I loved this book! It’s a heartwarming story about a lonely man who has lost his wife and in some way lost his son, but in pops Red the neighbour that he didn’t want but discovers that he needed and as it happens that Red needed Frank too!

A beautiful book about lost love but new love in the shape of a beautiful new friendship between an elderly widow man named Frank and a lovely young boy named Red! The unlikely friendship between them just warmed my heart and made me smile and laugh!

I would highly recommend reading this book!

I would like to thank NetGalley for giving me the opportunity to read and review this book, it’s a really beautiful book!

Firstly I want to thank Netgalley for allowing me to read such a wonderful ARC
Red and his Mam move into the house next door to recently widowed Frank . Slowly Red and Frank develop an unlikely friendship. Some heartbreaking moments and also some heartwarming ones. One minute I was near to tears and the next I was laughing out loud.
This is a brilliant story that left me with a warm glow but I was sad for it to end
A book that I cant recommend highly enough

This book was very well written. It was a real page turner. Great heart warming story and great characters.

This book somehow managed to be both heartbreaking and heartwarming at the same time, and the unlikely friendship between Frank and Red both funny and moving. Brilliant.

Wow!!
This was an amazing debut novel. This was so funny I was snorting into my book trying not to draw attention to myself! It was also so moving, emotional, sweet and truly a heartfelt story that was reality but just a little bit brighter, or maybe a glimpse of how the innocent kindness of our children should be an example we all learn from.
Maybe not realistic in that I wouldn’t be leaving my 6 year old with virtual stranger even if they were my neighbour..

I received this book as an ARC and am providing an honest review

Immensely heart-warming! Frank and Red is a lovely, funny, and at times sad, tale of a man and boy who help each other deal with the difficulties they are facing.

Frank is living alone following the death of his wife. He wants nothing more than to be left alone. But then Red moves in next door and bounces his way into Frank’s life. What follows is a humorous tale of an unlikely friendship. Not forgetting Red’s “mission”, which may or may not get him in big trouble!

Just the right balance of sadness, humour and heart-warming. Brilliant characters who will have you chuckling away.

A great read.

I love Matt Coyne and have followed his Man v Baby Facebook page for a long time. I was u sure of how well he would be able to transfer from social media posts to author of novels. Well, pretty damned well is my verdict. I was hooked on the characters of Frank and Red. Well done Matt. This is a fabulous story.

I love a book that you can just slip in to and instantly feel connected. The characters and the locations all felt real to me because they are so beautifully written. I could clearly imagine the terraced street and grumpy old Frank rattling about in his kitchen, making a brew! Red is adorable and Matt Coyne has perfectly captured the innocent (annoying) exuberance of a six year old boy! There is wonderful humour in this book along with moments of such sadness… I felt for poor broken Frank. But the moment that changed everything for me was the epilogue! Oh my heart ❤️ This just elevated the book to a whole other level!

A wonderful, heartfelt and emotional debut. Matt Coyne is a fantastic writer who just seems to ‘get’ people and write them so beautifully. Once I started this book I really did not want to put it down. I look forward to reading more by this author in the future.

Frank is a grumpy old recluse, who only has the ghost of his dead wife for company.
The Red, a six year old boy moves in next door. He’s struggling following the separation of his parents and adjusting to a new school.
They form the unlikeliest of friendships that will change both their lives.
A wonderful, sweet story of two people of differing ages becoming friends.
Loved watching their relationship develop, it was so organic and natural.
Their experiences of love, loss, loneliness and divorce are so identifiable you feel you are joining them on their journey.
It will make you laugh and it will make you cry - heartbreaking and uplifting all at the same time.
A funny story about friendship and acceptance - it’s witty, sharp and full love.
It’s a hug in a book - an optimistic and joyous read.
Would recommend if you’ve enjoyed - A man called Ove or Isaac and the Egg.
Thanks @mattcoyney @headlinepng & @netgalley for a lovely empathic and compassionate read

This is one for fans of A Man Called Ove - the story begins from the same premise. Frank is a rude, grumpy old man, who becomes isolated and estranged from his friends and family (generally everyone around him) once his wife, Marcie, passes away after battling a long illness. Frank has not left the house in years, depending on his neighbours to come to his beck and call to get supplies for him from the local grocery store, he neglects his life: his back garden is overgrown and his car needs a SORN,

Red (because he isn't a fan of his full name; Leonard Gavin Evans) is a 6 year old boy who moves in next door. Following his parents separation, Red has joined a new school, has no friends and instead has to deal with the class bully; all these changes along with an absent father puts Red on the back foot. In the midst of this, Red, an attentive curious, joyful, inquisitive and kind child, becomes fascinated with his older neighbour.

