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Ladies' Man: The Careless Heart of John F. Kennedy
From the New York Times bestselling author of Capote’s Women, a penetrating examination of President John F. Kennedy’s complicated, tumultuous life as told through the lens of the fascinating women he loved
John F. Kennedy was a born leader—bold, charismatic, and able to charm with nothing more than a witty phrase and a winning smile. He was also obsessive, manipulative, and haunted by complex desires for shiny, remarkable women, collecting them voraciously and carelessly, then dismissing them summarily, on his rise to the White House.
But these women were perhaps the only witnesses to the real JFK—and it’s time their stories were finally told. Bestselling biographer Laurence Leamer knew three of Kennedy’s mistresses, and Ladies’ Man reveals JFK’s harrowing, intimate life with unprecedented access.
From youthful indiscretions at boarding school, early connections with such beautiful aristocratic European women as Inga Arvad and Gunilla von Post, marriage to the stately Jacqueline Bouvier, romances with Pamela Turnure and Diana de Vegh, liaisons with mafia moll Judith Exner and East German spy Ellen Rometsch, to his relationship with Marilyn Monroe shortly before her death, JFK’s affairs were multifaceted and often tragic. His cautious public persona contrasted sharply with his reckless personal life, where he took bewildering chances that could have destroyed his presidency.
No one who reads Ladies’ Man will ever think about John F. Kennedy the same way again.
John F. Kennedy was a born leader—bold, charismatic, and able to charm with nothing more than a witty phrase and a winning smile. He was also obsessive, manipulative, and haunted by complex desires for shiny, remarkable women, collecting them voraciously and carelessly, then dismissing them summarily, on his rise to the White House.
But these women were perhaps the only witnesses to the real JFK—and it’s time their stories were finally told. Bestselling biographer Laurence Leamer knew three of Kennedy’s mistresses, and Ladies’ Man reveals JFK’s harrowing, intimate life with unprecedented access.
From youthful indiscretions at boarding school, early connections with such beautiful aristocratic European women as Inga Arvad and Gunilla von Post, marriage to the stately Jacqueline Bouvier, romances with Pamela Turnure and Diana de Vegh, liaisons with mafia moll Judith Exner and East German spy Ellen Rometsch, to his relationship with Marilyn Monroe shortly before her death, JFK’s affairs were multifaceted and often tragic. His cautious public persona contrasted sharply with his reckless personal life, where he took bewildering chances that could have destroyed his presidency.
No one who reads Ladies’ Man will ever think about John F. Kennedy the same way again.
311 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 20, 2026
About the author
Laurence Leamer
36 books293 followersLaurence Leamer is an award-winning journalist and historian who has written eighteen books including five New York Times bestsellers. He has worked in a factory in France, a coal mine in West Virginia and as a Peace Corps volunteer in a remote village in Nepal two days from a road. He has written two novels and an off Broadway play but is primarily known for his nonfiction. His most recent book, Capote's Women, is being made into an eight-part series starring Naomi Watts, Diane Lane, Calista Flockhart, and Demi Moore.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
Did Not Finish
October 19, 2026After reading about 15% I realize I don't want to know all these details. I'm dreading the chapters about his marriage and am going to nip this in the bud.
Review of advance copy received from Edelweiss+
This nonfiction account of JFK’s almost ceaseless affairs starkly reveals his heartlessness, illnesses, and repugnant misogynism. The behind-the- scenes reality of his presidency was extremely different from the facade presented to the public. Heavily medicated and obsessed with sex, JFK’s private behavior was a known secret that was kept under wraps. Despite his successes (the Cuban Missile Crisis and Space Program come to mind), he should not have been the most powerful man in the world.
October 24, 2026
I had no idea that John F Kennedy was such a sickly child, young man, and adult. I recall reading that he was a terrible philanderer. Well, this book names names. The story moved slowly because it's full of true stories that have been well researched. If you are interested in a very unflattering look at this president, here's your book.
I won this book in a Goodreads giveaway.
I won this book in a Goodreads giveaway.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Before reading this book, most of what I knew about JFK came from general history classes and his infamous connection to Marilyn Monroe. I had no idea just how extensive his affairs were or how much of this book would focus on the women in his life. The final line in the blurb - "No one who reads Ladies’ Man will ever think about John F. Kennedy the same way again." - is spot on for me. After reading it, I can honestly say I came away with a much stronger opinion of JFK and not a favorable one.
