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Men of Manhattan #3
A Fighting Man
Army Ranger Slater Cassidy has a very special – very sexy – target in his sights. Meeting gorgeous, smart, uber-snarky Casper Kennedy was the highlight of Slater’s last trip home to New York. The soldier in him carefully plans his conquest. Unfortunately, Casper’s wearing some seriously strong armor and Slater’s charm offensives bounce right off. Casper’s refusal to fall for him is puzzling – not to mention incredibly annoying. When Slater gets leave again after grueling back-to-back tours in Afghanistan, all he wants is another shot at wooing Casper. He jumps right into the battle for the other man’s heart, but Casper does not intend to entertain the troops. A heartbreaking revelation changes the rules of romantic warfare, and Slater suddenly realizes he doesn’t just want Casper. He wants to capture his heart, too.
Casper Kennedy is fighting a losing battle. A certain outrageously demonstrative Army Ranger has been a thorn in his side since his last trip home – and the main character in his steamiest dreams. Now he’s back. He launches an all-out sensual assault and no matter how hard Casper pushes Slater away, the man somehow manages to inch closer. So close, in fact, that Casper’s once-impenetrable defenses are in danger of collapsing. Should he throw up the white flag and take a chance at love? Or start firing back and keep his heart protected? When the handsome Ranger shows his true colors, Casper just might have to surrender the fight.
Casper Kennedy is fighting a losing battle. A certain outrageously demonstrative Army Ranger has been a thorn in his side since his last trip home – and the main character in his steamiest dreams. Now he’s back. He launches an all-out sensual assault and no matter how hard Casper pushes Slater away, the man somehow manages to inch closer. So close, in fact, that Casper’s once-impenetrable defenses are in danger of collapsing. Should he throw up the white flag and take a chance at love? Or start firing back and keep his heart protected? When the handsome Ranger shows his true colors, Casper just might have to surrender the fight.
103 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 7, 2014
22 people are currently reading
388 people want to read
About the author
Sandrine Gasq-Dion
79 books1,344 followersI have been blessed in this life to not only have parents that support me, but kids that do as well. I grew up in a loving but "Old School" French household. My parents worked for the airlines (TWA) so I was able to see a lot of Europe as a kid. I moved to Seattle Washington at the age of 22 and stayed there for twelve years before moving to Alaska for a little over two. Fairbanks, AK was one hell of an experience and I wouldn't hesitate to go back! I spent a little over a year in South Carolina before moving back to Arizona. I then left for Kansas for five years and now reside in Arizona. I've been connected to the military in one way or another for over half my life and wouldn't change a thing about it. Writing has become my full time job and I've never been so happy doing a job I love and being able to do it in my jammies. I plan on writing until I dry up and die. Hopefully, that won't happen soon!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 117 reviews
January 4, 2016
***4 Stars***
Life is full of "what ifs"
Don't be the "I should have"
Be the "I did"
Hands down my favorite in the series so far!!
Casper and Slater...
You gave me the happy tingles, the cheesy grins, the heart flutters and the stomach butterflies.
We were first introduced to Casper and Slater in the previous book (Casper is Blaine's assistant and Slater is Spencer's brother). Slater is smitten from the first introduction and Casper wants nothing to do with him. The scene was set for quite the chase because Slater Cassidy was not taking "no" for an answer.
Casper Kennedy is a man carrying a deep emotional scar. Three years ago, Casper's fiance died while in combat oversees. Casper still mourns the love of his life and has vowed never to get involved with another military man. His focus is firmly set on furthering his advertising career and not on pursuing any type of romantic life.
Slater Cassidy is an army ranger that oozes confidence, sexuality and an all around good time. He's not shy about his bisexuality, lives his life out and proud and loves life in general. He's very close to his family and friends and is finally looking to settle down. He's sets his sights on Casper and intends to use every trick he can to get the man to go on a date with him.
"Are you stalking me?"
"I don't like to think of it as stalking. I prefer to think of it as quietly observing from far away without the other person's knowledge."
It's clear that although Casper acts annoyed by Slater's antics, he's flattered by the attention and very much attracted to the irresistible man. Slater's charms are too difficult to resist and the two men begin a relationship. However, Slater is still a military man and will have to go back oversees for his next tour of duty after his leave is over. Can Casper overcome his fears of losing another military man? And what happens when an accident puts all those fears to the test?
I really, really enjoyed this one. Slater's easygoing and lovable personality drew me in like a moth to a flame, and Casper's vulnerability pulled at the heartstrings in just the right way. That combination absolutely worked for me. The author was able to pack quite the emotional punch in such a short novella which is always a pleasant surprise.
However, I do have a couple of grievances. Casper flipped the switch too quickly for me. I don't think Slater gave enough chase. Once the two got together it was full steam ahead and that threw me off. I expected a little bit more of a challenge or at least a transition period. Second, as I've come to expect with short novellas, the ending was rushed. So much was packed into the last 20% that my mind was spinning at times. If you're going to take the plot in the direction it went in, then spend the time to give it the care and attention it deserves. Glossing over issues with time jumps doesn't sit well with me.