Hailing from different generations, and considering the digital age that probably feels like lightyears to them both, the interactions between Frank and Red creates an even greater distance between them than closing it. Will the two ever see eye to eye?

This is a beautiful debut by Matt Coyne. Reading the blurb, I immediately thought of a Man Called Ove but Frank and Red really holds its own. The characters are all so loveable - a special mention to Sarah for being a hardworking mum, raising her child on her own after her husband has an affair, trying to balance life with a curious toddler and a new job in a new city, whose meeting with Frank in the book was the first time I blubbed and cried ugly tears - honestly, some unexpected one liners really managed to switch up the mood. Do not let that put you off though, the book is peppered with the most hilarious moments between Frank and Red, often because of what Frank is not saying to his innocent, unsuspecting counterpart. I was in fits throughout this book - Matt Coyne is a genius! A special mention has to be given to the beautiful trajectory of Frank and Marcie's relationship (I could hear the theme tune of 'UP' everytime I would read their pages...cue the ugly crying again!) A moving, joyous, fun book showing how two people from different walks of life, find each other and their ability to bring each other out of the darkness into the light!

Thank you @netgalley @headlinebooks for the advanced copy of the book in exchange for an unedited honest review - this one is highly recommended!

Thank you very much to Netgalley and Headline Publishing Group for the e-ARC!

"Frank and Red" was a story that I didn't know I needed. It introduces us to two distinct characters. Frank is a grumpy, sullen old man who is navigating life after the loss of his much-beloved wife, Marcie. He eventually withdraws from their friends and their son, and prefers to not leave the house as he prefers to "speak with her ghost".

Red, an animated six-year old just moved next to his house with his mum after his parents' separation. He is curious and creative, and his imagination is boundless. He later faces his own troubles involving a bully, and pangs of loneliness.

An unlikely friendship eventually develops between them as they help each other navigate these situations.

It's an emotional and comforting read. It makes you empathise over the characters and root for their breakthroughs. It will make you think about the complexities of life and of human relationships. One moment, it will make you laugh and later make you tear up. It is moving and impactful. It will make your heart smile.

I am certain that this book will be unforgettable. Easily a five-star read!

I've always been a sucker for books featuring grumpy adults that have sunny natured children as neighbours so Frank and Red has been on my radar since I first saw the cover several months ago. Hat's off by the way to the cover designer because it captures the essence of the book perfectly. 

On the one side of the fence is Frank, a grieving, lonely, self-isolating widower who doesn't suffer fools and has a fruity vocabulary powered by weariness and disdain. On the other is Red, a precocious, trampolining six year old, who doesn't know how to take no for an answer - and he has a lot of questions.

They might seem polar opposites, but the reality is, that they are both much more alike than they first appear. They're both in need of a friend as they navigate their way through their personal losses. Frank feels cast adrift following the loss of his beloved wife (and best friend) Marcie and Red is coming to terms with the loss of his old life and all that entails - a new house, no friends and an altered relationship with his dad who favours his new family. Red seems to empathetically recognise in Frank the feeling he's too young to verbalise in himself namely sadness. They both long for the past and both need a new friend. Ironically they both also have a fractured father/son relationship. Red, misses his dad and Frank, though he won't openly acknowledge it misses his son.

I was hooked on this book from the start with its nuanced introduction to Frank and the relationship he maintains with the ghost/imaginary friend that is his dead wife. The scene setting, the perfectly captured conversational tone, the pathos and the humour are indicative of what to expect from the rest of the book. Marcie, whilst she might be dead, is perhaps one of the characters we get to know best by the end of the book via memories, reminiscences and her own 'voice' as Frank hears it. Her appearances, often performing the role of Frank's (well hidden) voice of reason/conscience elicit a range of emotions not just from Frank, but also from the reader. Marcie is the embodiment of Frank's love and grief, and as we progress through the book, we can feel the palpable fear that at some stage he will lose her again.

