Tag Archives: Graham Norton

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I am always interested in anything Graham Norton writes and when his fifth audio book of fiction was released with Norton’s narration, I saved it for a long weekend of listening. Graham often sets his books in Ireland but this book expands to London and New York City following the very full life of the title character from age 10 to her 80s. The story begins with Irish born Frankie recovering from an injury with the assistance of a home health care worker named Damian in her London flat. Damian is also Irish and the two enjoy an easy rapport. Frankie’s home is filled to the brim with souvenirs and boxes of memorabilia that provide easy conversation starters. As Frankie tells the stories of her past, both listeners benefit therapeutically. In one poignant moment, Frankie asks Damian if his heart has ever been broken. His answer is naive and honest, even more so given Frankie’s history. Frankie regains her mobility and Damian departs for other assignments but not until they celebrated their newfound friendship.   

I found myself talking about this book to my reader friends but never did I say, this could be something they might like to read. The Irish authors I’ve read have a definite tone to their work. It’s pragmatic and practical. The characters know that if life is going smoothly, they ought to appreciate it because it will all come to an end sooner rather than later. There are moments of great passion and love in Frankie’s life, but also tragedy and heartbreak. It’s the unequal ratio toward more sadness that makes it Irish fiction in my opinion and that can be a tough sell. Even so, I will continue to read Norton’s works because he is a brilliant storyteller and narrator. This was my favorite of Graham’s novels and I missed Frankie for days after I finished the book.

Norton, Graham. Frankie. ‎ HarperVia, 2025.

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