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Man Cave #3
Man Handler
Scarlett
Blytheville, South Carolina—have you heard of it? No? Yeah, neither had I, until today. Want to know why? It’s in the middle of nowhere, and I’ve been given the ultimatum of either living on the street in Boston or accepting a job transfer down to this blank spot on the map where people say things like: “Bless Your Heart,” “Over Yonder,” and “I reckon.” Oh, and they don’t cuss, which makes survival a bit challenging for me with my flavorful vocabulary.
I’ll cut to the chase. On day one of my new Southern lifestyle, I land myself in the hospital and meet Austin, one of the two nurses on staff. I would consider this guy absolutely gorgeous if I were into the whole tanned, smokey-blue eyes, and messy sex-hair look, but I’m … not. Okay, I’m lying. If Austin wasn’t my type before, he definitely is now. However, I was sort of rude to him. While I’m sure my first impression was probably my last, maybe I can turn on a little Southern charm (if I can figure out how to do that) and change his mind.
Austin
This chick is crazy, hot as hell, and more wound up than a taunted wild animal. I might be out of my mind, but I’m intrigued by her short temper and lack of filter.
She thinks I’m just funny and sweet as pie, which I know annoys her, but she hasn’t spent time with me outside of work yet, so she doesn’t know I can dish out more than she can take. Miss Scarlett thinks she’s tough and intimidating because she’s from big, bad Boston, but she’s about to learn how things really go down in the South.
The question is, will Scarlett and Austin ever see to eye-to-eye, or will they give up the fight long enough to see what they’ve been missing?
Blytheville, South Carolina—have you heard of it? No? Yeah, neither had I, until today. Want to know why? It’s in the middle of nowhere, and I’ve been given the ultimatum of either living on the street in Boston or accepting a job transfer down to this blank spot on the map where people say things like: “Bless Your Heart,” “Over Yonder,” and “I reckon.” Oh, and they don’t cuss, which makes survival a bit challenging for me with my flavorful vocabulary.
I’ll cut to the chase. On day one of my new Southern lifestyle, I land myself in the hospital and meet Austin, one of the two nurses on staff. I would consider this guy absolutely gorgeous if I were into the whole tanned, smokey-blue eyes, and messy sex-hair look, but I’m … not. Okay, I’m lying. If Austin wasn’t my type before, he definitely is now. However, I was sort of rude to him. While I’m sure my first impression was probably my last, maybe I can turn on a little Southern charm (if I can figure out how to do that) and change his mind.
Austin
This chick is crazy, hot as hell, and more wound up than a taunted wild animal. I might be out of my mind, but I’m intrigued by her short temper and lack of filter.
She thinks I’m just funny and sweet as pie, which I know annoys her, but she hasn’t spent time with me outside of work yet, so she doesn’t know I can dish out more than she can take. Miss Scarlett thinks she’s tough and intimidating because she’s from big, bad Boston, but she’s about to learn how things really go down in the South.
The question is, will Scarlett and Austin ever see to eye-to-eye, or will they give up the fight long enough to see what they’ve been missing?
270 pages, Unknown Binding
First published March 28, 2018
113 people are currently reading
363 people want to read
About the author
S.J. Ryan
17 books4 followersS.J. Ryan is a USA Today Bestselling Author of Contemporary Romance and Romantic Comedies.
Shortly after graduation from Johnson & Wales with a bachelor's degree in marketing, Shari began her career as a graphic artist and freelance writer. She then found her passion for writing books in 2012 after her second son was born. Shari has been slaying words ever since.
Shortly after graduation from Johnson & Wales with a bachelor's degree in marketing, Shari began her career as a graphic artist and freelance writer. She then found her passion for writing books in 2012 after her second son was born. Shari has been slaying words ever since.
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June 2, 2018
Man Handler is by Shari J. Ryan. This is the story of the big city girl forced to relocate to small town America. She’s convinced this is the end of her life as she knows it. Perhaps, though, it is really just the beginning.
Scarlett is a front desk manager in a large hotel chain in Boston. She shares an apartment with her best friend, Brendan. Scarlett has a small problem lately with punctuality and she’s been late to work one too many times. She’s given an ultimatum. She can either relocate to one of their chain hotels in Blytheville, South Carolina, or she can be without a job. Brendan vows to go with her for moral support so off they go to start a new adventure. Only on their very first day things don’t go very well and Scarlett ends up in the emergency room. On the positive side, her nurse is just about the hottest guy she has ever seen.
Austin Trace has lived in Blytheville all his life. He is an RN at their local hospital and also lives on and runs a farm he inherited. Austin isn’t the least bit interested in relationships. But the woman that came in to the hospital that night definitely got his attention. She also irritated him at the same time. How is that possible? She knew nothing about southern hospitality, actually, she was rude! She was also quick witted, intelligent and beautiful. He couldn’t get her off his mind.