One of the things that stood out to me was the sheer number of women JFK pursued and the apparent lack of respect he showed women in general. Story after story depicts a man who seemed to view women as sources of personal pleasure rather than as actual people. I found this difficult to read, not because the subject matter was uninteresting, but because it was so frustrating to see the same patterns repeated over and over (especially when we're still seeing them in the news). I'm tired of hearing stories about men who treat women as disposable and knowing how revered JFK was, I read this book at the wrong time. The book also includes extensive details about Kennedy's health and his various ailments, most of which were apparently mysterious, difficult to explain, or probably not able to be diagnosed with the technology at that time.
My biggest criticism is the writing and organization. I found the narrative disjointed at times, with topics shifting abruptly, sometimes even within a chapter. The book would introduce something, move on to something else, and leave me wondering what had happened to the original thread. Perhaps some of those stories simply have no definitive answers, but the frequent shifts made the book feel less cohesive than I would have liked. It also became repetitive, although I recognize that some of that repetition reflects the recurring patterns in Kennedy's personal life and health struggles.
Overall, Ladies' Man gave me a much less flattering view of a president I had previously felt fairly neutral about. Readers interested in JFK's private life and the women whose stories have often been overshadowed by his public legacy may find this a compelling subject. For me; however, the repetitive nature of the accounts and the disjointed storytelling detracted from the experience.
Thanks to NetGalley, Putnam, and Laurence Leamer for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
One of the things that stood out to me was the sheer number of women JFK pursued and the apparent lack of respect he showed women in general. Story after story depicts a man who seemed to view women as sources of personal pleasure rather than as actual people. I found this difficult to read, not because the subject matter was uninteresting, but because it was so frustrating to see the same patterns repeated over and over (especially when we're still seeing them in the news). I'm tired of hearing stories about men who treat women as disposable and knowing how revered JFK was, I read this book at the wrong time. The book also includes extensive details about Kennedy's health and his various ailments, most of which were apparently mysterious, difficult to explain, or probably not able to be diagnosed with the technology at that time.
My biggest criticism is the writing and organization. I found the narrative disjointed at times, with topics shifting abruptly, sometimes even within a chapter. The book would introduce something, move on to something else, and leave me wondering what had happened to the original thread. Perhaps some of those stories simply have no definitive answers, but the frequent shifts made the book feel less cohesive than I would have liked. It also became repetitive, although I recognize that some of that repetition reflects the recurring patterns in Kennedy's personal life and health struggles.
Overall, Ladies' Man gave me a much less flattering view of a president I had previously felt fairly neutral about. Readers interested in JFK's private life and the women whose stories have often been overshadowed by his public legacy may find this a compelling subject. For me; however, the repetitive nature of the accounts and the disjointed storytelling detracted from the experience.
Thanks to NetGalley, Putnam, and Laurence Leamer for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
October 21, 2026
Thank you NetGalley and Putnam | G.P. Putnam's Sons for this advance ARC in return for an honest review.
Ladies Man: The Careless Heart of John F. Kennedy proves the old adage: "Never meet your Heroes." Ever since my Saturday Morning cartoons were canceled as a result of the assassination of JFK I have been obsessed with learning more about the 35th President of the United States, not to mention admittedly being somewhat of conspiracy nut given the number of books I have read about the lead up to and fateful shooting on November 22, 1963. Most of these books reveal all the positive things JFK did in his short time in the White House and focus on the bad ( the Bay of Pigs) and the good ( The Cuban Missile Crisis ). But none dive into the philandering and adultery committed by JFK to this extent.
Yes, I knew about his dalliances with Judith Campbell ( at the same time as Sam Giancana and John Roselli ), Marilyn Monroe as well as Mary Meyer but I had absolutely no idea that he was screwing around to this extent. Leamer does not paint a very pretty portrait of the eventual King of Camelot. Rather JFK seems to be bordering on misogynistic in how he preyed upon young women and treated them before and during their illicit affairs, with Leamer commenting that once they succumbed to his charms he was basically wham bam thank you M'am and would not even kiss these poor women.
