—it’s cinematic, suspenseful, and full of twists that would keep an audience on edge.
A big thank you to Shannon Hollinger, Bookouture, The Pulse, and NetGalley for the eARC. Her Hiding Place publishes on January 31st, and I recommend it to anyone who loves twisty mysteries with atmospheric settings.
The plot of this story was really quite interesting and intriguing. The suspense aspect was off the wall for sure.
Lots of secrets going on…..will the secrets be discovered????
A very heartbreaking and emotional read for me.
Perfect reading for fans of a fast paced mystery thriller.
Thank you NetGalley, Bookouture and the author for the opportunity to read this book for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Her Hiding Place is an addictive, suspenseful, atmospheric roller coaster ride that had me in a chokehold from the beginning. There's an added layer with the hidden child and a constant feeling of danger. The story moves at a decent pace, edging more on the slow burn side for me but still managing to constantly keep me on the edge of my seat. It kept me guessing all the way through. While I had some things figured out, some truly shocked me.
I really enjoyed the author's writing style. I loved how she left little clues here and there. How she wove the story and created an intriguing storyline. Some things were a little overly descriptive for me, and I would've liked a little more dialogue instead, but overall this was definitely a fun ride.
✨️Thank you to @netgalley, @bookouture & @shannonhollinger for my gifted ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I enjoyed the locked room setting of this book and was curious to read more of the back story to find out why Charlotte and Alice were on the run and in hiding. I did find this to be more of a slow burn, and I think the story could have been shorter. It did really pick up at the end, and there were a few twists that I didn't expect.
Thanks, @netgalley, @bookouture, and @thrillerbookloversthepulse for the #gifted e-arc!
I found some of this book a little far fetched and unbelievable.
The author touched on some characters pasts and didn’t elaborate the story which was left unfinished/unnecessary.
There was also a lot of tension between people that could’ve been explained, but wasn’t.
However this was an easy read and I did enjoy it. I would recommend to others if they enjoy an unexpected twist at the end.
Thankyou for the opportunity to read.
Shannon Hollinger’s Her Hiding Place is an exhilarating thriller that keeps readers on edge from the first page to the last. A gripping combination of intricate plotting, dynamic characters, and suspenseful twists, this novel is a perfect introduction to Hollinger’s talent for storytelling, especially for those unfamiliar with her work.
The story hooks readers immediately, immersing them in a world where secrets and lies intertwine. Hollinger masterfully builds tension, creating a narrative that has you questioning everyone and everything. As the story unfolds, the clues and misdirections keep your mind working overtime, trying to piece together the puzzle before the explosive reveal.
For thriller enthusiasts, Her Hiding Place delivers all the essentials: a fast pace, clever misdirection, and an emotional depth that makes the characters feel real and relatable. Hollinger’s writing style is accessible yet nuanced, ensuring readers are equally invested in the story’s mystery and the people at its heart.
If you’ve never read anything by Shannon Hollinger, this is the ideal place to start. It’s the kind of book that leaves you eager for more, and fans of psychological thrillers will undoubtedly want to explore her other works after finishing this one. Highly recommended!
"Her Hiding Place" is an electrifying thriller that expertly combines the nail-biting suspense of a locked-room mystery with the raw emotional turmoil of a mother's fierce determination to protect her child. A secluded resort in the Florida Keys right before a relentless hurricane strikes, the story is packed with unexpected twists and a claustrophobic atmosphere that ultimately draws you in.
Meet Charlotte, the unreliable protagonist, who adds a compelling layer of intrigue to the narrative. Haunted by her past, she takes a housekeeping position at the resort while keeping her three-year-old daughter, Alice, hidden in her room. Charlotte's unwavering drive to protect Alice injects a heart-wrenching emotional core into this gripping tale, particularly as the storm outside entraps them in a harrowing web of lies and murder.
Hollinger’s vivid writing creates a suspenseful environment where every coworker seems to have a secret and the creaking of the hurricane-lashed building hints at lurking dangers. The storm serves as both a literal threat and a metaphorical reflection of Charlotte’s spiralling fears, significantly amplifying the tension that permeates the story. The pacing is razor-sharp, featuring brisk chapters that propel the narrative to dizzying heights, dropping clever clues that keep you guessing at every turn.
