This book was a massive hug and I loved it just as much as I knew I would. Both Frank and Red are going through difficult times and with their age difference, they’re certainly not a pair you expect to become friends but this is the cutest non-romanctic grumpy vs sunshine story. Frank is grieving, isolated, and mad at pretty much everyone. He definitely does not want nosy, noisy new neighbours but Red is outgoing and happy, constantly chatting away until he knocks down some of Frank’s walls (or his fence) and the grouchy old man finds himself reluctantly fond of, and friends with, this endearing 6 year old. These two form an unlikely bond and help each other see things differently - though it’s safe to say Frank’s advice isn’t always sound, or age appropriate. But then, neither is his language. I thought the narrator of the audiobook was fantastic, giving a lovely Irish brogue for Frank and a convincing, but not annoying, child’s voice for Red.

This book was full of humour, with lots of back and forth between the different characters (adults and children), but you better believe there were some tear jerking moments at the end. So, all in all, I laughed, I cried, and I have a little space in my heart just for Frank and Red.

I received a free copy of this book. All views are my own.

I have already read this book, but wanted to listen on audio as I loved it so much. And dare I say it's even better on audio. The narrator was fantastic. He really gave life to the characters.

Previous review: Frank and Red, where do I even start? I’ve not read such a beautifully tender and heartwarming book since Sarah Turner’s Stepping Up. Matt has managed to write friendship in all its forms, love and grief in such a personable and touching way, whilst still having his trademark witty humour weaved through. It’s a perfect balance and I loved every word. You cannot fail to fall in the with the characters and laugh and cry with them. A triumph of a first novel and a must-read for 2024.

In Matt Coyne’s debut novel Frank & Red I may have found a contender for book of the year already. It will most definitely be on my Top Reads list this year. I actually had both a digital and audiobook copy of the book and decided to listen to the audio version. I’m so glad I did as the narrator, James Killeen, was superb. Like the characters of Frank and Marcie, he’s a Dubliner so really brought the characters to life. He was also so good at capturing the spirit of six year old Red. Having said that, I have also looked at the digital version and really like the way it was formatted, particularly some of Red’s chapters showing his childish way of thinking or writing.

Right from the beginning of the book when the exuberant Red met his new neighbour, curmudgeonly Frank, I took both these characters to heart and that’s somewhere they will stay. They are such memorable creations and Matt Coyne brought them to life on the page in a way that made them feel very real to me. Frank’s life has shrunk since the death of his beloved wife Marcie. Red has moved following the separation of his mum and dad and he’s finding it very difficult to adjust to his new circumstances, a new home and a new school. The unlikely friendship that developed between them was just beautiful to read about. It’s fair to say that Red considers himself Frank’s friend long before Frank reciprocated the feeling.

The book is so brilliantly written. Matt Coyne has managed to combine humour with emotion beautifully and it’s genuinely a book which could have you giggling one minute and with a tear in your eye the next. Red’s innocent and straightforward way of looking at the world chipped away at Frank’s resistance and they were both just what the other needed. I also liked the inclusion of Marcie, Frank’s wife. At times, we meet them in their younger years and at other times, Frank believes he sees and hears her around his house, offering advice and opinions on how he should be living his life. I felt like she was almost the voice of his conscience.

I can’t recommend Frank & Red highly enough. It’s such an uplifting and heart-warming read and with characters I won’t forget. If you don’t fall in love with Frank and Red then we can’t be friends any more! I unreservedly loved this book from start to end.

The most unlikely of friendships, but somehow, two people who are decades apart in age, are thrown together by circumstance and what follows warms the heart to see just how the relationship develops.

This book was a joy to listen to - I adored it. It’s a story of two unlikely friends who both find themselves lost in an ever changing world and unintentionally help each other to make sense of life.

The story is told from alternate points of view and the narrator James Killeen did an excellent job of distinguishing between Frank and Red. The narration is gentle and sensitive when it needs to be and the dialogue felt authentic and real.

The magic of this book is that although it’s about loss, grief and adjustment, it is also very funny, with some laugh out loud one liners which catch you unawares, especially if you’re listening to it in public!

For me, Red’s character was brilliantly realised, Matt Coyne perfectly captures the enthusiasm and curiosity of a six year old and their ability to wear down the most resilient of individuals with their unrelenting chatter and questions.

