Did you read The Boy Toy? Yes? Pick this one up immediately, race to read it because it's so good and then slow way down because it's almost over!

What? You didn't read The Boy Toy? Hmmm, I would definitely recommend reading that first, but only because they are both so very good! Plus I love reading books in order so I can get the full experience.

Manny and Harper - a doctor and a food stylist. What could go wrong? Who doesn't love learning more about the food world? And the job of food stylist always seems so very cool to me. I think most people will relate to both these characters and to Harper's man-ban. A man-ban is a pretty great idea actually - a way to give someone a chance to experience life and reconnect to their girlfriends, their own inner selves, and the pure joy of staying home in old worn out sweats or eating ice cream out of the carton if that's what appeals. No pressure, no having to meet a new guy's expectations, and not having to put on makeup and fix your hair to meet up with him.

But...there's Manny. He's not looking for marriage (despite his grandmother Izzy's wishes) and really just wants to have fun. I must admit that at first I was a bit down on Manny because he was so dismissive of Harper's hard work at her friend's wedding, but thanks to the magic of Nicola Marsh, my feelings turned around and I soon became a fan of Manny's.

In addition to strong, wonderfully drawn characters, the cultural aspects of Manny's background, and the inclusion of Harper dealing with vitiligo all made me like this book much more. I love when a book helps people understand different medical conditions and cultures so this one was very interesting for me. Plus, the settings of Australia and New Zealand - oh yes!

This book is a definite recommend! Do yourself a favor and lose yourself in The Man Ban. It has all the things that make for a great escape and is loaded with wit, charm, and lots of chemistry between the two main characters. Nicola Marsh, who was a new author to me less than two years ago has quickly become an auto-buy.

Thanks to Netgalley, the author, and publisher for an ARC at my request. All thoughts are my own.

Snarky Romance Reads Shorter Than Its Actual Length. This is one of those fun, snarky, steamy - yes, there are numerous sex scenes, for those that care either way about such things - romances that doesn't quite work as a true "enemies to lovers", since the initial fight is more a miscommunication when these two characters - both introduced in 2020's The Boy Toy - first meet up in the aftermath of that tale. It officially clocks in at around 350 pages, but Marsh keeps the tale pulsing along so well that this reader never really noticed the actual length and indeed by the end the book feels much shorter. For technically being a Book 2, this is also a fairly loosely coupled "series" - yes, these characters are introduced in the first book, and yes, the first book's primary couple (and another character or two) appear in this book, but neither is truly dependent on the other and each totally work fine as standalones in a shared universe as well. Overall a fun book, maybe not an "end of summer" book but definitely a fun, summery feel. Very much recommended.

Every once in a while I like a good romance novel. This one is outstanding. After reading The Boy Toy, I was excited to learn that Nicola Marsh was going to write Manny's story. I love that we got to learn more about his journey. The scenes with Samira were an extra treat. I highly recommend any book by this author.

Harper is an Australian Food Stylist, Manish an Anglo-Indian Doctor. Neither is looking for a relationship when they meet at a wedding. They continue to keep running into each other and are so well watched a friendship develops...but chemistry takes over and despite not wanting a relationship that is what develops. If you enjoy a well-written RomCom then this is a book for you. I thoroughly enjoyed it. Thank you to Net Galley and the publisher for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.

I fell in love with Manny—the smooth-talking, Anglo-Indian ER Doctor—in The Boy Toy last year, so I was eagerly anticipating this release. It did not disappoint!

Despite being 40 and pestered by his grandmother to marry, Manny has no interest in relationships, believing they are impossible to coexist with his busy work schedule. The unexpected romance that blossoms with Harper, a talented food stylist who has sworn off men, was incredibly fun and flirty.

Despite their rocky, hilarious first meeting, these two effortlessly fell together. Continuously tormenting each other from beginning to end, the banter between Harper and Manny was pure gold. Manny is such a bold, confident hero—I simply can’t get enough of him.

I really enjoyed the addition of Harper having vitiligo and the journey of her self-esteem because of that. Hiding her diagnosis to the world, there’s a vulnerable moment between Harper and Manny that even made me tear up. I absolutely loved this one!

Nicola Marsh’s book, The Man Ban caught my eye because of the title. Like the main character Harper Ryland, I’m also on a man-ban after an awful breakup of a very long relationship! So, I thought this would be a fun read! It sure kept my mind occupied and brought a smile to my face.