But, even with the issues I had, in the end this still left me with a big ol' cheesy smile on my face.
"I'm the guy who pursued you, sent you a stripper and a singing telegram. I'm the guy who walked into the middle of your meeting and took you out to dinner. I'm also the guy who can make you happy, if you'll let me. I want to be the guy who makes you smile in the morning. I want to be the guy who makes you laugh at night. I just want to be your guy."
I can't wait to see what's in store with the future couples. Especially with a certain wounded military man and NYPD officer. Bring it boys!
February 4, 2015
What a great little book. There's something to be said for authors who manage to write a full story in a short number of pages. Kudos for Ms. Gasq-Dion.
This story centers around Casper, who is still getting over a tragic loss, and Slater, the cocky ranger who wants him.
What I loved:
*The emails/messages. I am a total sucker for any kind of text messages/emails/skype sessions. Love great banter between characters.
*This was a low angst, easy read. Very enjoyable.
*The main and secondary characters were awesome. I fell in love with them.
*Steamy
*Nice story flow
What I didn't love:
*There really wasn't anything that stuck out as bad for me.
I also want to note that I read the first book in the series, skipped the second book, and I didn't feel like I missed out on anything.
All in all I definitely recommend this one and I can't wait to read Ramos & Tiernan's book. 4.25 Solid Stars ♥
January 29, 2016
4 Stars
This was by far the best of this series, so far, at least for me. I think the first two were a little iffy, this story seemed to have a lot more substance, it's still a novella so it's a quick read and parts still felt a bit rushed, but I really enjoyed Casper and Slater.
This was by far the best of this series, so far, at least for me. I think the first two were a little iffy, this story seemed to have a lot more substance, it's still a novella so it's a quick read and parts still felt a bit rushed, but I really enjoyed Casper and Slater.
May 17, 2014
Updated May 16, 2016: Wow, great ratings for this book! I'm glad, but I need to add this one to my everyone liked it but me shelf. I'm glad for the book, but bummed out for me! This really should have been a book I liked. I'll have to tuck this one away for another day.
This is the third in the Men of Manhattan series by Sandrine Gasq-Dion. I read the first book A Betting Man and enjoyed it, but not enough to read the second book A Marrying Man. The reason I decided to read this book was because of the military component.
The book started out fine, with cool, collected Casper Kennedy successfully avoiding über charming Army Ranger Slater Cassidy's many attempts to woo him. The back-and-forth was light and fun and set the book up to be a light and fun read. But then the tables turned and shit got real and serious and I just wasn't prepared for it with these characters. Maybe if I had known going in I would have felt differently because I'm a big hurt/comfort junkie, but this book just didn't work for me as it was presented.
If you can handle the big change in character personalities mid-way through the book, I can recommend this one if you enjoy military and hurt/comfort angst. Otherwise, I'd look elsewhere.
January 24, 2015
I loved this one. Casper made me cry for his lost of his loved one in war. I always have weakness for military men, especially who's struggle to heal and their loved ones who's losing them at war.
Casper lost a man he loved once in war, and he's kind of restrained from Slater's attention. But I'm glad Slater is a stubborn man, and patient, even at the end of the last chapters, I wanted to smack his head so hard, but I loved him, still.
The story was a little too short for me, I need to 'meet' them again in the next book.
I just can't wait to 'see' what will happen to Tiernan and Ramos, the 'sergeant fuck off'... *grins*. they're kinda hilarious!
Headed to book 4.
July 22, 2016
3.5 stars
I liked this one better than book 2, but not as well as book 1. Casper and Slater worked together, although I wanted more snark from Casper and more tough-guy from Slater. This is a fun, enjoyable series, even if all the books feel a bit rushed.
I liked this one better than book 2, but not as well as book 1. Casper and Slater worked together, although I wanted more snark from Casper and more tough-guy from Slater. This is a fun, enjoyable series, even if all the books feel a bit rushed.
October 1, 2016
Overall book rating: 4 amazing stars
Audio book: n/a
Book cover: 3 stars
MC1: Slater
MC2: Casper
This book was a basket with a small amount of words, but with big impact!! It amaze me how some writers can say so much with so little words and make you feel all the emotions. Well this was one of those jewels for me.
I absolutely loved this book.
I loved the characters.
I loved the funny banter.
I loved the funny stuff Slater did.
I loved the story line.
I loved the sadness I felt while reading it.
I loved the way it made me cry.
I loved the way it made me smile.
I loved Casper and I loved Slater.
OK enough about all the things I loved lol. This was I think my favorite book in this series as far. I really wondered how the hell I am going to like Slater after meeting him in book 2, he was an arrogant asshat and a player - he was that guy your mother warned you about you know? That guy you would never ever take home.... I was pleasantly surprised by how much I turned out to love the guy. I loved the singing telegrams and stripper he sent to Casper.
