Fraidy Hole

by Staci Andrea

"Love the title! it made a 64-year-old dude pay attention. It reeks of childhood and scariness. The dialog is strong and Andrea writes very well." –Koehler Books

The mind is a curious thing. It allows us to reach back into our memory banks and retrieve emotions, thoughts, smells, and feelings that can act as filler for our sometimes empty lives, warming the spaces in our hearts that are sometimes left void and broken. It can also completely drop memories, forcing us to forget the painful chapters so that we are able to cut ties and move on.

What happens though, when the lines are blurred... when reality and the nightmares of your past collide? Can the mind make sense of it all? Can the brain and heart sort out the drama and the subtext? What happens to the soul when the mind cracks, even just a little?

Fraidy Hole, the fictional dark suspense thriller that centers around a grandfather trying to save his granddaughter from herself, plays upon exactly that line of questioning.

Told from a Grandfather's perspective, Fraidy Hole follows the unconventional life of his Granddaughter, Arlo, as she navigates the pitfalls of adolescence into adulthood, paired with the unfortunate events that unfold while she is being influenced by an unusual leader into her darkness, her best friend, Bast. Together, they are torn between hiding in and trying to escape the Fraidy Hole.

208 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 9, 2023

About the author

I am a thriller/suspense author who got her start a little later in life. I think that I needed to experience the breathtaking highs and the soul crushing lows on my life's journey before I was able to really give the reader the emotional journey that I aimed to give. My style is to pull back the curtains on the ordinary person, the cookie cutter neighbor and the family that looks like they have it all together. The truth is, we all have secrets to hide.

I have four books currently in production, Fraidy Hole, Lake Laps, Beneath Her Lies and Ghosts in the Glades. (Fraidy Hole and Lake Laps have released, Beneath Her Lies is in preorder and launching April 26th, 2024, and Ghosts in the Glades is slated for later in 2024.

In the past two years that I have been writing, I have been blessed to have been part of some pretty cool awards. I have placed as a finalist in the Killer Nashville Claymore awards in 2022 and 2023, the shortlist on the Hawthorne Awards in 2023, London's Page Turner Awards Longlist for two of my books in 2023, Honorable Mention at the Hollywood Book Festival in 2023 , the Gold Five Star Award through Literary Titan, a quarter finalist in the ScreenCraft Cinematic Book Competition, and a finalist in the Literary Global Book Awards.

This has been a wild journey, and I can't wait to see where it goes!

Reviews

[Cola Curry · Rating 1 out of 5]

I listened to this one on Audible. I have to admit, I really struggled to finish this. It felt like the author was trying to drag the story out and filling the book with the overuse of unnecessary descriptive words. It was like she had been given a minimum word count to achieve, so filled in the blanks by waffling on and on describing every little thing, often repeating the same description over and over. If I hear "emerald green eyes" or "arthritic fingers" again, I'm probably going to lose my mind. I really wanted to like this book, but unfortunately this one was not for me.

[Sarah Faichney · Rating 4 out of 5]

'Fraidy Hole' was a solid 3 star book for me - until the last hour. I listened to the audiobook version. I thought the selection of a female narrator was an unusual choice, but Hana Lass's performance is excellent. I almost gave up on this book around the halfway mark, because I was smugly sure that I knew exactly how it would play out. Hahaha! All I will say is, stick with it. In the end, I thought it was terrific. Well worth a listen, and I'll be looking out for more from author Staci Andrea in future.

[Diana · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hold on! What just happened?

I was so invested in the story of BoBo and Arlo, and I was so pulled into the story with the descriptions and the memories and the nostalgia, the bittersweet memories, and the longing and pain of living without a loved one, and then...the earth just moved from under my feet, and I was left with a seriously boggled mind!

The story is narrated from the POV of BoBo, a grandfather who is trying to raise his grand-daughter, Arlo, single-handedly, after the death of his wife. His son and daughter-in-law(arlo's parents) have also gone their separate ways, and left Arlo with him.

He does his best to bring Arlo up, but he is aware of a deep-seated darkness in this child, who he loves more than life itself, and her behaviour is always compounded tenfold when her best friend, Alabster 'Bast' shows up on the scene, or finds his way back into her life.

