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Frankie and Johnny #1

When Frankie Meets Johnny

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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 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.

86 pages, Kindle Edition

First published July 15, 2019

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114 people want to read

About the author

Xio Axelrod

27 books1,187 followers
Xio Axelrod is a USA Today bestselling author of different flavours of contemporary romance. She also writes what she likes to call strange, twisted tales. Xio grew up in the music industry and began recording at a young age. When she isn’t writing stories, she can be found in the studio, writing songs, or performing on international stages (under a different, no-so-secret name). She lives in Philadelphia with one full-time husband and several part-time cats.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
Profile Image for Teal.
609 reviews252 followers
March 9, 2020
The writing is good, the characterization is good. By the halfway point I thought I'd found a keeper in this new-to-me-author.

Initially I was leery about a story with an MC who states, on the very first page, "Music is my life." Music isn't important to me, and I can go months at a time without listening to any. But Frankie was an easy guy to spend time with, and actually his musical tastes overlapped enough with mine that it turned out to be a non-issue.

But my enthusiasm gradually dimmed during the second half of the story. It came as no surprise to learn that Xio Axelrod writes m/f romance. My dissatisfactions were the usual (apologies to my friends who listen to me gripe about this all the time): The love interest is larger and older and all manly and straight-acting; smaller and younger Frankie is a bottom, and describes himself, at various times, as "pathetic," "desperate," and "needy." Ugh, ugh, and triple ugh.

BUT, all said, this is still well-written (with the sprinkling of copy-editing errors that seem de rigueur in self-pubbed fiction). If you like size-gap age-gap butch-femme m/m pairings that give off an m/f vibe, you should give this a chance.
Profile Image for Chellabration.
163 reviews19 followers
February 7, 2021
The length of this novella is probably the main reason I'm left utterly unconvinced of the budding romance between Frankie & Johnny.

The author has a mid 30s radio personality meets a mid forties contractor.... But the rest isn't history.

Johnny was aloof and distracted during all but 1 hang out with Frankie. How did Frankie even manage to fall for him?
They rarely talked, Johnny was always on his phone, then Johnny ghosted him for months.

Sure Johnny "explains" why at the end... However during all your meetings you didn't find it necessary to tell the person you're pursuing why you were always running off, or were distracted, or zoned out during lunch?
When he returns his explanation was so lack luster yet Frankie was puddles at his feet.
Johnny is a walking talking red flag! While he was watching his neice he couldn't have called the station to get Frankie's number? Puuu-lease!

Sorry Frankie your desperation and fear of being alone is showing. Also king of overshare! Why are you telling your boss about your (pretty bland) love affair that mind you happened on company property?

So much page space wasted on too much description of side characters that we barely see again. Minor grammatical errors but that didn't bother me as much as Johnny did.

I just wanted to see more page time between Frankie and his ex. Their honesty was refreshing... Also their chemistry is undeniable even as exes/friends. Garrett has more chemistry with Frankie in his pinky toe than Johnny possess in his whole body.

P.S: Can we get a Frankie & Garrett spinoff? They don't have to be romantically involved. I just liked watching them interact.
Profile Image for Shannon .
2,373 reviews161 followers
August 15, 2023
When Frankie Meets Johnny
Frankie and Johnny, Book 1

I Picked Up This Book Because: Author will be at Readers on the River.

Media Type: Audiobook
Source: Scribd
Dates Read: 8/11/23
Stars: 4 Stars
Narrator(s): Alexander Cendese

The Characters:

Frankie Llewellyn: Certified music aficionado and DJ
John Burton: Contractor with a complicated past


The Story:

Another story I jumped into with no expectations. New to me author and series read because of Readers on the River. I really enjoyed f & j's shy interactions. I love the chemistry between the two. It was a good but quick read.

The Random Thoughts:

The narrator did an awesome job with the many different accents.
Profile Image for ╟ ♫ Tima ♪ ╣ ♥.
419 reviews21 followers
February 8, 2021
A M/M novella that will leave you...wanting an entirely different story. I don't do story summaries because I end up spoiling the heck out of them but this one barely had a plot. Hot men like hot men and they all are pretty vague and that's that.

It was odd to me to find out the MCs were 34 and 44, respectively. It reads like an angsty YA story (which are great! when the characters aren't a decade or two older than being a young adult..).

I was more interesting in Frankie and his ex than Frankie and Johnny.
Sign me up for a prequel about them!

Profile Image for Caia.
333 reviews11 followers
January 3, 2023
4.5

(NARRATED BY A.CENDESE)
I THOUGHT IT WAS KINDA CUTE,
i love that the FOCUS WAS ON MUSIC and how they connect with each other

LOVED ALL THE REFERENCES ON AMAZING ARTISTS !!

i can’t quote but i loved the scene were miike snow’s animal was mentioned 😌
THERE’S PT.2 AND i dive in right now 😌

tags: music lover - bipoc rep - bi-racial couple - past break-up - introvert - single pov - workplace romance

-audiobook
-storytel
Profile Image for Jen (mrs-machino).
634 reviews52 followers
July 10, 2023
This was a fun and unique novella about a radio host who falls for the carpenter redoing the studio. Should be read with the follow-up novella as this story ends too soon
Profile Image for Kate Douglas.
Author 162 books838 followers
June 24, 2020
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.

