What do you think?
Rate this book
Men of Manhattan #5
A Healing Man
Dario Ramos thought he’d left the fighting behind in the war zone when a life-threatening injury sent him home. But a certain Irishman crossing his path everywhere he went convinced him that his biggest battle might be ahead. Tiernan Callahan is a bigoted jerk. Ramos finds himself constantly in the man’s orbit, even in a city as big as New York. The wounded warrior knows all about pain and loss — and that sometimes anger is the only form of release. When Tiernan once again crowds Ramos’ space, his eyes are opened to the possibility of other forms of release.
Tough NYC cop Tiernan Callahan is still mourning the death of his beloved youngest brother, Mason. Fearing his close-minded family’s reaction, the young soldier never got to tell them his secret — that he was gay and engaged to the love of his life. Tiernan is surviving on anger and guilt. When he continues to run into Dario Ramos, who continues to push his buttons, something inside him snaps. Suddenly, anger isn’t the only emotion he feels.
Two very different men, still trying to Can they come to an understanding and heal each other?
Tough NYC cop Tiernan Callahan is still mourning the death of his beloved youngest brother, Mason. Fearing his close-minded family’s reaction, the young soldier never got to tell them his secret — that he was gay and engaged to the love of his life. Tiernan is surviving on anger and guilt. When he continues to run into Dario Ramos, who continues to push his buttons, something inside him snaps. Suddenly, anger isn’t the only emotion he feels.
Two very different men, still trying to Can they come to an understanding and heal each other?
137 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 21, 2015
30 people are currently reading
486 people want to read
About the author
Sandrine Gasq-Dion
79 books1,346 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!
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 140 reviews
January 20, 2015
4.25 stars
This book was hilarious and exactly what I wanted: sweet, romantic fluff with a heavy dose of smex. DELICIOUS.
I’ve liked every book in this series, but this one might be my favorite.
I dig the enemies-to-lovers trope, and Dario Ramos and Tiernan Callahan are the ultimate I-hate-you-so-much-I want-to-fuck-you couple. Since we get both their first-person POVs, it’s easy to see the annoyance to lust turn.
Dario, a veteran cum model, doesn’t care about labels, never has. And Tiernan, who lives and breathes NYPD? Well, he has a few secrets of his own.
Maybe Tiernan’s conversion to total (and I mean, TOTAL) gay acceptance came too easily? Then again, we haven’t been in his head since his younger brother Mason (Casper’s fiancé) died.
Tiernan was terribly hurt and angry that Mason didn’t trust him enough to tell him he was gay and had an entire secret life to which Tiernan and their older brother Michael weren’t privy.
If you’ve read book 3 (this book really shouldn’t be read as a standalone), you’ll remember the Callahan brothers and their run-in with Slater, Casper’s boyfriend, at the cemetery. They came across as insufferable bigots.
But it turns out it’s their zealously religious mother’s who’s a hatemonger, and they were only trying to please her.
In this book, we get to know Tiernan much better. We learn more about his brother Michael and Ryan (Drakon’s friend from book 4); new characters, including Tiernan’s partner Danny and a sweet but lonely twink named Bobby, are introduced.
I want their stories. NOW.
We get a couple heart-pounding moments (a bit over-the-top, but I had my this-is-fucking-fiction shades on), and a lot of tenderness.
I loved Tiernan and Dario together. The gentleness Tiernan shows Dario, the way he SEES Dario, prosthetic leg and all, is lovely.
Plus, Dario’s mother is fucking awesome!
Also, the lovin’ was scorch-your-eyeballs-smokin’ HAWT!
We knew, Dario. We ALL KNEW.
This book was hilarious and exactly what I wanted: sweet, romantic fluff with a heavy dose of smex. DELICIOUS.
“Just tell me one thing. Is he exaggerating about his dick?”
I rubbed my jaw and then stretched my mouth wide open, rubbing my chin. “Damn, I’m sore.”
“Oh, fuck off!”
I’ve liked every book in this series, but this one might be my favorite.
I dig the enemies-to-lovers trope, and Dario Ramos and Tiernan Callahan are the ultimate I-hate-you-so-much-I want-to-fuck-you couple. Since we get both their first-person POVs, it’s easy to see the annoyance to lust turn.
Dario, a veteran cum model, doesn’t care about labels, never has. And Tiernan, who lives and breathes NYPD? Well, he has a few secrets of his own.
“What the hell is it about you?” I whispered, pulling him closer, my hands delving into the back of his jeans. Warm, taut flesh met my callused fingers and I groaned into Tiernan’s neck. “This is definitely homosexual behavior.”
Maybe Tiernan’s conversion to total (and I mean, TOTAL) gay acceptance came too easily? Then again, we haven’t been in his head since his younger brother Mason (Casper’s fiancé) died.
Tiernan was terribly hurt and angry that Mason didn’t trust him enough to tell him he was gay and had an entire secret life to which Tiernan and their older brother Michael weren’t privy.
If you’ve read book 3 (this book really shouldn’t be read as a standalone), you’ll remember the Callahan brothers and their run-in with Slater, Casper’s boyfriend, at the cemetery. They came across as insufferable bigots.
But it turns out it’s their zealously religious mother’s who’s a hatemonger, and they were only trying to please her.