I also was aware of some of his ailments including his rough childhood, and on-going back pain, but I was not aware of the full extent of his maladies, resulting in multiple hospitalizations and a life long addiction to various drugs such as steroids and amphetamines.
Lucky for JFK he did not live in the era of the internet, social media or even the 24 hour news channels. Although his womanizing and lewd affairs were the worst kept secret in DC, the press, or even his Republican opponents like Richard Nixon would not bring it up on the campaign trail. Even when caught red-handed by the landlady sneaking out of the apartment of one of his "secretaries" no one would listen, nor even publish the pictures she took. If JFK existed after Gary Hart and Donna Rice things would be much different, including the end of his political career ( or maybe he would be the Republican Nominee).
Despite the look behind the curtain, this was a fascinating read weaving well known mile markers like PT-109, the elections to Congress, the Senate and eventually the White House, with the myriad of young ladies who snuck into the Kennedy bedroom when single, and even when Jackie was away.
#LadiesMan #NetGalley
Ladies Man: The Careless Heart of John F. Kennedy proves the old adage: "Never meet your Heroes." Ever since my Saturday Morning cartoons were canceled as a result of the assassination of JFK I have been obsessed with learning more about the 35th President of the United States, not to mention admittedly being somewhat of conspiracy nut given the number of books I have read about the lead up to and fateful shooting on November 22, 1963. Most of these books reveal all the positive things JFK did in his short time in the White House and focus on the bad ( the Bay of Pigs) and the good ( The Cuban Missile Crisis ). But none dive into the philandering and adultery committed by JFK to this extent.
Yes, I knew about his dalliances with Judith Campbell ( at the same time as Sam Giancana and John Roselli ), Marilyn Monroe as well as Mary Meyer but I had absolutely no idea that he was screwing around to this extent. Leamer does not paint a very pretty portrait of the eventual King of Camelot. Rather JFK seems to be bordering on misogynistic in how he preyed upon young women and treated them before and during their illicit affairs, with Leamer commenting that once they succumbed to his charms he was basically wham bam thank you M'am and would not even kiss these poor women.
I also was aware of some of his ailments including his rough childhood, and on-going back pain, but I was not aware of the full extent of his maladies, resulting in multiple hospitalizations and a life long addiction to various drugs such as steroids and amphetamines.
Lucky for JFK he did not live in the era of the internet, social media or even the 24 hour news channels. Although his womanizing and lewd affairs were the worst kept secret in DC, the press, or even his Republican opponents like Richard Nixon would not bring it up on the campaign trail. Even when caught red-handed by the landlady sneaking out of the apartment of one of his "secretaries" no one would listen, nor even publish the pictures she took. If JFK existed after Gary Hart and Donna Rice things would be much different, including the end of his political career ( or maybe he would be the Republican Nominee).
Despite the look behind the curtain, this was a fascinating read weaving well known mile markers like PT-109, the elections to Congress, the Senate and eventually the White House, with the myriad of young ladies who snuck into the Kennedy bedroom when single, and even when Jackie was away.
#LadiesMan #NetGalley
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Prolific Kennedy writer strikes again !
Squarely focused on President J.F.K,, this biography debunks popular myths and expounds on commonly known facts. The Author genuinely examines why this ambitious presidential hopeful and, later President, was willing to risk his political aspirations with some time between the sheets.
It's not a brisk list of the women he bedded in salacious details. Rather the Author, considers the health challenges JFK faced, the complicit acts by medical professionals and his political handlers. Then there's the family dynamic set by the parents, Rose and Joe, Sr. The unstable family foundation is what this political dynasty is founded upon.
That being said, the Author explores the choices the President made. There's the indifference he showed to his wife even pursing her friends or those in her social circle, allowing a parade of women into the family home. There's the narcissistic belief that he was infallible, and that the press as well as governmental institutions would shield him. And, there's the hypnotic charisma he had to achieve his sexual goals fixating often on the young, and vulnerable. Albeit there were times, there were amours of his age and intellect but they were few and far between. Makes readers consider in this modern age of #Metoo movement , how he would be viewed if he had survived.
