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Frailty
How far would you go to protect
your family?
Danny and Libby are about to face every
parent’s worst nightmare.
When eight-year-old Hope Bird disappears
without a trace, from the quiet village she
lives in, life for her family will never be the
same again. Her parents know she would
never have gone off alone and the police
have no idea where she is. Then a child’s
shoe is discovered and the case takes an
unexpected turn. Soon a suspect is identified
but this is only the beginning.
Will they ever find Hope?
Frailty is a haunting, gritty, psychological
page-turner about the choices we make.
your family?
Danny and Libby are about to face every
parent’s worst nightmare.
When eight-year-old Hope Bird disappears
without a trace, from the quiet village she
lives in, life for her family will never be the
same again. Her parents know she would
never have gone off alone and the police
have no idea where she is. Then a child’s
shoe is discovered and the case takes an
unexpected turn. Soon a suspect is identified
but this is only the beginning.
Will they ever find Hope?
Frailty is a haunting, gritty, psychological
page-turner about the choices we make.
320 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 15, 2016
About the author
Betsy Reavley
19 books271 followersBetsy Freeman Reavley is the author of Beneath the Watery Moon and A Worm in the Bottle. Carrion, her latest psychological thriller will be released in November 2014.
She was born in Hammersmith, London.
As a child she moved around frequently with her family, spending time in London, Provence, Tuscany, Gloucestershire and Cambridgeshire.
She showed a flair for literature and writing from a young age and had a particular interest in poetry, of which she was a prolific consumer and producer.
In her early twenties she moved to Oxford, where she would eventually meet her husband. During her time in Oxford her interests turned from poetry to novels and she began to develop her own unique style of psychological thriller.
Beneath the Watery Moon is Betsy Reavley’s beautifully written first release and tells the macabre story of a young woman battling against mental illness.
Beneath the Watery Moon is published by Not So Noble Books and is available as an eBook from Amazon.
Betsy Reavley's second novel Carrion is a psychological chiller that address the link between grief and mental illness.
Reavley says "I think people are at their most fascinating when they are faced with life's real horrors." This is what I love to write about.
Betsy Reavley currently lives in North London, with her husband 2 children, dog, cat and chickens. You can follow her on Twitter @BetsyReavley
She was born in Hammersmith, London.
As a child she moved around frequently with her family, spending time in London, Provence, Tuscany, Gloucestershire and Cambridgeshire.
She showed a flair for literature and writing from a young age and had a particular interest in poetry, of which she was a prolific consumer and producer.
In her early twenties she moved to Oxford, where she would eventually meet her husband. During her time in Oxford her interests turned from poetry to novels and she began to develop her own unique style of psychological thriller.
Beneath the Watery Moon is Betsy Reavley’s beautifully written first release and tells the macabre story of a young woman battling against mental illness.
Beneath the Watery Moon is published by Not So Noble Books and is available as an eBook from Amazon.
Betsy Reavley's second novel Carrion is a psychological chiller that address the link between grief and mental illness.
Reavley says "I think people are at their most fascinating when they are faced with life's real horrors." This is what I love to write about.
Betsy Reavley currently lives in North London, with her husband 2 children, dog, cat and chickens. You can follow her on Twitter @BetsyReavley
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 180 reviews
February 10, 2017
"Frailty" by Betsy Freeman is such a harrowing read I had to keep telling myself it was fiction - I know things like this do happen in real life - but just knowing this book wasn't true allowed me to keep reading. Being a parent myself albeit to boys, I couldn't help feeling the mind numbing sadness and distress of the parents at not knowing where Hope was and what had happened to her. How Betsy the author was able to sleep at night while she wrote this is beyond me. Reading the chapters from Hope's point of view was just sickening and had me desperately wanting her to escape or be freed. There's little that can be said about the plot that wouldn't spoil it so I'll leave it to the blurb for that, other than to say it really is a sad read with a sickening twist at the end and if you are easily upset then this book might not be for you.
Well done Betsy...I'm not sure on what considering the content lol but certainly another success following "The Optician's Wife". 5 stars!
Well done Betsy...I'm not sure on what considering the content lol but certainly another success following "The Optician's Wife". 5 stars!
February 5, 2017
This is AMAZING
I have been enraptured and captured within the confines of this read.
It's grief, its loss of a child, where is she? who knows, who can help?
The accused
The facts, the loopholes.
We have Hope, the little girl missing, her childish voice that beckons you as you read. Her voice pityingly real wanting her family. Where is she? It's dark. She's lonely.
Her Mother, her anguish while she struggles to also look after Hopes little sister.
The Father who goes in search for his daughter, his first born.
It was poignant at times both from the parents point of view and from Hopes scared little voice coming from the pitch blackness she endured.
I was on tender hooks throughout. Will she be found? Won't she?
Whose responsibility is this, did the Mum act unwisely allowing a six year old to go to the shop?
The plot in this book is pure genius!
I didn't know what the ending had in store for any of these characters, let alone Hope.
I am so glad that I was gifted this book to read.
Highly recommended
I have been enraptured and captured within the confines of this read.
It's grief, its loss of a child, where is she? who knows, who can help?
The accused
The facts, the loopholes.
We have Hope, the little girl missing, her childish voice that beckons you as you read. Her voice pityingly real wanting her family. Where is she? It's dark. She's lonely.
Her Mother, her anguish while she struggles to also look after Hopes little sister.
The Father who goes in search for his daughter, his first born.
It was poignant at times both from the parents point of view and from Hopes scared little voice coming from the pitch blackness she endured.
I was on tender hooks throughout. Will she be found? Won't she?
Whose responsibility is this, did the Mum act unwisely allowing a six year old to go to the shop?
The plot in this book is pure genius!
I didn't know what the ending had in store for any of these characters, let alone Hope.
I am so glad that I was gifted this book to read.
Highly recommended
February 20, 2026
Un bon thriller, mais malheureusement j’ai trouvé une version mal traduite ce qui m’a un peu gâchée la lecture. Un enfant disparaît mais où est elle passée ?
November 14, 2016
Ever since I read The Opticians Wife by Betsy Reavley which I throughly enjoyed, I’ve been waiting eagerly to see what the author would come up with next, and OMG she’s surpassed all my expectations. Frailty is an absolute cracker and its definitely going to be on my list of top ten reads this year without doubt. Frailty by Betsy Reavley has not only left me speechless (a very rare thing indeed, as Mr book review café will tell you) but it also reduced me to a blubbering wreck, it’s very rare that a book leaves me emotionally drained, especially a psychological thriller, but my god this book certainly did! From the disturbing prologue to the very last shocking page I struggled to put this book down.
Eight year old Hope Bird disappears without trace, and what follows is every parents worst nightmare, Betsy Reavley takes the reader on a painful journey alongside the devastated parents Libby and Darren. The author paints such a detailed picture of Libby and Darren’s life before and after Hope disappearance. I found myself drawn to both characters, their pain, fear, grief and desperation were palatable and I found myself becoming emotionally involved in their story. We see first hand the devastation a child going missing causes, the toll it takes on relationships and the lengths people will go to when they feel so helpless. Unfortunately Frailty is very much a story of the times, how often do we read about children going missing? the family’s left behind? Far too often in my opinion.