It’s an uplifting story without being overly sentimental. I absolutely loved it and can’t recommend it enough.

Sweet inter-generational friendship tale.

4.5 stars.

Red (don't call him Leonard) is six, and doing his best to cope with his mum and dad splitting up, his dad's new girlfriend, a new school with bullies, and not living near his old friends. He's oblivious to his new neighbour's resentment of his squeaky trampoline, constant chatter and questions.

Frank is annoyed. Why can't the boy next door leave him be? Still grieving his beloved wife (who he converses with), he not only can't make himself leave the house but is too proud to try and make peace with the son who he argued with when she died.

It's Red's need for a friend that leads to the situation where he's left in Frank's care for a week. Among multiple games of Guess Who and Roblox conversations, Red is inspired to try to help the lonely old man who he wants to befriend.

As a parent of a child exactly Red's age, this was always going to hit me right in the gut. It's a realistic portrayal of a bright and innocent young boy, with the preoccupations of his age and understanding of the world. He and Frank make a great 'odd couple', with each, the reader can see, able to offer something to the other.

The audiobook was nicely narrated, between the two viewpoints and with appropriate voices that fit. Loved the stubborn Frank and the slow thawing and begrudging changes and acceptance of Red.

Uplifting and warm story, a lovely listen and read.

With thanks to Netgalley for providing a sample reading/listening copy.

I absolutely loved this book! It is definitely one I will remember and that was largely down to the multiple angles we got to experience the story from. I listened to this book on audio and the narrator did a fantastic job of making the book so immersive.

Frank was a great character, although he was grumpy, it was so clear to see that he was just in fact in immense pain. I thought that the inclusion of his wife’s ghost was a really powerful tool to understand Frank more and see what was going on for him beyond the facade. It was nice getting to experience their relationship albeit through Frank’s mind.

Frank’s dynamic with Red was so excellently executed. I always get a bit nervous when a child is featured too heavily in a book as I think it can be a bit hit or miss and be really difficult to execute in a way that felt believable but the dynamic between the two characters was just brilliant. I loved the things Red overlooked with child naivety, his tenacity to really get to know Frank despite the multiple signs all the adults around had taken to back off. Were there some aspects that felt maybe a bit mature for a six year old? Possibly. But did it take away from the story? Not at all. For me it made sense that Red was more matured given his recent experiences and those aspects fed into the overall entertainment value of the story.

Red’s mum is also such a key character to this story, going through so much whilst raising Red and working full time. I think Coyne really spotlighted on a whole host of issues outside of the main plot line, even the storyline of her caring for Frank’s wife really added to the narrative of never knowing what people are going through at home.

This book had a perfect balance of humour through the relationship between Frank & Red whilst also having real depth and meaning, the ending was incredibly moving and I may have even shed a tear. Wonderfully executed and would definitely recommend!!

As a fan of Matt Coyne’s Internet takedowns of parenting trolls and his (occasional) heartfelt posts, I knew he was funny, his non fiction work is hilarious. But would this translate into being able to write his first novel?

Well, yes. Yes it does. This is a very confident start - the writing is crisp and clear, and the humour while front and centre, is backed up by a real understanding of sadness, grief and the darker parts of life.

The audiobook was well produced and the narrator was soothing and funny, which suited the book well.

It’s not Breaking Bad meets the Odd Couple or anything. The novel fits comfortably into a cozy niche, you know the story beats that are coming, and it believes in the innate goodness and humanity of people. The skill here is the way the characters breathe on the page, and the way the jokes come out naturally. When some comedic figures write a novel they write around jokes and setups, but here the jokes come from who the people are. The book is never really cruel to make you laugh, and even unlikeable characters are not all bad!

Coyne captures the voice and logic of a child very charmingly, and the little details about Red and his likes and dislikes could only come from someone who has parented a six year old.

This was a warm and inviting read and the characters will really stay with me. I can’t wait to see what Coyne does next.