The expertly executed twists and revealing shocking truths about Charlotte’s past and the dark hidden secrets of the resort heighten the stakes. The hidden-child angle injects thrilling urgency, making each moment feel like a countdown to disaster. Although there are moments that stretch credibility—such as Alice's remarkable ability to remain unnoticed—the gripping momentum and emotional depth ensure you remain deeply invested in the story.
This book is a treasure trove of excitement for fans of locked-room mysteries and psychological thrillers. Hollinger’s exceptional storytelling shines through her memorable cast of characters, from the enigmatic Leo to Charlotte's duplicitous coworkers. And when you think it's all wrapped up, the epilogue leaves tantalizing threads that linger in your mind.
If you crave a tale bursting with jaw-dropping twists, atmospheric tension, and rich emotional undercurrents, "Her Hiding Place" is an absolute must-read. I admit I had to suspend my disbelief regarding a three-year-old managing to stay hidden without causing any noise. Still, Shannon Hollinger has outdone herself with this thrilling rollercoaster of a novel that truly packs a punch—highly Recommended! Expected release date January 31
Thanks to Bookcouture and NetGalley for providing an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
🔪🔪🔪🔪.5
I just finished the thrilling ride "Her Hiding Place," and my heart raced from the very first page! If you're a #ThrillerBookLover looking for your next obsession, this book is for you. This book is your escape route if you're in a reading slump! 📚❤️
A huge shoutout to @thrillerbookloversthepulse, @bookouture, and @thiswritersays for this #giftedARC.
This is my first encounter with author Shannon Hollinger, but I'll watch for her future releases. Set on a remote island (one of my all-time favorite settings), this story is packed with surprising twists and, yes, dead bodies that keep you on your toes!
The tension skyrockets when a massive hurricane traps the staff at a newly remodeled resort before it's even opened. Talk about a high-stakes scenario! This atmospheric setting elevates the suspense to another level! "Her Hiding Place" hooks you from the start and doesn't let you go until you reach the explosive, jaw-dropping conclusion. Trust me, you don't want to let this one slip away! 🌪️📖✨
In the heart of the Florida Keys, a new resort is on the brink of opening, promising to be a tropical paradise. For Charlotte, it offers more than just a job; it's a chance to start anew, far from the shadows of her past. Seizing the opportunity to work and live onsite seems like the perfect escape. However, Charlotte harbors a secret that must remain buried: Alice, the three-year-old girl she is determined to protect, must be kept hidden at all costs. As Charlotte navigates her new life, she struggles with the constant fear of discovery, knowing that any slip could unravel the fragile sanctuary she has created.
As the island prepares for the resort's grand opening, a literal storm begins to brew. The weather forecasts are dire, promising a tempest that could rival any in the island's history. Charlotte finds herself in a race against time, not only to conceal Alice but also to brace for the coming storm and eventually get her and Alice off the island. Amidst the chaos of preparations, the tension escalates when one of Charlotte's coworkers inadvertently stumbles upon her secret. The impending storm outside mirrors the internal storm Charlotte faces, as her carefully constructed plans begin to fall apart.
The storm strikes with a vengeance, isolating the island from the mainland and trapping Charlotte and her coworkers in a perilous situation. As the winds howl and the rain lashes down, another sinister element emerges: a killer is on the loose. Panic spreads through the isolated group, and Charlotte's worst fears are realized when Alice disappears. Suspicion permeates the air as Charlotte grapples with the terrifying reality that anyone around her could be a threat. In a desperate bid to find Alice and ensure their survival, she must navigate a web of deceit and danger, trusting no one.
Her Hiding Place by Shannon Hollinger is a masterful psychological thriller that grips readers from the first page to the last. The novel's closed-circle setting amplifies the suspense, as the characters are confined not only by the storm but by their own secrets and suspicions. Shannon Hollinger's storytelling prowess shines through in the narrative's twists and turns, leaving readers breathless and guessing at every turn. The plot is intricately woven, with each revelation leading to more questions, ensuring that the tension never wanes.
