The Manbook: A Point-by-Point Guide to Sucking It Up and Getting the Job Done – A No-Nonsense Guide to Mental Toughness and Professional Growth.

by Nick Freitas

The Manbook has descriptive copy which is not yet available from the Publisher.

Genres: Politics, Self Help, Nonfiction

256 pages, Hardcover

Published April 14, 2026

Reviews

[Kimberly · Rating 5 out of 5]

I listened to the audiobook, narrated by the author. The book as well as the narration were excellent! If you’ve ever heard Nick speak, you know what you’re in for. If you’re new, welcome.

Nick has a certain brand of sarcasm paired with extraordinary wit that makes what he says, regardless of where you stand, worth hearing. Maybe it’s the GenX in me, but I probably laughed during every chapter.

This book was so good I ordered the hardback before I was even finished just because I wanted to have it on my shelf and to be able to go back and highlight particularly insightful parts, of which there were many.

There were also heartwarming moments and yes I did tear up a time or two… I’m a girl, sue me. Speaking of being a girl, yes I am and yes I did enjoy this book on being a man.

Besides the ‘provide & protect’ and ‘head of the household’ aspect of manhood, most of the lessons discussed are applicable to everyone. My 14yo daughter even enjoyed it while I had it on in the car. She said it was like a good checklist of things to look for in a man when she got older.

As for the narration, I hope he does more. I really enjoyed Jack Carr’s The Terminal List series narrated by Ray Porter. Nick’s narration reminded me of Ray’s several times throughout this book. It was phenomenal.

All that to say it was an amazing read/listen and definitely one I’ll read again.

[Joel Hammett · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’ll admit, this was better than I expected. A couple chapters I wouldn’t really recommend, but I think globally the book is well grounded.

In other words, we’d have less problems in the world of men followed the advice of this book, however flawed it might be. It’s better than what we have, by far.

[Jesse · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic book with far more practical guidance than I expected. I did not expect to get so much on topics such as debate and apologetics. If you’re looking for a similar book but with a more scriptural emphasis (not that this book is void of scripture), I would recommend pairing it with Family Shepherds by Voddie Baucham Jr.

[Makayla Ledingham · Rating 5 out of 5]

I don't have the words to tell you how great this book was! It was phenomenal! One of the best books that I have ever bought! It might be for men but ladies there is so much wisdom in here. It's a book that I will definitely be re-reading in different seasons of my life. Thank you to everyone who made this book possible!! This would make a fantastic graduation gift. This is well worth the time and money.

After reading this you need to go follow Mr. Freitas on social media!

[Emma T (DaughterOfAslan2362) ⋆ ᴀᴜʙʀᴇʏ♡ · Rating 4 out of 5]

I want to start with the fact that anyone who doesn’t believe in Biblical morals and values will majorly disagree with this book, and therefore with most of my review.
This was a not a fun review to write, because while I love the goal of this book, and enjoyed that it was honest, entertaining, and grounded, the amount of language and frank (though not obscene) references to marital intimacy bothered this sheltered homeshcooler, but I doubt it would have the same affect to an average Joe.
This is one of the few books where I believe the good outweighed the bad, which is why I still get gave it such a high rating despite my disappointment at the content. I’m trying to remember that the author is an ex-Green Beret, so he’s kept it clean compared with what he knew.
The pros of this book include tips on growing in faith, protecting one’s family, being able to argue, debate, and defend ideas effectively and respectfully, training up one’s children, working in a team, being a servant-leader, and much more. It paints a kind of capable, proud-but-not-arrogant kind of masculinity that has been rarely seen the past few generations, and it’s high-time we bring it back. I feel that this would be a great book for fathers and sons to read together.
Based on the content concerns (listed below), I would say that a mature older teen would be fine with it.
I’ve documented (and censored) pretty much everything inappropriate, and the content will therefore seem worse when so condensed, but oh well.

Foul Language (all in non-sexual contexts):
“scr*w” (5)
“scr*w you” (1)
“scr*ew with” (1)

“Whole a*s” (3)
“bada*s” (2)
“a*s-whipping” (2)
“hard-a*sed” (1)
“jacka*s” (1)

“cr*p” (7)
“s*ck” (6)
“p*ssed” (2)
“hell” (3)
“damn” (1)
“w*ss” (1)
“b*lls” (used non-sexually in place of “guts” - 1)
The F-word is used once when quoting a hard-boiled cop in a non-sexual context


Sexual references:

Lesson 5: How to Flirt with Your Wife In Front of the Whole Family
- Mentions of “an appropriate spank […] whenever my wife walked by”, the importance of children knowing that their parents still “has it” and are “hot for each other” (x2). One mention of whistling at his wife, and not “making out” or “copping a feel” in inappropriate settings.

