There’s something about autumn evenings that calls for low-effort magic—the kind where you assemble a plate of seasonal snacks, mix a proper Southern cocktail, light a candle, and listen to a story that feels as layered and mysterious as the changing leaves.
Enter my perfect fall girl dinner, designed to pair with Koush Hollow. Picture this–a simple cheese boardwith:
- Crisp apple slices (Honeycrisp or whatever’s local and in season)
- A wedge of creamy brie with a drizzle of honey
- Thick slices of warm, crusty bread
- A scoop of toasted pecans with dark chocolate chips
- Handful of dried cranberries for that sweet-tart pop
No cooking required beyond a quick toast of the nuts, if you’re feeling fancy. Just assemble while listening to the audio version of Koush Hollow.
The cocktail:
Hollow Harvest
In a rocks glass filled with ice, stir together:
- 2 oz bourbon
- 3 oz fresh apple cider
- ½ oz fresh lemon juice
- ½ oz honey (or maple syrup)
- A dash of Angostura or cinnamon bitters
Garnish with a thin apple slice and a cinnamon stick. It’s crisp, lightly spiced, and just mysterious enough.
Why does this pair so perfectly with the book?
Jenna’s world is full of glittering secrets, bayou mysticism, and the uneasy beauty of a Southern town where nothing is quite as it seems. The dinner mirrors that vibe—simple on the surface, but with rich, contrasting flavors that linger. The crisp apples and earthy pecans nod to the natural world Jenna fights for, while the creamy cheese, hint of sweetness, and smoky-sweet bourbon cocktail echo the seductive pull of the Diamonds & Pearls. It’s the kind of plate (and glass) you can linger over while the story unfolds, perfect for those pages where the atmosphere thickens, and the truth starts to surface. BUY LINK
So dim the lights, queue up the book, and dig into both the snacks, the sip, and the story. Koush Hollow is waiting—along with its witches, secrets, and bayou magic.
Happy reading/listening (and sipping),
Leigh
Leigh Goff 