The story is told mostly from Libby’s point of view, but there are also small snippets from Hope which are told in the first person, and it’s these chapters that make for a spine chilling and deeply upsetting read. I should point out there are no terribly graphic scenes, Betsy Reavley deals with a difficult subject with empathy and sensitivity, it’s a book that is definitely not written just to shock. As the weeks of Hope’s disappearance turn in to months the author describes the relationship of the parents with such clarity that their desperation and frustration is tangible. As events spiral out of control and Darren decides to take desperate measures to find his little girl I couldn’t help but empathise with him, this is a man drowning in grief and struggling to keep his family together, and I could understand why he chose to take matters into his own hands, wether he was right or wrong, who’s to say.
Frailty is a taut and gritty psychological thriller, I read this book with an uneasy feeling in the pit of my stomach and it didn’t disappear until I reached the very last page. There were some “OMG” moments that I never saw coming until they hit me in the face, the author manages to maintain the suspense until she decides to reveal all, so much so I couldn’t turn the pages fast enough. This could have been a very depressing read, yes it did make me cry, it’s a story that will pull at even the most hardened heartstrings, but Betsy Reavley has created such a damn good read that when I finished, my first thought was OH WOW. With compelling characters and a well excuted plot there is no way to avoid the cliché: I could not put this novel down! Disturbing and compelling, this is definitely a psychologically astute, edge-of-the-seat story.
Eight year old Hope Bird disappears without trace, and what follows is every parents worst nightmare, Betsy Reavley takes the reader on a painful journey alongside the devastated parents Libby and Darren. The author paints such a detailed picture of Libby and Darren’s life before and after Hope disappearance. I found myself drawn to both characters, their pain, fear, grief and desperation were palatable and I found myself becoming emotionally involved in their story. We see first hand the devastation a child going missing causes, the toll it takes on relationships and the lengths people will go to when they feel so helpless. Unfortunately Frailty is very much a story of the times, how often do we read about children going missing? the family’s left behind? Far too often in my opinion.
The story is told mostly from Libby’s point of view, but there are also small snippets from Hope which are told in the first person, and it’s these chapters that make for a spine chilling and deeply upsetting read. I should point out there are no terribly graphic scenes, Betsy Reavley deals with a difficult subject with empathy and sensitivity, it’s a book that is definitely not written just to shock. As the weeks of Hope’s disappearance turn in to months the author describes the relationship of the parents with such clarity that their desperation and frustration is tangible. As events spiral out of control and Darren decides to take desperate measures to find his little girl I couldn’t help but empathise with him, this is a man drowning in grief and struggling to keep his family together, and I could understand why he chose to take matters into his own hands, wether he was right or wrong, who’s to say.
Frailty is a taut and gritty psychological thriller, I read this book with an uneasy feeling in the pit of my stomach and it didn’t disappear until I reached the very last page. There were some “OMG” moments that I never saw coming until they hit me in the face, the author manages to maintain the suspense until she decides to reveal all, so much so I couldn’t turn the pages fast enough. This could have been a very depressing read, yes it did make me cry, it’s a story that will pull at even the most hardened heartstrings, but Betsy Reavley has created such a damn good read that when I finished, my first thought was OH WOW. With compelling characters and a well excuted plot there is no way to avoid the cliché: I could not put this novel down! Disturbing and compelling, this is definitely a psychologically astute, edge-of-the-seat story.
December 6, 2022
I loved Betsy Reavleys last book The Opticians Wife which totally blew me away with its plot twists and shocking ending. So I was understandably curious about this new novel which seemed to follow a slightly different approach to the psychological thrillers that she had previously published. But I needn’t have worried as Frailty is now my most favourite of her books! I just loved it! It’s a brilliant emotionally charged look at one of the hardest things a parent would ever have to face-the abduction of their child. How do parents come back from something like that? Yes, it’s tough to read at times and yes, you will probably end up sobbing but it’s a must read that will stay with you long after you’ve put it down.
Libby is just a normal mum living in an ordinary village with her husband Danny and her girls, 8 year old Hope and 3 year old Gracie. She could be any one of us. Until one day her whole world collapses when Hope goes missing after a trip to the local shop. Everything then falls apart for both Libby and Danny and the book takes us through the different ways they cope with what has happened to them. A missing child resonates not only through their family but also through the whole community where suspicion is rife. Interspersed with their story is a truly heart wrenching account from Hope, as she struggles to come to terms with her captivity and the terrible things that have happened to her. I did find this part especially difficult to read at times as it felt like I was living through my worst nightmare as a parent and I just wanted to grab Hope from the pages of the story and keep her safe with me! But I couldn’t tear my eyes away from the pages as the courage of that little girl started to shine through. It was just so beautifully written.
From beginning to end this storyline gripped me, shocked me, filled me with terror and pushed me over the edge until I was an emotional wreck. It reminded me of real abduction cases and how you search out every news story desperately hoping that the next one you read will bring the closure and happy ending that you have been praying for. You feel involved and connected just through that shared bond of parenthood. This book is full of that raw emotion and I am so very thankful that I have read it. It’s now one of my tops reads for 2016.
Thanks to the publisher Bloodhound Books for my review copy of Frailty.
Libby is just a normal mum living in an ordinary village with her husband Danny and her girls, 8 year old Hope and 3 year old Gracie. She could be any one of us. Until one day her whole world collapses when Hope goes missing after a trip to the local shop. Everything then falls apart for both Libby and Danny and the book takes us through the different ways they cope with what has happened to them. A missing child resonates not only through their family but also through the whole community where suspicion is rife. Interspersed with their story is a truly heart wrenching account from Hope, as she struggles to come to terms with her captivity and the terrible things that have happened to her. I did find this part especially difficult to read at times as it felt like I was living through my worst nightmare as a parent and I just wanted to grab Hope from the pages of the story and keep her safe with me! But I couldn’t tear my eyes away from the pages as the courage of that little girl started to shine through. It was just so beautifully written.
From beginning to end this storyline gripped me, shocked me, filled me with terror and pushed me over the edge until I was an emotional wreck. It reminded me of real abduction cases and how you search out every news story desperately hoping that the next one you read will bring the closure and happy ending that you have been praying for. You feel involved and connected just through that shared bond of parenthood. This book is full of that raw emotion and I am so very thankful that I have read it. It’s now one of my tops reads for 2016.
Thanks to the publisher Bloodhound Books for my review copy of Frailty.
January 8, 2017
In this story Libby and Danny face every parents worst nightmare as their daughter, Hope, disappears. Their emotions fill the pages and transfer themselves into you as you read. I felt upset, worry, anger and disbelief as I was reading. This illustrates the power of Betsy's writing - which is excellent from beginning to end.
I thought the portrayal of Danny's reactions was realistically done. Having raised two daughters as a single father I could understand his need for answers, and frustration with the police. Although his actions and judgments were extreme, I could see how and why he had got to that point.
The ending to this story is one of the best I've read. It brings everything together and is both emotive and powerful. If you like getting pulled into a book and feeling the characters emotions, then I highly recommend this book. A harrowing read, but worth it!