The characters in Her Hiding Place are meticulously crafted, with Charlotte standing out as a particularly compelling protagonist. Her vulnerabilities and strengths are portrayed with depth and authenticity, making her struggles and triumphs resonate deeply. The supporting characters are equally complex, each with their own secrets and motives that add layers to the narrative. The emotional connections between characters are palpable, drawing readers into their world and making the stakes feel genuinely high. Shannon Hollinger's ability to create such rich character dynamics elevates the novel beyond a mere suspense story to an exploration of trust, fear, and survival.
Her Hiding Place is a thrilling journey through the depths of human emotion and the extremes one must go to protect others. Shannon Hollinger's skillful blend of suspense, character development, and unexpected twists makes this novel a standout in the psychological thriller genre. Readers will find themselves unable to put the book down, compelled to uncover the truths hidden within its pages. The novel's memorable and satisfying conclusion ensures that it will linger in readers' minds long after the final page is turned. This gripping story is a must-read for anyone who enjoys a tale of suspense, mystery, and emotional depth.
I received a free digital ARC from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.
Opinioned Book Rating:
Cover Design: 4.5/5.0
Originality: 5.0/5.0
Structure: 5.0/5.0
Pacing: 4.75/5.0
Personal Enjoyment: 5.0/5.0
Overall Rating: 4.85/5.0 (Rating will be rounded up due to platforms not allowing partial ratings.)
When Charlotte takes a job at a brand new resort on an island in the Florida Keys, she brings with her a lively secret, in the form of three-year-old Alice, who absolutely must stay hidden, because Charlotte knows that someone is looking for Alice, and before long, her face will be on the news.
But instead of a missing child, the news is filled with warnings of a devastating storm heading to the area and the other staff at the resort are focused on evacuating to safety, while Charlotte panics over how she will be able to flee with Alice in tow.
A fast-paced locked-room thriller, with some intriguing flashbacks to the past. I was gripped! The characters were well written, especially Alice, who was adorable. The plot was very well thought out and the twists were brilliant!
4.5 ⭐️ Thanks to Netgalley, Shannon Hollinger and Bookouture, for an ARC in return for an honest review.
This was my first book by this author and it won’t be my last! I really enjoy locked room mysteries and being trapped during a hurricane with a murderer on the loose made this particular one that much more enjoyable! Charlotte’s character was so intriguing and I couldn’t wait to see where her story was going. Filled with tons of suspense and short chapters, this one will definitely keep you guessing throughout!
Her Hiding Place grabbed me from the beginning and didn't let go until the end! I was invested in what would happen to little Alice. This is a locked door mystery which makes it hard to put down. Shannon Hollinger is a very good story teller and baits the reader with clues throughout that help to put the intricate puzzle that is this story together by the end. Will Charlotte be able to protect little Alice from the hurricane? Will Charlotte be able to protect Alice from the murderer on the island? I look forward to reading more of Shannon Hollinger (this was my first of hers).
The character development was an asset in this book. The only part I had a hard time with was Alice being able to spend so much time alone without alerting another person or getting herself into trouble. I found myself having to suspend my reality when it came to these sections of the book.
Thank you Net Galley, Shannon Hollinger and Bookouture for the opportunity to preview this title. The opinions expressed are my own
Her Hiding Place is expected to be released Jan. 31, 2025.
Thank you @bookouture & @netgalley @thiswritersays for my complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own.
When Charlotte accepts a job at a secluded resort on a remote island, she is down to her last penny. To complicate matters further, she must keep 3-year-old Alice hidden in her room. As a powerful hurricane approaches, Charlotte is forced to assist in barricading the resort against the impending storm before she can escape with Alice. However, as the hurricane strikes, the only road off of the island is under water, and Charlotte discovers a body! Suddenly, Charlotte realizes she is trapped on the island with a killer, and in the chaos, she can’t find Alice!
MY THOUGHTS: An isolated island, an impending storm, and a killer on the loose—what more could a thriller lover ask for? This tale (literally) captured my attention from the very first page! The action unfolds at a steady pace, and intensifies in the final 30% of the novel as the tension escalates, culminating in a series of unexpected twists right up to the shocking conclusion. The narrative primarily follows Charlotte's perspective, and includes flashbacks that delve into events from a few years prior, adding depth to the story. Locked room thriller lovers will enjoy this one which comes highly recommended by my friends @thrillerbookloversthepulse.