After her horrible breakup, Harper decides to concentrate on her career as an up-and-coming Australian Food Stylist and her current gig is styling her best friend’s wedding reception. During the reception, she meets the best man, Manny Gomes. Their first encounter wasn’t very memorable, but a week later, Harper is doing her first international gig in New Zealand and runs into the handsome Anglo-Indian doctor from her friend’s wedding.....not what she needs during this important gig or is it just what the doctor ordered.......

This was a quick and fun romance read with a dash of hotness!! I highly recommend The Man Ban for a great summer escape!

This book was not my personal favorite, but there were some positives to it as well. I definitely enjoyed the diversity and cultural representation. I was born in America, but my family is originally from India, so it was interesting to see aspects of my culture emphasized throughout the book. Although some parts were a little overly stereotypical, it was still nice to see.

Harper and Manny, the two main characters and love interests, were... interesting to me. I'm not sure if it was their personalities that off-put me, or maybe it was just the writing style of the author, but either way, I wasn't the largest fan of them. I feel like Manny's flirting towards the beginning of them meeting was low-key creepy for me personally. It was like if was making super sexual innuendos to someone who you just met. Maybe I'm just more sensitive to that, but it was super uncomfy to say the least!

The plot of the book itself was interesting and nice to follow, but obviously the book wasn't as enjoyable for me because I wasn't a fan of the characters.... at all. I didn't feel any chemistry or bond between them through the whole thing, so it wasn't very captivating. I finished the book hoping it would get better, but unfortunately it didn't for me personally!

“The Man Ban” by Nicola Marsh

**Free copy received from NetGalley and Berkley Publishing Group in exchange for an honest review.

“Bold men with unusual slate eyes should be forgotten.”

Story: 17%
Beautiful and driven but in need of work, Harper Ryland is determined to make her passion for food styling profitable. After her parent’s separation, a life-changing diagnosis, and a devastating breakup, Harper places herself on a man ban to focus on her career. However, after twelve months, one man will finally make her rethink her prohibition. With her future riding on her best friend’s wedding and her already delicate pride, it’s no wonder Harper takes offense when the best man belittles her food presentation. Unaware of his mistake and accustomed to women falling at his feet, the gorgeous and elusive Doctor Manny Gomes is only more intrigued by Harper’s resistance. Harper finds herself in his arms moments before exacting her sweet, albeit sticky, revenge in a plan to lead on Manny. As circumstances would have it, Manny and Harper reunite one week after their slightly disastrous first meeting, when he comes to her aid on her first international job. As banter and chemistry fly, Manny begins to open his heart and past to Harper, rethinking his aversion to marriage. At the same time, Harper lowers his guard, allowing Manny to see behind her perfectly painted mask.

Before the close of chapter 2, I knew I was going to like this book. The story is layered with the depth of Harper and Manny’s hangups going into their relationship. Their issues are tangible and relatable in a profound way. The story is unique in its geography, set in Australia and New Zealand, and its cultural focus depicts aspects of the Anglo-Indian experience. I felt like I was learning and falling in love all at the same time. The only drawback for me was the transition into the conclusion. When Harper confronts Manny and their relationship hits a snag, it did feel a bit pat and contrived. However, the story comes full circle in the end, and overall I immensely enjoyed reading this.

Writing Style: 18%
“The Man Ban” was so pleasant to read, not just for the story, but Nicola Marsh’s writing style is refreshing and intoxicating. Her use of descriptive language elicits a visceral response. I found myself craving the numerous Indian dishes she set, and despite my dislike of spicy food, I now have a strong desire to try them all. Marsh is consistent in her use of food analogies and even depicts Manny and Harper’s attraction with food modifiers. Likewise, she demonstrates an elevated diction that is well arranged. Her writing felt natural and flowed effortlessly. The pacing and orchestration of the characters were strong and added to the captivating nature of the story. Finally, the spice and high level of tension between Manny and Harper were electrifying.

Characters: 17%
What is particularly interesting about Manny and Harper is their internal struggles with self-doubt and preservation. While Harper externally is beautiful and confident, she struggles to reconcile her self-worth with her vitiligo diagnosis. As she covers the spots on her face and body, she keeps everyone at arm’s length to stop them from seeing her insecurities. This aspect of her character plays out well in her relationships with Manny and her parents. She falls in love, heals, and accepts herself, eventually letting them see underneath the perfect makeup. Meanwhile, Manny refuses to let people in or allow himself to love for fear of losing that person like he lost his mother. The guilt he places on himself weighs heavily in his need to save his grandmother and his decision to ask Harper to marry him. However, when she finds out the truth and breaks up with him, Manny finally receives the push he needed to risk transparency. Additionally, these characters share a sassy and hilarious banter that is fun to read. There are several supporting characters, but they are well-curated, giving this story a complete ensemble.

