The Winter of Frankie Machine

by: Don Winslow

Published by: Vintage Crime/Black Lizard

Reviewed by Patricia E. Reid

You’ve gotta love Frankie Machine. He’s a little bit of everything. Frank has as many faces as he has names. You will meet Frankie Machianno who is divorced but still is Mr. Fix-It when his ex-wife Patty needs a handyman. Jill is Frank’s daughter who has just been accepted for med school. Donna is an ex-showgirl and Frank’s girlfriend. Frank loves his family and wants to be there for them always.

He is also known as Frank the Bait Guy. He owns a bait shop, a linen business, a business that sells fish to local restaurants, and he owns several rental properties. At age 62 Frank the Bait Man enjoys being in charge of his various operations, surfing once in a while and spending time with his loved ones. He supports his community with contributions to Little League, the high school and other organizations. Frank the Bait Guy is a very upstanding, respected citizen.

Then the reader really gets to know Frankie the Machine. Frankie the Machine is a hit man for the mob. Even when you read about the killings you can’t dislike Frankie. You know it is wrong to murder but you still can’t dislike Frankie.
When enemies from his past come after him, Frankie has to go on the run. He has no idea who to trust. His race against his enemies takes you back through Frankie’s life to the beginning, before he became known as Frankie Machine. The book does not lack for excitement and suspense.

Don Winslow has created a wonderful character in his book, The Winter of Frankie Machine. Give the book a try and see if you don’t love him too.

Armchair Interviews says: Word is out that a movie is being made of this book—so watch for it, starring Robert DiNero.

Author’s Web site: http://www.DonWinslow.com