In this book, we get to know Tiernan much better. We learn more about his brother Michael and Ryan (Drakon’s friend from book 4); new characters, including Tiernan’s partner Danny and a sweet but lonely twink named Bobby, are introduced.
I want their stories. NOW.
We get a couple heart-pounding moments (a bit over-the-top, but I had my this-is-fucking-fiction shades on), and a lot of tenderness.
I loved Tiernan and Dario together. The gentleness Tiernan shows Dario, the way he SEES Dario, prosthetic leg and all, is lovely.
Plus, Dario’s mother is fucking awesome!
Also, the lovin’ was scorch-your-eyeballs-smokin’ HAWT!
“Wow,” Tiernan rasped.
“I know! Who knew gay sex could be so hot?”
We knew, Dario. We ALL KNEW.
August 7, 2020
I really enjoyed this short and sexy little number ;)
I was a bit worried because I haven't read any of the other books....and for some reason, I just can't help myself and just jump into the ones I want to read first (I always do this).
But no worries because after reading a shit ton of reviews I knew what all the other books were about and I had no problems following the storyline ;)
This is a "gay for you"...but both men have been attracted to other men before.....so it also wasn't (hope you are still following what I'm trying to say). It's also a "enemies to lovers"...which I love !!
It was a little fast-paced, but it was also short, so it had to be fast...lol
I liked it and what I also really liked were the side-characters. I loved the MC's, but Danny and Dario's mom were awesome....and very funny :)
The steam was very nicely done and all the "gay" sex talk...laughed my ass off :))
4 stars from me
I was a bit worried because I haven't read any of the other books....and for some reason, I just can't help myself and just jump into the ones I want to read first (I always do this).
But no worries because after reading a shit ton of reviews I knew what all the other books were about and I had no problems following the storyline ;)
This is a "gay for you"...but both men have been attracted to other men before.....so it also wasn't (hope you are still following what I'm trying to say). It's also a "enemies to lovers"...which I love !!
It was a little fast-paced, but it was also short, so it had to be fast...lol
I liked it and what I also really liked were the side-characters. I loved the MC's, but Danny and Dario's mom were awesome....and very funny :)
The steam was very nicely done and all the "gay" sex talk...laughed my ass off :))
4 stars from me
February 7, 2015
This book-
I loved everything about it! It had it all.
-Humor ✔
-Endearing moments. There's a passage in the book I really want to post but I won't because I think it's important to experience while reading the book- it was so touching and sweet. ✔
-Sexy times ✔
-AWESOME characters ✔
-Character growth ✔
-Great story flow ✔
-Low angst ✔
-Feel good ✔
There's nothing I would change about this story. Loved it to bits. 5 Stars!
Now I'll
October 1, 2016
*** Neither Ramos, wounded warrior who lost his lower leg,
nor Tiernan, a cop/hockey player,
has been with a man, but they "get" each other, and they are interested in discovering more. (almost Double GFY, they've each imagined). Teirnan's Irish blood gave him deeply red hair and a desire to protect and serve. After his brother, Mason, died overseas, they learned he had been in love with Casper and gay.
Now four years have past and Casper and Slater are together. Slater served with Ramos, whose aquamarine eyes,dark skin, tattoos and tallness are bringing feelings of attraction to Teirnan's core. Teirnan's life is changing. He has been assigned a new partner at work, a fellow cop who is gay, along with the revelation of Mason being gay has him re-thinking his thoughts on gayness.
He and his brother Michael, a firefighter, are learning lessons. Ramos is such a terrific character. He helps old friends, the Wounded Warriors, and loves his Mom. The whole series if full of heartwarming , witty, snarky and fun writing. We have first time M/M sex for each man; so great ! Hot, loving, beautiful.
Teirnan is not put off by Ramos's prosthetic leg, he's gentle and accepting.
The ending is magnificent and I look forward to more from this series and this author. It was a joy to read about the cop and the wounded warrior.
I highly recommend this awesome story!
=================================
nor Tiernan, a cop/hockey player,
has been with a man, but they "get" each other, and they are interested in discovering more. (almost Double GFY, they've each imagined). Teirnan's Irish blood gave him deeply red hair and a desire to protect and serve. After his brother, Mason, died overseas, they learned he had been in love with Casper and gay.
Now four years have past and Casper and Slater are together. Slater served with Ramos, whose aquamarine eyes,dark skin, tattoos and tallness are bringing feelings of attraction to Teirnan's core. Teirnan's life is changing. He has been assigned a new partner at work, a fellow cop who is gay, along with the revelation of Mason being gay has him re-thinking his thoughts on gayness.
He and his brother Michael, a firefighter, are learning lessons. Ramos is such a terrific character. He helps old friends, the Wounded Warriors, and loves his Mom. The whole series if full of heartwarming , witty, snarky and fun writing. We have first time M/M sex for each man; so great ! Hot, loving, beautiful.
Teirnan is not put off by Ramos's prosthetic leg, he's gentle and accepting.
The ending is magnificent and I look forward to more from this series and this author. It was a joy to read about the cop and the wounded warrior.
I highly recommend this awesome story!
