I just know you are all going to love this! I knew I would as I can’t resist a grumpy old man (in a literary sense, not some weird fetish), and Frank is about as wonderful and grumpy as they come!

This is actually a bit of a grumpy x sunshine storyline, except in a friendship sense rather than romantic. Frank is a moody old sod after the loss of his beloved wife (prepare to cry A LOT), but when young Red moves in next door and makes it his mission to befriend him, he never really stands a chance. Turns out they are just what the other needs, with Red struggling at a new school and after his parents breakup too.

Now, clearly this story is going to make you feel ALL the feels (I was sobbing by about chapter five), but I really cannot state enough how hilarious it is. The humour is absolutely on point and I don’t recommend imbibing any liquids whilst reading as they are likely to come out of your nose. The things which Red comes out with as a bit of a mad no filter kid, vs the grumpy swearing that Frank comes out with just had me in utter stitches, and thankfully balanced out the grief and heartache that’s also present in this story. One of those magical, bittersweet novels which I adore, and which is very likely to make it into my top reads of the year. If you haven’t picked it up yet, please do - it’ll warm even the coldest of hearts!

This is a story about an unlikely friendship between a grumpy old man and a young boy who find solace and support in each other's company. It is quick to get into and will quickly steal your heart. It tackles quite a few serious topics including agoraphobia, suicidal thoughts, grief, bullying, divorce and family issues respectfully and the balance of humour to emotional depth was a perfect balance. I did a combination of physically reading and listening to this one and James Killeen narration really added to the magic of the story.

I absolutely loved this one, it is no secret that I love a tale with an intergenerational storyline and this did not disappoint and I have no doubt it will be in my top reads of 2024. Both Frank and Red's voices felt so authentic and I loved following both their narratives, Reds POV hit especially hard as I have a five year old boy at home and I could truly hear him coming out with the same logic, it made me smile and cry (the speech Red gives 😭😭😭) and I was fully invested in the outcomes of all characters involved.

Fans of heart-warming and uplifting reads with an intergenerational friendship (think A man called Ove, Eudora Honeysett is quiet well & 100 Years of Lenni and Margot) will love this one!

Happy Publishing Day Frank and Red!!!

TLDR; I LOVED THIS BOOK!!!!!!

I listened to the audiobook and LOVED the narration. It felt like a hug in the form of a story and I know I've found a new comfort read. It starts much like A Man Called Ove (grumpy old man) but quickly forges its own path and had me laughing out loud. I loved every second. Matt Coyne is now an auto-read author for me. 5 stars.

The audiobook narration was joyful and engaging from the first word and throughout. James Killeen you're on my instant listen list. 5 stars.

Frank and Red is out ✨TODAY✨ and I've already told two people how great it is!

Thank you to Headline Audio + NetGalley for the chance to listen and review this audiobook before it publishes #FrankAndRed #NetGalley

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 part read and part listened to the book. I loved the narration, which was read by James Killeen. I prefer male narrators so this was perfect for me. I loved the Irish accent which really helped bring Frank and Marcie to life, but didn't detract from the voices for Sarah and Red. The great thing about having the narration is that I can listen again in full and it's like discovering Frank and Red all over again.

I thought this book was totally glorious. Just the pick me up I needed when I listened to it.. I expected it be quite predictable and whilst the way it ended wasn't the greatest ever surprise, there was so much about the story I just didn't see coming. Totally recommend and I thought the narrator was brilliant too.

Thank you NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book in return for an honest review.

This starts with Sarah and Red moving house following the breakup of Sarah and Red's dad. They quickly realise that their neighbour Frank is... less than friendly. The story then takes us along as Red and Frank spend more time together. This made me smile, laugh, and cry over and over.

The plot is well thought out, and the characters are so life like I felt that I knew them after just a few pages, Also, the narator is great, the Irish accent really fits. And the trampoline noise? I keep listening to that on repeat, always makes me smile!

I think fans of "Arthur and Teddy are Coming Out" by Ryan Love will enjoy this particularly.

‘Frank is a miserable old curmudgeon. An agoraphobic recluse and widower whose only company is the 'ghost' of his wife, Marcie. He is estranged from friends and family and is entirely cut off from the rest of the world.

‘That is until he meets Red.

‘Red is six years old. He's a funny, imaginative, and kind little boy who - following the separation of his parents - moves in next door. Red is fascinated by his new neighbour and seemingly oblivious to Frank's grumpy demeanour and strange ways.

‘What on Earth will come of this unlikely friendship? Only time will tell…’

I was very kindly sent a proof copy of Frank & Red and then spotted the audiobook on @netgalley, so switched between the two mediums. The audiobook is narrated by James Killeen, which is perfect as Frank is from Dublin.

I’ve followed the author Matt Coyne for years and he’s very funny and sweet, so I was initially nervous that this book wouldn’t live up to my expectations. I need not have worried, though, because I flew through the book in a little over two days and fell in love with Frank & Red.

Frank is a gorgeous character, despite his grumpy ways, and Red is the perfect epitomisation of a six-year-old boy, who is very annoying, very endearing and never stops talking. The accuracy!