At the present moment, she's 22 years old, and back in the town of Freedom, to be with her grandfather for a while, after discovering her boyfriend cheating on her with her best friend. He's afraid that she has done something terrible to her boyfriend, and now, he's convinced that she is going to do something to him as well. She has made multiple attempts on her life when she was younger, and now he believes that she wants to check out and take him with her. After the loss of his wife to cancer, he's not really sure he wants to continue on either, because he is bereft and lonely.

As things unfold, he becomes increasingly suspicious of her motives and believes that she may be poisoning him to death slowly.

Towards the end of the book, we find that he is still alive, and trying to help other families by talking about his grand-daughter's struggles with mental health issues, and Arlo is right there with him. But what about all the things he remembers, and all the things that he and Arlo have done together, even burying a body of a boy who tried to attack her? Why is Arlo lying, and trying to gaslight him, and keep secrets from him, trying to make him believe that what he can clearly remember, never actually happened?? He saw the gun, and the pills, and he knew, he just knew, she was trying to kill him. But here he is still, and she's here with him, and she's taking care of him, and helping him.

At the end, my mouth just hung open, and I was filled with sadness, so much sadness, to imagine what it must feel like to live like that. It wrenched at my heart so much, and I felt so deeply for the person who has to experience it, as well as the people who care for the person with the mental illness.

The book is well-written, and since I listened to the audiobook, I must mention that it was exceptionally narrated by Hana Lass. Quite honestly, I might have given up if I were reading the book myself, because of the lengthy flashbacks and descriptions of events from the past, but I stayed with it because of the narrator, and I'm glad I did, because it was worth it in the end.

I can understand how some readers might get turned off and want to bail, because it might seem like the ramblings of a lonely and nostalgic old man who lives in the past, but if you stick with it, you'll see eventually why it's that way. Sorry I can't say much more, without being Spoily Mc Spoilerson!

Thanks to Netgalley and Tantor Audio for an ARC of this audiobook in return for my honest review.

[David Farrell · Rating 4 out of 5]

I battled with the title, reading it as Fraiday Hole and it wasn’t until I realised it was Fraidy Hole - a place to hide. I blame my gender imperfections, though I must admit to never hearing the phrase until I read the book.

Andrea’s literary style intrigued me. The long running sentences flummoxed me at first, but got better as I became accustomed to her writing. Thirty to forty words in a sentence, including three or four adverbs. All this mixed with colloquialisms I was unfamiliar with added a flavour not seen in present-day prose.

That’s not a bad thing. In fact, quite the opposite, for I found it refreshing. The composition has a unique character, and I’m excited to see more of author Staci Andrea’s work to see if it maintains the boldness of Fraidy Hole.

[Lynda · Rating 3 out of 5]

This isn’t what you think it is about. I found it confusing … It is however a serious subject matter though. The title leads you to believe it’s scary, it isn’t.

[Bookworm · Rating 3 out of 5]

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.

[Julie]

This was definitely an interesting read. I thought it was a thriller but I didn’t find it to be. The ending was surprising, and also pretty sad. One thing I can say, is I’d never want to share a meal with any of these characters because they all seem to eat with food dripping down their chins! Not sure what that was all about. But all in all I did enjoy it, although it did take a while for me to finish considering how short it is. I was expecting something more sinister, but once I realized that’s not what it was, I settled in and enjoyed it.

[Rene · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wasnt expecting to be sad! :(

[Linda Paquette · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fraidy Hole is a fictional dark suspense thriller by Staci Andrea. The book follows the unconventional life of Arlo, a young woman, as she navigates the pitfalls of adolescence into adulthood, paired with the unfortunate events that unfold while she is being influenced by an unusual leader into her darkness, her best friend, Bast. The story is told from a grandfather’s perspective, who tries to save his granddaughter from herself. The book plays upon the line of questioning of what happens when reality and the nightmares of your past collide. The mind is a curious thing, and it allows us to reach back into our memory banks and retrieve emotions, thoughts, smells, and feelings that can act as filler for our sometimes empty lives, warming the spaces in our hearts that are sometimes left void and broken. The author knows her characters exceptionally well. Enjoy some twists and turns all the way up to the very end.

[Sheila Hayden · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is absolutely one of the worst best books I have ever read. I would get bored often and have to move to another book, then turn around and curiosity would get the best of me because I was invested in the characters. I’m so glad I finished it bc the ending threw me off. It was a heart wrenching story and honestly Staci did an amazing job and in the end you see why the dialogue with Bobo is necessary and why it is drug on.