“People down here away from Boston are typically friendly, with a little less attitude compared to what y’all northern folk must be used to. You might want to take it down a notch.”
So begins Scarlett and Austin’s adventure. Brendan convinced Scarlett to at least try living in Blytheville for a month. That is how long he claims it takes to get acclimated to a new place. She can’t possibly see herself ever fitting in this place. Every time she sees Austin, though, hope begins to take root that there just might be something in this place worth sticking around for.
“In the south, we move a little slower.”
“I think you mentioned something about that earlier, didn’t you?”
“Possibly”
“Mmm. Do you know why that is? Well…it makes the good things last a little longer.”
Neither Scarlett or Austin was looking for a relationship. They were opposites really. But they just couldn’t seem to stay away from each other. Each of them were dealing with their own demons from their pasts. Each has every reason not to get involved. You know what they say about opposites attracting, though.
So, I did enjoy this book. I genuinely cared about these two and there were plenty of sweet moments and silly moments. While I usually adore banter between the characters, though, with these two not so much. At times I was actually a bit confused with their back and forth and found myself back tracking and re-reading lines to make sure I was getting it right. I believe, actually, that that was just how they were with each other while they tried to make sense of their lives and what they felt for each other. I particularly loved Scarlett’s sort of “aha” moment when she finally figured everything out. So, while I did find some of the conversation confusing, I still gave it four stars for all the sweet moments. I loved Scarlett’s friend, Brendan, by the way. He was adorable.
“For every tomorrow you will give me, I will make you wish there was never a yesterday.”
March 31, 2018
3 stars out of 2,5
This book is a light and fun romance. It is sometimes entertaining and sweet but unfortunately, sometimes, it is slow, dragging and boring.
First of all, the book gives one hell of a background story before the main characters meet. The book has 257 pages and they meet on page 64. Personally, I got bored until then. After they meet, it is again the same. Sometimes I was invested in what's happening and sometimes I was bored out of my mind.
Scarlett has a father who has abused her mother all through their marriage and the way she chooses to live her life now is much too influenced by this fact.
Austin experienced a really awful family tragedy when he was younger and he is now protecting himself from love and what pain it might cause to him.
Austin and Scarlett were a good match for one another. They lessened each other's fears and helped one another to learn to love.
All in all, it was an OK read. The characters are likable and their story is kind of sweet.
This book is a light and fun romance. It is sometimes entertaining and sweet but unfortunately, sometimes, it is slow, dragging and boring.
First of all, the book gives one hell of a background story before the main characters meet. The book has 257 pages and they meet on page 64. Personally, I got bored until then. After they meet, it is again the same. Sometimes I was invested in what's happening and sometimes I was bored out of my mind.
Scarlett has a father who has abused her mother all through their marriage and the way she chooses to live her life now is much too influenced by this fact.
Austin experienced a really awful family tragedy when he was younger and he is now protecting himself from love and what pain it might cause to him.
Austin and Scarlett were a good match for one another. They lessened each other's fears and helped one another to learn to love.
All in all, it was an OK read. The characters are likable and their story is kind of sweet.
March 28, 2018
Man Handler is a funny, sweet and hot brash city girl meets sweet southern boy romance. With quirky characters and lots of witty banter.
Austin is a swoonworthy southern man who is going to be a lifelong bachelor. Scarlett is an independent woman who is determined to not ever need a man. When they meet sparks fly and two people who should never even like each other end up be unable to resist the attraction and feelings that burn out of control.
Honestly, at first I did not like Scarlett, she came off immature, cold and rude. I honestly almost stopped reading the book in the first chapter; thankfully I didn’t because I would have missed a really good romantic comedy. Trust me give the story a chance to unfold and you will see why she was the way she was in the beginning.
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May 23, 2022Man Handler is releasing on March 28th!
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March 15, 2018
Well, Shari J. Ryan has done it again. I seriously don’t know how she comes up with these clever stories, but she never ceases to amaze me. I may be a bit biased because I’m her editor, but the reason I even started to work with Shari is because I loved her writing. Take a chance on this lighthearted romantic comedy. It’s a perfect early spring escape, and you just might meet your next book boyfriend!
March 28, 2018
I received this book for free from Foreword PR in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Addictiveness: I couldn't let it go. The story was very addictive. It was fun, hot and frustrating. :)
Character: hero 5/5, heroine 5/5, secondary characters 5/5, growth 5/5, real 5/5 I loved them all. Really, both Austin and Scarlett had a bit of spice. They were so easy to love, connect and understand. I felt like one of their friends and was really invested on their happily-ever-after. I also loved all the secondary characters. Both main characters have very well developed backgrounds. They had depth.
Cover: art 5/5, title 5/5, subtitle 5/5, color-font 5/5, buy 5/5 Perfect! You only have to look at the art to understand what I'm talking about. The man is hot and I like the little details that matches Austin, like the tattoos and the stethoscope. I also like the font and colors. The blue/purple works well with the white background.