Casper the sexy ghost well he just clime in my heart and I just wanted to hold him. After everything he went through to fall in love with another Military guy. I loved how strong he actually was in handling all the shit. (He made me think of these words from a song by Jana kramer - Love)
"I still believe in fairy tales
I still believe in picking flowers
I still believe in getting lost in someone's eyes
I still believe in shooting stars
And butterflies you get
right before you kiss for the very first time
Love, how many times can a heart break?
Love, how much weight can a soul take?
Love, I don't know where you ran off to
But love, love, I still believe in you.
...."
This book had me lying on the floor with laughter and curled up with tears flowing down my cheeks
Audio book: n/a
Book cover: 3 stars
MC1: Slater
MC2: Casper
This book was a basket with a small amount of words, but with big impact!! It amaze me how some writers can say so much with so little words and make you feel all the emotions. Well this was one of those jewels for me.
I absolutely loved this book.
I loved the characters.
I loved the funny banter.
I loved the funny stuff Slater did.
I loved the story line.
I loved the sadness I felt while reading it.
I loved the way it made me cry.
I loved the way it made me smile.
I loved Casper and I loved Slater.
OK enough about all the things I loved lol. This was I think my favorite book in this series as far. I really wondered how the hell I am going to like Slater after meeting him in book 2, he was an arrogant asshat and a player - he was that guy your mother warned you about you know? That guy you would never ever take home.... I was pleasantly surprised by how much I turned out to love the guy. I loved the singing telegrams and stripper he sent to Casper.
Casper the sexy ghost well he just clime in my heart and I just wanted to hold him. After everything he went through to fall in love with another Military guy. I loved how strong he actually was in handling all the shit. (He made me think of these words from a song by Jana kramer - Love)
"I still believe in fairy tales
I still believe in picking flowers
I still believe in getting lost in someone's eyes
I still believe in shooting stars
And butterflies you get
right before you kiss for the very first time
Love, how many times can a heart break?
Love, how much weight can a soul take?
Love, I don't know where you ran off to
But love, love, I still believe in you.
...."
This book had me lying on the floor with laughter and curled up with tears flowing down my cheeks
February 15, 2015
3.5 Stars
A Fighting Man started out really strong for me. I like both MC's, I loved Slater's tenaciousness and Casper's snarkiness. I thought they were pretty well matched. The ending was rather anticlimatic, though. I wasn't left with that "yay!" feeling when I was done. I did like it better than book two, though.
A Fighting Man started out really strong for me. I like both MC's, I loved Slater's tenaciousness and Casper's snarkiness. I thought they were pretty well matched. The ending was rather anticlimatic, though. I wasn't left with that "yay!" feeling when I was done. I did like it better than book two, though.
April 27, 2017
4.5 stars!
I actually enjoyed this book a lot more than the first one - and I really liked the first book. Casper and Slater made me have butterflies in my stomach, a constant goofy smile, and totally made me swoon with their words.
Slater pursued Casper with a passion that I haven't read in many books, until he broke down Casper's walls. Their interactions were hilarious and them together was like an explosion of chemistry.
Their personalities and banter really drew me into their story and although it was rushed at some points, it was still a very enjoyable read. I love me some military/cops romance so if that is one of your weakness' you will definitely enjoy this book!
"Life is full of what ifs, don't be the 'I should have'. Be the 'I did'."
I actually enjoyed this book a lot more than the first one - and I really liked the first book. Casper and Slater made me have butterflies in my stomach, a constant goofy smile, and totally made me swoon with their words.
Slater pursued Casper with a passion that I haven't read in many books, until he broke down Casper's walls. Their interactions were hilarious and them together was like an explosion of chemistry.
At some point he had gone from major annoyance to the most important person in my life.
Their personalities and banter really drew me into their story and although it was rushed at some points, it was still a very enjoyable read. I love me some military/cops romance so if that is one of your weakness' you will definitely enjoy this book!
September 23, 2016
*** Slater Cassidy, Army Ranger, has set his sights on Casper Kennedy. ***
Problem; Casper wants nothing to do with a military man. These awesome characters are a joy to read about.
We get to watch Slater
give his full court press to woo Casper,
and it's funny, sweet, and loving. We learn their past life challenges and become more enamored of these men. Casper needs Slater; he just fights it, and there's a good reason. Casper's hesitance hangs over him, but Slater is "all in". A modeling contract is on the table. There are amazing people who surround them, and we see the value in each man,
and a glimpse of how great they will be together.
Adversity knocks on their door, Slater lashes out, Casper is devastated, but Casper is imbedded in Slater's heart and vice versa. This is my first, but not last, story by Sandrine Gasq-Dion.
I loved the writing style, and easy flow as I read this beautiful, funny, heartwarming book.
I already have the next book queued up and ready to read. This well written story really impressed me. Awesome characters, super sexiness and a riveting plot.
Highly recommended. ENJOY !
============================
Problem; Casper wants nothing to do with a military man. These awesome characters are a joy to read about.
We get to watch Slater
give his full court press to woo Casper,
and it's funny, sweet, and loving. We learn their past life challenges and become more enamored of these men. Casper needs Slater; he just fights it, and there's a good reason. Casper's hesitance hangs over him, but Slater is "all in". A modeling contract is on the table. There are amazing people who surround them, and we see the value in each man,
and a glimpse of how great they will be together.
