Originally published in volume two of the Love Is All anthology!Scottish ex-pat Frankie Llewellyn lives and breathes music. Working late nights at WKMP, a radio station in suburban Philadelphia, he can play what he wants, sleep in every morning, and no one gives him any grief. No one but his most recent ex-boyfriend. Frankie is a serial monogamist, but after this latest break-up, he’s worried … worried he’ll end up alone with nothing but his records to keep him warm at night.
When the station hires someone to do some much-needed renovations, Frankie is horrified to find out the work will be done during his overnight shift. But it makes the most sense, so he’s resolved to take one for the team. After he meets the mysterious contractor, a gorgeous, lumberjack of a man named John Burton, Frankie decides it may not be such a hardship after all.
John is reserved, and a bit mysterious. Quite the contrast to Frankie’s drama-filled life. But, as their friendship grows, John’s quiet presence has Frankie singing a new song.
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This book is a perfect example of why I occasionally take time to read a bit on Twitter—I usually avoid Twitter because it’s like walking purposefully down the rabbit hole, but I caught a comment by this author regarding her book, When Frankie Meets Johnny. Intrigued, I took a look at it on Amazon, purchased it, and before I knew it I was caught up in the story AND in the author’s wonderful writing. It’s novella length—originally published in volume two of the Love Is All anthology—and I read it in one sitting. I really couldn’t put it down. Frankie is a Scot transplanted to Philadelphia, working the night shift at a radio station where he can play the tunes he wants and spend his time with the music that rules his life.
On a side note, one of the things I really enjoyed doing with both the books in this series, was logging into YouTube, searching the various artists and music Frankie played, and playing it along with the stories. I really felt as if the music gave me a better insight into Frankie’s character. I really like him!
When the station has some remodeling work done, Frankie is at first concerned that the man doing the work will interfere with his time with his music and his listeners, but John Burton fascinates him from the beginning. Sweet and caring, but obviously hiding secrets, Frankie really can’t figure the guy out, but that doesn’t affect his fascination for the burly contractor.
The novella has a wonderful upbeat ending, but there are enough questions at the end of the story that you really need to read it to fully appreciate the book that comes next, Frankie and Johnny, Let the Music Play. That one fills in the details of the overarching plot and answers all the questions with a wonderful “feel good” ending that I guarantee will leave you smiling. But honestly? The best part about this set of stories is that it’s introduced me to a new author I fully intend to pursue.
I definitely recommend WHEN FRANKIE MEETS JOHNNY as well as FRANKIE AND JOHNNY, LET THE MUSIC PLAY. I’ve been thinking about the stories all day long, and figured writing a review would finally let me get some of my own work done. I’m really glad to have discovered Xio Axelrod, and will be checking out more of her writing. You can find her at http://xioaxelrod.com/ And obviously, I highly recommend both these books.
Ohhh, Xio Axelrod! How many ways can I thank you for this story? There won’t be enough, I can say that right now. I can’t encompass my gratitude for this book in normal, review-y generalizations. Like the woman’s writing itself, the beauty of this story is in its subtle specifics, all tied into an intimacy with the characters (yes, secondaries included) that’s woven into a well-paced and beautifully told narrative. As a reader, I got to know both Frankie and John as I would in real life: in layers that are woven in with the fabric of their existence. Special moments that are folded in between songs and sleeps and reflections and, yes, conflicts. These two open each other up in ways they hadn’t anticipated, but are open to receiving–and are willing to be brave and accept. Like a lasting love song, this story will remain in my heart for a very long time to come–and will bring me so many smiles when I do!