Freshness: One-of-a-kind. Really I don't remember reading anything like it. The plot is original and feels fresh.
Plot: believable 5/5, conflict 5/5, dialogue 5/5, ending 5/5, enjoyment 5/5, opening 5/5, pace 5/5, setting 5/5, subplots 5/5, twists 5/5 Great opening and wonderful ending. Perfect conflict and dialogues written by someone who really knows how to create rom-coms. Steady pace with enough subplots to enhance the story. A few unexpected twists here and there, that makes this story very enjoyable. I LOL a lot, I felt like knocking some sense sometimes into Austin and Scarlett and I felt their pain. I love how Ms. Ryan can write in fun, light way, even some very heavy stuff.
Romance: believable 5/5, chemistry 5/5, description 5/5, development 5/5, steam 5/5 I've loved everything. The perfect balance of steam and romance. The descriptions were great, but there was no scene that didn't have a reason to be there. Amazing development of their love story, and it didn't feel rushed.
Writing Style: Perfect plot, amazing characters with enough kick to have me not wanting to let go.
I can't think of anything that could have been better.
This was my favorite book of the series. I can't think of how this could have been better. Both characters were easy to relate. Their story had the perfect amount of romance and LOL moments.
I don't easily give five stars to reviews, usually a book has to touch me somehow and leave me without explanation for it. I love this story and couldn't think of anything that I would have changed here.
35/35 STARS
Addictiveness: 5 Character: 5 Cover: 5 Freshness: 5 Plot: 5 Romance: 5 Writing Style: 5
Action 0/5
Angst 2/5
Darkness 0/5
Humor 5/5
Romance 5/5
Suspense/Mystery 0/5
Would I recommend? I would recommend this book for everyone that enjoys romantic comedy. In fact, this is a MUST!!!!
Would I re-read this book? I'm certain I will!
Would I re-read this series? Sure.
Would I read more from the author? Yes, Ms. Ryan is becoming of my to-go authors for Romantic Comedy.
"I needed a strong woman to handle me, and I'm grateful I found you." by Austin "Some men just need to find the perfect man handler, and I'm happy to be that person in your life, Austin Trace." by Scarlett
O.M.G!!!! My favorite! So so so good!
Romantic Comedy, with dual-POV.
Book #3 of the Man Cave series, but is a complete stand-alone. This series is not about the same characters, but kind of the same theme. Women who can handle men. :)
Addictiveness: I couldn't let it go. The story was very addictive. It was fun, hot and frustrating. :)
Character: hero 5/5, heroine 5/5, secondary characters 5/5, growth 5/5, real 5/5 I loved them all. Really, both Austin and Scarlett had a bit of spice. They were so easy to love, connect and understand. I felt like one of their friends and was really invested on their happily-ever-after. I also loved all the secondary characters. Both main characters have very well developed backgrounds. They had depth.
Cover: art 5/5, title 5/5, subtitle 5/5, color-font 5/5, buy 5/5 Perfect! You only have to look at the art to understand what I'm talking about. The man is hot and I like the little details that matches Austin, like the tattoos and the stethoscope. I also like the font and colors. The blue/purple works well with the white background.
Freshness: One-of-a-kind. Really I don't remember reading anything like it. The plot is original and feels fresh.
Plot: believable 5/5, conflict 5/5, dialogue 5/5, ending 5/5, enjoyment 5/5, opening 5/5, pace 5/5, setting 5/5, subplots 5/5, twists 5/5 Great opening and wonderful ending. Perfect conflict and dialogues written by someone who really knows how to create rom-coms. Steady pace with enough subplots to enhance the story. A few unexpected twists here and there, that makes this story very enjoyable. I LOL a lot, I felt like knocking some sense sometimes into Austin and Scarlett and I felt their pain. I love how Ms. Ryan can write in fun, light way, even some very heavy stuff.
Romance: believable 5/5, chemistry 5/5, description 5/5, development 5/5, steam 5/5 I've loved everything. The perfect balance of steam and romance. The descriptions were great, but there was no scene that didn't have a reason to be there. Amazing development of their love story, and it didn't feel rushed.
Writing Style: Perfect plot, amazing characters with enough kick to have me not wanting to let go.
I can't think of anything that could have been better.
This was my favorite book of the series. I can't think of how this could have been better. Both characters were easy to relate. Their story had the perfect amount of romance and LOL moments.
I don't easily give five stars to reviews, usually a book has to touch me somehow and leave me without explanation for it. I love this story and couldn't think of anything that I would have changed here.
35/35 STARS
Addictiveness: 5 Character: 5 Cover: 5 Freshness: 5 Plot: 5 Romance: 5 Writing Style: 5
Action 0/5
Angst 2/5
Darkness 0/5
Humor 5/5
Romance 5/5
Suspense/Mystery 0/5
Would I recommend? I would recommend this book for everyone that enjoys romantic comedy. In fact, this is a MUST!!!!