Adversity knocks on their door, Slater lashes out, Casper is devastated, but Casper is imbedded in Slater's heart and vice versa. This is my first, but not last, story by Sandrine Gasq-Dion.
I loved the writing style, and easy flow as I read this beautiful, funny, heartwarming book.
I already have the next book queued up and ready to read. This well written story really impressed me. Awesome characters, super sexiness and a riveting plot.
Highly recommended. ENJOY !
============================
did-not-finish
October 4, 2023DNF @ 19%. No rating.
This is one of those cases where I completely misinterpreted the tone of the summary and I didn't realize it was a rom-com. Everything about it seemed serious - it's a military romance with one MC (Slater) being deployed for part of the book, one MC (Casper) is grieving for a deceased lover who was also military, and Slater is the sunshine one while Casper is the grump. None of this screamed rom-com to me. But after realizing that's what it is and re-reading the blurb, I realized the author meant for readers to interpret the whole thing as innuendo rather than my straight-forward interpretation.
How did I know it was a rom-com? There were many clues. Such as Casper literally banging his head on his desk out of frustration. Such as Casper enthusiastically explaining to readers that his friend is addicted to Twinkies, as if that's important. Such as Casper literally saying 'ugh'. Then there's the scene where Slater hires a male stripper to come to Casper's work and the stripper whips his cock around while Casper's colleagues and boss think the situation is hilarious.
The other rom-com aspect was the weird 'courtship' between the MCs. They met 6 months before at a gathering and Slater decided that he was going to get together with Casper, despite Casper not giving Slater any indication that he was interested. What followed was 6 months of Slater outright stalking and harassing the guy. He used his military connections to get Casper's private contact info and he harassed him through every possible contact method. Casper constantly tells him that he's not interested and for Slater to leave him alone. Casper even threatens to get a restraining order. So I was pretty creeped out when this whole thing was introduced, especially when all other characters keep telling Casper to give in to Slater because Slater won't stop until he's gotten into Casper's pants. But then we learn that Casper actually likes Slater's stalkerish behavior and when Casper keeps saying no, it actually means yes. This added a childish vibe to the entire thing and made the rom-com nature of the story very apparent.
Everything listed above is standard for rom-coms, which is why I'm not rating the story. But I have to mention that the author did an atrociously bad job at incorporating past information properly. Every introduced character immediately gets an accompanying info dump telling readers their life story and what (presumably) happened in previous books (which I didn't read so I'm not holding that against the author). The problem is that most of this info isn't relevant to the story at that point and also, the info dumping is done in a very awkward way. For example, Casper goes home, opens a drawer where he finds a picture of his deceased lover, he immediately starts crying as the author info dumps about the sad history of Casper losing his military lover while the latter was deployed. As soon as the info dump is over, Casper stops crying, puts away the picture and goes back to obsessing over Slater. It was ridiculous.
The rushed pace wasn't only restricted to info dumping. There's a pretty serious combat scene during Slater's deployment but the entire thing is written in such a rushed, emotionless way that I felt nothing. Bombing starts, everybody grabs guns and runs outside, there's lots of shooting, there are lots of dead people around, then the bombing ends and everybody goes back inside and Slater goes back to thinking about Casper.
If somebody's a fan of rom-coms, they'll probably enjoy this but because I was looking for a serious military romance, this wasn't for me.
This is one of those cases where I completely misinterpreted the tone of the summary and I didn't realize it was a rom-com. Everything about it seemed serious - it's a military romance with one MC (Slater) being deployed for part of the book, one MC (Casper) is grieving for a deceased lover who was also military, and Slater is the sunshine one while Casper is the grump. None of this screamed rom-com to me. But after realizing that's what it is and re-reading the blurb, I realized the author meant for readers to interpret the whole thing as innuendo rather than my straight-forward interpretation.
How did I know it was a rom-com? There were many clues. Such as Casper literally banging his head on his desk out of frustration. Such as Casper enthusiastically explaining to readers that his friend is addicted to Twinkies, as if that's important. Such as Casper literally saying 'ugh'. Then there's the scene where Slater hires a male stripper to come to Casper's work and the stripper whips his cock around while Casper's colleagues and boss think the situation is hilarious.
The other rom-com aspect was the weird 'courtship' between the MCs. They met 6 months before at a gathering and Slater decided that he was going to get together with Casper, despite Casper not giving Slater any indication that he was interested. What followed was 6 months of Slater outright stalking and harassing the guy. He used his military connections to get Casper's private contact info and he harassed him through every possible contact method. Casper constantly tells him that he's not interested and for Slater to leave him alone. Casper even threatens to get a restraining order. So I was pretty creeped out when this whole thing was introduced, especially when all other characters keep telling Casper to give in to Slater because Slater won't stop until he's gotten into Casper's pants. But then we learn that Casper actually likes Slater's stalkerish behavior and when Casper keeps saying no, it actually means yes. This added a childish vibe to the entire thing and made the rom-com nature of the story very apparent.