=================================
September 12, 2016
This ended up being a really nice sweet, hot book. Recommended, and check out the shelves I put it on! Cops and military and healing/comfort. Warm and fuzzy too!
On to #6!
On to #6!
January 21, 2015
I totally loved the hell outta this book. I want more! I want Danny's story and maybe Michaels? I loved Ramos mama.
January 3, 2016
***4.25 Stars***
I think I have a new favorite in this series!
I may not have gotten as much of the enemies to lovers as I wanted, but you know what....
Tiernan Callahan, who we first met in A Fighting Man, is the NYPD homophobic brother of Casper's deceased fiance. In this book we discover that he's not actually homophobic at all, but a man struggling with betrayal, confusion and grief. He's dealing with a lot of misplaced anger regarding his brother's death and the deep pain he feels that his brother never felt comfortable enough to tell him he was gay....that he felt the need to live a completely separate life. Ultimately, his brother didn't have enough faith in Tiernan's love that he would love and support him, no matter what.
Dario Ramos is Slater's best friend and fellow Army Ranger. He was wounded in combat during his last deployment and lost half his leg during an enemy attack. He realizes how much worse his injury could be, and having known what it's like to hit rock bottom, he vows to live each day knowing how lucky he is to be alive. And now he finds himself constantly thinking about Tiernan Callahan. There's something about him that just gets under his skin. The man is stubborn, rude and the sexiest man he's ever seen.
Tiernan keeps running into Dario and that is not at all helping the fact that he already can't get the man off his mind. He was raised by a very strict and controlling Catholic mother and having any type of feelings towards the same sex will not be accepted or tolerated. Is this what his brother Mason felt? Did Mason die thinking his family would hate him if he came out?
Tiernan and Dario are two men destined to keep colliding and eventually sparks begin to fly. Neither man knows what to do with these new feelings, but one thing is for sure, the attraction and pull can no longer be denied. The two embark on a journey full of self-acceptance, forgiveness, honesty and love. They discover what it truly means to be free to be yourself and be fully accepted. Moments of pain and loss can lead to healing and acceptance.
I absolutely LOVED Tiernan and Dario together. Both men hid behind masks to keep the world from seeing their pain and vulnerability. Tiernan needed to accept his long ago buried attraction to men and Dario needed to feel whole again. He needed to feel like an equal, not less of a man because he was missing part of a limb.
Tiernan really changed my mind in this book. I was wondering how the author would redeem him after the way he treated Casper, but I understood his pain so much more. Tiernan and his brother Michael, were dealing with a lot of misguided anger and resentment regarding Mason's death. They both have a lot of love to give, however it was forced to be compartmentalized by a controlling mother. My heart broke for the Callahan brothers, but I'm so happy to see them come out of the other side happier and freer.
"I'm an asshole. I'm bi and I was a complete and utter jerk to Casper. My brother was too afraid to tell me who he really was and now I'll never get to tell him that I wouldn't have cared. I loved him no matter what or who he was."
"Come here."
"Dario?"
"Yes?"
"Thank you for seeing the real me."
"Thanks for showing me."
Even though the book dealt with heavy issues, it wasn't heavy or sad. There are so many lighter moments in here....many of those moments come thanks to Danny, Tiernan's new partner in the NYPD. We get lots of first time gay sex advice, plenty of great banter, a spunky Latina mother and even a proposal (I won't tell you who).
The book was engaging, addicting, funny, heartwarming, low on angst, high on love and filled with some damn good sex. Double cherry popping folks.....DOUBLE! I will say that I wish one of those cherry popping scenes wasn't as rushed, but I can't deny that I'm a greedy whore when it comes to that.
The author introduced us to a couple of new characters and gave some great teasing sneak peaks at what might be in store for some future couples. Two words....I'm salivating!
I've decided to give the last word to Danny....well, because I heart him hard.
"Guys, this is Dario. My boyfriend. Dario, the guys."
There were a few gasps and a few horrified looks, but for the most part, most of them nodded.
"If you have a problem with that, please take it up with the captain. I'm sure he'd love to hear from you."
"No one puts Baby in a corner," Danny chuckled.
October 4, 2016
Overall book rating: 4 Stars
Audio book: n/a
Book cover: 3.8
MC1: Dario Ramos
MC2: Tiernan Callahan
I was just bitching about the characters to my bestie the other day. I was like " How in the fucking hell must I like this bigot ashat after what he did to Casper?"
And then:
I really enjoyed this book it was funny, sweet and full of awesomeness. I had a soft spot for Dario Ramos and I was so scared this book was going to be mess, but well done I loved it so much.
Audio book: n/a
Book cover: 3.8
MC1: Dario Ramos
MC2: Tiernan Callahan
I was just bitching about the characters to my bestie the other day. I was like " How in the fucking hell must I like this bigot ashat after what he did to Casper?"
And then:
I really enjoyed this book it was funny, sweet and full of awesomeness. I had a soft spot for Dario Ramos and I was so scared this book was going to be mess, but well done I loved it so much.
January 29, 2015
These books are like crack, completely addictive.
They are fun and sexy. The characters and dialogue are wonderful, so they are the type of uncomplicated stories to be filed as comfort rereads.
And now I can't wait for Danny's story. Bring it on!