It’s a real easy read, perfect for this time of year, with lots of chuckles and quite a few “aww” moments along the way; read it if you enjoyed A Man Called Ove by Fredrik Backman or Duffy & Son by Damien Owens, the latter being an #IrishBookstagram favourite.

A very solid four stars.

This was a sweet and endearing book and the main reason why I was interested in reading it from NetGalley, was because the summary made me think of A Man Called Ove and that was one of my all time favorite books. But Frank and Red by Matt Coyne has its own charm and it's own old, grumpy curmudgeon - Frank, who leads a solitary life, never even stepping out from the comfort of his home, after the death of his wife. Frank has an estranged relationship with his only son and depends on his neighbors to shop some basic necessities for him.

Enter Red, a chaotic and forever curious, 6 year old boy into Frank's organized and tranquil life. Red and his mummy, move in as Frank's next door neighbors after Red's mum's separation from his dad. Red is going through a lot in his life too, his dad's nasty new family, the new house, his new school and the bully at his school who makes Red his target. So when circumstances put Red and Frank together for a week, they don't have any other choice but to put up with each other's company. This is a story of unlikely friendships and moving on and coping with grief and how adults complicate their relationships(from the perspective of a 6-year old). It was so entertaining and hilarious to read how Red manages to get under Frank's skin and gets past the wall(quite literally the fence in the story) he has put all around him.

A wonderful story that I'd recommend to all. The audiobook and the narration was perfect.

This book is highly entertaining in a fun, simple and human sort of way. Frank is a 70-something grumpy widower and his new, next door neighbour is a six year old boy; Red (Leonard) who is grappling with his parents divorce, moving schools and finding new friends.
I enjoyed this audio very much and the different voices were incredible, the narrator getting the tone and delivery spot on.

Frank and Red is a ‘feel-good’ but poignant story of love and loss, grief and loneliness drizzled with the importance of friendship. It’s also a great lesson in saying sorry.
Neatly tied up with no loose ends.
3.5/5
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Advance copy from NetGalley in return for honest review.

It's true that I don't usually listen to audiobooks, but I kept hearing fantastic things about this story and I couldn't resist getting an audio ARC when I saw Nicki mention it was a Listen Now. It's no secret that I have a weak spot for stories about unlikely friendships as well as stories with an older main character, and so I thought Frank & Red would be a perfect match. I'm so glad I decided to get a copy now! I absolutely adored my time with this story, and both Frank and Red make for such fantastic characters. I can already guarantee you that Frank & Red will end up on my list of 2024 favorites!

I can understand the comparison to all time favorite A Man Called Ove, because there are definitely similarities to that book. It has the same type of grumpy old man as a main character, and it has a similar story arc where the character changes over time due to interactions with the rest of the cast. At the same time, Frank & Red is also completely unique though. This is a story about an old and lonely man striking up an unlikely friendship with a little boy with his own problems. This is a story about grief, self discovery and standing up for yourself... And it's also a story with a touch of the paranormal with Frank's dead wife Marcie popping up to steer him in the right direction. All these elements together make for such a magical read!

I know that I'm basically still an audiobook newbie as I've only listened to a handful of them over the years, but Frank & Red has once again proven to me that I can really enjoy an audiobook when the timing is right. Sure, it does take me a lot longer to get through a story listening to it than actually reading it... But sometimes it's worth it. I enjoyed the Irish accent of the narrator James Killeen, which seemed like a perfect fit especially for Frank. I confess it did take me a little while to get used to as it's not the easiest accent for a non-native English speaker... But it wasn't too much of a struggle especially considering it's one of my favorite accents.

The story is told using a dual POV structure, where we switch between Frank and Red throughout the plot. There is no doubt that Frank & Red is mainly character-driven, and focused on the growing connection and friendship between Frank and Red. Frank suffers from a form of agoraphobia after his wife's death, so his chapters are mainly set at home. Red's chapters are a bit more dynamic, as we also get to see him at school and later on on his 'mission'... But as a whole there is no doubt that this story is all about its characters. And it was SO easy to warm up to them!

Frank & Red tackles quite a few serious topics including agoraphobia, suicidal thoughts, grief, bullying, divorce and family issues. These heavier topics are well balanced with lighter moments though, and I especially loved the bickering between Frank and Red. The pair truly warm up your heart, and it makes it so easy to properly care about what happened to them. There are some obstacles along the way, and while I could already guess how everything would end it was still very satisfying to hear how everything was wrapped up.

As a whole, Frank & Red ended up being a truly delightful listening experience and a serious contender for book of the year. This character duo will win over your heart in record time, and it's the perfect example of unlikely friendship done right! Highly highly recommended.

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!
I listened to the audiobook and the narrator James Colleen is fantastic. He brings Frank and Red to life superbly. A great production!
Many thanks to Netgalley and the publisher Headline, Headline Audio for an arc in exchange for a review.

LOVE LOVE LOVED this book ! Has got to be in my top five books !! It made you laugh , cry and smile 😊 very emotional but an absolutely lovely lovely story , highly recommend

Audio version of this book was excellent! The narrator gave the two main characters a voice that really brought the characters to life !! One of the best audiobooks I’ve listened too !!

