No one understands why I love him. Why I need him. Why I took him back. But they don’t have to. I know. Despite the hurt and the heartache, I see beneath his skin. And I’m different now. No more Flirty Frankie. I'm done with being King of the club. My dreams have changed, and so have I. I’m stronger. I believe in myself. And I’m a hell of a lot smarter than a year ago. Now it's his turn to show me the man he really is. To prove it. I've always loved him. But that's not enough. I need to learn to trust him.
Aaron
No more excuses. No more chances. I make this right or lose him for good. I have to do this. No one has ever believed in me but him. No one has ever wanted me but him. I can’t let him down. I won’t. I can’t let myself down. I’m trying, but it's so damn hard. No matter what they throw at me, I’m stronger. And I’m going to make it. I’m on my way. With Frankie by my side. I can see the future. I have a future. Us. Together. Forever.
Felice Stevens writes romance because what is better than people falling in love? Her favorite part of a romance novel is that first kiss…sigh. She loves creating stories of hopes and dreams and happily ever afters. Her stories are character-driven, rich with the sights, sounds and flavors of New York City and filled with men who are sometimes deeply flawed but always real.
Felice writes M/M romance because she believes that everyone deserves a happily ever after. Having traveled all over the world, she can safely say that the universal language that unites people is love. Felice has written in a variety of sub-genres, including contemporary, paranormal and has a mystery series as well.
Felice is a two-time Lambda Literary Award nominee and the Lambda award-winner for Best Gay Romance for her book, The Ghost and Charlie Muir, as well as the e-Lit gold medal winner in romance for Broken Silence.
Frankie Unforgettable is book two in the Man Up series by Felice Stevens. I think this might be my favorite book so far. Frankie and Aaron’s story is a beautiful one.
Frankie Marone is Austin’s best friend and we met him in the previous book. He is a dancer at the Man Up club. Frankie had been seeing Aaron for three years. Their relationship started out as a beautiful one and they were deeply in love but as time went on, things fell apart and Aaron became an angry, hurtful man. In the end, Aaron ended up in prison for almost a year for assaulting a man in a bar. It should have been the end of their relationship but when Aaron got out, he pleaded with Frankie to give him another chance. Neither ever stopped loving the other and against the advice of everyone in Frankie’s life, he went back to Aaron. No one else has taken the time to see the man who is below the surface that Aaron allows everyone else to see. The man that Frankie first fell in love with and the same man he knows is still there.
Aaron Cooke has never known a stable home or the love of a family like what Frankie grew up in. As soon as he met Frankie, he knew he was the only man for him. But doubt and anger at his life grew until it overshadowed everything else. He deserved the punishment of going to prison. He doesn’t deserve another chance at a life with Frankie but more than anything else, he knows he wants it.
“The first step in making over a new Aaron would be to show my guy he was my everything.”
This was such a beautiful story. Both men are struggling to find their place in the world. More than anything, Aaron wants to be the man he feels Frankie deserves. Frankie grew so much stronger while Aaron was gone. He’s more confident, more sure of who he is. He still loves Aaron but won’t cut him any slack. They are in therapy and they discuss everything. I loved this. They learned how to communicate and deal with their insecurities. This is one of the things I love about Felice’s books. She makes her characters talk!
“When I’m with you, I’ve got the world. Nothing else matters.”
The next book in the series is Cort’s book and we get some hints about his story. We also get to know James, the owner of Man Up, a little better. He is such a mystery and I can’t wait to learn his story.
“Who was he really? Why did he remain so closed off and hidden?”
I keep using the word, “beautiful” in regards to Aaron and Frankie’s story but that’s the only word that comes to mind. They two grew so much within the pages of this book but their priority, their main focus, is always each other. Making the man they love happy. Everything else is just secondary. That’s what love is all about.
You know what? This book should be named 'Aaron' (although I must say Frankie looks really pretty on the cover). This is Aaron's journey of redemption and he had so much to atone for. To be honest, I'm sceptical about liking him in the beginning because most of my knowledge of his character previously all came from Austin's paranoia. Austin worried about Frankie getting back to his abusive ex, which is totally understandable and I was holding my breath waiting for something bad to happen. So when I realized that Frankie's book will be about him reconciling with his ex, I'm part intrigued, part sceptical. I can't wait to see how Felice Stevens redeem her character.