Everything listed above is standard for rom-coms, which is why I'm not rating the story. But I have to mention that the author did an atrociously bad job at incorporating past information properly. Every introduced character immediately gets an accompanying info dump telling readers their life story and what (presumably) happened in previous books (which I didn't read so I'm not holding that against the author). The problem is that most of this info isn't relevant to the story at that point and also, the info dumping is done in a very awkward way. For example, Casper goes home, opens a drawer where he finds a picture of his deceased lover, he immediately starts crying as the author info dumps about the sad history of Casper losing his military lover while the latter was deployed. As soon as the info dump is over, Casper stops crying, puts away the picture and goes back to obsessing over Slater. It was ridiculous.
The rushed pace wasn't only restricted to info dumping. There's a pretty serious combat scene during Slater's deployment but the entire thing is written in such a rushed, emotionless way that I felt nothing. Bombing starts, everybody grabs guns and runs outside, there's lots of shooting, there are lots of dead people around, then the bombing ends and everybody goes back inside and Slater goes back to thinking about Casper.
If somebody's a fan of rom-coms, they'll probably enjoy this but because I was looking for a serious military romance, this wasn't for me.
February 13, 2015
OMFG.....I love this series...I'm addicted.....!!!
Slater, smart arsed, full of wit and snark and just so damn lickable! Casper, bless him....sure gives Slater a run for his money!!
There was a little more drama in this story, with both Casper's previous relationship and Slater's military posting. It was a heart aching few chapters when Slater was in the hospital....but big brother saves the day with the mad airport dash!!
Finishes on a HFN, but it was a sweet satisfying close. Now onto the next book!!! Recommended.
Slater, smart arsed, full of wit and snark and just so damn lickable! Casper, bless him....sure gives Slater a run for his money!!
There was a little more drama in this story, with both Casper's previous relationship and Slater's military posting. It was a heart aching few chapters when Slater was in the hospital....but big brother saves the day with the mad airport dash!!
Finishes on a HFN, but it was a sweet satisfying close. Now onto the next book!!! Recommended.
May 15, 2014
5 Stars!!!
This book was awesome, it was the perfect mix of funny, sad and romance. I would have to say this was my favorite book of this series and I can't wait for the next book. I would most definitely recommend this book.
This book was awesome, it was the perfect mix of funny, sad and romance. I would have to say this was my favorite book of this series and I can't wait for the next book. I would most definitely recommend this book.
February 19, 2015
Casper Kennedy + Slater Cassidy
Set: NY
REVIEW @Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words
A Fighting Man is the third book in the Men of Manhattan series. You can’t help but love this series. These books are all well written and the characters (main and second ones) are so enjoyable and well depicted, I had the feeling of knowing them forever.
Casper Kennedy is a 25-year old administrative assistant. He lost his lover, Mason, three years ago, they were engaged when Mason died in the field. He’s still missing Mason badly, so it’s hard to him to fall for the stubborn Sergeant that has his eyes on Casper.
Slater Cassidy is an Army Ranger in Afghanistan, and from the first time he saw Casper, he knew he had to have the man. Now is coming home on leave for a month. Can it be enough to conquer Casper? He will try everything, from sending him a fake police officer to made a striptease, to a serenade with the Casper film’s theme song.
After losing Mason, Carter is afraid to fall in love again, specially with a military guy, but thanks to an ad campaign and a little jealousy, Slater is slowly making his way into Casper’s life. Will Casper surrender to Slater?
As I already said at the start on this review I really loved this book. First of all it’s a funny and easy reading, I particularly liked the dialogue parts, they were fast paced and entertaining. The double POV use is my fave, cause I need to know what goes through my characters’ mind and in this case, seeing them both struggle with their feeling till almost the end and overcome their fears was heartbreaking and hard to watch without being able to hug and reassure them, but so worth it.
Some parts were really emotional, I’m thinking for example at the family aspect in this story. I ached for Casper, he was very unlucky with families. His parents don’t speak with him since he came out, Mason’s family didn’t even let him know Mason was dead. Finally he has found a new family in Slater’s mum, Raquel,(she rocks!) and in Blaine and Spencer.
There’s a great support cast, funny and strong as Casper and Slater. I can see more couple in the future books.
Highly recommended!
Cover artist by Wilde City Press. Nothing special in this cover and all the others in this series. They are nice to look at but nothing more.
Set: NY
REVIEW @Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words
A Fighting Man is the third book in the Men of Manhattan series. You can’t help but love this series. These books are all well written and the characters (main and second ones) are so enjoyable and well depicted, I had the feeling of knowing them forever.
Casper Kennedy is a 25-year old administrative assistant. He lost his lover, Mason, three years ago, they were engaged when Mason died in the field. He’s still missing Mason badly, so it’s hard to him to fall for the stubborn Sergeant that has his eyes on Casper.
Slater Cassidy is an Army Ranger in Afghanistan, and from the first time he saw Casper, he knew he had to have the man. Now is coming home on leave for a month. Can it be enough to conquer Casper? He will try everything, from sending him a fake police officer to made a striptease, to a serenade with the Casper film’s theme song.