If you are a reader already familiar with this Author's engrossing writing style. Mine began with the "Kennedy Women: The Triumph and Tragedy of America's First Family", leading to snatching from the shelves "The Kennedy Men: 1901-1963", and the eye opening "Sons of Camelot: The Fall of An American Dynasty", then this Reader will appeal to you.
It's not a heard that, knew that kind of book. There's firsthand interviews by this Author. There's a deep dive into why some of these women would continue to be 'available' despite the lack of reward (ie. divorcing and remarrying them). There's an analysis of the Mobs relationship with the President. All in all, like that the read was akin to the image of a wheel, with JFK at the center and the spokes representing the women in his life from Inga Arvad, Mary Pinchot Meyer, Mimi Alford, and of course. Marilyn Monroe (to name a few).
Given his age this undoubtedly, may one of the last books written by this Author. It's a lost to the publishing industry and Kennedy readers will mourn.
#LadiesMan #NetGalley
This ARC was provided by the publisher, Putnam | G.P. Putnam's Sons via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Squarely focused on President J.F.K,, this biography debunks popular myths and expounds on commonly known facts. The Author genuinely examines why this ambitious presidential hopeful and, later President, was willing to risk his political aspirations with some time between the sheets.
It's not a brisk list of the women he bedded in salacious details. Rather the Author, considers the health challenges JFK faced, the complicit acts by medical professionals and his political handlers. Then there's the family dynamic set by the parents, Rose and Joe, Sr. The unstable family foundation is what this political dynasty is founded upon.
That being said, the Author explores the choices the President made. There's the indifference he showed to his wife even pursing her friends or those in her social circle, allowing a parade of women into the family home. There's the narcissistic belief that he was infallible, and that the press as well as governmental institutions would shield him. And, there's the hypnotic charisma he had to achieve his sexual goals fixating often on the young, and vulnerable. Albeit there were times, there were amours of his age and intellect but they were few and far between. Makes readers consider in this modern age of #Metoo movement , how he would be viewed if he had survived.
If you are a reader already familiar with this Author's engrossing writing style. Mine began with the "Kennedy Women: The Triumph and Tragedy of America's First Family", leading to snatching from the shelves "The Kennedy Men: 1901-1963", and the eye opening "Sons of Camelot: The Fall of An American Dynasty", then this Reader will appeal to you.
It's not a heard that, knew that kind of book. There's firsthand interviews by this Author. There's a deep dive into why some of these women would continue to be 'available' despite the lack of reward (ie. divorcing and remarrying them). There's an analysis of the Mobs relationship with the President. All in all, like that the read was akin to the image of a wheel, with JFK at the center and the spokes representing the women in his life from Inga Arvad, Mary Pinchot Meyer, Mimi Alford, and of course. Marilyn Monroe (to name a few).
Given his age this undoubtedly, may one of the last books written by this Author. It's a lost to the publishing industry and Kennedy readers will mourn.
#LadiesMan #NetGalley
This ARC was provided by the publisher, Putnam | G.P. Putnam's Sons via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thanks to NetGalley and G.P Putnam’s Sons for the digital copy of this book; I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I’ll read anything about the Kennedys that doesn’t involve conspiracy theories about JFK and RFK’s assassination. The more I read about people in the family many considered America’s Royalty, the more conflicted I am about even reading more about them. I’ve known about John Kennedy’s philandering since probably junior high, but this book really focuses on the women he was involved with.
Ladies’ Man really shows how much of a creep JFK was to women. I know it was “a different time,” but he really did not hold any woman in high regard. Women were there to please him, and once that was done, he left. The book mentions many of the women that were involved with Kennedy and were known to the public, like Inga Arvid and Judith Campbell Exner. But the book also mentions the teenagers who “worked” at the White House, known as Fiddle and Faddle, and Mimi Alford (sp?), who I just found out about a few years ago. All these young women succumbed to JFK’s charms and put up with his behavior for many reasons.
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The book paints a portrait of not only Kennedy but the women, too, that is more intimate than the usual mentioning of his cheating, sexual addiction, and utter carelessness. There are several stories of journalists and photographers being ready to publish an article or photograph about JFK’s little trysts, but magically, the stories never appeared in papers. There’s anecdotal evidence of an older Republican couple who caught Kennedy coming out of a young woman’s rental apartment when he was Senator. This couple, the Katers, traveled around to JFK’s public appearances with a blown-up photo of him skulking away from the apartment after a tryst. The fact that this story did not gain any traction just goes to show how much is kept out of the public eye by people who should know better.