Supporting Elements: 16%
This book fits nicely within the romance genre while offering a refreshing change of cultural scenery. Marsh does a lovely job contrasting outer and inner beauty, subsequently elevating the necessity of being transparent in genuine loving relationships. I relished the vulnerability she depicts within these characters, especially Manny’s concern for his grandmother and his clumsiness falling in love with Harper. Similarly, Harper’s makeup indicates the boundaries she erects between herself and everyone else, so in removing her makeup for Manny, she eliminates obstacles in their relationship. Given a man who doesn’t want to get married and a woman on a man ban, the direction of this story is predictable, but the journey was delightful.

Expectations: 20%
I chose this book for its cute cover and thankfully had no regrets. The story is just as cute and thoroughly enjoyable. I was thrilled that the story took me to another part of the world and exposed me to a different culture and cuisine. I appreciated the depth of the characters and the richness of their backstories which grounded them alongside their family and friends. But, of course, the audacious banter and high level of spice were the cherries on top.


Total Rating: 88% / 100%

Stop. Don’t go any further without reading The Boy Toy by Nicola Marsh first. While you can read this book by itself, I love reading books in order so I can revisit old faces in later books.

Harper is a food stylist and styles her friend’s wedding reception where she meets Manish (or Manny). When they meet again in New Zealand and spend almost a week together, the sparks that flew in the wedding turn into a raging fire.

As with The Boy Toy, I absolutely loved this book. It’s entertaining and completely relatable. The chemistry between Harper and Manish is combustible. I loved their banter and how that just amplified their passion for each other. Manish’s relationship with his grandmother was the cutest and I loved her throughout the book.

The book was such a quick read and I couldn’t put it down. I would recommend this to any of my friends and cannot emphasise how much I loved it.

I received an ARC of this book via NetGalley.

After devouring The Boy Toy last year, I was thrilled to hear Nicola Marsh was giving Dr. Manny his own novel - even more thrilled when I received an ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.

The Man Ban has all the feels of The Hating Game - Enemies “ish” to lovers, banter which is laugh out loud funny at times, great romance, and a feel good ending!

In the Man Ban we are introduced to Harper and a reintroduced to a slew of characters from The Boy Toy, including Dr. Manny! They are both standing up at their best friends wedding and well, they don’t hit it off immediately to say the least. But fate brings them back together and one thing leads to another and before you know it, two individuals who have sworn off love, dating, and marriage - find themselves falling fast and deep in it.

Get ready to laugh, cry, and enjoy Nicola Marsh’s latest - The Man Ban!!!

An enjoyable romance!
Harper is an Australian food stylist, Manish is an Anglo-Indian doctor. Neither is looking for for a relationship and though their fist encounter was memorable, Harper has no plans to see Manny again. Their paths keep crossing and these two find they are well matched. If you enjoyed The Boy Toy you will enjoy revisiting some of the characters, but this book can be read without reading the other as well.
Though I didn’t find this story to be as witty as the Boy Toy, I found it engaging and sweet. My favorite parts were the food descriptions and of course the setting, traveling from Australia to New Zealand!

The Man Ban by Nicola Marsh was perfection! Marsh’s writing reminds me of Jasmine Gilroy, it’s witty and vivid in the best way.

The Man Ban stars food stylist, Harper, who has undertaken a self imposed man ban after seeing her parents separate and getting dumped by her boyfriend. Harper is focusing on building her food styling career when she meets a cute doctor at her friends wedding. Is romance in the air or is he a cute jerk? See how it all plays out in the pages; I guarantee you won’t be able to put it down!

The Man Ban is a great, quick read, summer rom-com. The story follows Harper and Manny from their meet cute moment through the struggles they face. The Man Ban main characters have great chemistry and banter that keep the reader engaged and wanting more. The chemistry between Harper and Manny make for some steamy moments and some well written angst; all which combine into a well constructed romantic comedy,

Manny is an easy-going but shallow doctor who has zero interest. Harper in on a "man ban" after a failed relationship but feels cultural pressure to get married. When they meet at a wedding, things begin to get complicated. What I appreciate in this book are relatable characters as Harper has Vitiligo, which brings awareness to a skin condition that can cause self-consciousness. Manny and Harper are dynamic characters with flaws and deep issues and I enjoyed their journey and following their ups and downs.