They are fun and sexy. The characters and dialogue are wonderful, so they are the type of uncomplicated stories to be filed as comfort rereads.
And now I can't wait for Danny's story. Bring it on!
December 27, 2015
4.25 Stars
My Favorite of the series!
My Favorite of the series!
January 24, 2015
"I'm an asshole. I'm bi and I was a complete and utter jerk to Casper. My brother was too afraid to tell me who he really was and now I'll never get to tell him that I wouldn't have cared. I loved him no matter what or who he was."
Wow. Who would’ve thought that a “hated*” character from this series would be able to redeem himself 360 degrees and be one of the most adorable and charming characters ever to come out from said series!?! I didn’t think it’s possible to like the bigoted Tiernan Callahan after what he and his family did to his brother’s fiancé but Sandrine was able to transform all those negatives into positives and made this stubborn Irishman fell for the equally stubborn “wounded warrior” Dario Ramos [Slater Cassidy’s best friend] no less! Yikes! It should have been a disaster from the start right? But nope people, it was actually a match made in heaven!
Dario Ramos is still recovering from his injury which sent him home from the war-zone he’s been trying to get over with. But there was another battle he’s got to face when he keeps on crossing path with the bigoted New York cop Tiernan Callahan.
Raised from a religious-family, Tiernan Callahan is still mourning the death of his younger brother who died without spilling his secret of being gay and being engaged with another man for fear of rejection from his family thus the guilt and anger he carries around. When he keeps on running into Dario Ramos, something inside him awaken.
Something’s gotta give between this two stubborn men and they also both need to heal in order to feel and understand each other…
When I first found out that there’ll be a fifth book and it’ll feature Ramos, I got all giddy because I loved this series and I loved Ramos!
I loved that he’s feisty and doesn’t take shit from anyone! I was a bit apprehensive though when the author mentioned that he’ll be coupled with one of the Callahan brothers (huh! the bigots who mistreated Casper, their brother’s fiancé!) – I effin’ hated them in the third book –but yeah, I guess they atleast have to grovel so hard in order to be at least likable.
Funny though because everything seemed to settle down with the Callahan brothers and they became these adorable twins in this book, like seriously, Miss Gasq-Dion – you’re killing me with all the feels here!
Out of all the books in the series, I think this one along with A Fighting Man (yay! What a coincidence!) are the most solid story-wise. I loved the chemistry between Dario and Tiernan, the low angst and the secondary characters that were introduced here! Oh Gawd!
Now, I cannot wait to have Danny and Bobby’s story [please write one for them] and of course, Michael and Ryan as well!
What else can I say about this book? It’s a signature Sandrine-Gasq Dion novel and it’s effin’ fabulous so go ahead and download it now!!!!!!!! Cmon’ whatchawaitinfor????!!!!
Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
Wow. Who would’ve thought that a “hated*” character from this series would be able to redeem himself 360 degrees and be one of the most adorable and charming characters ever to come out from said series!?! I didn’t think it’s possible to like the bigoted Tiernan Callahan after what he and his family did to his brother’s fiancé but Sandrine was able to transform all those negatives into positives and made this stubborn Irishman fell for the equally stubborn “wounded warrior” Dario Ramos [Slater Cassidy’s best friend] no less! Yikes! It should have been a disaster from the start right? But nope people, it was actually a match made in heaven!
Dario Ramos is still recovering from his injury which sent him home from the war-zone he’s been trying to get over with. But there was another battle he’s got to face when he keeps on crossing path with the bigoted New York cop Tiernan Callahan.
Raised from a religious-family, Tiernan Callahan is still mourning the death of his younger brother who died without spilling his secret of being gay and being engaged with another man for fear of rejection from his family thus the guilt and anger he carries around. When he keeps on running into Dario Ramos, something inside him awaken.
Something’s gotta give between this two stubborn men and they also both need to heal in order to feel and understand each other…
When I first found out that there’ll be a fifth book and it’ll feature Ramos, I got all giddy because I loved this series and I loved Ramos!
I loved that he’s feisty and doesn’t take shit from anyone! I was a bit apprehensive though when the author mentioned that he’ll be coupled with one of the Callahan brothers (huh! the bigots who mistreated Casper, their brother’s fiancé!) – I effin’ hated them in the third book –but yeah, I guess they atleast have to grovel so hard in order to be at least likable.
Funny though because everything seemed to settle down with the Callahan brothers and they became these adorable twins in this book, like seriously, Miss Gasq-Dion – you’re killing me with all the feels here!
Out of all the books in the series, I think this one along with A Fighting Man (yay! What a coincidence!) are the most solid story-wise. I loved the chemistry between Dario and Tiernan, the low angst and the secondary characters that were introduced here! Oh Gawd!
Now, I cannot wait to have Danny and Bobby’s story [please write one for them] and of course, Michael and Ryan as well!
What else can I say about this book? It’s a signature Sandrine-Gasq Dion novel and it’s effin’ fabulous so go ahead and download it now!!!!!!!! Cmon’ whatchawaitinfor????!!!!
Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
June 11, 2021
I feel so Disappointed. I saw the ratings and read the summary and was like, this is going to be good but what I got was a very rushed, no plot story that felt like it was Written by a 13 year old who has all these ideals about what having a boyfriend shd be like.