Lesson 9: How to Stay in Shape for Your Wife
- Mention of making sure your wife is still “excited at seeing you n*ked”, not wanting her to have to give “mercy s*x”, and other mild comments implying intimacy (“going more then one round”, etc).

Lesson 13: How To Have Great S*x
- Chapter is somewhat mistitled, in my opinion, as it’s mainly about why premarital/extramarital intimacy is a really bad idea, and that bring faithful to one’s spouse before and after the wedding (as he has done) is what makes it “great”. He speaks very frankly without being vulgar, besides the term “banging” being used once, plus other lesser euphemisms like “sleeping around”, “body count”, etc, etc.

Lesson 32: How To Improve Your Appearance
- One mention of not going to bed smelly unless one wants a “s*xless marriage”
- One mention that many men do not clean between their butt-cheeks (not sexual).
- One mention of “If I want to treat my wife, I get all gussied up […] But if I want to seduce my wife, I put on a cowboy hat and do about 3 hours of yard work […] but nothing is happening until I get a shower”.

In addition:
- He states that his wife is “hot” about 6 times, never obscenely.
- Chapters about choosing the right woman and teaching your kids to date both take physical attraction into account (“hot” and “sleep with” are used), but makes clear that intimacy is to be saved for marriage.
- He says that his wife thinks he’s “cute” when he tries to cook, and thinks that he’s “hot” when he succeeds.
- Chapter about making sure one’s daughter is safe on dates (nothing objectionable)
- Chapter about dating one’s wife; includes passing mentions of “sleeping with” and going to a hotel overnight.
- One passing mention of a child rapist
- He refers to one guy he knew as a “man-wh*re”


Other things to consider:
- Mentions of drinking alcohol
- Very strongly pro-Second Amendment, but with an emphasis on gun safety.
- Briefly discusses abortion, but not inappropriately.

[Dobiac · Rating 5 out of 5]

He Gets It

The Title and Subtitle says it all. The Manbook: A Point-by-Point Guide to Sucking It Up and Getting the Job Done – A No-Nonsense Guide to Mental Toughness and Professional Growth.
While this is the Manbook, it would be a great for women to read too. Thank you Tina for supporting Nick to be the kind of Real Man we need more of.

[Brenden Wentworth · Rating 4 out of 5]

Solid book with helpful advice. Probably better read as a topical index, instead of straight through

For dudes looking for practical helps maybe their dad didn’t teach them, this is for you

[Alley Marrs · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this book. My favorite two chapters were 50 and 51. But the whole book, which I listened to on Audible, reminded me of Ron Swanson from the show Parks and Rec. I say that as a compliment because I absolutely loved Ron Swanson. From Nick’s voice to his ideas, it gave me both nostalgia and also introduced me to some great new ideas. 10/10 recommend. I will be recommending this book to many friends and family members.

[Arianna Keyser · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book on healthy masculinity in a time where masculinity is being questioned. While the target audience is men, it has many great points for being a competent and well rounded person that can be appreciated by both genders.

[Books Data · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Manbook by Nick Freitas is a direct, conversational guide to masculinity, responsibility, and personal character. The book is written in a straightforward and often practical style, aimed especially at men who may feel confused by modern messages about what it means to be strong, good, and useful. Rather than presenting masculinity as dominance or aggression, Freitas argues that being a man is primarily about duty, discipline, and service to others. The book is built around the idea that real manhood is not something proven by image, status, or toughness alone, but by consistent actions, moral courage, and the willingness to take responsibility for one’s life.

At its core, the book tries to answer a question many people struggle with today: what does healthy masculinity actually look like? Freitas responds by rejecting both shallow stereotypes and the idea that masculinity itself is something negative. He believes that many boys and men have grown up without clear guidance, role models, or expectations, and that this absence has left them vulnerable to confusion, passivity, and resentment. According to him, society often criticizes men either for being too harsh or for failing to lead, while offering very little constructive advice about how to build strong character. The book is his attempt to fill that gap with a set of principles grounded in self-control, honor, loyalty, and accountability.

One of the strongest messages throughout the book is that a man should not see himself as the center of the world. Freitas argues that maturity begins when a person stops asking only what he wants and starts asking what is required of him. This means learning to protect, provide, and contribute, especially to family and community. He places a heavy emphasis on responsibility, suggesting that men become stronger and more fulfilled when they commit themselves to something beyond personal comfort. In his view, purpose does not come from endlessly chasing pleasure, attention, or validation. It comes from taking ownership of one’s role in life and doing difficult things even when no one is watching.