Would I re-read this book? I'm certain I will!
Would I re-read this series? Sure.
Would I read more from the author? Yes, Ms. Ryan is becoming of my to-go authors for Romantic Comedy.
You MAY read this because you followed the series; you SHOULD read this because you like romantic comedies; you MUST read this to a lot of L.O.L moments!!!
This review was originally posted on More Books Than Livros
March 28, 2018
Reviewed on behalf of The Book Boyfriend Addict. A complimentary copy was provided in exchange for an honest review.
“Girl, you are trouble, looking for trouble.”
I raise a brow and pinch my lips to the side for a short second. “Well, it looks like I might have found it.”
When it comes to a choice between taking a new job in some no-name town in South Carolina or staying in Boston and face being unemployed, city girl Scarlett Thorpe decides to go with door number one. Sure, she’s spent her entire life up to this point living in the city but how bad could it be? Well, considering she winds up in the hospital on the first day after quickly learning that her high heels don’t mix with cobblestone streets, it might be worse than she thinks. That is until she meets her sexy nurse, Austin Trace, who also happens to be Blytheville’s most eligible bachelor. Austin is equally attracted to and entertained by Scarlett’s fiery personality and lack of filter. It’s so different than what he’s used to but he loves a good challenge and dealing with Scarlett is turning out to be a fun one.
Pretty, smart, and a hellion—just my type. Lord, am I in trouble …
I thought this was another funny and sweet story from Shari J Ryan! It’s always entertaining seeing a city dweller trying to adjust to the much slower pace of life in the South and Scarlett’s experience certainly got off to a rough start. I thought her transition was funny and realistic, her interactions with some of the townsfolk are laugh out loud funny. I loved her sass and being from Massachusetts myself, I could definitely relate to some of the things she did/said. The banter between her and Austin was so much fun, he may have been a sweet Southern boy but he gave as good as he got with her. I thought they were great together and it was fun seeing them find their way despite their differences (and their similarities!!). And as lighthearted and low angst as this story was, there were also several surprisingly touching moments that I thought were a nice touch. If you’re looking for an easy breezy read that’ll make you laugh, heat things up, and touch your heart, be sure to check out Man Handler!
“I needed a strong woman to handle me, and I’m grateful I found you.”
“Some men just need to find the perfect man handler, and I’m happy to be that person in your life, Austin Trace.”
“Girl, you are trouble, looking for trouble.”
I raise a brow and pinch my lips to the side for a short second. “Well, it looks like I might have found it.”
When it comes to a choice between taking a new job in some no-name town in South Carolina or staying in Boston and face being unemployed, city girl Scarlett Thorpe decides to go with door number one. Sure, she’s spent her entire life up to this point living in the city but how bad could it be? Well, considering she winds up in the hospital on the first day after quickly learning that her high heels don’t mix with cobblestone streets, it might be worse than she thinks. That is until she meets her sexy nurse, Austin Trace, who also happens to be Blytheville’s most eligible bachelor. Austin is equally attracted to and entertained by Scarlett’s fiery personality and lack of filter. It’s so different than what he’s used to but he loves a good challenge and dealing with Scarlett is turning out to be a fun one.
Pretty, smart, and a hellion—just my type. Lord, am I in trouble …
I thought this was another funny and sweet story from Shari J Ryan! It’s always entertaining seeing a city dweller trying to adjust to the much slower pace of life in the South and Scarlett’s experience certainly got off to a rough start. I thought her transition was funny and realistic, her interactions with some of the townsfolk are laugh out loud funny. I loved her sass and being from Massachusetts myself, I could definitely relate to some of the things she did/said. The banter between her and Austin was so much fun, he may have been a sweet Southern boy but he gave as good as he got with her. I thought they were great together and it was fun seeing them find their way despite their differences (and their similarities!!). And as lighthearted and low angst as this story was, there were also several surprisingly touching moments that I thought were a nice touch. If you’re looking for an easy breezy read that’ll make you laugh, heat things up, and touch your heart, be sure to check out Man Handler!
“I needed a strong woman to handle me, and I’m grateful I found you.”
“Some men just need to find the perfect man handler, and I’m happy to be that person in your life, Austin Trace.”
March 19, 2018
Love a great rom-com? Then make sure you check out Shari Ryan’s newest release- Man Handler, the third novel in her Man Cave Series. Man Handler can completely be read as a standalone. Ryan’s series focuses more so on men and how we women handle them rather than repeated characters. So start this series where ever you wish.
In Man Handler we meet the ultimate sassy heroine with Boston native Scarlett. She is full on feisty from the moment you meet her. Full of antics and laughs, Scarlett leads you on a hilarious journey through job relocation to the south. Her take on Southern makes you laugh out loud throughout this book. However its her insta-connection with male nurse, Austin that really leaves you begging for more.
