A Flicker in the Dark – When Memory Becomes a Killer: A Chilling Review of Stacy Willingham’s Audiobook Thriller

1. About the Author: Stacy Willingham

Stacy Willingham is an American author specializing in psychological thrillers. She is acclaimed for crafting deeply unsettling narratives featuring complex female protagonists haunted by their pasts. Her debut novel A Flicker in the Dark immediately gained widespread recognition, becoming a New York Times Bestseller and earning nominations for several crime fiction awards. Willingham’s writing is known for its immersive atmosphere, sharp pacing, and emotional resonance, establishing her as a fresh and compelling voice in modern thriller literature.

2. About the Narrator: Karissa Vacker

Karissa Vacker is a veteran audiobook narrator, especially prominent in the thriller and psychological suspense genres. She’s praised for her emotional range, vocal clarity, and ability to shift seamlessly between characters. Her performance in A Flicker in the Dark has been described as gripping and nuanced, bringing out the inner turmoil and tension of the story’s protagonist. Vacker has earned accolades including the AudioFile Earphones Award, solidifying her reputation among audiobook enthusiasts.

3. About the Book: A Flicker in the Dark

A Flicker in the Dark is a psychological thriller first published in 2022. The story follows Chloe Davis, a psychologist living in Baton Rouge whose father was convicted of murdering six teenage girls when she was just twelve. Two decades later, similar disappearances begin to occur, raising the terrifying possibility that the nightmare never truly ended.

With a fast-paced plot and chilling psychological depth, the book stands out in its genre. Willingham masterfully blends suspense, trauma, and memory, exploring the blurred lines between guilt and innocence, past and present.

• Average rating: 4.1/5 on Goodreads (over 150,000 ratings)

• Awards: Selected by Book of the Month Club, named one of the Best Debut Crime Novels of 2022

• Sales: Over 500,000 copies sold worldwide as of late 2023

4. Book Review – A Flicker in the Dark (Text Format)

A Flicker in the Dark hooks readers from the first chapter and doesn’t let go. Stacy Willingham expertly builds a moody and tense atmosphere while exploring Chloe’s fractured psyche.

Strengths:

• A haunting premise with strong psychological insight

• Rich character development, especially Chloe’s internal conflict

• Unexpected twists that, even when foreshadowed, deliver emotional impact

Weaknesses:

• Some readers felt the resolution was a bit rushed

• A few flashbacks slowed down the pacing in the middle section

Overall, this is a gripping read for thriller fans who crave emotional complexity along with their suspense. It’s one of the most talked-about titles in the Audiobook format for good reason.

5. Audiobook Review – Narrated by Karissa Vacker

The audiobook version of A Flicker in the Dark elevates the story significantly, thanks to Karissa Vacker’s emotionally resonant narration.

Highlights:

• Expert emotional delivery, capturing Chloe’s anxiety and dread

• Clear character distinction with unique voices

• Well-paced, making it easy to follow without losing tension

Drawbacks:

• Some listeners wished for a Southern accent to match the Louisiana setting

Critical rating: 4.6/5 on Audible (20,000+ listener reviews)

Vacker’s performance keeps listeners engaged and amplifies the novel’s chilling tone, making it an ideal choice for anyone new to audiobooks or fans of psychological suspense.

6. Who Should Read (or Listen to) This Book?

A Flicker in the Dark is a great fit for:

• Fans of psychological thrillers featuring female protagonists

• Readers who enjoy exploring the long-term effects of trauma

• Newcomers to audiobooks, thanks to Vacker’s accessible and gripping performance

• Young adults and adult readers aged 18–35 who enjoy fast-paced, emotionally intense fiction

7. Final Verdict

A Flicker in the Dark is a stellar debut that blends emotional depth with thriller suspense. Stacy Willingham delivers a dark, twisty narrative that keeps readers second-guessing their instincts, while Karissa Vacker’s narration turns the audiobook into a deeply immersive experience.

If you’re seeking an audiobook that grips you emotionally while keeping your heart racing, A Flicker in the Dark is your next must-listen.

8. Where to Listen to the Audiobook

You can enjoy A Flicker in the Dark in audiobook format on the following platforms:

• Audiobooks.com – Streaming and mobile app listening with a free 3-day trial

• Audible.com – Offers a free trial and offline listening

For the best experience, consider subscribing to these platforms to listen anytime, anywhere, across all your devices.