Aaron is a character that took me some time to warm up to. The story started off with him and Frankie working out their difference, seeing a therapist and really work hard at communicating with each other. That are many instances whereby Aaron will visualize what the 'old' him would do and what the 'new' him should do. Maybe it seems a tad repetitive to have these similar thoughts keep recycling in his head, but it also show me how much he had grown as a person as opposed to the person he used to be. It also shows me what kind of relationship that Frankie used to have with Aaron, which is totally unhealthy and toxic.
I really enjoy reading about Aaron's journey in gaining back Frankie's trust. Yes, they are together, but not everything is flower and roses, Aaron still have much to prove that he is deserving of Frankie's love and dedication. I can't pinpoint at which moment did I become a total Team Aaron, but boy, this man really won me over. I feel like I'm Frankie's mum, being supportive yet reserve but eventually we forgive and embrace him wholeheartedly.
As for Frankie, he is busy thinking about the future and he proves yet again he is not just a pretty face and a good dancer. Money is always at the forefront of his mind and when he talked about investment, I'm scared. As someone who lost money in investment, let just say I am extremely sceptical and worried for him. But alas, everything works out fine for our dear Frankie. He got his Aaron, his family, his friend and a great job. Is a perfect ending.
I had no idea whose book is next, but can we have James' first? The tension between him and a certain enemy is killing me here.
We're introduced to Aaron and Frankie in Austin and Rhoades—Undeniable. I believe we all love Frankie fiercely, but not Aaron. With a background of their flawed relationship, the traumatized past, it's hard to believe that Felice dare to give Aaron a second chance, it's like testing the water, not only with the story, but also in Frankie and Aaron's relationship. There was always a question, when I knew that the next book of the series is Aaron and Frankie, a definite second chance. Will they make it?
It's not only a second chance, this is a story of redemption, true love, forgiveness and finally, acceptance.
Frankie and Aaron faced so many obstacles in their renewed relationship. Not just from Frankie's friends, family and people at work. But also from themselves. This is slightly different from Felice previous books, she dared to dig deeper to more angst, a very painful angst, I might say. But I never doubted that Felice can make a great story even with the broken souls. I was right.
Aaron, especially, slowly stole my heart and from doubting him, I become loving him. Aaron made me cry so many times, with his stories and what he had experienced before, and during his renewed relationship with Frankie. There are so many things happened in this story. So many feeling involved. And so many hints of the next books of the series. I wont give you any spoiler, because, hell, I didn't see it happened myself!
Of course, Frankie and Aaron finally got what they deserves, a happy ending they craved for so long. But not without tears and struggled. I loved this story so much. I'm still sad thinking about what happened to Aaron, but I'm happy now to know he has Frankie by his side. I grew to love Aaron more and more. Frankie got my pat on the back, because he's strong, and stubborn to give Aaron a second chance, when everyone didn't, not even Austin, his best friend.
Give Aaron a chance, read this book, I promise you, you'll love Frankie and Aaron. Now I can't wait for the next!
Note : even though you can read this book as a standalone, reading this series in order is so much better to get to know Aaron and Frankie's background story.
We met Frankie's boyfriend, Aaron, in the first two books but only by reputation as an abuser. We also knew that he was in prison...so finding out he's back with Frankie, I was a bit skeptical. I should have given him more credit. This quickly became a story of second chances and trust and hope. How much Aaron had changed and how anxious he was to prove to the people in his world that he was no longer the person that had abused Frankie was in a word...AMAZING. I should have known Felice Stevens would make us fall in love with both Frankie and Aaron and made us see that doing the hard work is worth it and love really can conquer all. I'm on now to meet with Cort and give Frankie and Aaron a little alone time.
Having met and adored Frankie in previous books, and heard a bit of his story, going in I had a preconceived notion about Aaron and their relationship. Knowing little more than the fact that the two were back together after Aaron had been in jail after Frankie landed in the hospital, I was with Austin in being suspicious. I didn’t want to like Aaron. Unfortunately, he had me on his side from pretty much the start.
This is a second chance story that gets it right. Even with all his friends and family doubting him, Frankie is adamant that Aaron is not the monster they think he is; that they are doing well together and working hard at the relationship. It’s clear that Aaron regrets what happened, that he used his time in prison wisely and that he wants nothing more than to curb the tendencies that caused Frankie so much pain. Aaron will do anything it takes to earn back Frankie’s love and trust. It’s not easy and we’re privy to Aaron’s struggle to believe what Frankie says and not assume the worst, to not fall into old bad behaviors and to earn back all the trust he lost.