Profile Image for Robert Zimmermann.
Author 6 books166 followers
May 24, 2021
Being that I've been finding it hard to even finish novellas lately, it's a good sign that I plowed through this one in a day (total of a few hours, but yeah, a day's read). I'm glad I stumbled upon this one when grabbing a copy of Axelrod's new release The Girl With the Stars in Her Eyes. I was able to get a taste of the author's writing before diving into a full-length novel.

What I enjoyed the most from this novella was Frankie's love for music and how it helped the story along. I'm always drawn to books with characters so immersed in music. And this book didn't disappoint. I'm just glad the author made a Spotify playlist so I can keep living in the "sounds" of the story even after being done reading.

I'm looking forward to reading the sequel novella Let the Music Play to continue on the journey of Frankie and Johnny. I feel that Axelrod was able to give the reader two great characters with this first one, but I would really like to explore them more. With just one novella, I was only able to scratch the surface of what makes them tick, especially Johnny. I'm confident I'll continue to enjoy the two of them and where they're headed.
Profile Image for Grace.
3,314 reviews215 followers
February 16, 2021
Overall, I enjoyed this one! It worked okay as a short story, but I do think this could have worked well as a longer work--it didn't feel *quite* satisfying as is, as if the author specifically wrote it as part one of a two-part book, which I find frustrating as a practice...

The writing was decent, though it was a little overdone at times, particularly when it came to descriptions--every character we met gone a full paragraph description, even if they barely showed up again. I really liked Frankie's voice here, though I will say, given how excited I was to read this for the POC rep, we basically got two lines in the text confirming he was biracial and then literally nothing else indicated it, and it seemed like a missed opportunity, particularly given Frankie was also an ex-pat from Scotland and there could have been some interesting dialogue on the differences between the two countries and their treatment of POC.

I liked Johnny okay, but I didn't really feel like we got to know him at all and the hot & cold routine was a little weird. It got to the point where it felt a little OTT/forced that he would literally not tell Frankie anything that was going on in his life. The ending cuts off right as they tentatively get together, which was fine, but definitely left me wanting more, which I guess is what the sequel is for, and I did enjoy this enough that I want to buy the next one and see how it plays out.

Oh, one thing though that I really, really liked is the treatment of Frankie's recent break-up and ex. Having recently gone on a rant about how MM authors seem to think the only way a serious relationship can end is by one person being a massive asshole and cheating, it was really refreshing to see a break-up here where they just didn't fit together and where the ex wasn't a total douche. Not even related to the main pairing/point of this book but the entire scene with the ex and how that played out was my favorite in the book, TBH.
Profile Image for Angel Payne.
Author 90 books3,318 followers
March 21, 2020
I can't encompass my gratitude for this book in normal, review-y generalizations. Like Axelrod'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 love story. As a reader, I got to know both Frankie and John as I would in real life: in 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. Like a lasting love song, this story will remain in my heart for a very long time to come!
Profile Image for Claudia.
2,986 reviews38 followers
May 29, 2022
A nice novella, with nice characters and... nice?

Look, sorry, but I really didn't feel the spark here, mostly because the characters barely talk to each other, and later Johnny ghosted Frankie without as much as by your leave. And Frankie forgives him, even when the explanation is less than credible. I mean, c'mon Johnny, you didn't have the time to shoot even a phone call to let the poor guy know what's going on? *incredulous stare*

Oh, well, maybe I'll read a full-length novel by this author before giving them up.
Profile Image for Da'ad.
1,920 reviews61 followers
September 14, 2020
That was one of the best short stories (novelette?) this year for me. So precious and sweet. And even though it's short, the characters were beautifully developed so that I liked and was invested in them early on. Loved it! So happy I have the little sequel to this so I can get right into it.
Profile Image for Leslie.
Author 35 books1,457 followers
December 1, 2025
Terrific. I loved the characters, and the language used was so gorgeous and lyrical. I was happy to see that I could read more of them.

bonus: I was a college radio deejay, so all the musical references and radio procedures gave me this wonderful sense of nostalgia.
Profile Image for Karen.
1,633 reviews132 followers
October 9, 2019
I love this author! Frankie is a DJ on a small radio station. Johnny is the contractor brought in to revamp the studio. They skirt around each other, I loved the tension between them. Fab little story.
Profile Image for MyDoRyS.
1,035 reviews4 followers
June 10, 2023
Audio: 5 Stars, great job AC! Several accents!

Story: The only thing good about this book is was the music!!! I was taking notes while listening to the narrator. Having a music streaming service works best. You can stop and listen then go back!

The romance doesn't feel "adult" or romance at all ; it is close to  YA, no smut.  The author looks like 20 on Goodreads, so maybe that's why. Can someone send me one of those super tall nice guys they keep describing in these books?!!?! 