Freitas also spends time discussing discipline, which he treats as a foundation for freedom rather than a restriction on it. He argues that many people misunderstand freedom as simply being able to do whatever they feel like in the moment. In reality, he says, a person without self-control becomes a slave to impulse, distraction, and weakness. Whether the issue is physical fitness, work ethic, finances, relationships, or emotional reactions, the book repeatedly insists that self-mastery matters. A man who cannot control his temper, his habits, or his desires will eventually create damage in his own life and in the lives of the people who depend on him. Discipline, in this sense, is not about harshness for its own sake but about becoming reliable and steady.

Another major theme in The Manbook is courage, though Freitas presents courage in a broad way. It is not just about physical bravery or dramatic acts. It also means telling the truth, standing by principles, accepting consequences, and doing what is right when it is inconvenient or unpopular. He suggests that too many people avoid hard conversations, hard work, or hard decisions because they want comfort more than growth. For Freitas, courage is closely linked to integrity. A man should try to become someone whose private conduct matches his public image. Character is shown most clearly not in moments of performance, but in quiet choices made consistently over time.

The book also reflects on relationships, especially the role of men within families. Freitas emphasizes being dependable as a husband, father, son, or friend, and he returns often to the idea that leadership in the home is not about control but about example. He argues that a man should earn respect through sacrifice, competence, and love, not demand it through intimidation. This part of the book stresses that strength should make others safer, not smaller. He wants men to be emotionally grounded, capable of affection, and willing to bear burdens rather than run from them. At the same time, he does not frame vulnerability as endless emotional display. Instead, he seems to value honest self-awareness combined with the ability to remain steady in difficult times.

Freitas also addresses the cultural confusion surrounding masculinity in modern society. He argues that boys are often given mixed signals: they are told to be confident, but not too assertive; strong, but not threatening; emotionally open, but not unstable. In his view, the result is not balance but uncertainty. He believes many institutions have become better at criticizing men than at forming them. The book pushes back against the idea that traditionally masculine traits such as competitiveness, protectiveness, and physical courage are automatically harmful. Freitas argues that these traits can be deeply positive when guided by virtue. Without moral direction, strength can become destructive, but without strength, virtue may remain passive and ineffective.

A practical tone runs through much of the book. Freitas does not just talk in abstract ideals; he often ties his ideas to habits, choices, and daily conduct. The message is that being a man is not about claiming a title but about building a pattern of behavior. This includes showing up on time, keeping one’s word, taking care of one’s body, working hard, learning from failure, and refusing to blame others for every setback. He seems especially critical of victim mentality, not because hardship is unreal, but because he believes people become stronger when they focus on what they can control rather than what they cannot. Personal responsibility, in his view, is empowering because it restores agency.

At the same time, the book’s style is unapologetically opinionated. Freitas writes with confidence and conviction, and readers may agree with some parts more than others. His perspective is rooted in traditional values and a belief that modern culture often undermines the development of strong men. Some readers may find his approach refreshing and clarifying, especially if they are looking for direct advice and moral structure. Others may see parts of the argument as too rigid or too tied to conventional gender roles. Still, even for those who do not accept every conclusion, the book clearly aims to start a serious conversation about character, meaning, and what responsible adulthood should look like.

Overall, The Manbook is less about proving masculinity and more about defining it through service, discipline, courage, and accountability. It argues that manhood is not a performance and not a set of slogans, but a lifelong practice of becoming someone others can trust. Freitas presents masculinity as something valuable when it is disciplined by virtue and directed toward the good of others. The book’s central message is simple but demanding: a man should strive to be useful, honest, self-controlled, and strong enough to carry responsibility well. In that sense, the book is really about character first, and masculinity as the form that character takes when lived out with purpose and conviction.

[Caleb Bixler · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great book to listen to! It’s full of practical advice, and I’d recommend it to any young man who is unsure of what Manhood is, or what masculine responsibility looks like in day to day life.

[D.J. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Freitas is known mostly for his viral witty (and sometimes sharp) short reels, always followed by a sip from one of his iconic coffee mugs. But he also hosts a notable podcast where he dives deep into the same themes, as well as philosophy , history, apologetics, and other topics in long form. I was either expecting or hoping for the latter but got the former. Instead of a philosophical exposition from a wise older man I found concise takes on important matters. In other words, I was hoping for an extended visit with a wise grandpa but I got a short conversation with dad for each topic. In keeping with the theme of this book, I will take accountability for my expectations and not rate the book low.