After losing Mason, Carter is afraid to fall in love again, specially with a military guy, but thanks to an ad campaign and a little jealousy, Slater is slowly making his way into Casper’s life. Will Casper surrender to Slater?
As I already said at the start on this review I really loved this book. First of all it’s a funny and easy reading, I particularly liked the dialogue parts, they were fast paced and entertaining. The double POV use is my fave, cause I need to know what goes through my characters’ mind and in this case, seeing them both struggle with their feeling till almost the end and overcome their fears was heartbreaking and hard to watch without being able to hug and reassure them, but so worth it.
Some parts were really emotional, I’m thinking for example at the family aspect in this story. I ached for Casper, he was very unlucky with families. His parents don’t speak with him since he came out, Mason’s family didn’t even let him know Mason was dead. Finally he has found a new family in Slater’s mum, Raquel,(she rocks!) and in Blaine and Spencer.
There’s a great support cast, funny and strong as Casper and Slater. I can see more couple in the future books.
Highly recommended!
Cover artist by Wilde City Press. Nothing special in this cover and all the others in this series. They are nice to look at but nothing more.
May 19, 2014
A Fighting Man is book three in Sadrine Gasq-Dion's Men of Manhattan series. This was a cute, sweet little novella. It is short enough to read in one sitting and low angst enough to enjoy regardless of my frame of mind at the time. There is a little angst, can't have a romance novella without it; just not enough to bring me down.
As a sequel, it was good to catch up with the characters in the previous two books. One of the main characters in A Fighting Man is the brother of one of the main characters in A Marrying Man. Slater Cassidy and Casper Kennedy actually met in the previous book, but this is their entire story.
Since Slater laid eyes on Casper, he has wanted him. He is an Army Ranger on deployment in Afghanistan, but that doesn't stop him from pursuing Casper relentlessly. He tries everything from flowers to a strip-o-gram to win Casper's affections.
Casper has suffered a deeply painful loss in his past. One that has made him determined to close off his heart, especially to a soldier. He has to admit that he finds Slater almost irresistible. He is front and center in many of Casper's solitary fantasies.
Both of these characters are funny, sexy, smart, and my personal favorite, sarcastic wise-asses. Ms. Gasq-Dion has written some very funny, fast paced dialogue between the two men and also the supporting characters in this story.
A tragedy occurs that brings up painful memories and feelings for Casper and brings out the worst in Slater. Watching them both struggle to overcome their emotional and physical hurdles was a really good read. In a book like this, you kind of know how it is going to end, but getting there was great fun this time around.
A few secondary characters that we meet in A Fighting Man are prime candidates for books of their own. I could see another couple of books in this series. I will be one of the first on line to buy them if they come about. The Men of Manhattan are an enjoyable lot and I hope to read more of them.
As a sequel, it was good to catch up with the characters in the previous two books. One of the main characters in A Fighting Man is the brother of one of the main characters in A Marrying Man. Slater Cassidy and Casper Kennedy actually met in the previous book, but this is their entire story.
Since Slater laid eyes on Casper, he has wanted him. He is an Army Ranger on deployment in Afghanistan, but that doesn't stop him from pursuing Casper relentlessly. He tries everything from flowers to a strip-o-gram to win Casper's affections.
Casper has suffered a deeply painful loss in his past. One that has made him determined to close off his heart, especially to a soldier. He has to admit that he finds Slater almost irresistible. He is front and center in many of Casper's solitary fantasies.
Both of these characters are funny, sexy, smart, and my personal favorite, sarcastic wise-asses. Ms. Gasq-Dion has written some very funny, fast paced dialogue between the two men and also the supporting characters in this story.
A tragedy occurs that brings up painful memories and feelings for Casper and brings out the worst in Slater. Watching them both struggle to overcome their emotional and physical hurdles was a really good read. In a book like this, you kind of know how it is going to end, but getting there was great fun this time around.
A few secondary characters that we meet in A Fighting Man are prime candidates for books of their own. I could see another couple of books in this series. I will be one of the first on line to buy them if they come about. The Men of Manhattan are an enjoyable lot and I hope to read more of them.
May 19, 2014
I love this series. It gets better and better. This one is about Slater, Spencer's brother and Casper, Blaine's assistant. Slater is an active duty Ranger on a tour to Afghanistan. He has been attracted to Casper since January or the last book. To Casper, he is "hot", aggressive, cocky, and annoyingly charming man, but his "past" relationship that ended in "heartbreak" makes him want to stay away.
Slater continues to pursues Casper even though he is adamant in his "NO" answer. Slater is "on leave" for 30 days and is on the quest for "Casper" the friendly ghost. Through funny and very touching moments, Casper and Slater finally get together. Slater, previous "player" and skiddish Casper seem to be the perfect fit until Casper's worst nightmare becomes a reality.