I thought the portrayal of Danny's reactions was realistically done. Having raised two daughters as a single father I could understand his need for answers, and frustration with the police. Although his actions and judgments were extreme, I could see how and why he had got to that point.
The ending to this story is one of the best I've read. It brings everything together and is both emotive and powerful. If you like getting pulled into a book and feeling the characters emotions, then I highly recommend this book. A harrowing read, but worth it!
November 23, 2016
This book has to have the most heart breaking opening scene that I have ever read before, as Betsy Reavley awoke every motherly hormone in my body. I felt protective and murderous at the same time but most of all I felt helpless. You will have a very emotional journey, a glimpse of what it could be like for a family after the abduction of a child. This story is about them, including chapters from eight year old Hope, which at times are quite harrowing.
I was just blown away with this novel. The use of the family members to tell the story made it so much more personal, electrically charged to feed my emotions even more. The story travels into the past before the couple had children up to present day. So I soon got to know these characters and as time went on they get to a point where everyone else seems to have moved on, that is everyone but Danny and Libby. How could they look at anyone without thinking ‘what do you know?’ On the outside the world see them the same but inside they have changed.
This was a definite one sitting book for me because there simply wasn’t a place I felt I could stop, I really had to know where Hope was. I thoroughly enjoyed this book which is beautifully written to give the reader the full impact of tragic events throughout the story in a way that puts your own imagination into overdrive. It went from heart pounding moments to adrenaline rushes where I simply couldn’t speak. This is one of my top three books of the year, awesome!
Do watch out for the blog tour.
I was just blown away with this novel. The use of the family members to tell the story made it so much more personal, electrically charged to feed my emotions even more. The story travels into the past before the couple had children up to present day. So I soon got to know these characters and as time went on they get to a point where everyone else seems to have moved on, that is everyone but Danny and Libby. How could they look at anyone without thinking ‘what do you know?’ On the outside the world see them the same but inside they have changed.
This was a definite one sitting book for me because there simply wasn’t a place I felt I could stop, I really had to know where Hope was. I thoroughly enjoyed this book which is beautifully written to give the reader the full impact of tragic events throughout the story in a way that puts your own imagination into overdrive. It went from heart pounding moments to adrenaline rushes where I simply couldn’t speak. This is one of my top three books of the year, awesome!
Do watch out for the blog tour.
November 8, 2016
Having read (and enjoyed) 'The Quiet Ones' by Betsy Reavley, I was expecting an equally twisted story, however 'Frailty' proved to be an entirely different type of book. This is a lost child mystery, a dark, emotional story that both terrifies and plucks at the heartstrings.
"It is the worst thing that could ever happen to a family."
On her way to the local shop, eight-year-old Hope vanishes into thin air. No-one in the village has seen or heard anything. The police are clueless and countless searches prove fruitless... until one of the girl's shoes is found. Did Hope run away? Has someone abducted her? Or did something more sinister happen to her?
Even though supported by friends and relatives, Hope's parents Libby and Dan are sucked into a never-ending nightmare from which they can't come out. Only Hope's return could save them. Their lives have suddenly stopped and they can't go on. And as days turn into weeks and months, the not knowing and desperation are bound to make you do things you'd never imagine you're capable of doing... How far is a parent ready to go to save their child?
This is a book that once you start reading it you won't be able to stop. It is a story that grabs you right from the very beginning. It is not a police procedural, but a suspenseful story that concentrates not only on the disappearance of the child but also on the after effects of this tragedy on the parents and the whole family. Chapters are mostly told from the POV of Libby and Dan, but we also have some hair-raising ones from Hope's herself.
The story is very engrossing and it kept me on my toes throughout. The plot is well-thought out and it made me feel all sorts of emotions. I felt shocked, sad, angry, intrigued, distressed and sympathetic with both parents. No parent should ever find themselves in their situation. Where is Hope??? Through peaks and troughs of tension, I kept wondering what has actually happened to Hope, who has taken her, whether she's dead or alive. As I was reading I felt part of the story and kept my fingers crossed all the time, hoping that the girl is found alive. But the author held fast to the mystery till the very end.
There was a point where I thought the story would end in a certain way - I was already grumbling inwardly - I didn't really want it to end that way!! But then suddenly the author flipped the story upside down with another breathtaking twist and completely changed the course of events. The ending can be described as heart-pounding, terrifying, sad and satisfying, all at the same time.
Reading this book was a thrilling, emotional journey for me and I would highly recommend it.
With thanks to Bloodhound publishers and the author for an ARC of this fab book.
"It is the worst thing that could ever happen to a family."
On her way to the local shop, eight-year-old Hope vanishes into thin air. No-one in the village has seen or heard anything. The police are clueless and countless searches prove fruitless... until one of the girl's shoes is found. Did Hope run away? Has someone abducted her? Or did something more sinister happen to her?
Even though supported by friends and relatives, Hope's parents Libby and Dan are sucked into a never-ending nightmare from which they can't come out. Only Hope's return could save them. Their lives have suddenly stopped and they can't go on. And as days turn into weeks and months, the not knowing and desperation are bound to make you do things you'd never imagine you're capable of doing... How far is a parent ready to go to save their child?
This is a book that once you start reading it you won't be able to stop. It is a story that grabs you right from the very beginning. It is not a police procedural, but a suspenseful story that concentrates not only on the disappearance of the child but also on the after effects of this tragedy on the parents and the whole family. Chapters are mostly told from the POV of Libby and Dan, but we also have some hair-raising ones from Hope's herself.
The story is very engrossing and it kept me on my toes throughout. The plot is well-thought out and it made me feel all sorts of emotions. I felt shocked, sad, angry, intrigued, distressed and sympathetic with both parents. No parent should ever find themselves in their situation. Where is Hope??? Through peaks and troughs of tension, I kept wondering what has actually happened to Hope, who has taken her, whether she's dead or alive. As I was reading I felt part of the story and kept my fingers crossed all the time, hoping that the girl is found alive. But the author held fast to the mystery till the very end.
There was a point where I thought the story would end in a certain way - I was already grumbling inwardly - I didn't really want it to end that way!! But then suddenly the author flipped the story upside down with another breathtaking twist and completely changed the course of events. The ending can be described as heart-pounding, terrifying, sad and satisfying, all at the same time.
Reading this book was a thrilling, emotional journey for me and I would highly recommend it.
With thanks to Bloodhound publishers and the author for an ARC of this fab book.
November 15, 2016
The ARC of this book was provided by Bloodhound Books. I chose to read/review and give my honest opinion.
I think I need to first explain my rating of this book …and Betsy Reavley…you always do this to me! As I psychological thriller, I would rate this a 3.5 star read. As a crime thriller, I would rate this 4⭐️ star. For me, there just was not a huge psychological edge to this story – but it definitely has the crime thriller feel with suspense and surprise throughout the chapters.
The story is set in Ickleton, Cambridge and we come across a variety of themes such a guilt, blame, desperation, loss & despair. The main undercurrent of the book however seems to be hope and hanging onto /having the belief that the child (also named Hope) will be found. There is also the different perspectives of anguish felt from both the parents in this story, and the lengths that both will go to in order to find their daughter.
