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allisonwonderlandreads's review
emotional
funny
lighthearted
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
3.0
The Man Ban starts off as an antagonistic not-exactly-meet-cute when Harper's food styling at her best friend's wedding is belittled by one of the groomsmen, Manish. When the two run into each other on respective work trips in New Zealand, Manny steps in for Harper's no show assistant at an important photo shoot, and this act of chivalry fans the flames of a vacation romance. Their love story is a complete whirlwind but not any less heartfelt for the frenetic pace. This is a romance strong on banter and brimming with sexual tension. However, it's the mutual respect and emphasis on consent that wins this reader over.
In terms of the characters, I really related to Harper struggling under the social pressure to have perfect skin. Diagnosed with vitiligo a year ago, Harper doesn't let others see her without a perfect mask of foundation on. Her ex broke up with her after seeing her fresh-faced for the first time. This adds some challenges to the burgeoning relationship with Manny as Harper looks for ways to maneuver him to only see her with her makeup on. I love when authors tap into very real beauty standard insecurities, and this is the first romance I've read that confronts skin issues. The visibility is much appreciated as a person who spent a decade in and out of dermatologists' offices, never going to even the groccery store or the gym without a full face of makeup on (ok, I didn't go to the gym that often, but you get the picture).
The other aspect of the story I enjoyed most was the emphasis on family. We have Harper's estranged parents who have put their only daughter in the middle of their mysterious dispute. Then, there's Manny's love for his grandmother, his only surviving family. As her health deteriorates, her demands for him to settle down and give up his womanizing only get more pointed.
While I'm definitely more a slowburn aficionado, The Man Ban reminds me that a fast-paced approach isn't lacking in heart. I look forward to reading more from this author in future. Thanks to Berkley Romance and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book, out 7/27.
In terms of the characters, I really related to Harper struggling under the social pressure to have perfect skin. Diagnosed with vitiligo a year ago, Harper doesn't let others see her without a perfect mask of foundation on. Her ex broke up with her after seeing her fresh-faced for the first time. This adds some challenges to the burgeoning relationship with Manny as Harper looks for ways to maneuver him to only see her with her makeup on. I love when authors tap into very real beauty standard insecurities, and this is the first romance I've read that confronts skin issues. The visibility is much appreciated as a person who spent a decade in and out of dermatologists' offices, never going to even the groccery store or the gym without a full face of makeup on (ok, I didn't go to the gym that often, but you get the picture).
The other aspect of the story I enjoyed most was the emphasis on family. We have Harper's estranged parents who have put their only daughter in the middle of their mysterious dispute. Then, there's Manny's love for his grandmother, his only surviving family. As her health deteriorates, her demands for him to settle down and give up his womanizing only get more pointed.
While I'm definitely more a slowburn aficionado, The Man Ban reminds me that a fast-paced approach isn't lacking in heart. I look forward to reading more from this author in future. Thanks to Berkley Romance and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book, out 7/27.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Sexual content
Moderate: Body shaming, Death of parent, Grief, and Infertility
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