I shed a few tears several times in this book and laughed a lot. The author does a wonderful job with the characters. You cannot help but fall in love with both of them. Slater truly grows on you and everyone should have a "friendly ghost named Casper". We get to see Spencer and Blaine, but no signs of Kent and Terry. It is a great weekend or evening quick read. It kept me interested from the beginning to the end. I have to say I did not like the last page of the book. I wanted more to the story "a more descriptive epilogue". I think we fall for these characters and want a snapshot further down the road unless there is another book. I wanted "more" always more, but I guess a book has to end sometimes. Read it, you will not be disappointed!
Slater continues to pursues Casper even though he is adamant in his "NO" answer. Slater is "on leave" for 30 days and is on the quest for "Casper" the friendly ghost. Through funny and very touching moments, Casper and Slater finally get together. Slater, previous "player" and skiddish Casper seem to be the perfect fit until Casper's worst nightmare becomes a reality.
I shed a few tears several times in this book and laughed a lot. The author does a wonderful job with the characters. You cannot help but fall in love with both of them. Slater truly grows on you and everyone should have a "friendly ghost named Casper". We get to see Spencer and Blaine, but no signs of Kent and Terry. It is a great weekend or evening quick read. It kept me interested from the beginning to the end. I have to say I did not like the last page of the book. I wanted more to the story "a more descriptive epilogue". I think we fall for these characters and want a snapshot further down the road unless there is another book. I wanted "more" always more, but I guess a book has to end sometimes. Read it, you will not be disappointed!
December 17, 2014
I have really enjoyed this series. This book is no exception. We met the MCs previously in the series... Casper left his unaccepting family for the big city... Slater is a full-of-life, over-the-top, bisexual Army Ranger with a family that accepts him as he is. He wants what he wants, and he wants Casper... and of course, Casper wants nothing to do with him. But Slater is like a dog with a bone. Sending him emails, online chatting when on leave... but Casper is just trying to get an advertising campaign together.
This is a fun relationship to watch, especially Slater's antics trying to win Casper over. But we also why Casper is so hesitant to get involved with anyone military... and this shows us another side to Slater. We see the relationship grow, and at some point, a switch is flipped... Slater finally wears Casper down. But then tragedy happens and we see Slater at his worst... which lets us see him at his best...
This is a fun relationship to watch, especially Slater's antics trying to win Casper over. But we also why Casper is so hesitant to get involved with anyone military... and this shows us another side to Slater. We see the relationship grow, and at some point, a switch is flipped... Slater finally wears Casper down. But then tragedy happens and we see Slater at his worst... which lets us see him at his best...
July 6, 2014
I am loving this series. I would read the next one right away if it were available. I was awfully impressed with Slater's maturity in this one. Well, most of the book anyways. And I've loved Casper the ghost boy since we met him in the previous books. My heart ached for both of these guys in this book and I'll admit to getting a little weepy in parts. Slater has the bestest family. I want them!! I'm hoping Casper's workout buddy and boss are the next book (I can't remember their names)! Bring it!!
August 7, 2016
Another good book in the series.
Casper is still trying to fight off the unwelcome advances of Slater Cassidy, a ranger. He had been there with military men and he wasn't going there again.
Slater however wears him down and the two get together.
After being home on leave for a month, Slater goes back to Afghanistan only to be injured .
From therre the relationship between the teo men hits the skids.
Loved the secondary characters in the book and was happy that Casper and S
Ater get their HEA.
Casper is still trying to fight off the unwelcome advances of Slater Cassidy, a ranger. He had been there with military men and he wasn't going there again.
Slater however wears him down and the two get together.
After being home on leave for a month, Slater goes back to Afghanistan only to be injured .
From therre the relationship between the teo men hits the skids.
Loved the secondary characters in the book and was happy that Casper and S
Ater get their HEA.
May 8, 2014
Brilliant! Loved it, for some reason I thought this was the last in the series but there needs to be more! So many characters, particularly Ramos, Slater's friend, are just amazing. I am constantly amazed by Sandy' s writing how she blends fun and laughter with hardship and tragedy, at the silly schoolboy moments that you just know have to be genuine anecdotes, it all adds up to a fantastic read :-)
November 29, 2014
I love this series.They are fast paced full of witty banters and adorable couples.Till now Army Ranger Slater Cassidy is my favorite,the way he persistently goes after Casper,the gorgeous, smart, uber-snarky who wears some seriously strong armor when it comes to army men was highly entertaining to read.
The story was fun filled so the cynic in me waited for the other shoe to drop and tragedy to strike and it did but that much can be overcome.Highly recommended series.
The story was fun filled so the cynic in me waited for the other shoe to drop and tragedy to strike and it did but that much can be overcome.Highly recommended series.
November 4, 2019
4.5 stars
Perhaps my favorite book of the series so far, probably because it had a touch of drama that the others lacked. I'm falling in love with this author's style!
Re-read Nov 2019
Well, I didn't like it as much as I did the first time, probably because I don't much care for angsty books nowadays. Anyway, it was a very nice book, and I will continue rereading the series :)
Perhaps my favorite book of the series so far, probably because it had a touch of drama that the others lacked. I'm falling in love with this author's style!