Relationships, real or imaginary, broken or emerging are the cornerstone of the book and the realistic character building helps to really bring them to life. Whether that be Red navigating the terrors of a new school and trying to make friends, or Frank with his mate 'Fat Ken' either down the pub before Marcie's death or after as they verbally spar as only old friends can. Part of that realistic character building is down to knack that the author has of really picking up on the way people speak. It really helps bring them to life, making them less 2 dimensional. Frank's perfectly crafted, under his breath, comments are a delight and I can 'see' him so clearly as a result. Similarly, Red's malaprop like mishearing/understanding of words as a six year old, adds an additional layer of humour and realism to his exchanges. As a sidenote, full marks for the inclusion of the word 'buggerlugs'. I hadn't heard that for years, and as a child growing up that was almost a term of endearment, pretty much as it was used here by Sarah, Red's mum.

Having looked at plot, character and language it would be remiss not to mention the emotive issues that pervade the book. The author writes with real compassion and understanding on a range of issues. He presents a very realistic portrayal of grief, of coping (badly) with loss and also with the very real issues of depression. In life we are probably all guilty at times of being judgemental of others without necessarily understanding what they are going through. Frank's grumpy demeanour and antagonistic behaviours mask his very real mental health issues with depression and agoraphobia. It also results from what he feels is his impotence to change his relationship with his son. Red's uncharacteristic behaviour is a result of his feeling out of control, as his structured family world is falling apart. Red's being bullied makes us think about why people are bullies and how they feed on other people's fears. It's a multi-layered book that packs a punch and is so much more than a generic tale of a young boy befriending his curmudgeonly neighbour.

Well, I seem to have waffled on and looking back I'm not sure I've adequately or logically put into words what I set out to say, so maybe I'll round up by saying - I loved it. While it's ostensibly the story of the blossoming friendship between Frank and Red, it also encompasses a whole range of themes that we can all identify with. On one side love and loss; grief and loneliness; regret and impasse, and on the other compassion and understanding; friendship and community; joy and love. It's a book that is by turns heartbreaking, heartwarming and ultimately uplifting and I defy you not to fall in love with it. So is it worth all the plaudits - absolutely, I couldn't recommend it more highly.

I’d like to thank Headline, Wildfire and NetGalley for giving me the opportunity to read ‘Frank and Red’ written by Matt Coyne in exchange for my honest and unbiased review.

Frank is a grumpy and stubborn old man who since losing his wife a couple of years ago hasn’t ventured outside his front door, not even to put the rubbish in the bin. All he wants is peace and quiet but then Sarah and her talkative and very energetic six-year-old son Red move in next door. As Red bounces on his trampoline Frank tries to ignore him but a friendship grows between them that he wasn’t expecting.

‘Frank and Red’ is the wonderful story of how an elderly man meets a young boy and they form a friendship that crosses generations. I love the character of Frank who’s had an argument with his son Mikey that he can’t bring himself to resolve, and Red who goes on a mission to help heal the rift between them. The story that’s written through the eyes of Frank and Red brought tears to my eyes but also made me laugh out loud at some of Frank’s jokes. I’m amazed that this is Matt Coyne’s debut novel as it’s beautifully written with an ingenious way of how Red interprets words. I thoroughly enjoyed this brilliant novel and wholeheartedly recommend it.

Frank and Red by Matthew Coyne is wonderfully heartfelt story about a lonely, hurting old man and the little boy who brings him to life again.

Sixty seven year old Frank is aghast when six year old Red and his mother move in next door and disturb his peace. However, the more they get to know each other, they more Frank warms to Red, and when he thinks Red is in trouble, Frank faces his fears in order to be there for him.

I loved this story so much, I barely put it down. I had to see how this charming friendship played out!

Red is hilarious and annoying in equal measure; such a good kid, inquisitive yet respectful, and does everything for the right reasons (even if he shouldn’t!). Frank is a curmudgeonly man, as grief and loneliness have caused him to close himself off from the world, and from his family.

Not only does this novel touch upon grief and loss, but also mental health and anxiety, which is not talked about enough in regards to men. This could open up avenues for much needed conversations if any reader out their sees themselves or loved ones in Frank.

I loved the characterisation of Frank’s wife. They weren’t doddering old people, instead a vibrant and outgoing couple, going to pub quiz nights and having a large circle of friends. No pipe and slippers here, and it was refreshing, if bittersweet to read.

A truly joyous novel of unlikely friendships and the rollercoaster of life, you don’t want to miss out on Frank and Red. If you enjoyed A Man Called Ove I think you will enjoy this one. If you didnt, read this one anyway!