Austin is no Southern gentlemen. In fact, he’s decided being nice to the ladies outside of the hospital just isn’t for him. Being the most eligible bachelor in town sure has its struggles, but living with his dog Waldo on the farm in peace is what he is determined to do. Until an accident prone, foul mouthed Bostonian keeps needing rescuing.
Ryan has a wonderful knack of writing a story that is loveable, funny, and romantic all at the same time. Her endless imagination with storytelling is addictive, always leaving you begging for her next release. I love each of the books in the Man Cave Series and will continue to one click without bothering to read a single synopsis. Ryan is just that good! Take a chance, with Man Handler and fall in love with Ryan’s characters today.
In Man Handler we meet the ultimate sassy heroine with Boston native Scarlett. She is full on feisty from the moment you meet her. Full of antics and laughs, Scarlett leads you on a hilarious journey through job relocation to the south. Her take on Southern makes you laugh out loud throughout this book. However its her insta-connection with male nurse, Austin that really leaves you begging for more.
Austin is no Southern gentlemen. In fact, he’s decided being nice to the ladies outside of the hospital just isn’t for him. Being the most eligible bachelor in town sure has its struggles, but living with his dog Waldo on the farm in peace is what he is determined to do. Until an accident prone, foul mouthed Bostonian keeps needing rescuing.
Ryan has a wonderful knack of writing a story that is loveable, funny, and romantic all at the same time. Her endless imagination with storytelling is addictive, always leaving you begging for her next release. I love each of the books in the Man Cave Series and will continue to one click without bothering to read a single synopsis. Ryan is just that good! Take a chance, with Man Handler and fall in love with Ryan’s characters today.
March 28, 2018
I give this read 3.75 stars........
Don't start throwing tomatoes at me. LOL! This was my least favorite of this series so far. I struggled with the connection between Austin and Scarlett. I loved the plot and the characters. But for me something was missing. They just didn't seen to connect the way Ryan's other characters have for me. There were a lot of great laugh out moments. It was still a fun read and I am glad I read it.
Don't start throwing tomatoes at me. LOL! This was my least favorite of this series so far. I struggled with the connection between Austin and Scarlett. I loved the plot and the characters. But for me something was missing. They just didn't seen to connect the way Ryan's other characters have for me. There were a lot of great laugh out moments. It was still a fun read and I am glad I read it.
March 28, 2018
This has been my favorite stand alone out of Man Servant and Man Flu. RomCom is becoming one of my favorites to read!
March 28, 2018
Once again this author delivered the hotness!
This author really knows how to pull her readers in her books. I had such a blast reading Man Handler. Its steamy and very funny!
Without much detail so i won't spoil anything. This is about a uptight Scarlett. She loses her job and her and her friend move to a small town. She then meets Austin under bad circumstances lol!!
This author really knows how to pull her readers in her books. I had such a blast reading Man Handler. Its steamy and very funny!
Without much detail so i won't spoil anything. This is about a uptight Scarlett. She loses her job and her and her friend move to a small town. She then meets Austin under bad circumstances lol!!
January 6, 2022
3.5 Stars for me!
My rating range of this story... 1 - 3.5 Stars
If significant, why? Whiplash from the h
Main Character Ratings...
H = 7/10
h = 5/10 (started out as 1/10)
Narrator Rating(s)
M = 7/0
F = 7/10
If below 5/10,why?
Was cheating involved? No
Any major triggers to be aware of? No
If Comedy... Type? Funny with some cringe
Genuinely Funny
Cringe Inducing
Just No!
Angst Level? Light to Moderate
Light, Moderate, Heavy or Please Stop
Scenes with heat... Yes
What point does it start? 50%
How much of the story? 5%
Anything beyond M/F? No
If yes, explained
Heat Rating... 6/10
Clean or Fade to Black - 1 or 2
Normal to Descriptive 3-5
Detailed Descriptive Sex - 6-7
Um, Wow, Beyond Descriptive Sex - 8 or above
Was there so much sex or unrealistic sex that you rolled your eyes and/or skipped forward? No
The back story... The h gets... an opportunity to transfer to South Carolina or get fired as she is late to work a lot and is overly entitled. The H is a nurse and helps her after she is injured on her first day in South Carolina. She treats him horribly as well.
The Romance... I don't fully get it as he likes being treated poorly. The h does get better throughout the story and the relationship feels much more real.
The drama explosion... The h sort of looses it once she realizes her true feelings for the H.
Did it feel Real, OK or contrived? A bit contrived
Was it OTT? Yes
Separation involved? Slight
Was it resolved properly or rushed? Properly
Final Notes... I wasn't sure if I wanted to complete the story as the h was a horrible person from her college years into her working years. She threw a fit with her college boyfriend because he cared about her. She couldn't understand why her boss was upset with her for continually being late. She couldn't understand why she shouldn't leave 4 inch heels on rough terrain. She just didn't care about reality and took any comment from others as an attack. It did help that she got to learn and grow towards the end of the story but the author did a decent job of turning her around.