I would recommend The Man Ban to both rom-com and romance readers and will not hesitate to pick up another Nicola Marsh book.

Thanks to Berkley and NetGalley for the advanced copy in return for my honest opinions.

Fun story. I enjoyed the journey of Harper and Manny. I definitely like the character of Harper better than Manny. He needed to. be "more", and at times the story fell a little flat because of him. Overall a great beach read, fast paced. I love Nicola Marsh' books, and while this one was not my favorite, it was definitely a great book.
I received an advance copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

This book was so good!! There was way more depth to it than I expected as well which had me hooked from the beginning!

Harper had given up on men when we meet her at the wedding of one of her best friends. She is a food stylist (which is a fascinating job I loved learning more about during this story). She meets Manny who is the best man at the wedding and he rubs her the wrong way for sure.

Then they are swept up in an adventure as they run into each other again in New Zealand! I loved the setting of this book first Australia and then New Zealand. It had me googling locations and dreaming of a vacation!

I love Manny in the book too! He is an older confirmed bachelor but only has eyes for Harper once he meets her! He is so good to her - serious book boyfriend goals going on here!

Harper is sweet but has burned by her most recent boyfriend and is very self-conscious. She is keeping a secret from Manny and it drives the reader a little batty at times I will admit but it’s an important plot line of the story.

I’d highly recommend this to my romance readers! Hopefully you’ll love it just like I did!

This was a cute romance that I read pretty fast. The storyline was engaging and the characters were enjoyable. Harper and Manny had strong chemistry leading to some hot, steamy parts! I loved their journey together. I thought it was cool how Harper had vitiligo and the book brought some awareness to the disease. I also appreciated the different cultural aspects of the book. This is the first book I’ve read by Nicola Marsh and it definitely won’t be my last! Overall, an enjoyable read that I would recommend!

Thank you Net Galley and Berkley for the ARC in return for my honest review.

I really wanted to love this - the premise was so exciting and novel, but ultimately had to DNF with this one. The chemistry between the main characters could have been a bit less repetitive and fleshed out.

I was really excited to read The Man Ban by Nicola Marsh. I have read her previous book so I knew it was going to be a good romance read. But boy was I disappointed. I definitely did put too many expectations for The Man Ban. It did not live up to par. There was not enough interaction between Harper and Manny to form instant connection. Harper is working more for herself than focusing on dating. She wants her career to move higher than before. And it does hurt that she is getting too involved with her family drama. Let them focus on their issue. You can't always be the glue to your divorce parents. Focus on you. While Harper focuses more on her career, it does not leave her time to form connections with Manny. I was really excited to learn that Manny was going to get his own story but it felt lacking. He seems very interesting in the previous book that I thought he was going to get an epic love story. But instead he was struck with a confusing Harper. I really did not get Harper's personality. She was not showing much until the end. And that was too late to learn about a character's personality. I truly wished that was not the case but it was.

Harper Ryland is food stylist and is on a strict man-ban after her last relationship ended in a horrible way. She is determined to focus on her career and get her food styling on the map. Manny Gomes is a doctor who doesn’t have time for a serious relationship and after a traumatic event in his past he has sworn off real relationships and stuck to flings only. At the wedding of Harper’s friend she meets Best Man Manny who doesn’t start off so well when he belittles her work. When she decides to get revenge on him it ends up with an unforgettable kiss and now the two can’t seem to get out from under each other’s skin. Harper is trying her best to avoid letting Manny in but after a lot of apology and volunteering to help her, Manny makes it his mission to woo Harper. Soon they both find that there might be something there for the two of them... yet complications and secrets start to come up and insecurities and duties have a way of making you re-evaluate your relationship. Overall a sweet read and the relationship between Harper and Manny was really cute. I’d definitely recommend it if you are looking for a sweet romance read!

*Thanks Netgalley and Berkley Publishing Group for sending me an arc in exchange for an honest review*

Harper had a bad ending to a relationship so she put in place a man ban. Harper is a food stylist and while at a wedding where she styled the food she meets Manny (Mannish) who makes a comment about how the food looks. Harper decides that Manny will be at the top of her man ban. Harper and Manny run into each other again while Harper is having problems with her food styling job and Manny offers to be her assistant. They spend the next 2 days getting to know each other and seeing if they belong together. I had a pleasant time reading this story and was rooting for a happy ever after ending. Nice beach read that is enjoyable.