I really enjoyed the main story-line of this book. I found the first 15-20% to be quite slow and if I am honest, I did question whether or not some of it was needed as it did not seem to add anything to the overall story. There was a gradual build up of suspense which did add an emotional side to the plot. The story was also told in various points of view, which initially was confusing – but eventually I grew used to.
We come across a diverse range of characters in this novel and a few stood out more than others. Danny and Libby Bird were well written and demonstrated different perspectives on coping with the abduction of a child. There was also some good descriptions of the dynamics in this relationship and the lengths that both would go to for the answers. Hope Bird was also well written and a few surprises drew me even closer to this character. Told from the perspective of an 8yr old, it reminded me a little bit of Room by Emma Donoghue. I loved that book, so was particularly interested in how the author could maintain the child’s perspective through the narrative. Well done Mrs Reavley! It was fab! I am not sure I connected at all with Simon (Danny’s best friend) or whether his part was believable. And I was also surprised that at less than a quarter of the way into the novel….I knew who the baddie was! Just call me Detective Holten!! And I must be an Ice Queen as I have seen comments of tears, and high emotions when reading this book….but I just did not feel that…not even a welling up….I was more relieved than emotional….I accept, however, that it really just could be me! #TotalIceQueen
Finally, hats off to the author for doing her homework as she got the criminal justice /police procedure side pretty much spot on! Although it is not something I expect in novels – they are a work of fiction after all… but if they are way beyond the believable, it does put me off! Not in this case! Betsy Reavley was right on the mark!
So if you are into crime thrillers, I definitely give this a Hell Yeah recommendation – it is emotive, full of suspense and raises the levels of anxiety in the reader. Head over to amazon and check it out !
I think I need to first explain my rating of this book …and Betsy Reavley…you always do this to me! As I psychological thriller, I would rate this a 3.5 star read. As a crime thriller, I would rate this 4⭐️ star. For me, there just was not a huge psychological edge to this story – but it definitely has the crime thriller feel with suspense and surprise throughout the chapters.
The story is set in Ickleton, Cambridge and we come across a variety of themes such a guilt, blame, desperation, loss & despair. The main undercurrent of the book however seems to be hope and hanging onto /having the belief that the child (also named Hope) will be found. There is also the different perspectives of anguish felt from both the parents in this story, and the lengths that both will go to in order to find their daughter.
I really enjoyed the main story-line of this book. I found the first 15-20% to be quite slow and if I am honest, I did question whether or not some of it was needed as it did not seem to add anything to the overall story. There was a gradual build up of suspense which did add an emotional side to the plot. The story was also told in various points of view, which initially was confusing – but eventually I grew used to.
We come across a diverse range of characters in this novel and a few stood out more than others. Danny and Libby Bird were well written and demonstrated different perspectives on coping with the abduction of a child. There was also some good descriptions of the dynamics in this relationship and the lengths that both would go to for the answers. Hope Bird was also well written and a few surprises drew me even closer to this character. Told from the perspective of an 8yr old, it reminded me a little bit of Room by Emma Donoghue. I loved that book, so was particularly interested in how the author could maintain the child’s perspective through the narrative. Well done Mrs Reavley! It was fab! I am not sure I connected at all with Simon (Danny’s best friend) or whether his part was believable. And I was also surprised that at less than a quarter of the way into the novel….I knew who the baddie was! Just call me Detective Holten!! And I must be an Ice Queen as I have seen comments of tears, and high emotions when reading this book….but I just did not feel that…not even a welling up….I was more relieved than emotional….I accept, however, that it really just could be me! #TotalIceQueen
Finally, hats off to the author for doing her homework as she got the criminal justice /police procedure side pretty much spot on! Although it is not something I expect in novels – they are a work of fiction after all… but if they are way beyond the believable, it does put me off! Not in this case! Betsy Reavley was right on the mark!
So if you are into crime thrillers, I definitely give this a Hell Yeah recommendation – it is emotive, full of suspense and raises the levels of anxiety in the reader. Head over to amazon and check it out !
November 22, 2016
Frailty is a difficult book to read due to the subject matter and imo a difficult book to review because there were several "niggles" throughout the book which kept winding me up and making me question the plot but without wanting to give away any spoilers all does become clear at the end. Frailty is the story of 8 year old Hope who disappears on her way to the newsagent. Libby and Danny are the distraught parents having to cope with every parents nightmare wondering where she is and trying to function day by day. This story is told through Libby, Danny and Hope's point of view and as a mother reading Libby's chapters was heart wrenching. A tough book to read.
August 4, 2017
I whizzed through this highly readable novel. Full review coming soon!
April 8, 2018
Actual rating - 3.5
January 15, 2017
This story of Frailty doesn't live up to The Optician's Wife. I found the Optician's Wife a gem of a page turner. While Frailty runs along the same lines as any other fiction novel out there about a missing child. There is always the same thing a distraught mother and a press conference. Yes I know in real life this is what happens. But I do think we have too many fiction stories about missing children. Frailty is about eight-year- old Hope Bird, who disappeared on a Saturday afternoon from the village of Ickleton. Hope left her house to go to the shop to buy a magazine. The shopkeeper confirmed that Hope went into the shop and purchased the magazine. That was the last time anyone reported seeing Hope. However I do recommend Frailty as it does draw in some unexpected situations, however I don't want to spoil it for other readers so I won't say what unexpected situations arrive in this novel that makes it half way through a little bit different.
November 8, 2016
Wow...... what a heart-wrenching, tear jerker this emotional book was for me. A Mothers worse nightmare!! Having loved The Opticians Wife, I was really looking forward to Frailty and sent it straight to the top of my massive TBR pile and devoured it in two sittings (mostly throughout the night)
The chapters are divided between Libby, the mom, Danny, the dad and Hope, whose chapters broke my heart and made me shed more than a few tears.
In my preferred genre of books, child abduction is not unusual, but Frailty was just different and beautifully written with some fantastic characters.
Always a difficult and gut wrenching subject to read about, it was written in a tasteful manner.
I highly recommend Frailty by the very talented Betsy Reavley, but be prepared for tears.
I read this ARC from Bloodhound Books and all opinions in this review are my own and completely unbiased.
The chapters are divided between Libby, the mom, Danny, the dad and Hope, whose chapters broke my heart and made me shed more than a few tears.
In my preferred genre of books, child abduction is not unusual, but Frailty was just different and beautifully written with some fantastic characters.
Always a difficult and gut wrenching subject to read about, it was written in a tasteful manner.
I highly recommend Frailty by the very talented Betsy Reavley, but be prepared for tears.
I read this ARC from Bloodhound Books and all opinions in this review are my own and completely unbiased.
March 28, 2017
From the prologue alone, I had a feeling, I was going to love this book; even though I figured out one of the shocking twists, it did nothing to detract from my enjoyment, in fact, it made the story even more frightening because […..insert spoiler here…..] I guess you’ll have to read it for yourself.
