I have read most of Maeve Binchy's books, and she only Seemed to get better with every one. Minding Frankie is a tale of redemption. There is a lot of reality, but nobody is being painted as the villain, not even the dreaded social worker. And I like that. Maeve Binchy has a way of telling stories without being critical of any of her characters. Her books are not about there being a hero and a villain, Although she has some pretty sleazy characters - Sean Walsh in Circle of Friends comes to Mind- who seem to be beyond redemption, but most of her characters are flawed people did we can relate to, somehow.
If you are looking for an excellently written, heartwarming tale, get this one. It even Brought tears to my eyes.