Synopsis
Frank and Red are a mess.

Frank is a grumpy old curmudgeon. A recluse whose only company is the 'ghost' of his dead wife, Marcie. He is estranged from his friends, his son, and the ever-changing world beyond his front gate.

And then Red moves in next door.

Red is six. A boy struggling to adjust to the separation of his mum and dad, a new school, and the demonic school bully. Red is curious, smart, he never stops talking, and he's got a trampoline.
From the moment Red's blonde mop appears over the top of the fence that divides their two gardens, the unlikeliest of friendships is born.

. . . And it is a friendship that will change both of their lives forever.

My thoughts ……!

Franks wife has passed away he is full of grief and she is still with him he is so sad about it. He is grumpy but extremely funny and underneath he is a great bloke ! Red moves in next door and they begin a relationship much to Franks disgust . Red is an absolute delight , inquisitive, constant chattiness and his questions oh love him. The friendship blossoms and there are such great moments, playing guess who is hilarious.
Frank - have they a moustache
Red - no but they have a hat
Frank - you are not surposed to
Say that ask me a question now
Red - have yours got a cat
Frank- bloody hell no they have not got a bloody cat , dog or any other pet .
Red- is it Herman
And so it goes lol
The characters are so fabulous, it’s funny , poignant, and just totally brilliant! It’s only January but it could be one of my books of the year I just totally adored!
I have a kindle copy but the audio is just perfect! Matt coyne this debut is warm , funny ,emotional and makes me totally smile I absolutely loved it! Buy it 1st February you will not regret it !!!

I know it seems very early to be saying that I’ve just read my book of the year, but I do believe that Frank and Red is going to be definitely in the top four books for this year.
I listened to the audible when I was not able to read the digital copy, and read the book when I was not able to listen to the audiobook. The 2 accompany each other very beautifully.
The story told through perspectives of a six-year-old boy and an old retired widow is just beautiful.
This is a story of friendship and kindness, and coming to terms with the past and looking forward to the future. But it’s so much more than that, it feels so real. The characters are extremely well developed and extremely relatable.
This book is an absolute must for anyone who enjoyed a man called Ove.
I will be recommending it to many people.
Many thanks to #NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book ahead of publication. I absolutely loved it.

Thank you to Netgalley for allowing me to listen to this audiobook in return for an honest review. A fantastic debut book from Matt Coyne! I absolutely loved it. It made me laugh and cry, sometimes at the same time. The book did remind me of A Man Called Ove but it definitely has its own story and style which I truly enjoyed. The book does deal with some sensitive subjects but it still manages to be full of joy and love. Highly recommended. Cannot wait for the authors next book! 5 stars from me.

This is a lovely, heartwarming, funny story about a little boy who brings a grumpy widower back to life. It features a ghost, a bully and dead fish. Beautiful relationship between two polar opposites.

Not my usual read but I'm glad a took the 'risk' as it brought me much joy on a grey January week.
I loved this audiobook version and the narration was spot on from James Kileen.
Highly recommend

Now, not my usual read but I was recommended by a friend and I’m so glad she did. This was just everything.

It is a heartwarming tale of an unexpected bond between an elderly man and a young boy. We have Frank, a grieving elderly man - who’s a right grump at times. Which I bloody loved. Then we have Red, a six-year-old boy who is inquisitive and just adorable!

As their lives become intertwined, the relationship is just beautiful to see. They offer each other support and companionship, in ways they don’t even realise. It was honestly so beautifully written and just heartwarming to read.

James Killeen absolutely made this book for me. He did such an incredible job with the audio. I really don’t know if I’d have loved it as much if I’d read it myself.

This had such beautiful writing that keeps you engaged from start to finish. It leaves you with a warm, fuzzy feeling, that left me thinking about it long after the final chapter. A must-read that leaves a lasting impression.

This is such a heartwarming storyline about the blossoming friendship of an older neighbour, Frank, with a 6 year old, Red, who has just moved next door.

I loved grumpy Frank. His wife died recently, but she's still around and talking to her. She's just there in his imagination. When Red bounces, literally, into his world, the friendship between them blooms.

This is a very sweet generational storyline and makes the perfect escapism read. I honestly didn't want this book to end.

I listened to this via audiobook and the narrator brought the characters to life with different voices for Frank and Red. He was perfect.

Loved the narration.
I wasn't expecting this book to be so funny? It's HILARIOUS.
I was expecting it to be a little too soppy/quaint/twee; again, I was wrong as it hit the balance just right. The ending was a tiny bit predictable but didn't detract from the overall story.

My only gripes:
1. Bit annoyed that the cover illustration makes it look like a middle-grade book when the topics covered are clearly adult. Also in the story, Red stands on an ‘upturned wheelbarrow’ so make the cover accurate pls 😭

2. When Red says Bulbasaur evolves into Venosaur - the SCREAM I SCREMT

Can't wait to see what Matt Coyne comes out with next

A fantastic debut. This is a book about unexpected friendships. As the book goes on it just gets better. I listened to it on Audiobook and the narrator was fabulous. I can't recommend this enough