Hope Bird is missing, she’s only eight years old; Libby and Danny desperately want their daughter back but they try to carry on as best they can because they’ve got their younger daughter to think about – but how can you carry on as normal when your daughter is missing? The short answer – you can’t! Frailty is a gripping psychological thriller that plays out every parent’s worst nightmare, Reavley writes in such a way that the parent’s grief transcends off the page. I dare you to not become emotionally invested in this story! What cements the anguish and really pulls at your heartstrings are the interspersed chapters of Hope, narrated in first person, your anguish is intensified ten-fold, you’re ready to get a search party together to find and rescue Hope Bird… and then you remember this is fiction.
Throughout the book, you really get to know Libby and Danny, you get enough of their history to really like them as a couple, to want for nothing more than little Hope to be returned home to her parents. Reavley knows how to write suspense, taking you on a frightening journey and placing you, the reader, at the centre of the grief, and this is what keeps you turning pages. The pace isn’t particularly fast, that’s not what keeps you on the edge of your seat, it’s the suspense, that ‘need to know’ how the story unfolds.
As mentioned before, I did predict one twist but the way it was revealed did make me gasp, there were a few, I didn’t see coming and these took my breath away. It takes a talented author to write a piece of fiction that feels so real, that evokes real emotion in you, and really gets you thinking, god-forbid, what you would do in their situation, how far would you go to find your child, how far is too far, is there such a thing as ‘too far’ when your child is missing?
If you feel you’re seeing “too-much-of-the-same” in psychological thrillers, pick up this book and read it, it’ll restore your faith in the genre! I highly highly recommend this book!
Hope Bird is missing, she’s only eight years old; Libby and Danny desperately want their daughter back but they try to carry on as best they can because they’ve got their younger daughter to think about – but how can you carry on as normal when your daughter is missing? The short answer – you can’t! Frailty is a gripping psychological thriller that plays out every parent’s worst nightmare, Reavley writes in such a way that the parent’s grief transcends off the page. I dare you to not become emotionally invested in this story! What cements the anguish and really pulls at your heartstrings are the interspersed chapters of Hope, narrated in first person, your anguish is intensified ten-fold, you’re ready to get a search party together to find and rescue Hope Bird… and then you remember this is fiction.
Throughout the book, you really get to know Libby and Danny, you get enough of their history to really like them as a couple, to want for nothing more than little Hope to be returned home to her parents. Reavley knows how to write suspense, taking you on a frightening journey and placing you, the reader, at the centre of the grief, and this is what keeps you turning pages. The pace isn’t particularly fast, that’s not what keeps you on the edge of your seat, it’s the suspense, that ‘need to know’ how the story unfolds.
As mentioned before, I did predict one twist but the way it was revealed did make me gasp, there were a few, I didn’t see coming and these took my breath away. It takes a talented author to write a piece of fiction that feels so real, that evokes real emotion in you, and really gets you thinking, god-forbid, what you would do in their situation, how far would you go to find your child, how far is too far, is there such a thing as ‘too far’ when your child is missing?
If you feel you’re seeing “too-much-of-the-same” in psychological thrillers, pick up this book and read it, it’ll restore your faith in the genre! I highly highly recommend this book!
November 15, 2016
I had heard so mainly fantastic things about Reavley’s The Optician’s Wife through social media and fellow bloggers that I was thrilled to receive an advance copy of Frailty. I started this book with high expectations and was not disappointed!
Hope Bird is the eldest daughter of Danny and Libby, on a very ordinary afternoon Hope went to the corner shop to get a magazine and disappeared into thin air. What ensues is an investigation into Hope’s disappearance, time passes very quickly in the book whereby it is increasingly likely that Hope is not going to return. The police are struggling with any leads and information they did have stops at a dead end. Then a shoe is found which throws all the balls back in the air but is everything what it seems?
Frailty is a novel demonstrating the lengths that parents will go to in order to get their daughter back, to get answers. As the synopsis says, how far would you go to protect your family?
Hope is missing right from the start of the story but her voice is heard through haunting chapters from her perspective, giving enough information for it to be chilling but not enough to understand what is going on or where she is. These particular parts are written exceptionally well, with an innocence and optimism of an 8 year old – such a brave little girl that you just wanted to give a cuddle to and tell her everything is going to be ok. Hope’s chapters are difficult reading and distressing but are absolutely essential to the narrative. We also hear from Libby and Danny, both about their pasts and present, their feelings and worries, really giving a rounded view of their lives and understanding how this situation is breaking them. I found the passages about Libby’s relationship with their 3 year old daughter heart-wrenching, Libby is trying to protect Gracie but also feels tremendous guilt that she still has her – Libby feels completely torn in two, almost like she isn’t doing enough for Hope if she’s caring for Gracie.
Reavley has written a stunning thriller which is fast-paced and full of twists and turns. I was completely invested in this narrative, submerged by the tension and gravity of the situation.
This is absolutely every parent’s worst nightmare, an emotional roller-coaster from start to finish!
Hope Bird is the eldest daughter of Danny and Libby, on a very ordinary afternoon Hope went to the corner shop to get a magazine and disappeared into thin air. What ensues is an investigation into Hope’s disappearance, time passes very quickly in the book whereby it is increasingly likely that Hope is not going to return. The police are struggling with any leads and information they did have stops at a dead end. Then a shoe is found which throws all the balls back in the air but is everything what it seems?
Frailty is a novel demonstrating the lengths that parents will go to in order to get their daughter back, to get answers. As the synopsis says, how far would you go to protect your family?
Hope is missing right from the start of the story but her voice is heard through haunting chapters from her perspective, giving enough information for it to be chilling but not enough to understand what is going on or where she is. These particular parts are written exceptionally well, with an innocence and optimism of an 8 year old – such a brave little girl that you just wanted to give a cuddle to and tell her everything is going to be ok. Hope’s chapters are difficult reading and distressing but are absolutely essential to the narrative. We also hear from Libby and Danny, both about their pasts and present, their feelings and worries, really giving a rounded view of their lives and understanding how this situation is breaking them. I found the passages about Libby’s relationship with their 3 year old daughter heart-wrenching, Libby is trying to protect Gracie but also feels tremendous guilt that she still has her – Libby feels completely torn in two, almost like she isn’t doing enough for Hope if she’s caring for Gracie.
Reavley has written a stunning thriller which is fast-paced and full of twists and turns. I was completely invested in this narrative, submerged by the tension and gravity of the situation.
This is absolutely every parent’s worst nightmare, an emotional roller-coaster from start to finish!
January 5, 2017
Review to come
May 21, 2017
I have to be honest and say that this is the first book I have read by Betsy Reavley. I have heard lots of good things about books by this author from lots of highly respected bloggers and I know I am late to the party so to speak. I had high expectations of this book and I was not disappointed.
The synopsis of this book was very intriguing and it really did appeal to me. I don’t really want to say too much about the storyline as I don’t want to spoil it for anybody. A child goes missing and nobody has seen anything. As time goes by the trail goes cold and people’s (the media and the police) attention is diverted elsewhere. There is a surprising twist that I so did not see coming and this twist influences the direction that the storyline takes.