HEA or HFN? HFN
My rating range of this story... 1 - 3.5 Stars
If significant, why? Whiplash from the h
Main Character Ratings...
H = 7/10
h = 5/10 (started out as 1/10)
Narrator Rating(s)
M = 7/0
F = 7/10
If below 5/10,why?
Was cheating involved? No
Any major triggers to be aware of? No
If Comedy... Type? Funny with some cringe
Genuinely Funny
Cringe Inducing
Just No!
Angst Level? Light to Moderate
Light, Moderate, Heavy or Please Stop
Scenes with heat... Yes
What point does it start? 50%
How much of the story? 5%
Anything beyond M/F? No
If yes, explained
Heat Rating... 6/10
Clean or Fade to Black - 1 or 2
Normal to Descriptive 3-5
Detailed Descriptive Sex - 6-7
Um, Wow, Beyond Descriptive Sex - 8 or above
Was there so much sex or unrealistic sex that you rolled your eyes and/or skipped forward? No
The back story... The h gets... an opportunity to transfer to South Carolina or get fired as she is late to work a lot and is overly entitled. The H is a nurse and helps her after she is injured on her first day in South Carolina. She treats him horribly as well.
The Romance... I don't fully get it as he likes being treated poorly. The h does get better throughout the story and the relationship feels much more real.
The drama explosion... The h sort of looses it once she realizes her true feelings for the H.
Did it feel Real, OK or contrived? A bit contrived
Was it OTT? Yes
Separation involved? Slight
Was it resolved properly or rushed? Properly
Final Notes... I wasn't sure if I wanted to complete the story as the h was a horrible person from her college years into her working years. She threw a fit with her college boyfriend because he cared about her. She couldn't understand why her boss was upset with her for continually being late. She couldn't understand why she shouldn't leave 4 inch heels on rough terrain. She just didn't care about reality and took any comment from others as an attack. It did help that she got to learn and grow towards the end of the story but the author did a decent job of turning her around.
HEA or HFN? HFN
March 29, 2018
I loved this story; the writing is fantastic. I absolutely adored Austin, and Brendan, and Kalvin, and pretty much everyone else in the book except Scarlett. There is something about her attitude that just rubs me the wrong way. She starts the book behaving like an immature, self-centered, entitled ‘mean girl’. As the book progresses, we learn more about what’s caused her to develop this attitude, and a lot of the ‘mean girl’ gets worn off. But the rest of that attitude is still in force and she irritated me all the way through to the end. (Which, really, to have this kind of a visceral reaction to a character is a credit to the author.) Austin is a self-proclaimed Southern non-gentleman. He’s polite, but nice is just too much work for him these days. He may say he’s not nice, but his actions speak so much louder and he’s got sweet, kind-hearted care-giver down pat. The thing I loved most about this book is the brilliant, snarky banter between Scarlett and Austin. I think there was a couple of times I was left bleeding from their exchanges.
I received a complimentary advanced copy of this book.
I received a complimentary advanced copy of this book.
March 20, 2018
Well this is my first book by Shari J Ryan, and I found it absolutely hilarious. Scarlett lives her life on her terms. She is sassy, zany, a little bit whacky but overall she is one funny lady that hasn't had the best childhood. This then in turn makes her over analyse things, often leaving her without a filter and basically verbalises what she is thinking probably too many times. This adds to the laughs, but sometimes I found myself cringing getting embarrassed for her.
Austin was my favourite character. His childhood was just as bad as Scarlett's, and he had pretty much vowed to himself he would never fall in love or have a long lasting relationship. The way Scarlett lived her life made him start to think differently.
These two just work. Each the ying to the others yang. What I liked was that you got a total story. Their story ends up by spanning several years, so it was great to see how their life together turned out.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced readers copy of this book
Austin was my favourite character. His childhood was just as bad as Scarlett's, and he had pretty much vowed to himself he would never fall in love or have a long lasting relationship. The way Scarlett lived her life made him start to think differently.
These two just work. Each the ying to the others yang. What I liked was that you got a total story. Their story ends up by spanning several years, so it was great to see how their life together turned out.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced readers copy of this book
March 28, 2018
I loved Man Handler. Scarlett is sassy and strong. She doesn't hold back anything, she just says what she wants. She has a really awesome best friend, Brendan. She's a Boston girl but when she finds herself without a job, she takes a transfer to a small town in South Carolina. Brendan goes with her. Her attitude is nothing like the girls in Blytheville. She's a like a fish out of water down there. On her first day she finds herself in the hospital for a wrist injury. There is meets a sexy nurse named Austin. Austin is sweet and nice. He has had some not so great relationships and isn't looking for a relationship. He and Scarlett are much alike. Their banter back and forth was funny. These two where super fun to read about and it's a good story.