Frankie isn’t the same man that ran from Aaron a year ago. He’s learned to stand his ground and he’s not going to allow Aaron to treat him badly. Both men still have their doubts at times. Frankie wondering if something he says will set Aaron off or if being at the club will cause trouble. Aaron worries that even though he is working hard, that he is bound to repeat his behavior and that he won’t ever be the man Frankie deserves. I loved that they both put so much effort into the relationship and we got insight into both men’s fears, hopes and desires.
Outside of the romance, Frankie is struggling with his future plans. He is still in design school, but isn’t sure if that’s the path he should be on. Aaron is not only trying to keep a job, but is also trying to win over Frankie’s family, friends and co-workers. Not an easy task!
What I loved most about this story is that everything I want to see in a second chance romance was here. Frankie and Aaron aren’t playing games with each other and they are open and honest about what they need for the relationship to work. Aaron is serious about redeeming himself not just in Frankie’s eyes, but to those who Frankie loves and cares for. Aaron also truly sees where he went wrong and wants to make sure he doesn’t repeat the behaviors. Sometimes the past causes them to be wary, but ultimately they both love each other and want things to work.
Of course there are cameos from the rest of the guys at Man Up. James remains a mystery and I really hope there is a book in store for him in the future, but next up is Cort! We learn a bit more about the sexy but lonely cowboy with a heart of gold. I am really excited for this one and a bit embarrassed that I didn’t connect the dots as to who his love interest is, but if you’ve read all of Felice Stevens’ books and are a bit quicker on the uptake than I am, perhaps you’ll be able to put two and two together.
I have no trouble recommending this story to everyone who loves second chance love stories that don’t take the easy way out. This one will have you invested in both the men and their relationship from the start as they rebuild the trust and love that they always hoped they could have and eventually believe they deserve.
Romance isn't always easy, love isn't always guaranteed and HEAs don't always happen. Sometimes, however, second chances are the perfect opportunity to seal your forever love.
I loved Frankie & Aaron's second chance romance. I enjoyed their growth both as individuals and as a couple and really appreciated seeing the battle they both fought to remain honest with themselves and each other.
The development of Frankie's character, from the apparent flippish, foppish go-go boy to a man with a plan, ambition and determined drive to not only change his life but also help his lover change his was a delight to read.
And Aaron becoming the man he deserved to be was written in such a wonderful way, not trite, not easy, showing his true character and the sheer grit and growth he had to embrace to truly change.
Frankie & Aaron's path to their HEA may not be smooth but it's well worth joining them on this journey. Loved.
I've been waiting to get Frankie's story ever since I heard it would be a second chance one with Aaron, the guy who ended up in jail after his jealousy saw his dancer boyfriend in hospital after an accidental fall down some stairs.
Aaron is beautifully written, a complex character who Felice redeems in the best way - because he wants to be better for himself and not just for Frankie.
There's a couple of stumbles on the way but the narrative plays out in an organic fashion which feels real and makes sense. It's not out of the ordinary, both men grow up a lot and realise life takes a bit of effort.
I thoroughly enjoyed this romance and loved the ending. It has such a happy and positive outlook for the future of these two men.
Frankie – Unforgettable is the second book in the Man Up series, and I was tentative about this one. I’m a big Felice Stevens fan, but the work I do means Aaron’s character was one I did not imagine I could ever love.
Although Felice Stevens did a good job of removing a lot of my thoughts that were a reflection of what Austin thought of Aaron, I did not fall in love with this couple in the way I have fallen in love with other characters. There was certainly growth for both of them, but I never fell deeply in love with them. I also feel a lot of things were not concluded.
All in all, this was an addictive read, but not my favourite from the author.
This book is the second full length book in the Man Up series. We first meet Frankie and Aaron in Rhoades. We learn that they once had a relationship that failed but giving it a second go against wishes of family and friends.
We watch Frankie and Aaron get their second chance at love when Aaron returns from prison determined to show Frankie he has changed. We learn about Aaron’s hard life and how it contributed to how he saw himself and the world
Frankie also wants to show Aaron that he has changed in the time they have been apart. He is more confident, stands up for himself , and found his voice.
I was glad to see Aaron had redeemed himself because quite frankly it’s sometimes hard to believe someone acknowledges their faults and work on them self to be a better person.