Having enjoyed Matt's blog posts as Man vs Baby I was looking forward to reading his first novel, and it really did not disappoint. The writing is incredible with well drawn characters, authentic voices, and was both witty and engaging. We follow Red (aged 6) and grieving Frank who first become neighbours and then friends. The book is a duolog with both Frank and Red's voice coming over well, and believable. Not all books with a child's voice work but this really does, and the first person perspective brings Frank and Red alive. This is not always an easy read, with some heartbreaking themes including loss, grief, and bullying. It could have become a very sad read, yet the author manages to make it both a heartwarming and hopeful novel with plenty of wit and humour. I loved both Frank and Red and didn't want the book to end and leave the characters behind. Ultimately this was a beautifully written, heartwarming and compelling read which I have no doubt will be one of my top reads of the year as it's going to take some beating! Thanks to Netgalley and Headline Books for the opportunity to read.

A reviews has also been submitted to Waterstones but I am awaiting confirmation it has been published.

This book is a lovely story about loneliness and finding friendship in the most unexpected of places. When young Fred moves in next door to grumpy old Frank's house, Frank is determined to have nothing to do with his curious new neighbour. But Red has other ideas and doesn't give up easy. What follows is an amusing and heartwarming tale that might just change their lives for the better.
A great debut novel from Matt Coyne told from both characters point of view - grumpy old Frank had me chuckling with his bluntness and his inability to avoid Red's attention.

This is a great first fiction book by this author. Very emotional it tells the story of Frank, a reclusive widower, and Red, a 6 year old who has moved in next door with his mother after her split from her husband. They form an unlikely friendship after Red has to stay with Frank after being suspended from school due to an incident where he had followed Frank's advice. There is a ghostly presence by Marcie, Frank's wife, who tries to help him to repair his relationship with their son following a disagreement years before. Overall a book that I really enjoyed and can definitely recommend to those who enjoy an emotional story.
I received an advance copy of this book from the publisher through Netgalley, however this did not influence my review of the book.

This is the most delightful book which grabbed me from the off, taking me on an emotional roller-coaster journey with the characters, before spitting me out at the end wholly satisfied, but sad to be having to say goodbye to the new friends I made along the way.
We start with Frank. Since the death of his wife Marcie, he has pretty much become a recluse. He has fallen out with his son and they are estranged despite his son's attempts at reconciliation. His only communication is that which he has with Marcie... Until, that is, he hears a strange noise coming from next door. On investigation, it appears to be coming from a trampoline, and there's a young boy bouncing. Red is six and he and his mum, Sarah, have just moved in after separating from his dad. He's not really adjusting well, especially when he starts his new school and attracts the attention of the class bully... And so begins the start of an unlikely relationship. Chalk and cheese personified. But it's a relationship that will change both Frank and Red, forever.
The rest of the tale, I will leave you to discover as the author intends. Suffice to say it was all the feels. I laughed out loud (don't read on a bus) and also sobbed (again, no buses). It was cathartic though. It put things into perspective. It's sad and tragic and happy and all things in-between and Frank & Red are two cracking characters that, along with Sarah, I was very reluctant to leave behind.
And then I find out, when scouting the author's back catalogue, that it's a blooming debut book. Adult debut that is. Which makes it all the more special. And makes me definitely excited to see what he serves up for next time. My thanks go to the Publisher and Netgalley for the chance to read this book.

This book was such an emotional read. Such a beautiful story about how the little boy helped the man next door through his grief.
Couldnt put the book down.

What an absolute treasure of a book! This is definitely going to be one of the contenders for my book of 2024!
When Red and his mum move into their house, he could foresee the unlikely friendship that would blossom with the grumpy old man next door. But Red is lonely and more than that, he’s persistent. He’s not about to give up on Frank. Red absolutely stole my heart with his innocence and his courage and his determination to make things right. I cried for him, I laughed and my heart melted. Matt has captured the perfect six year old in Red. Then Frank, oh my… so many times my heart broke for everything he’d been through. I adored his reincarnation of Marcie, his dead wife’s ghost and loved their conversations. Full of so many themes, many often serious and hard hitting, this book shows us the power of love and friendship, kindness and compassion. Tissues at the ready! But you will finish it with a big joyful smile and warm fuzzy feeling. This is going to be the book I’m recommending to everyone!

Many thanks to Netgalley and the publisher Headline for an arc in exchange for a review.