This book is really well written. Betsy knows just what to write to draw the reader in and indeed this is what happened to me. I really was hooked from the very first word on the very first page and wasn’t released from the book’s grip until the full stop on the last page. I read this in just over 24 hours which is quick for me and it really is a CPID (can’t put it down) book. My Kindle came everywhere with me as I was just so engrossed in the story.
I really felt for Danny and Libby. I am not a parent myself but I still really empathized with them. I can’t begin to imagine how devastating it must be to have a child disappear and not know what has happened to them. It’s like living in limbo as you know that somehow you have find a way to move forward, because you have another child but how can you move on if there is still a chance that your eldest child is still alive? Danny desperately tries to find out what happened to Hope and he feels that he has failed as a father because he couldn’t protect his daughter. Libby feels the same in that she has failed to protect her daughter and is a failure as a mother. There is one character that I didn’t take to but that is because I am naturally suspicious and I was proved right in the end. (I’m not telling you which one so you are just going to have to read the book yourself).
In short I really did enjoy reading this book and would definitely recommend it to others. I award ‘Frailty’ a solid 5* out of 5*. I am now off to buy the rest of Betsy’s books as I just know that I will really enjoy them just as much as this one.
The synopsis of this book was very intriguing and it really did appeal to me. I don’t really want to say too much about the storyline as I don’t want to spoil it for anybody. A child goes missing and nobody has seen anything. As time goes by the trail goes cold and people’s (the media and the police) attention is diverted elsewhere. There is a surprising twist that I so did not see coming and this twist influences the direction that the storyline takes.
This book is really well written. Betsy knows just what to write to draw the reader in and indeed this is what happened to me. I really was hooked from the very first word on the very first page and wasn’t released from the book’s grip until the full stop on the last page. I read this in just over 24 hours which is quick for me and it really is a CPID (can’t put it down) book. My Kindle came everywhere with me as I was just so engrossed in the story.
I really felt for Danny and Libby. I am not a parent myself but I still really empathized with them. I can’t begin to imagine how devastating it must be to have a child disappear and not know what has happened to them. It’s like living in limbo as you know that somehow you have find a way to move forward, because you have another child but how can you move on if there is still a chance that your eldest child is still alive? Danny desperately tries to find out what happened to Hope and he feels that he has failed as a father because he couldn’t protect his daughter. Libby feels the same in that she has failed to protect her daughter and is a failure as a mother. There is one character that I didn’t take to but that is because I am naturally suspicious and I was proved right in the end. (I’m not telling you which one so you are just going to have to read the book yourself).
In short I really did enjoy reading this book and would definitely recommend it to others. I award ‘Frailty’ a solid 5* out of 5*. I am now off to buy the rest of Betsy’s books as I just know that I will really enjoy them just as much as this one.
November 9, 2016
In all my 5 years of reviewing books this is the first time I ever said, this is a 2016 “Must Read”..
My "Warning" have tissues ready at your side, you may need them.
True Monsters That Hide Among Us.
Bestselling author, Betsy Reavley’s new psychological thriller is brilliant, yet frightening. I was waiting to see if she could top her last novel, “The Optician’s Wife”, and she did it skillfully. This is truly a page turner and will pull at your heart strings. Plus, I was not prepared in any way or expecting that ending. The author shows the perfect example of every single day when a child goes missing, how it can tear a family apart. She touches on every emotion, fear, “Hope” anxiety, loss, grief and just pure desperation when nothing is left. Driven so mad by pure love and pain, you just don’t think clearly anymore. The story line just flows as it spans through the years 2013 to 2016. Beginning with happiness, damage and recovery. I like that it’s told from only three POV, Libby’s, Danny’s and Hope’s. You see how they each individually react to this horrific crime. Then as in the premise there will be finally a suspect, yet it speaks volumes of today’s society. Whereas sometimes the guilty are innocent and that thru social media conclusions are quickly drawn.
This is every parent’s nightmare, as Libby lets her 8-year-old, daughter Hope go down to the corner store to buy a magazine. Hours later never to be seen again… Days, weeks and months pass, “hope” starts to fade and tension mounts. As the investigation slows, Danny knows where to find the answers and he will get his daughter back at any cost.
The very disturbing and shocking ending will leave you speechless. A mother’s dream comes true. Where some finally feel the warmth of joy, others are broke holding onto bare bones. Tears will fall for all. Shows us how “Fragile” we are.
Reviewed by Lisa Arrigo for robinleehorrorbookreviews.com
ARC provided by author.
My "Warning" have tissues ready at your side, you may need them.
True Monsters That Hide Among Us.
Bestselling author, Betsy Reavley’s new psychological thriller is brilliant, yet frightening. I was waiting to see if she could top her last novel, “The Optician’s Wife”, and she did it skillfully. This is truly a page turner and will pull at your heart strings. Plus, I was not prepared in any way or expecting that ending. The author shows the perfect example of every single day when a child goes missing, how it can tear a family apart. She touches on every emotion, fear, “Hope” anxiety, loss, grief and just pure desperation when nothing is left. Driven so mad by pure love and pain, you just don’t think clearly anymore. The story line just flows as it spans through the years 2013 to 2016. Beginning with happiness, damage and recovery. I like that it’s told from only three POV, Libby’s, Danny’s and Hope’s. You see how they each individually react to this horrific crime. Then as in the premise there will be finally a suspect, yet it speaks volumes of today’s society. Whereas sometimes the guilty are innocent and that thru social media conclusions are quickly drawn.
This is every parent’s nightmare, as Libby lets her 8-year-old, daughter Hope go down to the corner store to buy a magazine. Hours later never to be seen again… Days, weeks and months pass, “hope” starts to fade and tension mounts. As the investigation slows, Danny knows where to find the answers and he will get his daughter back at any cost.
The very disturbing and shocking ending will leave you speechless. A mother’s dream comes true. Where some finally feel the warmth of joy, others are broke holding onto bare bones. Tears will fall for all. Shows us how “Fragile” we are.
Reviewed by Lisa Arrigo for robinleehorrorbookreviews.com
ARC provided by author.
October 31, 2016
Having been introduced to Betsy's books through reading the Optician's Wife, and then catching up on some of the previous reads, I was more than excited to read this book.
Frailty is a haunting read, with an extremely difficult subject matter that Betsy handles so well, I opened up the book, breathed, and never really exhaled properly until I had turned the last page, and even then... I don't think I will ever have this story leave me totally.
The chapters are split, well balanced and you know whose POV you are reading. I particularly liked Libby's character, and that draws you in to her anguish.
You get a real sense of family life, how it was before Hope went missing, how devastating as the realisation dawns that your child may not come back.
Family life caught up in the disappearance of your child, a nightmare we have maybe had ourselves for a short while, while shopping, at the park. We have seen real live events on the news of similar stories unfolding, the intrusion of the press, police. But, know it is required to find the child, to find hope.
I don't know how Betsy managed to write this book, but she has and it is going to be one of my all time favourites. A truly exceptional author, that does not shy away from a difficult storyline, but does so with great realism and fragility.
I could write so much more about this book, but go buy it, read and just Hope...
Frailty is a haunting read, with an extremely difficult subject matter that Betsy handles so well, I opened up the book, breathed, and never really exhaled properly until I had turned the last page, and even then... I don't think I will ever have this story leave me totally.