Re-read Nov 2019
Well, I didn't like it as much as I did the first time, probably because I don't much care for angsty books nowadays. Anyway, it was a very nice book, and I will continue rereading the series :)
May 7, 2014
I love this series. this one was a bit of a tear jerker but sweet all the same.
I hope Drakon and Matthew are next!
I hope Drakon and Matthew are next!
May 14, 2014
This is my favorite book in this series, I loved, loved, loved these guys!! I'm totally looking forward to reading more about these fine men and all their family and friends.
September 21, 2023
MAJOR SPOILERS
This story lost its first star because of the love bombing. I know it was meant to show how determined Slater was to get Casper, but in real life persisting to pursue someone after multiple “No’s” is a big red flag. Slater later says he wouldn’t have pushed so hard even he had known Casper’s reason for saying no, but that’s no excuse. Calling someone’s boss to ask if it’s okay to send a stripper to their office? No. Immediately no. Another star was lost because everyone around Casper pressing him to just be ok and overlook said love bombing because “clearly he’s interested” and “I see how you look at him”. Casper hadn’t shared his backstory with anyone and he shouldn’t have to. Pressuring, scheming and conniving to get Casper together with Slater wouldn’t be okay (with me) in real life so definitely not in a book. And then of course, Casper is suddenly smitten.
Finally, I don’t care what anyone says about how soldiers lash out when they’re injured and emotionally hurting. There is no way on God’s green earth that I would’ve forgiven Slater for the things he said to Casper, and in front of other people? Oh h*** no. No, nope, no way, no how. Nein. Honestly I was already forcing myself to finish after the first 2 lost stars, but this last part had me crying and then rushing to finish. And I read the synopses for Books 5 & 6. Having Ramos and Ryan fall for 2 suddenly reformed homophobes? I hate those tropes.
This story lost its first star because of the love bombing. I know it was meant to show how determined Slater was to get Casper, but in real life persisting to pursue someone after multiple “No’s” is a big red flag. Slater later says he wouldn’t have pushed so hard even he had known Casper’s reason for saying no, but that’s no excuse. Calling someone’s boss to ask if it’s okay to send a stripper to their office? No. Immediately no. Another star was lost because everyone around Casper pressing him to just be ok and overlook said love bombing because “clearly he’s interested” and “I see how you look at him”. Casper hadn’t shared his backstory with anyone and he shouldn’t have to. Pressuring, scheming and conniving to get Casper together with Slater wouldn’t be okay (with me) in real life so definitely not in a book. And then of course, Casper is suddenly smitten.
Finally, I don’t care what anyone says about how soldiers lash out when they’re injured and emotionally hurting. There is no way on God’s green earth that I would’ve forgiven Slater for the things he said to Casper, and in front of other people? Oh h*** no. No, nope, no way, no how. Nein. Honestly I was already forcing myself to finish after the first 2 lost stars, but this last part had me crying and then rushing to finish. And I read the synopses for Books 5 & 6. Having Ramos and Ryan fall for 2 suddenly reformed homophobes? I hate those tropes.
October 31, 2019
De esta serie este ha resultado el mas divertido, aqui vemos la historia de Slater y Casper, y como Slater hace las mil y una extravagancias para que Casper le permita salir en una cita.
Las locuras de Slater mas las tonterias que le responde Casper, hace de esta lectura una muy entretenida.
Pero ademas de lo gracioso hay un transfondo dramatico, cuando muestran el lado peligroso de los soldados en Irak y del sufrimiento y angustia de sus familiares en casa, como el intento de mantener ambas vidas separadas puede no ser lo mejor en este caso.
Muy recomendable para pasar el rato, y muy divertidas las bromas e interacciones, como para pasar un dia aburrido en el que no quieres pensar en nada.
Las locuras de Slater mas las tonterias que le responde Casper, hace de esta lectura una muy entretenida.
Pero ademas de lo gracioso hay un transfondo dramatico, cuando muestran el lado peligroso de los soldados en Irak y del sufrimiento y angustia de sus familiares en casa, como el intento de mantener ambas vidas separadas puede no ser lo mejor en este caso.
Muy recomendable para pasar el rato, y muy divertidas las bromas e interacciones, como para pasar un dia aburrido en el que no quieres pensar en nada.
March 25, 2017
I loved Slater and Casper! Slater cracked me up from the first time we met him. Oh man this book had me in tears at one point so bad I couldn't see to continue reading. When Casper tries to be there for Slater and he is basically rejected I almost died. Really great book and I hope Ramos is in another book or has a story of his own lol.
August 28, 2019
Since I was first introduced to Slater, I was excited to get his story. His unapologetic, in-your-face character was intriguing. This novel was deeper than the first 2. In my opinion, this was the best of the series. It's going into my RE-READ pile for sursies!
February 5, 2020
Esta historia es realmente hilarante. Slater es un chico bastante peculiar y con un mente loca. Carter al haber sufrido anteriormente ha logrado sobrellevar su miedo a ser pareja de un soldado y la mezcla entre ellos dos es grandiosa. He amado a estos chicos y los telegramas cantados.
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