In the end, when you put the effort into yourself and your partner your relationship blossoms. Another great book by Felice. I can’t wait for Cort’s book
I love second chance books, this was an amazing one because it's just not a second chance at love, it's also about Aaron redeeming himself & getting help from therapy & Frankie as well. Also Frankie needs to learn to trust Aaron again. I was so glad Frankie was getting his story & I was not happy it was with Aaron at first because I so didn't like him in Austin & Rhoades book. This book, I had my doubts & was just waiting for old Aaron to come back & my heart was in my throat every time he was angry, but he held on & I was so proud of him & I started really liking him. I loved Frankie from the beginning of course & in the other books. I so cried a time or two & my heart hurt for Aaron, he had a hard life , so sad... Heartbreaking & Beautiful Story! I so need more of Frankie & Aaron's story , so good I didn't want it to end.
I will admit I had some trouble getting into this book at the beginning but it all turned around for me. I loved Frankie when I read Rhoades and I could not wait for his book. This book is about Frankie and Aaron reconnecting and working on their relationship when Aaron gets out of jail. I was expecting more of the Frankie that we knew from the previous books but this book gave us so much more. This is a book of struggles and fighting back to prove that Aaron is worthy of the love that he so desperately holds on to with Frankie. Aaron seems to run into struggle after struggle but instead of resorting back to his old ways he fights for Frankie and the love he wants and deserves. Frankie has told everyone that they need to give Aaron a chance to prove himself and throughout this entire book Frankie has been Aaron's number 1 supporter. It's nice to see that not only does Aaron fight for their relationship but Frankie also puts in the work they so desperately need. After a rough start I find that I really enjoyed this book and I am looking forward to seeing what else Felice has planned for the guys at Man Up!
What to say about a book that grabbed your heart from page one and didn't let go even after finishing the book. Frankie is a beautifully written story of love, second chances, redemption and forgiveness. This story shows strength of character and how you can grow into the best you that you can be. Life is never easy and Frankie shows the readers all life’s imperfections. From our imperfections come compassion, empathy and self-knowledge.
Aaron and Frankie have much to overcome. Opposition from friends and family. Self- doubt. Fear of the past. Each works hard to grow and develop into the man they wish to be. Strong alone and even stronger together.
Their story flowed. I was captivated by Frankie and Aaron. The emotions are so genuine and heartfelt. Felice Stevens is a master at giving her readers characters that are unforgettable. Frankie and Aaron will stay with me for a long time. I'm already looking forward to a reread.
Let me start by saying if you haven’t read Austin or Rhodes, you’re going to want to start there. You don’t have to but I suggest it.
Once again Felice Stevens has taken me on one hell of a emotional roller coaster ride. Frankie and Aaron are two strong, brave, stubborn men. They will fight to the end for each other. No matter what happens they push through and come out way better on the other side. Their story was a powerful emotional one an I loved every single second. I can’t wait to see who’s story is next. James or Cort??
This was a sweet read with two men falling in love all over again but the healthy way this time around. I'm glad Aaron got the personal drama and temper together, I felt bad for him because everyone wanted to give him a piece of their mind and to threaten him. I give him credit for keeping his cool and winning Frankie back along with his self respect. I would love to meet his foster sisters at sometime during this series. 😚 Another winner for me!
3.5 - this was definitely a second chance story, and like Frankie, I was waiting for Aaron to go dark again. It was nice to see the change in Aaron and I must say it was big of Frankie to be so forgiving. I did get a bit frustrated with Aaron’s monologues about his past and would have preferred more future - perhaps elements of that will come in the next book.
I loved how real this was. This was sorta second chance, getting back together and picking up the pieces and learning to grow as a couple. I did not expect this book but I loved that it was not just all smexy times.
Tracy: I’m torn because I absolutely loved Aaron, in the very beginning I wasn’t so sure about him, but almost immediately he captured my heart and had my sympathies. He’d been through so much in both his childhood and as an adult and my heart absolutely broke listening to his story, and the more I got to know, the more I just wanted to cuddle him.
Mari: I have to agree with you, Tracy. I wasn't too sure about Aaron when we met him in Rhoades, however, it didn't take me too long to fall for him here. He was so earnest and so willing to turn his life around and prove he was worthy of Frankie's trust and the second chance bestowed upon him and yes, his past was so heartbreaking, that how could I not love him? It wasn't an easy road for Aaron, since he not only had to regain Frankie's trust, but also that of Frankie's friends and his parents, especially his mother, at the same time that he had to get a job and work on his issues. It showed a lot of strength that he managed to work through it all, even when there were times in which it seemed like it was an impossible task.