The chapters are split, well balanced and you know whose POV you are reading. I particularly liked Libby's character, and that draws you in to her anguish.
You get a real sense of family life, how it was before Hope went missing, how devastating as the realisation dawns that your child may not come back.
Family life caught up in the disappearance of your child, a nightmare we have maybe had ourselves for a short while, while shopping, at the park. We have seen real live events on the news of similar stories unfolding, the intrusion of the press, police. But, know it is required to find the child, to find hope.
I don't know how Betsy managed to write this book, but she has and it is going to be one of my all time favourites. A truly exceptional author, that does not shy away from a difficult storyline, but does so with great realism and fragility.
I could write so much more about this book, but go buy it, read and just Hope...
November 15, 2016
There are many ways I can describe this book and brilliant is one of them. Certainly emotional would be another.
Frailty is a story of every parents worst nightmare, and that is when their child goes missing. This is the story of how Libby and Danny acted, and the emotions they felt after this nightmare happened to them one hot summer.
What I found great about this book was how the author managed to capture thees emotions throughout the whole book from the day their little girl disappeared to the very last page. Really this is a class act on its own as it is written to perfection. Also, if I was pressed to say what is the standout feature of this novel, I would have to say these emotions and how they are portrayed in the story.
However, it’s not just these emotions that make this a great read, the characters themselves are written into the story in such a fantastic way, you really get a feel for them, and feel their anguish with them as the plot moves on. Not just the main characters but some of the sub characters also.
Now, moving onto the plot. As always no spoilers but I will tell you the plot is just simply great, just believe me on this one. Like all great stories, every plot must move in a certain way to make the reader want to keep turning the pages. This one does without a doubt and you will keep on guessing and thinking right until the end.
Frailty is a story of every parents worst nightmare, and that is when their child goes missing. This is the story of how Libby and Danny acted, and the emotions they felt after this nightmare happened to them one hot summer.
What I found great about this book was how the author managed to capture thees emotions throughout the whole book from the day their little girl disappeared to the very last page. Really this is a class act on its own as it is written to perfection. Also, if I was pressed to say what is the standout feature of this novel, I would have to say these emotions and how they are portrayed in the story.
However, it’s not just these emotions that make this a great read, the characters themselves are written into the story in such a fantastic way, you really get a feel for them, and feel their anguish with them as the plot moves on. Not just the main characters but some of the sub characters also.
Now, moving onto the plot. As always no spoilers but I will tell you the plot is just simply great, just believe me on this one. Like all great stories, every plot must move in a certain way to make the reader want to keep turning the pages. This one does without a doubt and you will keep on guessing and thinking right until the end.
November 19, 2016
What a book! I didn't think the author could top The Optician's Wife, boy was I wrong.
This is a harrowing read from the outset, but such a gripping, realistic read that I was unable to put down until I finished it, often staying up until four in the morning.
Libby and Danny have to live through the traumatic ordeal of their eight year old child, Hope being abducted. Several of the chapters are written from Hope's POV, which to me, was the most harrowing part of the story. Some readers with children will probably find this a very uncomfortable read but I urge you to read it all the same. Look around you in the media people, children are abducted every single day the world over, that's a fact, not fiction.
Libby and Danny never give up the fight to find their beloved daughter and what they have to contend with from the police and the media would put any marriage under great deal of strain. The question is, just how much strain can a loving marriage stand come the end especially when a suspect is arrested by the police.
I don't want to say more because I wouldn't want to spoil other's enjoyment of this phenomenal read, just buy it and see for yourself, I promise you that you won't be disappointed. But make sure you have a box of tissues to hand whilst reading it.
This is a harrowing read from the outset, but such a gripping, realistic read that I was unable to put down until I finished it, often staying up until four in the morning.
Libby and Danny have to live through the traumatic ordeal of their eight year old child, Hope being abducted. Several of the chapters are written from Hope's POV, which to me, was the most harrowing part of the story. Some readers with children will probably find this a very uncomfortable read but I urge you to read it all the same. Look around you in the media people, children are abducted every single day the world over, that's a fact, not fiction.
Libby and Danny never give up the fight to find their beloved daughter and what they have to contend with from the police and the media would put any marriage under great deal of strain. The question is, just how much strain can a loving marriage stand come the end especially when a suspect is arrested by the police.
I don't want to say more because I wouldn't want to spoil other's enjoyment of this phenomenal read, just buy it and see for yourself, I promise you that you won't be disappointed. But make sure you have a box of tissues to hand whilst reading it.
October 22, 2025
Fantastic Read.
This is the first book I have read by Betsy Reavley and all I can say is WOW, I could not put it down. It is harrowing at times but the way the Author pulls you in and grips you, you cannot turn away and have to keep reading. I found myself reading this book at every opportunity and I found that it brought out every emotion in me.
This is a definite 5* from me and I cannot wait to see what Betsy delivers next. Would definitely recommend if gripping thrillers are for you. You won't be disappointed.
This is the first book I have read by Betsy Reavley and all I can say is WOW, I could not put it down. It is harrowing at times but the way the Author pulls you in and grips you, you cannot turn away and have to keep reading. I found myself reading this book at every opportunity and I found that it brought out every emotion in me.
This is a definite 5* from me and I cannot wait to see what Betsy delivers next. Would definitely recommend if gripping thrillers are for you. You won't be disappointed.
November 15, 2016
Frailty is without a doubt a parents worst nightmare.
The story alternates between characters, mainly Libby the mother and Hope the daughter. Through Libby and Hope we really get inside the characters heads and feel all the emotions that they are going through.
Hope’s chapters, I’m not going to lie, are highly emotional. My heart poured out to this poor girl and I just wanted to wrap my arms around her. It practically broke my heart reading of how brave she is trying to be even though she is very much frightened. This is one little girl and story that will stay with me for a long time to come.
As time goes by and the police not really getting any nearer to finding Hope, we are taken through the emotions of both Danny and Libby and how over the weeks and months they try to come to terms with the disappearance of their daughter. It’s a position I know that no parent wants to ever find themselves in.
When the police have a suspect in their sights I loved how the author shows how both Libby and Danny deal with it. Both characters deal with it very differently yet I think readers will easily be able to relate to them.
Frailty is without a doubt an emotional and thought provoking read. Knowing how twisted this authors novels can be, I was certain I knew who was going to be behind Hope’s disappearance. Well I couldn’t have been more wrong and by the end I was sent spinning by the revelations that left me feeling dizzy. I have to say I thought the ending was so well done. It really moved me and I thought it was the perfect ending for such a hard hitting story line.
My thanks to Bloodhound books for a copy of this book. All opinions are my own and not biased in anyway.
The story alternates between characters, mainly Libby the mother and Hope the daughter. Through Libby and Hope we really get inside the characters heads and feel all the emotions that they are going through.
Hope’s chapters, I’m not going to lie, are highly emotional. My heart poured out to this poor girl and I just wanted to wrap my arms around her. It practically broke my heart reading of how brave she is trying to be even though she is very much frightened. This is one little girl and story that will stay with me for a long time to come.