March 16, 2018
Man Handler is another winner from Shari's Man series. I fell in love with Austin and I think y'all will too!
A job relocation leads our sassy Scarlett into Austin's capable hands, literally. This couple kind of come from two separate worlds but they couldn't be more perfect for each other.
Shari's writing style is fabulous and she will make you smile and giggle throughout. Man Handler is rom com not to be missed and I can't wait to see where Shari takes her next "Man."
A job relocation leads our sassy Scarlett into Austin's capable hands, literally. This couple kind of come from two separate worlds but they couldn't be more perfect for each other.
Shari's writing style is fabulous and she will make you smile and giggle throughout. Man Handler is rom com not to be missed and I can't wait to see where Shari takes her next "Man."
March 28, 2018
5 STARS FOR MAN HANDLER!! LOVE, LOVE, LOVE, THIS BOOK!! The story is Rom Com perfection, with all the fun banter, sexiness and fantastic characters. Scarlett is a sassy city girl that gets replanted in the country still living like a city girl. Austin is a hot country guy that works as a nurse. These two meet and oh my do they have a story to tell you. Shari J. Ryan is one of my favorites, she can write anything to perfection. I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book.
May 30, 2018
Shari J Ryan can make you cry with nearly everything she writes. Man Handler had be crying from laughter. Austin and Scarletts relationship had me full on belly laughing!
I absolutely adored their connection!! Scarlett was an absolute doll and Austin... swoon!!!!!
Man Handler may just be my favorite of this series of standalone romantic comedies.
Once again, Shari J Ryan did not disappoint me!!!
4.5 Hilarious Stars!
I absolutely adored their connection!! Scarlett was an absolute doll and Austin... swoon!!!!!
Man Handler may just be my favorite of this series of standalone romantic comedies.
Once again, Shari J Ryan did not disappoint me!!!
4.5 Hilarious Stars!
March 28, 2018
Another really enjoyable book from this Author. I have read all of the books from this series and they have been brilliant reads. All are complete standalones and this is another definitely worth picking up.
In Man Handler, we meet Scarlett and Austin. Scarlett is working front of house at a hotel chain in Boston, regularly late for work and in her own little crazy world. When given an employment intonation she finds herself in the sleepy old fashioned tiny town of Blytheville in South Carolina.
From the first day she wonders what she has let herself in for, with mishaps a plenty and getting herself into strange situations.... but she does meet Austin. Nurse at the local hospital and all round great guy.
This is great story and the characters were very likeable. There were some very funny moments as well as plenty of romance and sweetness too!! And that first kiss.... SPICY HOT!!!
4 Stars
Lou
In Man Handler, we meet Scarlett and Austin. Scarlett is working front of house at a hotel chain in Boston, regularly late for work and in her own little crazy world. When given an employment intonation she finds herself in the sleepy old fashioned tiny town of Blytheville in South Carolina.
From the first day she wonders what she has let herself in for, with mishaps a plenty and getting herself into strange situations.... but she does meet Austin. Nurse at the local hospital and all round great guy.
This is great story and the characters were very likeable. There were some very funny moments as well as plenty of romance and sweetness too!! And that first kiss.... SPICY HOT!!!
4 Stars
Lou
March 14, 2018
Oh man this story.
A sassy city girl and a sweet country man. DID I MENTION HE WAS A NURSE? (insert heart eyes)
This story is funny, I can relate to Scarlett a lot with her attitude, her job, little dog with a big dark syndrome and her gay bff Kalvin.
But seriously, Austin I love him <3 I need more of him.
A sassy city girl and a sweet country man. DID I MENTION HE WAS A NURSE? (insert heart eyes)
This story is funny, I can relate to Scarlett a lot with her attitude, her job, little dog with a big dark syndrome and her gay bff Kalvin.
But seriously, Austin I love him <3 I need more of him.
March 25, 2018
Shari Ryan has done it again!! This is book is hott, hilarious as all get out and sexy as hell!!
I laughed, I swooned, I loved and I want Austin Trace all to myself!
City girl and country boy, can they survive each other in tact? Who will win - the city or the country? Can these two even co-exist?
A definite must read!! I couldn't put it down and read it all in one day!!
I laughed, I swooned, I loved and I want Austin Trace all to myself!
City girl and country boy, can they survive each other in tact? Who will win - the city or the country? Can these two even co-exist?
A definite must read!! I couldn't put it down and read it all in one day!!
July 29, 2018
Man Handler is such a fun and quirky rom-com! Enjoyed the romance that developed between city girl Scarlett and country boy Austin. Definitely lots of laughs and entertaining moments between the two of them!
**I received an ARC of this book**
**I received an ARC of this book**
March 22, 2018
This was a great light-hearted read. It was a fun story with a sassy heroine. The 3rd stand-alone in the Man Cave series. Now I can't wait to read the other books in this series.