Tracy: As for Frankie, I didn’t really care for him throughout most of the story, and I can’t even pinpoint why. I guess at times, I felt he did or said things to test Aaron and he said things to make Aaron feel guilty, something Aaron needed no help with. I mean, I know Aaron had a lot to atone for and he had to earn Frankie’s trust, as well as the trust of Frankie’s friends and family, but I felt Frankie almost antagonized Aaron at times and like he held the past over his head. I understand Frankie had to assert his independence, but he took it to extremes at times and I seriously wanted to punch him in the face on multiple occasions.
Mari: Yeah, I didn't like Frankie until the end, either. It got on my nerves that he would play the victim and act like he knew better than the rest. Like with James when he pointed out that the market was pretty volatile. I was sure it would all blow up in his face, and hey, guess what? It did.
Tracy: I loved watching them work through their issues with the therapist. Although it was court-ordered that Aaron attended the sessions, I was so proud at the extra appointments he asked for. He showed such growth and maturity throughout the story. I feel kind of like a proud parent. Haha
Mari: LOL, yes, I loved those therapy sessions. Aaron showed a lot of growth during those. I was almost as proud by how Aaron acted with little Roberto, too. It was so sweet of him to ask him for help so Roberto wouldn't feel lonely.
Tracy: Although I can’t deny the chemistry between Frankie and Aaron, and that they were definitely hot together, for me, I just didn’t find they worked as a couple until the very end. The relationship didn’t feel balanced, because Frankie seemed to hold most of the power in their relationship.
Mari: You're absolutely right. It wasn't until later in the story, that I could sense a shift in their dynamics and they actually felt more like equals.
Tracy: The story is well-written, which is never an issue for Ms. Stevens, and while Frankie wasn’t my favorite character, the story was still entertaining and enjoyable. My co-blogger, Mari and I did something we rarely do, and we read the story at the same time, so I really loved doing this buddy read with her and getting to discuss the story and our likes and dislikes while reading it.
Mari: Frankie: Unforgettable was a good addition to the series, even if Rhoades: Undeniable is still my favorite, it was a really good read and one I have no trouble recommending.
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
Once again, Felice Stevens blows me away. She always delivers stories that grab my heart and runs with it. Frankie is no different. On the surface, the story is pretty straightforward. Frankie wants to prove everybody wrong when they tell him Aaron’s bad news, and he should stay away. Aaron wants to leave his alcoholic and violent past behind and be the caring man Frankie needs. It’s that simple, but it’s most definitely not simple. This is a deep exploration of two men who are so in love, they’re willing to do whatever it takes, even if that means leaving friends and family behind, to be together. Frankie and Aaron are multi-layered characters with depth to spare. They were compelling and made me feel as if I had as much of a stake in whether they make it or not.
When I first heard Felice was going to redeem Frankie's abusive ex-boyfriend Aaron, I was more than skeptical. But I figured if anyone could pull it off, I knew Felice would.... Sometimes people are really just a product of their circumstances and upbringing.... Not that we should condone their actions, but it definetly makes it more understandable. Aaron had a horrible past and many demons. He was on a self destructive path and taking Frankie with him. After an awful event, Aaron ended up un jail. Jail was for the best. It needed to happen to him, so he could see the error of his ways. If he had continued on the path he was on, his life would have been completely ruined. Sometimes the worst thing that happens to us turns out to be a blessing. I felt Aaron's remorse and his love for Frankie throughout the book. Both guys had changed so much in the year they were apart. I enjoyed their self discovery. There was a lot of apologizing on both sides. Aaron had a lot to prove to everyone, especially Frankie and in the end, he did just that! I would have liked a bit more romance and angst, but overall Aaron and Frankie's story was true to them. Felice added a wealth of storyline for rest of the guys from Man Up... I learned Cort is the lonely sweet southern gentlemen of the group, while James keeps getting more complex mysterious and yummy! I am loving this series and all the boys. Once again, I am looking forward to the next book.
This book has a little bit of everything. I’m so glad that Frankie got his own story to tell. It takes the reader on a journey that is heartbreaking and beautiful at the same time.