Frank and Red - just a wonderful and fulfilling uplifting story of an unlikely friendship between Frank, who is a grumpy elderly man who is grieving the death of his wife and Red who is a six year old boy who happens to move in next door to Frank. Their lives become intertwined and the two begin to lean on each other after a very rocky start. This audiobook is just fabulous, narrated by James Killeen it was just a joy to listen to. The writing flows beautifully and leaves you wanting to pick it up and keep on listening to more. At the end of the day this book leaves you with a warm-hearted life affirming feeling - it makes a huge impression on you and you are left thinking about it long after you have finished it. Go and get yours!!!

A delightful and heart-warming account of the relationship between a six year old boy and an elderly widower.
Frank has been used to a quiet and uninterrupted life at home since the death of his wife. When six year old Red moves in next door, with his Mum, Frank is forced to rethink his reclusive lifestyle. Red is very inquisitive and a bundle of energy and he talks to Frank over the garden fence. Both Frank and Red have things that have upset them and they help each other in different ways. I absolutely loved this book and the narration was perfect. Thank you to Net Galley for an audio arc in exchange for an honest review.

"Frank and Red" by Matt Coyne captivates readers with its seamless blend of heartwarming storytelling and the endearing relationship between the characters. Much like the beloved duo Carl and Russell from UP, Frank and Red embark on a journey that transcends generational gaps, proving that deep connections can be forged at any age.

Listening to the audiobook elevates the experience, thanks to a narrator who skillfully breathes life into the characters. From the outset, I found myself immersed in the story, chuckling at Frank's grumpiness and charmed by Red's innocence. The narrator's ability to convey the emotions of the characters made the wins and losses resonate on a profound level, creating a truly engaging narrative.

What sets this book apart is the synergy between Coyne's writing and the narrator's performance. Together, they create a vivid tapestry of laughter, empathy, and poignant moments that linger with the listener. "Frank and Red" is not just a story; it's an immersive experience that showcases the power of friendship, resilience, and the joy found in unexpected connections. An absolute must-read, or in this case, a must-listen, that will leave you with a warm heart and a smile!

For fans of A Man Called Ove by Fredrik Backman.
Almost verbatim, we have a grumpy old man who hates everyone and everything after his wife dies from cancer. He is only bullied into doing any good by the ghost of his wife.

Red is a six-year old boy who moves next door who is overly curious and kind but faces bullying at school and an absent divorced father.

Similar to Ove, Fred is not likeable and I struggled to get over all his disagreements. Rude, short-fused, nasty, a raging drunk. Yet, you do feel sorry for his situation as you learn of his past and the absolute love and devotion he had to his wife, and then of course his grief.

Red adds such a realistic child narrative. Yes, some parts were unbelievable for a six year old, but mostly it was written to be extremely fun and entertaining with random tangents that you would expect a child to make.
Sadly, he faces bullying and he’s trying to make sense of his place, displaced from his home, family structure, and school.

The interactions between the two were, of course, amusing.

“I spy with my little eye something beginning with L.”
“Is it the last dying embers of my will live?” Frank replied.
“Nope,” said Red, delighted that Frank was apparently now fully involved. “Guess again.”

Also, shout out to Red’s mum who is struggling balancing a new job, a nasty divorce, a young child, and no support system. She is a force to be reckoned with and so, so funny.

To start with, this felt like a bit of a copy from Backman’s work. However, as the book progressed, this definitely differed from A Man Called Ove, and I have to say, I found myself enjoying this a lot more.
Maybe it was the audiobook narrator. Red’s inclusion was definitely a part of it.

What a fantastic debut! Full of heart, this was a sweet read with some funny moments and endearing impressions.

Thank you to Headline Audio for an audiobook arc in exchange for a review.

The story of grumpy old curmudgeon Frank and Red, the six year boy who moves in next door. Frank is agoraphobic and doesn’t leave the house since the death of his wife Marcie. Red is full of boyish exuberance, but isn’t settling in well at his new school.

You can see where it’s going, as the generation gap and personality clash comedy ensures. Some of the scenes with Red at school, a little lonely then cruelly bullied were a bit uncomfortable though.

It’s heartwarming, bittersweet and often very funny. The narration by James Killeen is excellent, who doesn’t love an Irish accent? Frank is Irish, by the way, I noticed other reviews querying the accent.

One of the best feel-goods I’ve read in a while. Highly recommended.

Thanks to Netgalley and Headline Audio

A gentle tale very well told. No big dramas but definitely bittersweet in places. The narrator was excellent but his lovely Irish accent made the London setting seem wrong. However it’s really good so give it a listen.

