A Day Dead Old

by Carmen Martucci

Johnny "Franco" Francois is a man who has lost his way. He is a man who sometimes dreams and who wants to be better--and thinks that he is better--than his recent history suggests. He is a man who likes to think he is in control and making choices, but perhaps he is just rolling the dice and reacting to each moment. Still, there are remnants of what used to be good in him. Now Franco is confronted with a situation where he will have a choice.

276 pages, Paperback

Published February 10, 2025

Reviews

[Cameron Publicity · Rating 5 out of 5]

More than just a crime story

What I enjoyed most about A Day Dead Old was the character of Franco. He isn't presented as a perfect hero or a simple tough guy. There is a lot of history behind who he has become, and I found myself thinking about how much his past shaped him.

I especially liked seeing the contrast between Johnny as a young man and Franco later in life. His childhood with Tony and Angeline was filled with love, family, books, fishing, and the feeling that life was supposed to work out. After losing his parents, that sense of certainty seems to disappear, and Franco becomes much more isolated and dissatisfied with his life.

The details about his apartment, the New Mill Tavern, and his work also helped create a picture of someone who is basically going through the motions. He wants to believe he is in control of his choices, but at the same time, you can feel how much he is simply reacting to everything that has happened to him.

That was probably my favorite part of the story. I wasn't only interested in what Franco would do next I was interested in whether he could still become something different from the person he had turned into.

If you enjoy crime stories with a strong focus on character, choices, and the consequences of the past, this one is worth checking out.

[Kate Jude · Rating 5 out of 5]

From the very first chapter, I could tell that "A Day Dead Old" was going to be something special. Johnny "Franco" Francois is such a layered character, and I found myself rooting for him even when he made difficult choices. Pearl brought so much heart and balance to the story, making every scene with her memorable. Carmen Martucci has a remarkable talent for creating realistic characters with genuine emotions. The writing is immersive, the pacing is excellent, and the emotional moments felt authentic. This is one of those novels that makes you stop and think about redemption, hope, and the consequences of our choices. I truly enjoyed every page and will definitely be looking forward to more from this talented author.

[Elina · Rating 5 out of 5]

What impressed me most about *A Day Dead Old* was how emotionally invested I became in Franco's story. He is far from a perfect character, yet that is exactly what makes him unforgettable. Pearl's role added emotional depth and helped make the relationships in the novel feel genuine and heartfelt. Carmen Martucci has written a story that is both compelling and deeply human. Every chapter revealed another layer of the characters, keeping me eager to see what would happen next. I laughed, reflected, and genuinely cared about the outcome. This is an outstanding novel from an author who clearly understands how to connect with readers.

[Cora V · Rating 5 out of 5]

📖 "A Day Dead Old" reminded me that no matter how far someone has fallen, there is always hope for redemption and the courage to choose a better path. It left me with a greater appreciation for resilience, forgiveness, and the power of our decisions. Carmen has written a story that is both emotionally powerful and thought provoking, with characters who feel incredibly real. This is more than just a novel; it is a meaningful journey that stayed with me long after I turned the last page. ❤️ This book is for every reader who enjoys stories that inspire, challenge, and leave a lasting impact.

[E. Richard · Rating 5 out of 5]

❤️ A Day Dead Old touched my heart in ways I did not expect. Franco's journey reminded me that people are never simply the sum of their mistakes. This story gave me hope, made me reflect on my own choices, and reminded me that redemption is always worth fighting for. Carmen Martucci has written a beautiful and unforgettable novel that deserves to be read by many more people.

[Christine F. · Rating 5 out of 5]

I picked up this book expecting a good story, but I finished it with a completely different outlook on forgiveness and second chances. Franco felt like someone I could understand, even when I did not always agree with him. Carmen Martucci's writing is thoughtful, emotional, and incredibly authentic. This is the kind of book that quietly stays with you long after you have finished reading.

[David L. · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book reminded me that every person carries a story that others cannot see. Watching Franco struggle, grow, and face difficult choices was both heartbreaking and inspiring. Carmen Martucci has an amazing gift for writing characters who feel completely real. 🌟 I closed the book feeling grateful for the lessons it shared about hope, grace, and humanity.

[Jennifer D. · Rating 5 out of 5]

There are books you enjoy, and then there are books that truly speak to your heart. A Day Dead Old belongs in the second category. Every chapter encouraged me to look beyond people's flaws and remember that everyone deserves the opportunity to change. Thank you, Carmen Martucci, for writing a story filled with compassion and truth.

[Naif Ihsan · Rating 5 out of 5]

This novel reminded me that life is rarely black and white. Franco's journey felt honest, emotional, and deeply human, and I found myself cheering for him every step of the way. Carmen Martucci tells this story with so much empathy that it is impossible not to become emotionally invested. I will remember this book for a very long time.

[Sonja Ivanović · Rating 5 out of 5]

I found pieces of myself in this story. The struggles, the doubts, and the hope for something better all felt incredibly real. Carmen Martucci has created more than a novel. She has created an experience that encourages readers to believe in healing and new beginnings. ❤️ I cannot recommend this book enough.

[Leila Cunha · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reading A Day Dead Old felt like sitting beside someone sharing their deepest truths. Franco's imperfections made him relatable, and his determination made him inspiring. I appreciated how Carmen Martucci allowed the characters to grow naturally without forcing the story. This book reminded me that even the hardest journeys can lead somewhere beautiful.

[Anthony Martucci · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very engaging story! As someone from Pittsburgh, it was cool to be able to place a lot of the locations. A great first book and hope to see more!

[Carmen Martucci · Rating 4 out of 5]

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