The book I believe is named incorrectly as it is not about the person named in it. This book is about Aaron his partner. His journey and redemption. It ok, nothing special really and I feel like there were a lot of unnecessary spats and too many unnecessary sections pointing out the difference between the old Aaron pre and post prison. I liked it fine.
4.5 stars!! I absolutely loved it!! Frankie is a beautifully written, emotional story of redemption that is loaded with the feels I love. It's sweet, sad and so very sexy with a beautiful HEA!! Another kick ass addition to a fantastic, must read series!! 🙌🏻 Felice!! Pass me the tissues please!!
Frankie: Unforgettable is the second complete book in Felice Stevens' Man Up series. Frankie was introduced in the first two books: Austin (prequel novella) and Rhoades: Undeniable, where Frankie's partner, Aaron, also came onto the scene.
While I've read/listened to Austin & Rhoades twice, I'll admit that I've been putting off Frankie. For me, Frankie wasn't a character I particularly gelled with, and Aaron, as he was introduced, seemed utterly unlikeable. However, knowing how intertwined these books are, I knew I'd have to read it to fully enjoy book 3 Cort: Unbreakable.
I was amazed by how much I enjoyed Frankie, although it took a few chapters to get into it. I always found Frankie to be a bit of an immature character, and Aaron seemed to live up to the unlikeable impression of him from the earlier books. However, as the book progressed, both Frankie and Aaron grew and changed. By the halfway mark, having learnt more of the histories of both of them, I started to become invested in them. This was definitely a redemption story for Aaron; while Frankie had to mature and become more assertive, Aaron had to make behavioural changes.
I thought this aspect was handled very well. It wasn’t simply the waving of a magic wand and Aaron was suddenly changed. It was a process, with steps forwards and back, but it was impossible to ever doubt his feelings for Frankie. He absolutely adored him, and much of his inner dialogue expanded on how he felt and how his behaviours (past and present) affected his and Frankie's relationship.
Kale Williams once again did a fantastic job of bringing the characters to life. The voices were so unique for each character that it was impossible to not know who was speaking at any point in time. He also brought a lot of emotion to the story. It was so easy to visualise Aaron's frustration with himself and feel the real love between Aaron and Frankie.
I'm so glad I read/listened to Frankie: Unforgettable. Not only was Cort’s story well and truly set up, but we also got to see a lot more of James and see other sides to him. It was also lovely to touch base with Austin and Rhoades again.
Frankie: Unforgettable was a beautiful story of love, patience, understanding, and redemption. Frankie and Aaron's HEA was hard-won, with both having to work on their relationship and personal development. It was an emotional journey but so satisfying. I will certainly not be avoiding this one in the future, and I encourage anyone who has had similar doubts to give it a go; it is so very worth it.
First off I want to say that I've been listening to this series on audiobook and they are narrated by Kale Williams. Like always, Kale has done a fabulous job. So 5 stars for Kale!
I wasn't too sure what to expect from this book. When I picked this one up and read the blurb I was honestly shocked that it was a romance between Frankie and Aaron. I just assumed from reading the last book that Frankie's story would be him ditching the abusive boyfriend and finding someone new. And honestly I'm not mad that I was wrong.
I liked that this story felt different from most other second-chance/relationship-in-troble romances I've read. This was a redemption story for Aaron and it worked for me. He was actively trying to change himself not just to be a better partner for Frankie but also for himself. There were a few stumbling blocks along the way but they were both quick to talk it out and work through things. This was very refreshing!
Like with all the Felice Stevens' books I've read the sex scenes are just meh, but the story was good so whatever.
I do want to say that I feel like this isn't a stand alone. Heck I read book 1 and immediately jumped into book 2 and I still felt like I was missing things. That's because this picks up right where book 1 left off, with Aaron out of prison and Frankie having already taken him back. Yet the problem I had was that we weren't in Frankie's head for any other that in book 1 and we don't get any of that stuff in this book either. It just jumps right in to a story already in progress. Which was kinda odd to me. I wanted more insight into what happened when Aaron first got out of prison and what was said between him and Frankie in order for Frankie to give him a second chance. We don't get any of that.
Also, now, I've never been to a club like Man Up but it struck me as odd that the dancers were kissing the clientele. KISSING! That was weird not gonna lie. Never read that in a story like this before. So yeah maybe I'm just naive about these things and that kinda stuff goes on in real clubs but it just didn't sit right with me. I mean Aaron is sitting right there and his boyfriend is kissing someone else just a few feet away.