[Andrea · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book! I don’t know what I was expecting from the story but I ended up being blown away. The story itself was 5 stars for me, however there were quite a few repeated phrases that got a little old and I also caught several grammar errors while reading. Either way, I would absolutely recommend this book and will be reading more from this author in the near future!

[hellcamino · Rating 2 out of 5]

I really wanted to like this. But it felt like the author spent 90% of the book repeating the same phrases, and at the end nothing was really resolved, and not even in a cliffhanger kind of way, just countless loose ends and stories without any points.

Yes, the subject matter is heavy & deserves respect. It had potential to be a great story but fell short.

[Betty · Rating 4 out of 5]

In this book, Staci Andrea lulls you with wistful nostalgia then terrorises you. By the end, she will have sucked out your soul and crushed your heart, leaving you dazed, confused and broken... And then you'll want to read it all over again.

[Julie Zack · Rating 4 out of 5]

I thought I was reading one story and got another. Really good read.

[Katherine Black · Rating 5 out of 5]

NB: Spoilers in a lot of the reviews. Read it blind, it's brilliant.

A little bit bionic and 100% talented.


At the heart of this book, there’s a doting Granddad, Bobo, and his troubled girl Arlo. Bobo narrates the story, and he’s a beautifully written character that I won’t forget. I do forget most characters and storylines when a book’s done and not many stay with me. I love Bobo. He takes you by the hand at the start of the book, puts you at ease, and guides you into the story.

His voice is so authentic that you can hear him grumbling under his breath as he makes his observations and tells another anecdote. He’ll slip Arlo a dollar for emergencies right before launching into a story she didn’t ask for, but needs to hear. His voice rings so true that I’d believe anything he told me. He comes across as real and unbelievably authentic as a narrator.

I did read a spoiler for this book in the reviews, and that spoiled it for me ever so slightly. I’d much rather have read it blind, which is why I’m not giving anything else away. But the storyline is poignant and beautiful.
What’s great about these people is that they live a simple life in a trailer on their plot of land where they can just be. And that’s expressed in Bobo’s gorgeous laid-back, sitting-on-the-porch, voice. He’s lived enough to have earned his opinions—and his quirks.

The craftsmanship of this book sets Staci Andrea apart in an ocean of authors. Her writing has the polish of someone who respects the process and understands that good books aren’t written—they’re crafted. The narrative flows, it’s never rushed and always true to its characters. This isn’t fast-paced, but it does remind you why you love reading.

If I could give this more than five stars, I would.

[J Kromrie · Rating 5 out of 5]

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.

[Mike · Rating 5 out of 5]

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.

[Nissi · Rating 5 out of 5]

At first I was skeptical about this book. Not really knowing if this is something I’m interested in. The first couple chapters draw me in and I thought I had it all figured out. But then there was the middle part of the book. Let’s just say that I went down from a 4 start to a 3 start and almost DNF the book. It felt like I was in a really bad fever dream. And then, yes then came the end of the book and let me tell you … I didn’t figure out anything lol. The twists and turns in the end bump the 3 to a 5 Star! I loved the relationship between Bobo and Arlo. Would definitely recommend this book to everyone and I think I’ll reread it soon !

[Kayley Mccann · Rating 4 out of 5]

The mind really is a curious thing.

Reading Fraidy Hole really felt like I was sitting on the bus next to an older fellow who spent the whole ride telling me his whole life story. A loving, thrilling, dark, and heartbreaking life story. Multiple times I was equally stunned and enthralled.

I had some theories while reading, but I was not ready for the twist at the end. The epilogue was the real kicker for this heartbreaking story. The whole book you are seeing it through the grandfathers perspective but the epilogue you see it through his granddaughters eyes and man was that rough to read. Great book, Staci Andrea. I will definitely be looking at some of your other works.

[Kali · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was my first time branching out into this genre and I’m so happy THIS was the book I chose!

Fraidy Hole was a whirlwind, a book full of personal struggles, trauma, and memories that lift you up and have you almost bawling for the characters.

I truly do not even know what ended up being real vs fake at the end of this book and am still rattling my brain over it. DO NOT SKIP THE EPILOGUE it literally throws everything you think you know out of the window!!