It was rushed. And it literally had nothing in it. Just a lot of instants where teirnan and Dario were attracted and bam love! U don't even know the fucking person but you want a relationship?
And what is it with the obsession with dick sizes? I get it. U all have humongous dicks. I fucking get it, now can we talk about something else?
The book was filled with useless chatter between characters who were literally talking like teenagers. Nobody talks like that at 30! Fuck that, even teenagers don't talk like that.
Oh my god. U getting banged.
Oh my god. I am getting banged.
Yaaayyyy
Wooaahhhh
That was literally the whole book.
At some point I just wanted to throw the book away. Every conversation felt like one of those ridiculous old school high school drama shit, meaning, immature.
If I keep going I'll just keep ranting till I just seem rude so I'm gonna stop here.
It was rushed. And it literally had nothing in it. Just a lot of instants where teirnan and Dario were attracted and bam love! U don't even know the fucking person but you want a relationship?
And what is it with the obsession with dick sizes? I get it. U all have humongous dicks. I fucking get it, now can we talk about something else?
The book was filled with useless chatter between characters who were literally talking like teenagers. Nobody talks like that at 30! Fuck that, even teenagers don't talk like that.
Oh my god. U getting banged.
Oh my god. I am getting banged.
Yaaayyyy
Wooaahhhh
That was literally the whole book.
At some point I just wanted to throw the book away. Every conversation felt like one of those ridiculous old school high school drama shit, meaning, immature.
If I keep going I'll just keep ranting till I just seem rude so I'm gonna stop here.
January 20, 2015
Tiernan Callahan comes from a long line of New York’s finest, with family members that have carried both guns and hoses. Tiernan became a cop while his brother Michael became a fireman, and the baby of the family Mason, joined the military in an effort to separate himself from his commanding older brothers. Tiernan’s downward spiral started with the death of his little brother in the line of duty, and was only compounded when his family learned that Mason was gay.
Tiernan has made one bad decision after another since Mason’s death, but none of them haunt his every waking thought like Dario Ramos. Ex military war vet himself, Dario managed to make it home, but he carries both emotional and physical scars from his time in the military. And the assanine cop with red streaked hair and a mean streak that is longer than Dario is tall, continues to work his last good nerve. But for some insane reason, the two of them are constantly drawn into each other’s orbit and over time, they start to see each other in a new light.
Both men are large, in charge, domineering, alpha male personalities that seem to do nothing but piss each other off. It’s when they stop yelling at each other that things really get interesting. It takes Tiernan a while to decipher what it is he feels for Dario. It’s been ingrained in his psyche all his life that gay is bad by his over the top catholic mother. But there is something about Dario that makes Tiernan want to take a chance, makes the brooding Irish cop smile, all the damn time. He will have to come to terms with his sexuality and make amends with someone he truly wronged before he can even consider where he wants to take his relationship with Dario.
There is really nothing sexier than two sexy as sin, controlling alpha males tripping over each other on their way to the bed then wrestling to see who will come out on ‘top’. It takes these two a little while to accept their mutual attraction as exactly what it is, chemistry. For a while there I wanted to bang their heads together! But once they shared that first steamy kiss while Dario had Tiernan pushed up against the wall, well from that point on they can’t keep their clothes on or their hands off each other. Even Tiernan’s partner Danny tells him to stop it, they are giving him a cavity.
The Men of Manhattan series is all about true love and second chances. Both Tieranan and Dario have lost a lot in their lives, but only together can they hope to heal. Love is a powerful thing. This book has all Gasq-Dion’s usually quirky one liners, firey personalities, a well written storyline and flawless character development. And she has already sparked my curiosity for the possibility of a couple different couplings in future installments of this series, I do hope that Danny and Bobby are next!
I highly recommend this series especially if you are a fan of strong archa male types and are a hopeless romantic like me. Start at the beginning though, there are details that won’t be as crisp for you if you just jump right into this book.
*I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review *
Tiernan has made one bad decision after another since Mason’s death, but none of them haunt his every waking thought like Dario Ramos. Ex military war vet himself, Dario managed to make it home, but he carries both emotional and physical scars from his time in the military. And the assanine cop with red streaked hair and a mean streak that is longer than Dario is tall, continues to work his last good nerve. But for some insane reason, the two of them are constantly drawn into each other’s orbit and over time, they start to see each other in a new light.
Both men are large, in charge, domineering, alpha male personalities that seem to do nothing but piss each other off. It’s when they stop yelling at each other that things really get interesting. It takes Tiernan a while to decipher what it is he feels for Dario. It’s been ingrained in his psyche all his life that gay is bad by his over the top catholic mother. But there is something about Dario that makes Tiernan want to take a chance, makes the brooding Irish cop smile, all the damn time. He will have to come to terms with his sexuality and make amends with someone he truly wronged before he can even consider where he wants to take his relationship with Dario.
There is really nothing sexier than two sexy as sin, controlling alpha males tripping over each other on their way to the bed then wrestling to see who will come out on ‘top’. It takes these two a little while to accept their mutual attraction as exactly what it is, chemistry. For a while there I wanted to bang their heads together! But once they shared that first steamy kiss while Dario had Tiernan pushed up against the wall, well from that point on they can’t keep their clothes on or their hands off each other. Even Tiernan’s partner Danny tells him to stop it, they are giving him a cavity.