I know there is a second book, so maybe the relationship is better developed there. I believe that because it is so short, you don't get the "strong" relationship feeling, despite the fact that time goes by (a week here and there). Still feels rushed because they do not actually spend much time together on page. There are some "lunches" that happen, but the reader is not included, it's just told. Franky acts like a horny dog too, he is an adult!!! Why not act like one? He is truly pathetic and desperate. I also believe that if the book was from 2 POV it would work better because you have no idea how his feelings develop. Still John is like a block of ice and all of the sudden he likes Franky?!?!!?

I did not enjoy when Franky was not clear and strong when his ex called. I didn't like that John was so "closed" about things, especially after he "used" Franky for the HUG. They are supposed to be "friends" but don't act like it. After that hug I would have sent John to hell if it was me. Then the sad story at the end.....too much for a 2 hour book, feels incomplete. Giving a try to the 2nd hoping things will get better. Onto the next adventure, Happy Readings!!!
Profile Image for ButtonsMom2003.
3,768 reviews41 followers
February 11, 2020
When Frankie Meets Johnny is the first book I've read by Xio Axelrod. It's not long, coming in at 75 pages, but the author manages to give us a lot of story within those pages.

The blurb is good and tells you what you need of the story, which is told in first person from Frankie's perspective. Frankie is a bit apprehensive when he learns that someone will be working on renovating one of the studios at the radio station during his night time shift. Once he meets John most of that apprehension goes away.

Frankie feels like he and John could become good friends and even though he wants more, he knows that John is straight. They still make a connection and have lunch together often until they don't.

I loved how caring both of these characters were toward each other. I'm one of those readers who always seems to want more so I was just a bit unsatisfied with the ending as I felt that there were some unanswered questions. But I also recognize that that is the nature of this type of story so I don't really fault the author for the ending. It's a nice HFN but I wouldn't mind reading a follow up story about these two guys.
Profile Image for Grimread.
267 reviews12 followers
November 15, 2020
It's fine I guess. The narration was very good. I just wish Johnny wasn't a stereotypical big bear of a hunk who is simultaneously a man's man being a carpenter and having that soft side and being a teacher just so Frankie, the shorter skinnier dude, has a love interest.
And since the story was so short and didn't really feel like it had a proper ending I checked out if it had a continuation. It does. I won't be reading it, as I've read some of the reviews and the plot is just not that appealing to me.
Profile Image for Allison.
1,856 reviews13 followers
July 10, 2021
This was wonderful, great writing, good editing, and such a sweet, if slightly painful story. My only real complaint was the abrupt ending, but I see there is a second book that I will be reading.

I loved how the connection built between them, I think Frankie may have forgiven a little fast, but within the format it worked. The discussion around the music Frankie plays was fantastic as well.

I have found a new author that I hope will continue to prove to be so enjoyable to read!
Profile Image for Jenna.
339 reviews13 followers
January 4, 2025
3.5 stars. I was intrigued going into this since the novella was so short. This story ends so abruptly. I didn't realize until about 2/3 of the way in that this was a series and at that point I realized that the story probably would continue into the next one (which I'm assuming is the case). I enjoyed the storyline in this, but wish there was more closure in this novella itself.
Author 12 books412 followers
March 11, 2020
So so so so good

Xio this was such a great read. Such a lovely short love story - both of these guys had me at their hellos. I just adore your style and the ease of which I flow through them. Thanks for the smile I have on my face today. Gah. Excellent writing.
Profile Image for Shawna (endemictoearth).
2,331 reviews33 followers
September 10, 2020
Read with the follow-up, Frankie and Johnny: Let the Music Play. These were very lovely and mostly low-angst and really should be read together (I sort of don't understand why they aren't just one book, but I'm not complaining.)
Profile Image for Sally.
882 reviews
November 29, 2020
Quite a sweet story, but a bit weak. More like a novella. I liked the characters, but Johnny's on and off, hot and cold actions were irritating. If I'd been Frankie, I'd have given up. Loved Frankie. I wish I had a friend like him.
413 reviews6 followers
April 6, 2021
A really gorgeous short novella that got me completely caught up in Frankie's head and emotions. I loved the build-up here, with the sense of tension and of emotions building. I am definitely going to get the next book to see more of thus relationship develop.
Profile Image for Anna.
Author 25 books707 followers
Read
July 3, 2021
Beautiful writing in this short story. It's also set in a town (outside Philly) that I know very well, and that was a treat.

I see there's another book, which is nice, because while this ended nicely, I want to know more!
Profile Image for Kim.
408 reviews3 followers
January 25, 2022
It's pretty hard to rate romance novella. I like the talks between Frankie and his ex. I think the romance is good enough but it's kind of forgettable.
Profile Image for ASHLEY .
673 reviews3 followers
March 21, 2023
So short but hopefully we get more romance in the sequel
Profile Image for Heather Lynn Lee.
265 reviews
June 25, 2024
The length was weird.. super short little story. I think this also number 2 to something so maybe I need to check that out more. But I was interested and I love this author
Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews

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