As time goes by and the police not really getting any nearer to finding Hope, we are taken through the emotions of both Danny and Libby and how over the weeks and months they try to come to terms with the disappearance of their daughter. It’s a position I know that no parent wants to ever find themselves in.
When the police have a suspect in their sights I loved how the author shows how both Libby and Danny deal with it. Both characters deal with it very differently yet I think readers will easily be able to relate to them.
Frailty is without a doubt an emotional and thought provoking read. Knowing how twisted this authors novels can be, I was certain I knew who was going to be behind Hope’s disappearance. Well I couldn’t have been more wrong and by the end I was sent spinning by the revelations that left me feeling dizzy. I have to say I thought the ending was so well done. It really moved me and I thought it was the perfect ending for such a hard hitting story line.
My thanks to Bloodhound books for a copy of this book. All opinions are my own and not biased in anyway.
November 8, 2016
Fraility, I have waited a week to write this review, it is in my top 5 for this year, not because it will make you smile, or feel good, quite the opposite in fact, be prepared to go on a heartbreaking journey with Hope Bird, an 8 year old girl who has disappeared, just a stones throw fom her home. We hear from the parents Pov, and Hope's, but oh my goodness, from the opening page when we hear a young girl talking, confused, not knowing where she is , enclosed in a pitch black room, you know this is going to be a very difficult read. The nightmare the whole family are plunged into, is made worse by the insensitivity of the media, who want a ' story ' regardless of the fall out, and a police investigation, that is too quick to get a 'result'. Fraility is so well writen, it is harrowing, a quiet psychological page turner, no twist's just for thrill's.
It show's how grief can push a person to the edge, with devastating consequences.
I am still processing the book, I can see Hope, I still hear her voice, everything is so vivid in my mind. I had an idea on who may be the perpetrator, though there were no clue's, and when you think there is finally a closure for Libby, the story takes a very dark sinister turn, I was and am still in shock , this is an ending that was totally unexpected, and my heart just fractured into pieces. Fraility definitely deserves 5*
It show's how grief can push a person to the edge, with devastating consequences.
I am still processing the book, I can see Hope, I still hear her voice, everything is so vivid in my mind. I had an idea on who may be the perpetrator, though there were no clue's, and when you think there is finally a closure for Libby, the story takes a very dark sinister turn, I was and am still in shock , this is an ending that was totally unexpected, and my heart just fractured into pieces. Fraility definitely deserves 5*
January 2, 2017
I liked the book for the most part but there were a few issues for me - WARNING SPOILERS!!!!!
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- if the shop owner's account of Hope hitting her head was true, how did Hope get into Mike's basement? Was the shop owner lying to get Danny to let him free? This is never explained and it really annoyed me.
- there was no explanation of who Zoe was or where Mile got her from. Surely the police would've been aware of another child abduction in the area?
- no explanation for the vicar suddenly trying to get so involved.
- if Hope was truly in the basement for a 2 year long period how did she eat and drink to survive? No detail of this and I kept wondering whether she was dead already and imagining things, yet on the last page it's revealed that she was alive the whole time and only just died at the end. Unless I am mistaken.
- a few grammatical errors throughout and I saw a spelling mistake too 'decent' instead of 'descent' near the end when Mike finds Libby in the basement.
There are a couple of other things I can't remember right now but I HATE it when I have unanswered questions at the end of an otherwise great novel.
I absolutely loved 'The Quiet Ones' and unfortunately 'Frailty' was just not on that level.
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- if the shop owner's account of Hope hitting her head was true, how did Hope get into Mike's basement? Was the shop owner lying to get Danny to let him free? This is never explained and it really annoyed me.
- there was no explanation of who Zoe was or where Mile got her from. Surely the police would've been aware of another child abduction in the area?
- no explanation for the vicar suddenly trying to get so involved.
- if Hope was truly in the basement for a 2 year long period how did she eat and drink to survive? No detail of this and I kept wondering whether she was dead already and imagining things, yet on the last page it's revealed that she was alive the whole time and only just died at the end. Unless I am mistaken.
- a few grammatical errors throughout and I saw a spelling mistake too 'decent' instead of 'descent' near the end when Mike finds Libby in the basement.
There are a couple of other things I can't remember right now but I HATE it when I have unanswered questions at the end of an otherwise great novel.
I absolutely loved 'The Quiet Ones' and unfortunately 'Frailty' was just not on that level.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Read
November 22, 2016Wow...... what a heart-wrenching, tear jerker this emotional book was for me. A Mothers worse nightmare!! Having loved The Opticians Wife, I was really looking forward to Frailty and sent it straight to the top of my massive TBR pile and devoured it in two sittings (mostly throughout the night)
The chapters are divided between Libby, the mom, Danny, the dad and Hope, whose chapters broke my heart and made me shed more than a few tears.
In my preferred genre of books, child abduction is not unusual, but Frailty was just different and beautifully written with some fantastic characters.
Always a difficult and gut wrenching subject to read about, it was written in a tasteful manner.
I highly recommend Frailty by the very talented Betsy Reavley, but be prepared for tears.
I read this ARC from Bloodhound Books and all opinions in this review are my own and completely unbiased.
The chapters are divided between Libby, the mom, Danny, the dad and Hope, whose chapters broke my heart and made me shed more than a few tears.
In my preferred genre of books, child abduction is not unusual, but Frailty was just different and beautifully written with some fantastic characters.
Always a difficult and gut wrenching subject to read about, it was written in a tasteful manner.
I highly recommend Frailty by the very talented Betsy Reavley, but be prepared for tears.
I read this ARC from Bloodhound Books and all opinions in this review are my own and completely unbiased.
November 4, 2016
Thank you Bloodhound Books and Betsy Reavley for a copy of this book for an honest review. Wow what a book. There some good thrillers out there and this is one of them. There is so good, I couldn't put it down until I finished it.
Libbys daughter Hope goes to the shop at the end of the road to buy a magazine, but she never comes back. A parents worst nightmare. Where did she go?
The story then changes from each character over a period of time, pulling at your emotions in every turn. But gripped me to the very last page. This is not your usual thriller, Betsey writes in a different perspective that I have not encountered before.
If you buy one thriller this year, buy this one, You wont regret it.
Libbys daughter Hope goes to the shop at the end of the road to buy a magazine, but she never comes back. A parents worst nightmare. Where did she go?
The story then changes from each character over a period of time, pulling at your emotions in every turn. But gripped me to the very last page. This is not your usual thriller, Betsey writes in a different perspective that I have not encountered before.
If you buy one thriller this year, buy this one, You wont regret it.
October 31, 2016
I received an advanced copy for honest review.
An exploration of the reactions to a heinous crime, Frailty opened up the world of "what if" in my mind. I don't want to give away too much, but Miss Reavley takes the reader on a whirlwind ride of emotion, heartache, and vengeance. There are some mildly graphic descriptions, but all are handled tastefully. 4.5 Stars.
An exploration of the reactions to a heinous crime, Frailty opened up the world of "what if" in my mind. I don't want to give away too much, but Miss Reavley takes the reader on a whirlwind ride of emotion, heartache, and vengeance. There are some mildly graphic descriptions, but all are handled tastefully. 4.5 Stars.
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