The Men of Manhattan series is all about true love and second chances. Both Tieranan and Dario have lost a lot in their lives, but only together can they hope to heal. Love is a powerful thing. This book has all Gasq-Dion’s usually quirky one liners, firey personalities, a well written storyline and flawless character development. And she has already sparked my curiosity for the possibility of a couple different couplings in future installments of this series, I do hope that Danny and Bobby are next!
I highly recommend this series especially if you are a fan of strong archa male types and are a hopeless romantic like me. Start at the beginning though, there are details that won’t be as crisp for you if you just jump right into this book.
*I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review *
November 11, 2019
Yep, really enjoyed this one. I can't wait for the next books to come out!
October 31, 2024
I have major issues with the last two books in the series. I was hesitant to read the latest in the series. But I couldn't resist reading Ramos's book. This author is at the "I wish I could quit you" stage with me. Things became too repetitive and fairytale -like. I didn't like how the "good" guys " dealt with the perceived "villains" in the current and past stories. I'm mentioning this because it stated multiple times throughout the book.
Overall I love the book. It was funny and pace in which they got together together--- work for me. This is by far the best in the series. I will be recommending this book. But I'm still cautious about going forward with the next book.
Overall I love the book. It was funny and pace in which they got together together--- work for me. This is by far the best in the series. I will be recommending this book. But I'm still cautious about going forward with the next book.
March 18, 2015
My goodness.. I waited until up to 40% just for that first kiss. And I keep calling Ramos as Sgt. Asshole.
But eventually I loved him. Ramos and Tiernan.. *sigh* It's almost Double GFY. Almost! And I loved Ramos mama. She's adorable.
You know what? When the book mentioned about girlfriend of Ramos, I thought for sure I'm gonna see some M/F sex scene in here. Maybe a foreplay. But there's no review about that. So I keep going. And thank god, there's nothing in it. This book ended with HFN, IMO.
And now I'm waiting for Michael's story!!!
********************************************************
The blurb sounds GOOD.
This book has my favorite tags. *rub hands*
But eventually I loved him. Ramos and Tiernan.. *sigh* It's almost Double GFY. Almost! And I loved Ramos mama. She's adorable.
You know what? When the book mentioned about girlfriend of Ramos, I thought for sure I'm gonna see some M/F sex scene in here. Maybe a foreplay. But there's no review about that. So I keep going. And thank god, there's nothing in it. This book ended with HFN, IMO.
And now I'm waiting for Michael's story!!!
********************************************************
The blurb sounds GOOD.
This book has my favorite tags. *rub hands*
January 23, 2015
This is definitely the best book of the series so far. It's a fun read that drew me in and had me smiling. I liked Dario and Tiernan together and I feel there is a good balance between the sex scenes and the sweet relationship building scenes.
I'm excited about the new characters introduced in this novel, and it was good to see Casper and Slater still going strong.
I know this is the fictional world of romance but there is one thing about this series that niggles at me a bit. It's just not realistic that EVERYONE is gay. The Cassidy brothers, the Callahan brothers, the best friends, the coworkers, the bosses...it seems impossible.
I'm excited about the new characters introduced in this novel, and it was good to see Casper and Slater still going strong.
I know this is the fictional world of romance but there is one thing about this series that niggles at me a bit. It's just not realistic that EVERYONE is gay. The Cassidy brothers, the Callahan brothers, the best friends, the coworkers, the bosses...it seems impossible.
April 20, 2017
I love this author and these books! I can't wait to see what's next for Michael and even Ryan!
February 28, 2015
Tiernan Callahan + Dario Ramos
Bacon Lube? I'm already hungry! LOL
REVIEW @Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words
A Healing Man is the fifth book in the Men of Manhattan series by Sandrine Gasq-Dion and so far my favourite. It was sweet funny and sexy. I loved every single word. It’s a beautiful story about loss.
Tiernan is a cop in the NYPD, he lost his brother in war four years ago. Mason was in the closet and when he died Tiernan discovered he was gay and engaged to Casper. He feels betrayed by Mason cause he didn’t trust him to know the most important thing about his life. He’s so angry he is becoming distracted at work and an homophobic asshole. Since his brother died, Tiernan has put his carrier in danger one time too much. His captain decides to assigned him a new partner, Danny, a gay man. Danny is the first one to think Tiernan could be gay, or at least bi.
“Oh God, you’re one of those.”
“What?”
“A paranoid penis. A guy who thinks each and every one of us gays wants in your ass. Trust me, Callahan—I don’t want your ass.”
Dario loses his leg in duty and he is still recovering for alcohol abuse too. He drank to forget all about the years he spent on the field. Now he’s been sober from years and he’s working for the Wounded Warrior Project and as a model. He lives with his girlfriend Maria, until one day he goes home and finds her packing, tired of being with him just for pity.
Tiernan and Dario keep running into each other and what was “hate at first sight” in time become lust/love.