All this being said, the book is very good for what it is. Freitas is that dad who knows things, and he communicates it well. At 58, I have been discussing these lessons with my son, nephews, and young men from church and work for many years. For teenage and young adult men this book will serve you well. Particularly if you don’t have a good man in your life. Which is the one chapter he didn’t write that would fit in well: how to find a mentor. Just a hint, it’s that guy at church or work who is getting so many of the other things right.

[Abby Klose · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m not the intended audience of this book, but when I heard Nick Freitas wrote a book, I knew I had to give it a read. This book felt like a compilation of all of the best Making the Argument episodes (iykyk) made complete with a whole chapter dedicated to the subject of how to make a steak and a nod to Good Ranchers. While I’m sad the Virginia House of Delegates no longer has Nick’s reliably courageous and incredibly articulate voice of truth, I’m glad his platform has grown in such a way that he can be a role model for the younger generations. This book might just have to be my new go-to graduation gift for all the boys in my life. Now, I’m left wondering if we can one day anticipate a book from the Queen of the Bees, Tina. 🤔👸🏼🐝

[Caleb Emlet · Rating 4 out of 5]

The book sets out what it states it will do. It lays out good principles for young (and old) men to know and put into practice. The majority of chapters (53 in total) explain what the title says in a concise, yet adequate few pages.

My only major complaints are that some of the chapters I felt did not adequately cover what the title said, like I was still waiting for the big takeaway, or I felt like the main point was covered but could’ve been better fleshed out in another page or two. However, out of the 53 chapters, this would only be maybe 5–8 of them. So I would still highly recommend the book.

Lastly, would have enjoyed seeing at least one chapter on personal finances/budgeting.

[Jay C Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wisdom, knowledge, experience, and gratitude.

Thank you for sharing your wisdom and knowledge. I rarely leave reviews, although this book will open your eyes to an experienced perspective on a variety of topics. It wont change your mind about anything….it will increase your desire to learn more and improve your capabilities. I write this much as to not reveal anything in the book, hoping you find out for yourself. :). 10/10

[Amanda Sexton · Rating 4 out of 5]

Audiobook. This conservative viewpoint actually lines up with a lot of what I agree with. I chose this book (read by the author) because I find his social media reels funny.

He has fun chapters, like How to Kick In a Door, and he has serious chapters, like How to Date your Wife.

As a female, I still learned from what he said, and can appreciate how a man would respond to this book.

There is a slight amount of profanity, and a tiny bit of crude humor.

[Adam Kareus · Rating 4 out of 5]

Short chapters covering all sorts of life experience and situations. Freitas outlines and gives good basic advice for all men who want to be men. I appreciated not only the practical advice but also the emphasis on being a godly man; going to church and leading your family well.

[Robert Knotts]

I couldn't finish this audiobook. Part of it was he lost me within the first few minutes when he mentioned "woke" in the negative. I got to Lesson 10 before I couldn't go any further. The book was just not for me, but I won't rate it low because it was a preference based on my opinions.

[Michael · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good review of subjects men should be interested in, fascinated by, or informed of, all based on Freitas’ consistent foundation of faith, family, and freedom. Enjoyable and provoking in a society that so often tries to target the fundamentals this read espouses.

[Nick Salenga · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a great book that is list of hard lessons learned through marriage, fatherhood, war, business, & politics all in quest to be good man in whether you are young & still learning or seasoned as always trying to improve.

[Kristen Wooldridge · Rating 5 out of 5]

I bought this book for my husband, but as a big fan of Nick myself, I wanted to read it, too. I’m glad I did. So much wisdom!

[Kelly · Rating 5 out of 5]

An important read

Everyone should grab a copy of this book and share it with those around them. This book is written to men, but I learned a lot from it as a woman.

[Dan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Enjoyable read. It is good to see there are still some masculine politicians in the Commonwealth. All men are masculine males but not all males are masculine men.

[Noah Linhart · Rating 5 out of 5]

I only wish he had included a reading list.

[James Garland · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good stuff, some for fun, and some great advice mixed in. Worth the time to read.

[Ben Aurich · Rating 5 out of 5]

A lot of solid advice, especially for husbands and fathers.

[Austin Denigan · Rating 5 out of 5]

An outstanding primer on being a Man. Simple yet articulate, Nick hits the nail on the head.

[Roy Rogers · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cute little book, fun to peruse through. Love Nic Freitas

[Todd Haines · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good read

Nice collection of thoughts put into a book. I have about a 90% overlap with his ideas. I highlighted a few quotes too.