ARC review • pub date 01.31.25
Charlotte has a new job as a maid at a new motel. The problem, she snuck in a three year old that she didn’t want anyone to know about — or who they’re hiding from.
I enjoyed the author’s writing style. This was a good book and parts of it stressed me out (leaving the small girl in the room for most of the day) which i know was the author’s intention! It was written really well, but I figured out all of the twists so nothing really shocked me at all. The end was kinda rushed and all kinds of stuff happened and then it was over. It was still a good read though.
3.5⭐️
Thanks for Bookouture, Thriller Book Lovers The Pulse, and NetGalley for my ARC
This book was tense and exciting from cover to cover.! I have never read anything by this author and loved this so much that I will add her name to my must read list. The creep factor was definitely there. Finally, a strong female character that doesn't cower in a corner and cry. As I read this book I was silently rooting for the main character. I almost felt like I was her at some points in the book because the descriptions were so vivid. A great book allows me to see it as a movie in my mind. I loved this book and would highly recommend it.
This book had me on the edge of my seat the entire time! From the first page I was hooked! It was so intense and the suspense was absolutely gripping. The author did fantastic at keeping you guessing. Just when I thought I had it figured out a twist would come out of nowhere and then another one! Just when you think you can catch your breath something happens and pulls you right back in! The hidden child aspect really takes this locked room mystery to the next level! If you love a suspenseful twisty thriller I highly recommend this one!
Thank you netgalley and bookouture for this ARC!
HER HIDING PLACE BY SHANNON HOLLINGER.
Release date set for the 31st of January 2025.
This is a gripping and thrilling book.
It had me totally invested in the story from the very beginning.
As a mother of a 3 year old son i could not imagine how you keep such a young child quiet for that amout of time.
My son's a bullzozer and can't keep quiet for more than 5 minutes.
This was different enough to be a more memorable book for me. I liked the premise. It felt a little slow in the beginning, but I couldn’t put it down as I continued reading. The ending wasn’t my favorite, but they can’t all be!
Her Hiding Place by Shannon Hollinger is a heart-pounding thriller that masterfully combines the suspense of a locked-room mystery with the emotional tension of a mother’s desperate need to protect her child. Set against the backdrop of an isolated Florida Keys resort and an encroaching hurricane, the book delivers twists, turns, and atmospheric chills that kept me captivated from start to finish.
Charlotte, the protagonist, is an unreliable narrator whose secrets unfold in tantalizing layers. Struggling to escape her past, she takes a housekeeping job at the resort while keeping her three-year-old daughter, Alice, hidden in her room. Charlotte's determination to shield Alice adds an emotional core to the gripping mystery, especially as the storm’s fury traps them in a dangerous web of deceit and murder.
Hollinger’s vivid writing creates a tension-soaked atmosphere, where every coworker becomes a potential suspect, and every creak of the storm-battered building hints at lurking danger. The hurricane serves as both a literal and figurative storm, amplifying the claustrophobia of the setting and mirroring Charlotte’s spiraling fears. The pacing is razor-sharp, with short chapters that propel the narrative forward while dropping clever clues that keep you guessing.
The twists are expertly executed, with revelations about Charlotte’s past and the resort’s secrets escalating the stakes. The hidden-child element adds an extra layer of suspense, making each scene feel like a ticking time bomb. While some aspects of the plot stretch believability—like Alice’s uncanny ability to remain hidden—the story’s momentum and emotional weight keep you firmly invested.
Fans of locked-room mysteries and psychological thrillers will find much to love here. Hollinger’s deft storytelling and knack for creating memorable characters shine through, from the enigmatic Leo to the duplicitous coworkers Charlotte must navigate. And the epilogue ties the story together beautifully, leaving just enough ambiguity to linger in your mind.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for the ARC of this unputdownable thriller. If you’re looking for a story with jaw-dropping twists, atmospheric tension, and an emotional undercurrent, Her Hiding Place is a must-read. Shannon Hollinger has outdone herself with this rollercoaster of a novel. Five stars!
This book was a total binge read! There were so many twists and turns that I didn't see coming! Although I had some suspicions about who the villains were I did not suspect the book to take some of the turns that it did. I would have liked a bit more back story on some of the characters but felt like I knew the characters who were developed. Great read! I would highly recommend it!