I loved these characters so much, they are amazing, I liked how in the story they grow to be better men, especially Tiernan. He was really hateful in the previous books and I was so proud of him for admit and make up for his mistakes. Of course his parents really sucked but he’ll have a great cast of second characters to support and love him no matter who he’s chosen to love.
There are some very funny scenes, for example when Dario asked gay sex tips to Danny, it was hilarious. And really? Bacon lube? No idea it existed, I’m already hungry.
There are some guys I really want to know more about. I’m hoping in a couple more of books at least in this series. They deserve to have their own HEA.
Highly recommended, this book and the whole series.
COVERT ART by Wilde City Press. I don’t like this series’ covers. They are pretty much the same with a different model for each book. They are good to look at but nothing more.
Bacon Lube? I'm already hungry! LOL
REVIEW @Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words
A Healing Man is the fifth book in the Men of Manhattan series by Sandrine Gasq-Dion and so far my favourite. It was sweet funny and sexy. I loved every single word. It’s a beautiful story about loss.
Tiernan is a cop in the NYPD, he lost his brother in war four years ago. Mason was in the closet and when he died Tiernan discovered he was gay and engaged to Casper. He feels betrayed by Mason cause he didn’t trust him to know the most important thing about his life. He’s so angry he is becoming distracted at work and an homophobic asshole. Since his brother died, Tiernan has put his carrier in danger one time too much. His captain decides to assigned him a new partner, Danny, a gay man. Danny is the first one to think Tiernan could be gay, or at least bi.
“Oh God, you’re one of those.”
“What?”
“A paranoid penis. A guy who thinks each and every one of us gays wants in your ass. Trust me, Callahan—I don’t want your ass.”
Dario loses his leg in duty and he is still recovering for alcohol abuse too. He drank to forget all about the years he spent on the field. Now he’s been sober from years and he’s working for the Wounded Warrior Project and as a model. He lives with his girlfriend Maria, until one day he goes home and finds her packing, tired of being with him just for pity.
Tiernan and Dario keep running into each other and what was “hate at first sight” in time become lust/love.
I loved these characters so much, they are amazing, I liked how in the story they grow to be better men, especially Tiernan. He was really hateful in the previous books and I was so proud of him for admit and make up for his mistakes. Of course his parents really sucked but he’ll have a great cast of second characters to support and love him no matter who he’s chosen to love.
There are some very funny scenes, for example when Dario asked gay sex tips to Danny, it was hilarious. And really? Bacon lube? No idea it existed, I’m already hungry.
There are some guys I really want to know more about. I’m hoping in a couple more of books at least in this series. They deserve to have their own HEA.
Highly recommended, this book and the whole series.
COVERT ART by Wilde City Press. I don’t like this series’ covers. They are pretty much the same with a different model for each book. They are good to look at but nothing more.
January 20, 2015
Not all scars are visible. Tiernan Callahan knows that better than most. He lost his baby brother to war. His death let the entire Callahan family know they had lost him before he ever left this country. Mason never told any of his family about his fiance thus his sexuality. Tiernan is having to deal with the anger over the secrets and lack of trust alone. He is angry and has no one to take out his frustrations on but the people around him. This makes him a pain to work with and an ass in general. One too many complaints at work and his captain assigns him something that he is sure will fix most of his surly personality.
Dario hates the entire Callahan family for what they have done to his friend Casper. The fact that he seems to run into the sexy cop Tiernan everywhere he goes has gone past aggravating. Dario is trying to simply live his life. He’s working with wounded warriors like himself, assisting them getting back into a routine of normalcy, helping them come back from a war zone. This experience allows him to see something else that rides right along side of Tiernan’s anger and animosity. Dario seeing something else where Tiernan is concerned. This allows for so many other opportunities that both men quickly find themselves deep into completely uncharted territory.
I’ve only read two books in Sandrine Gasq-Dion’s Men of Manhattan series. For the most part A Healing Man does work as a stand-alone. There is some background built for this story in A Fighting Man. That is the other book that I’ve read in this series. I can honestly say though that A Healing Man can be enjoyed as a stand-alone. I’m looking forward to finding out who will get the next book. There were several possibilities introduced here.
Dario hates the entire Callahan family for what they have done to his friend Casper. The fact that he seems to run into the sexy cop Tiernan everywhere he goes has gone past aggravating. Dario is trying to simply live his life. He’s working with wounded warriors like himself, assisting them getting back into a routine of normalcy, helping them come back from a war zone. This experience allows him to see something else that rides right along side of Tiernan’s anger and animosity. Dario seeing something else where Tiernan is concerned. This allows for so many other opportunities that both men quickly find themselves deep into completely uncharted territory.
I’ve only read two books in Sandrine Gasq-Dion’s Men of Manhattan series. For the most part A Healing Man does work as a stand-alone. There is some background built for this story in A Fighting Man. That is the other book that I’ve read in this series. I can honestly say though that A Healing Man can be enjoyed as a stand-alone. I’m looking forward to finding out who will get the next book. There were several possibilities introduced here.
March 1, 2016
Tiernan Callahan is a New York cop, who's devastated by his youngest brother's death. To complicate his feelings, his brother kept his sexuality secret, revealed only at his graveside service.
Dario Ramos came back from war a wounded warrior. He lost a leg, and himself in the bottle till he got his act together. Tiernan and Dario seem to cross paths more times than either likes with antagonizing effects for both men.