March 18, 2018
Oh my gosh I loved Austin. He is a hoot! Scarlett is a perfect match even though they are from different worlds. I loved the dialogue and the banter. I love a novel that can make you giggle and laugh out loud in a room full of people. This novel did that for me. I loved it. I can't wait to see what this author has coming next.
March 20, 2018
Man Handler is a fun and sexy read. The characters Austin and Luke were awesome, their banter had me laughing out loud and their chemistry was smoking HOT!!! I liked the secondary characters too, they were comical. I enjoyed this story from start to finish.
March 28, 2018
Oh my goodness!! This book!!! I just, omg!!! I absolutely positively loved Austin and Scarlett!!! And the secondary characters including Jack, Scarlett’s Mom, Brendan, and Kalvin! The mix of these characters together was one amazing adventure filled with laughs and just seriously I loved it!!! Not to mention that Austin reminds me of one of my favorite tv doctors and it made me smile as I was reading all through the story! And together with Austin and Scarlett taking Blythesville by storm you won’t be disappointed! And honestly! I’d like to go visit Blythesville! A small, southern town full of just so much fun!!! I loved this story and I adore Austin and Scarlett so so so much!
Read
March 4, 2018Review to come...
January 18, 2019
This author is becoming a favorite. These stories aren’t interconnected but the plots and characters are fun and fresh!
July 27, 2020
Scarlett is a tough girl. She feels she needs to be independent, no BS, fast paced, not reliant on any man. She's a city girl through and through, or so she thought. I have to say, in the beginning, I did not like her character. I've met people like her, and they totally exist. Such a turn off. After she toned down her bad attitude, she was way more likable. Austin Trace, can I say, swooooonnn....He is scared of being in love, but sometimes, you can't predict those things. I enjoyed this book. Man Flu is still my favorite of the Man Cave series, but I still enjoyed this very much.
April 5, 2018
This review is for “Man Handler,” (Man Cave Series/3) by Shari J. Ryan
Okay, so at this point, I feel I’m becoming quite biased. That or Shari is just that good. I’m going to go with the latter. This third installment of her newest series of standalone novels is probably one of my favorites yet, deserving of what has become her standard-- 5-star rating. I’m going to break with my traditional format here, so here it goes…
After Scarlett accepts a relocation from her current employer to BFE, So. Carolina, she and her best friend Brendan, shake up the small, stuck-in-the-50’s, little town, from day one… when Scarlett’s cavalier attitude and City Girl heels put her in the hospital and under the care of Austin Trace, a male nurse, who’s as independent and hopeless of ever finding real love, as is Scarlett.
There is language, Scarlett has a SERIOUS potty mouth, as do I, which is just one reason why so much of her I can relate to & love. There’s also some hot and embarrassing sex scenes, that couldn’t have been written any clearer, nor realistic…
The rest? Sorry, but you’re just gonna have to read it, yourself. As a RomCom, there aren’t any dark elements, no shattering heartbreaks, nor impossible to repair separations. Instead, there’s clever humor, laced into a sexy storyline, where love finds its way with more than just the two Main Characters, and it’s told in flawless 1st person POV (Scarlett & Austin).
Scarlett is really the headstrong, bad girl, with a heart of gold, that we all too often suppress, within ourselves. I loved her instantly because I know her. She reminds me of “someone” I knew when I was in my 20s.
Thanks, Shari, for the most enjoyable read yet, that felt more like a walk down memory lane!
Okay, so at this point, I feel I’m becoming quite biased. That or Shari is just that good. I’m going to go with the latter. This third installment of her newest series of standalone novels is probably one of my favorites yet, deserving of what has become her standard-- 5-star rating. I’m going to break with my traditional format here, so here it goes…
After Scarlett accepts a relocation from her current employer to BFE, So. Carolina, she and her best friend Brendan, shake up the small, stuck-in-the-50’s, little town, from day one… when Scarlett’s cavalier attitude and City Girl heels put her in the hospital and under the care of Austin Trace, a male nurse, who’s as independent and hopeless of ever finding real love, as is Scarlett.
There is language, Scarlett has a SERIOUS potty mouth, as do I, which is just one reason why so much of her I can relate to & love. There’s also some hot and embarrassing sex scenes, that couldn’t have been written any clearer, nor realistic…
The rest? Sorry, but you’re just gonna have to read it, yourself. As a RomCom, there aren’t any dark elements, no shattering heartbreaks, nor impossible to repair separations. Instead, there’s clever humor, laced into a sexy storyline, where love finds its way with more than just the two Main Characters, and it’s told in flawless 1st person POV (Scarlett & Austin).
Scarlett is really the headstrong, bad girl, with a heart of gold, that we all too often suppress, within ourselves. I loved her instantly because I know her. She reminds me of “someone” I knew when I was in my 20s.
Thanks, Shari, for the most enjoyable read yet, that felt more like a walk down memory lane!
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