This was the book I was waiting for!! I don't know why, but something about Frankie just pulled me in from the start. And it was worth the wait. I loved this book. I don't know if I laughed a lot but I cried for sure. This story touched my heart so much. And it was Aaron that really got to me. This was such a perfect story of redemption and starting over. And no one is too old for change and to make things right.
Frankie and Aaron we're back together, and NO ONE was happy about it. After the fight that led up to Frankie’s severe injuries and Aaron being carted off to jail, everyone was surprised when Frankie took Aaron back. But Frankie remembers what it was like before the drinking got bad. He remembered how sweet and fun Aaron was, and how good things were. And he was still in love with that man. And Aaron is trying to change, trying to be so much better. He's going to counseling and talking about things instead of getting angry and lashing out. He's really making an effort to be a better person. Now if Aaron could believe in himself and everyone else get off his back and give him a chance.
When I read the other books, I was with everyone else. I was so scared for Frankie. Frankie had just wrapped me up with his sweetness and that air or vulnerability. He seems like such a fragile flower bit yet there is such strength in him. And this book showed it. He wasn't the same as he was before with Aaron and he wasn't going to go down that road again. But Aaron had changed. And I fell in love. He was trying so hard to treat Frankie right. To compliment, to show they were equal, and to be what Frankie deserved. Whenever he got angry, he thought first instead of using his fists or angry words. He was going to counseling. He was talking to Frankie about what was bothering. He was communicating. He was being open. And he finally got to a point where he could tell people pretty much everything about himself. Even the scary stuff no one knew. I was in awe. It takes courage to accept the bad things about yourself and change them. It takes great courage to just accept them. It takes courage and strength to have someone point all those bad things about you out and take it. And Aaron did it. I swear I felt like a mom and was so proud. What I loved even more though…...Frankie never backed down. He stood up for himself, he stood up for Aaron and never stopped believing. That takes courage too.
This book was everything I wanted and more. And if you are keeping up with this series, you will not be disappointed. If you're new to the series, grab Austin and catch up. Now I'm just waiting to see James get his. Heehee.
Whenever I open up a Felice Stevens' book I know that I am going to get a story about family, friends, love, and overcoming trials and tribulations, and Frankie was definitely that book, although I really think Frankie should have been re-titled to Aaron, because it was Aaron that I completely connected with and it was Aaron who fought to overcome his past and his past mistakes to become the man that Frankie could be proud of. Now don't get me wrong, Frankie also changed a whole lot and was no longer the same person who Aaron knew prior to his stint in jail...and Frankie and his crown look freaking awesome on the cover, but it was Aaron who did not have the love and support system of family and friends that Frankie always had, so it was Aaron who needed to learn that not everyone is your enemy or is out to hurt you. I loved, loved, loved the way Frankie loved Aaron and tried to show him that there is a better way to do things than always getting angry and fussing and fighting about things. However, I will admit that there were times when I felt like Frankie was a bit too pushy and needed to back off of Aaron, because there were things in Aaron's past and not-too-distant past that were extremely painful, and for a man like Aaron, pretty embarrassing for him to talk about. I do have to admit that I wanted an epilogue for these two. Something about their story just felt like it needed an epilogue.
Frankie is a second chance romance that shows you what the power of love and faith in a person can do to help a person overcome their past and set them on a journey towards happiness and happily ever after.
[🌟🌟🌟🌟] . This book is not just a story of second chances, its about trying to right the wrong, gaining the trust of your loved ones back, working hard to make sure you deserve the second chance given and a lot of self discovery and development with so much emotional punch. It follows our main characters Frankie and Aaron as they try to give their relationship a go again after Aaron breaks Felix's heart and his trust. . The book starts off with the gritty emotional detail. We get to see their personalities and what happened in the past as Frankie gives us memories. I loved Frankie's strength and his ability to forgive Aaron when everyone else berates him for it. At first, I was skeptical about them getting together again after the kind of break they had, but Aaron gree on me and I could see why Frankie decided to give him another chance. The words give you a raw vulnerability to the Characters that made the reading experience even more emotional. I loved the parents and what they stood for, I loved Frankie's strength in doing what his heart desires, and I admired Aaron's strength to gain his trust back and the way the story was written. Read this book. It will make you emotional and make you cry happy tears at the end as well. . Kindle/ Audiobook/ Storytel/ October 2020