Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC. This one was a bit different... not really in a good way. The writing was a bit fluffy for me. Needlessly.

What did I just read??? Crazy ending! I feel like I need to discuss it!! Seriously, wtaf??

First let's name the elephant in the room. This was not a thriller, at least not by my standards. I heard about this book from a horror book group so was expecting something radically different. This was a character driven slowburn that focused on grief and loss. There were definitely curve balls but still more literary than thriller imo.

Second, it took some time for me to acclimate to Bobo's perspective. Initially I was a little confused but once I got it, it was easy to keep pace. The author has a knack for writing descriptive memory flashbacks that invite the reader into the past while also really getting to know the characters. I think for readers who enjoy this type of plot and character development, it will be an emotional and engaging read. Given that I'm not a fan of that writing style nor do I care for plots that focus on grief, this was just an okay read for me. As mentioned before, I was expecting a full on psych thriller. The pacing was too slow and the subject matter not my cup of tea which made it difficult for me to fully invest.

The final 20% however was riveting as there was a lot going on psychologically. There were various twists, which kept me glued to the pages. The ending reminded me of a movie I watched years ago but won't give the name of it to avoid spoilers. Those who have read this book AND seen the movie will know what I'm talking about.

I recommend this book to folks who are okay with a character driven literary fiction about grief with a ton of suspense and some unforeseen twists. Thank you #NetGalley and #BlackRoseWriting for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

A unique and dark debut novel, this has received praise, possibly for the unusual device of narration from the point of view of the grandfather of a troubled girl. While the book didn’t resonate for me, it got good reviews and the cover advertises that it has won literary awards. If the description appeals to you, give it a try. (This is a book I was invited to preview by the publisher via NetGalley.)

A dark yet heartwarming novella, Fraidy Hole (2024) by Staci Andrea is about how an elderly grandfather tries to protect his granddaughter over the years. Bobo and Arlo bond over their restoration of an old Zephyr car, they affectionately named Elvis and connects them to their past. It’s a grief-filled tale, and the lengths and love the characters will go to protect each other, rescuing them when needed. The narrative may appear to be the rambling memories of an old man, but it's an inspirational story of the power of love - amidst the tragedies and hardships of life. It's not a book for everyone, as it's difficult to read at times and yet, despite the tears is a powerfully profound five stars read rating. As always, the opinions herein are totally my own, freely given and without any inducement. With thanks to Black Rose Writing and the author, for an uncorrected advanced review copy for review purposes.

The characterization in this story was so well done. Deep, vivid point of view. Real, raw emotions. Genuine, unique people whom I bonded with. I felt for these characters, loved them, which made the ending to this tale that much more emotional. A strong suspenseful thriller.

An intriguing book and not just the average thriller. It had depth, suspense and emotion. The surprise ending made me cry. I really enjoyed the story being told by Arlo’s grandfather.
Thank you to the publisher for the opportunity to read this advanced copy. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this eARC.

Fraidy Hole by Staci Andrea was my first read by this author, but certainly won't be my last.

Andrea built a world it is easy to get lost in, told from the point of view of a grandfather who raised a clever, vivacious yet troubled strong-willed granddaughter who he loves more than the world.

Andrea's is talented in using sentence structure and dialogue in a uniquely appealing way, and creating a multi-layered story that is rich yet nuanced that draws you into the story.

The characters are richly drawn, as in the way of the very best tales, where the characters almost become as friends you are reluctant to leave them behind when the book is completed.

In short, Fraidy Hole by Staci Andrea is a unique masterclass of a richly told tale which grabs you and pulls you into a world created by the talented author's unique imagination. Along the way, you learn about the depths and fear of the horrible Fraidy Hole and that the biggest nightmares of our love's can be unexpected.

This uses the Grandfather perspective perfectly and was able to use that to this advantage. The characters felt like they were supposed to and enjoyed how everything told the story. Staci Andrea is able to weave a story perfectly and can’t wait for more.