This is the sweetest story of an unlikely intergenerational friendship between Frank; a curmudgeonly elderly man, widowed following the death of his beloved wife, and Red; the six year old who moves in next door with his mum following his parents marriage breakdown. Each mourning the loss of their old life by withdrawing into their own worlds. But those worlds collide and both learn that there is life after loss. Yes it’s a little predictable but it’s also a gentle read, a homage to aging, to love and to the human need for company.

When Frank gets new neighbours, he is not impressed with the squeaky trampoline and over-friendly 6-year-old that came bouncing along with it. He is set in his ways and doesn't want his life disrupted. But Red is not going to be ignored, despite Frank's best attempts, and it might possibly be the most important friendship he will make yet.

This was a warm, funny, uplifting book that sheds a light on normal family situations and the ways we deal with them. Frank and Red and quite literally opposites, but as unlikely as it may seem, they may just be the only ones able to help each other overcome their problems. I have followed Matt for a while now and his humour and down-to- earth approach shines through making this a great fictional debut and I can't wait to see what he does next!

Such a fabulous book, I loved it!

After the sad death of his wife, Frank hasn’t left the house. Marcie’s spirit is still there with him, and he’s terrified that if he goes out, she may not be there when he gets back.

When six year old Red and his Mum move in next door, Frank is forced to be social - inquisitive six year olds don’t take no for an answer!

I LOVED the dry humour that spilled from Red, Sarah and Frank:

“Lying was bad. And lying when you have 12 Jesuses, 8 Marys and Kriss Akabusi watching you all day, well, that just seems doubly wrong.”

“Let’s just say, Red’s dad is a good father, in the same way that Fred West is a cracking landscaper.”

“Yeah, no shit! Thank you for that, officer fucking obvious”

There was a serious side as well and Frank and Red were so similar in how they masked their anxieties and coped with life.

And thus, a wonderful friendship is born.

The audiobook was brilliantly narrated by James Killeen, who completely captured the personalities of these wonderful characters.

Can I give more than five stars? No?
Ok then, 5 ⭐️ Thanks to Netgalley, Matt Coyne and Headline, for an ARC in return for an honest review.

I fell in love with this story at first page and loved it till the last word. I cried, smiled, felt for Frank and Red, loved Marcie and the characters the live in this story and will live in my head.
It's heartbreaking and heartwarming, full of emotions and with some very funny moments.
Frank, the man who lost the love of his life and is refusing any company. Red, the child who doesn't understand what's going on and facing a grief too big for a child to understand.
Their friendship is at the core of this great story, a friendship that will help them to heal and go on.
There's strength in the words I read, there's hope and there's the story of how healing and moving on are also a matter of relationships and love
An excellent story that delivers well rounded characters, well written and relatable.
The author is an excellent storyteller and I can't wait to read another story by this author.
The narrator did an excellent job adding a layer to the story and making me feel like I could talk to the characters
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this ARC, all opinions are mine

Never judge a book by the cover is the message of the opening chapters but like another reviewer I was drawn to the "miserable old curmudgeon" character - perhaps just the word 'curmudgeon'!.
Curmudgeon is perhaps what Frank looks like to outsiders but he is grieving and clearly very broken in need of someone to help put him back together. Sometimes we're all a bit 'Frank'.

Then there's Red who is every bit the enthusiastic 6 year old with a squeaky trampoline and a knack for irritating Frank but also stealing a little piece of his heart. In fact both characters do!

The audiobook is great and add a comfort to this already comforting book.

I really enjoyed the writers style in this - very different to what I have read and exactly what I'm looking for. Happisad throughout you will laugh and be moved. Great book!

Potentially my Book of the Year and it's only January!

Possible spoilers.


Totally pulled in by a mention of "miserable old curmudgeon" character.
And he was , but also wasn't. Frank is just a bit broken. Grieving, and stuck, and lost. I had to feel for him.

Red, hits the perfect mix of enthusiasm, and annoying ness than most six year old do.

I found the plot a little predictable, but that was fine, because it went where I thought it would, with such warmth and charm that it was all good.
Some amazing lines in it that had me smiling widely.
The narration was perfect.
Feel good all round really.