Behind the Book: The Corruption of Hollis Brown by K. Ancrum
K. Ancrum's Icarus was one of our best reviewed novels of 2024 and her newest title, The Corruption of Hollis Brown, seems to be following in its footprints. Set in a down-on-its-luck small town with a haunted neighbor, the short and engaging chapters follow Hollis Brown as he heads down a path of self-growth accompanied by an unusually close companion. At turns thrilling and heartwarming, this novel is unlike any other.
Hollis Brown feels trapped. Stuck in his struggling small town and often on the receiving end of punches from the more popular crowd, Hollis's only bright spots are his two best friends and his regular visits to the train tracks, where the rush of the train going by makes him feel vigorously alive.
A chance encounter with mysterious stranger Walt at the train tracks ends in an irrevocable change: Walt, a spirit adrift for generations, takes over Hollis's body and mind. Hollis tries to regain his autonomy, but Walt's power is too strong.
Walt has unfinished business, and a past in this town that must be faced. But as Walt and Hollis start to work together to put his spirit to rest, an unspeakable bond grows between them. As they fall in love, both boys in unexpected and intertwined ways find themselves. But will following their own paths inevitably tear them apart?
About the Author
K. Ancrum is the author of award-winning thrillers, notably The Wicker King and most recently Lethal Lit: Murder of Crows. K. is a Chicago native passionate about diversity and representation in young adult fiction. She currently writes most of her work in the lush gardens of the Art Institute of Chicago.