I’m so happy this author reached out and that I was lucky enough to experience this story.

Read it or regret it 🫶🏼

[Liz Bennet · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read this one after I read her other book, Lake Laps (which I adored!). I was stunned at the original POV of a grandfather telling the story! That was something that I didn't know how I would feel about it, but the emotional connections that are displayed throughout the story are stunning. Without giving spoilers away, this is one of those books that aren't what they seem to be and the issues that are main parts of the plot are dealt with so creatively and with such tact and class. A truly great read!

[Cam Torrens · Rating 5 out of 5]

I wasn't expecting this! Wow!

"Fraidy Hole" is a dark tale of literary suspense delving into the complex relationship between a grandfather and his troubled granddaughter, Arlo. As she struggles to navigate the challenges of adolescence and adulthood, Arlo's life becomes increasingly intertwined with her mysterious best friend, Bast. But each interaction with him is more frightening than the last. "Fraidy Hole" explores the fragile boundaries between memory, reality, and trauma, exposing what happens when the mind blurs the lines and the suffocating darkness within.

[Kelli · Rating 5 out of 5]

I couldn't put this book down, it kept me intrigued from the first chapter! I felt like I was right there with the characters feeling their emotions and living the story with them. All the twists and turns kept me guessing. A very difficult subject matter to write about but done in such a heartfelt manner. Will definitely recommend this book to others. I can't wait to read more from this author.

[Mikala ReadsAlot · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read this one a few months ago when it first became available at my local library, and I had read about the author in our local paper. I cannot believe this was her debut! It was dark and had such an original story, yet she delivered the twists like I was hoping she would. I am currently finishing up with the new release from this author, and I can tell you that it is just an much of an emotional ride. Great book by a new author!

[Kimberly Hauck · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you ever loved anyone with mental illness this book is for you! Mental illness from the view of someone watching their loved one...very powerful! "We all know that a fraidy Hole is a dark and confusing place to be during a storm. But as dark and confusing as it can be, there is a safety to it. As long as you stay in that hole while you are scared, you are supposed to be safe." This book was awesome in seeing how someone loves someone with mental illness. The mind is indeed a curious thing!

[Anne (w/ an E) · Rating 3 out of 5]

I know this will be full of spoilers, but I don't know any other way to write this review:
I thought I noticed a few things that were a bit...off, in the first half of the book. Also, some details about Bast, and the way he was talked about made me think that he wasn't real. He only showed up when the girl got into trouble or did something wrong. I had a feeling that there was a mental "illness" of some sort at the heart of this story.

[Dawn · Rating 4 out of 5]

An emotional, heart-wrenching book. It was well written, and the characters draw you in because you want to know what happens in the book. The author did an excellent job portraying mental illness and the effects on everyone around them. The book takes an unexpected turn, and my mouth is on the floor. A great read.

[TristaReads · Rating 5 out of 5]

This one came on the recommendation of a friend from a little known author, and I thought it was great! It's a bit of a slow burn that leads up to an ending that jabs you in the heart just a little and leaves you questioning much of what you had read. Do NOT skip the epilogue! I do like the different point of view from a grandfather too, that was something different for me.

[GG · Rating 3 out of 5]

I enjoyed it overall. It gives an emotive representation of mental illness and the impact it has on people (in my opinion). I wasn’t surprised by the epilogue but it did pull the heart strings, a great final piece of the story. Although this is a short book, it was a slow burn and the chapters were a bit long.

[Bhuku · Rating 3 out of 5]

Revised review -
I gave it another try and enjoyed the second half much more than the first. Arlo is an intriguing twist on the classic ‘bad guy’ because the grandfather loves her while he fears her. That’s a tricky balance and fascinating. AND THEN THE EPILOGUE TWIST OMG! Heartbreaking.

I just wish the book started later, because the disjointed stories of the first third really didn’t work for me. I wish it had started later, about a third of the way in, then it could be a 4 star read!

ORIGINAL - I really tried to soldier through, because it was a gifted ARC, but by 50% in I still wasn’t interested at all and I just had to put it down. It’s slow moving with cowboy vibes, and I didn’t connect to the grandpa or the granddaughter at all. It felt like a lot of internal talk (from the grandpa) without saying much. I’m sorry I couldn’t get into this one!