This is a an enemy to lovers story which I enjoyed a lot. It moved very quickly which at times seemed incongruous with the story. That aside it was a fun, romantic read. Plus, I was not bothered by the switching between narrations like I was in a previous book I had read.
Dario Ramos came back from war a wounded warrior. He lost a leg, and himself in the bottle till he got his act together. Tiernan and Dario seem to cross paths more times than either likes with antagonizing effects for both men.
This is a an enemy to lovers story which I enjoyed a lot. It moved very quickly which at times seemed incongruous with the story. That aside it was a fun, romantic read. Plus, I was not bothered by the switching between narrations like I was in a previous book I had read.
April 1, 2016
Ok so this was by far my favorite in the series. It was funny and sexy and seemingly the most believable of all of them next to the 1st one. The MC's are hot and sexy and they combust together. Its sweet and gushy but sexy at the same time. Loved some of the backstory character too. Danny needs his own book maybe even Ryan, and Michael. I think there is some unresolved stuff there. What do you say Sandy a couple more books for this series?
April 25, 2017
4.5 stars!
So good!!!! Out of all the books in the series this had the best humor. I absolutely loved everything about this book.
Full review to come!
So good!!!! Out of all the books in the series this had the best humor. I absolutely loved everything about this book.
Full review to come!
January 22, 2015
Here's the deal with this one. If I didn't know Tiernan before this book I would have rated it a 4, but since I know what he did and everything in my eyes this is really a 2. I'll compromise with myself and leave it at a 3.
I really liked Dario Ramos. He is who he is and doesn't care. I loved his mom, too. PFLAG :) HA!
Now, let me get to Tiernan.
I'm definitely looking forward to more in this series. Michael, Bobby, Danny, Ryan, etc. Who else is gonna be gay?
I really liked Dario Ramos. He is who he is and doesn't care. I loved his mom, too. PFLAG :) HA!
Now, let me get to Tiernan.
I'm definitely looking forward to more in this series. Michael, Bobby, Danny, Ryan, etc. Who else is gonna be gay?
February 15, 2015
I really enjoyed A Healing Man. Tiernan really redeems himself and proves to be a good guy who has just been angry at the world since his little brother Mason was killed in action without having told his brothers that he was gay. Tiernan has especially been a prick to Casper, who was Mason's fiance. In A Healing Man, Tiernan is partnered with Danny, a gay cop who is supposed to help Tiernan see the error of his asshole ways. I liked Danny, quite a lot.
Ramos has been on the mend, too. He is 5 years sober and still recovering from losing part of his leg while in the service. While he's always dated women, he has, on occasion, noticed guys, too. Never more than when Tiernan is around, though. Apparently, the Spaniard has a thing for angry Irishmen. Who knew?!
This whole series has been pretty light on the angst and an altogether easy read. I look forward to the next one, which I assume will either be Danny & Bobby or Michael & Ryan. I'm worried about Ryan, especially, so I hope he doesn't get himself too far into trouble before Michael either rescues him or he figures out how to rescue himself.
I recommend this book and the others in the series as well.
Ramos has been on the mend, too. He is 5 years sober and still recovering from losing part of his leg while in the service. While he's always dated women, he has, on occasion, noticed guys, too. Never more than when Tiernan is around, though. Apparently, the Spaniard has a thing for angry Irishmen. Who knew?!
This whole series has been pretty light on the angst and an altogether easy read. I look forward to the next one, which I assume will either be Danny & Bobby or Michael & Ryan. I'm worried about Ryan, especially, so I hope he doesn't get himself too far into trouble before Michael either rescues him or he figures out how to rescue himself.
I recommend this book and the others in the series as well.
February 25, 2015
DNF @ 35%. I have finally come to the conclusion that author's writing is not for me......20 instances of "winking".....grown men acting like 12 y/o adolescent boys with their name calling/antics which I found not funny, if that was the intended purpose of it. Unrealistic portrayal of police officers and police procedures, which kept pulling me out of the story. I just found it awful all around.
Read
November 20, 2019IDF, I landed here bc of the +4 rating. Now I see only 18 readers rated it, so I don't feel so odd. I only reached 50%. It's not BAD, the writing style is good, has some interesting topics like PTD and major war injuries but I got bored and didn't find anything that keeps me hooked enough to keep going. I hate left unfinished books but here I am.
January 2, 2016
This series just hits the buttons in my happy place, you know? Sweet over the top romance with humor and not too much angst.
This one's another winner. I can't wait for the next stories...I hope one is Danny and Bobby and another is Michael and Ryan. *fingers crossed*
This one's another winner. I can't wait for the next stories...I hope one is Danny and Bobby and another is Michael and Ryan. *fingers crossed*
March 2, 2016
4.5stars!!
Loved it, loved it loved it!!! Love this series, love all the characters, and Dario and Tiernan's story is my favorite so far!
Now I'm impatiently waiting for Michael and Ryan's story...
Loved it, loved it loved it!!! Love this series, love all the characters, and Dario and Tiernan's story is my favorite so far!
Now I'm impatiently waiting for Michael and Ryan's story...
Displaying 1 - 30 of 140 reviews