Hollow Inside

Hollow Inside

Hollow Inside by Asako Otani, translated by Ginny Tapley Takemori, is a mordantly funny contemporary novel about friendship, relationships, ageing and the pressures of modern life. Hirai, 38, and her colleague Suganuma, 42, are both single and uncertain about marriage when they decide to share a home and create a life that works on their own terms.

Their comfortable domestic routine is disrupted when Suganuma reveals a secret affair. Hirai finds herself back on dating apps, navigating painfully ordinary dates, intrusive questions and growing uncertainty about relationships, ageing and whether she should freeze her eggs again. As she searches for genuine connection, Hirai begins to question what it really means to feel fulfilled.

About This Book

Hollow Inside offers a sharp and darkly humorous look at contemporary relationships and the expectations placed on single women. Through Hirai and Suganuma's experiences, Asako Otani explores friendship, dating, marriage, ageing and the desire to build a meaningful life outside conventional expectations.

What You'll Discover

• A contemporary story about two single women creating their own domestic life
• The complexities of friendship, relationships and changing expectations
• Hirai's experiences with dating apps and modern dating
• Questions surrounding ageing, marriage and fertility
• The pressures women can face from colleagues, family and society
• A thoughtful exploration of loneliness, connection and personal fulfilment

Who Is This Book For?

• Readers who enjoy contemporary Japanese fiction
• Fans of witty and insightful relationship novels
• Readers interested in modern dating, friendship and women's lives
• Those who enjoy stories that question social expectations and conventional relationships

Why You'll Love This Book

Hollow Inside combines sharp humour with an honest exploration of relationships, ageing and loneliness. Asako Otani's story captures the awkwardness of modern dating while asking deeper questions about connection, independence and what it takes to build a fulfilling life.