Ladies’ Man relies on a mix of personal anecdotes from many of the women that JFK used and abused (emotionally, that is,) with a mix of historical detail and tabloid-style intrigue. This gossipy analysis of Kennedy’s Achilles heel focuses as much on the women involved as it does JFK. Instead of just talking about Jack screwing around with other women, Laurence Leamer’s book tells many of the women’s sides of the story. John F. Kennedy – fairly good president who had just found his stride when he was killed – horrible human being.
I’ll read anything about the Kennedys that doesn’t involve conspiracy theories about JFK and RFK’s assassination. The more I read about people in the family many considered America’s Royalty, the more conflicted I am about even reading more about them. I’ve known about John Kennedy’s philandering since probably junior high, but this book really focuses on the women he was involved with.
Ladies’ Man really shows how much of a creep JFK was to women. I know it was “a different time,” but he really did not hold any woman in high regard. Women were there to please him, and once that was done, he left. The book mentions many of the women that were involved with Kennedy and were known to the public, like Inga Arvid and Judith Campbell Exner. But the book also mentions the teenagers who “worked” at the White House, known as Fiddle and Faddle, and Mimi Alford (sp?), who I just found out about a few years ago. All these young women succumbed to JFK’s charms and put up with his behavior for many reasons.
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The book paints a portrait of not only Kennedy but the women, too, that is more intimate than the usual mentioning of his cheating, sexual addiction, and utter carelessness. There are several stories of journalists and photographers being ready to publish an article or photograph about JFK’s little trysts, but magically, the stories never appeared in papers. There’s anecdotal evidence of an older Republican couple who caught Kennedy coming out of a young woman’s rental apartment when he was Senator. This couple, the Katers, traveled around to JFK’s public appearances with a blown-up photo of him skulking away from the apartment after a tryst. The fact that this story did not gain any traction just goes to show how much is kept out of the public eye by people who should know better.
Ladies’ Man relies on a mix of personal anecdotes from many of the women that JFK used and abused (emotionally, that is,) with a mix of historical detail and tabloid-style intrigue. This gossipy analysis of Kennedy’s Achilles heel focuses as much on the women involved as it does JFK. Instead of just talking about Jack screwing around with other women, Laurence Leamer’s book tells many of the women’s sides of the story. John F. Kennedy – fairly good president who had just found his stride when he was killed – horrible human being.
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April 15, 2026Thank you to NetGalley and PG Putnam Sons for this ARC.
Ladies man, details many of the affairs that Jack Kennedy had throughout his life. I think everybody is well aware that Jack Kennedy was a philandering husband, but this book really brought how severe his affairs were. The book covers details from his early childhood all the way through his ass assassination.
JFK was a ladies man only in the sense of the many women that he betted. However, his regard for women was pretty low. He didn’t believe that women should hold public office or even really be involved in the affairs of the world. It’s interesting because he sent out to Mary an uneducated woman and ended up with Jackie. Someone who was very educated and well-versed in the way of the world.
One thing I enjoyed about this book was that the author told the story from many of the women’s point of view. He covers their attraction to Jack, as well as the lives they live before and after their affairs. It also shows the tragedy that has surrounded the Kennedy family from the death of his older brother to his own assassination, as well as the assassination of his brother to the botched surgery regarding his mentally challenged sister to the early death of his other sister Patricia.
I found this book a quick read. I really enjoyed the author style. One thing I wish he had covered was what happened to the woman after Jack’s assassination. Jack was involved with many women while in the White House. The story concludes with what happens to Jackie but does not include any of the remaining details regarding the woman that he had affairs with. It would’ve been a nice wrap off if he had detailed what it happened to them. Overall, I would recommend this book if you are interested in JFK or the Kennedys.
October 20, 2026
📚 LADIES’ MAN
Laurence Leamer
Publishes 10/20/26
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thank you to @putnambooks, @laurenceleamer, and @netgalley for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
⸻
In Ladies’ Man, Laurence Leamer examines John F. Kennedy’s relationships with the women in his life. Rather than treating them as footnotes in presidential history, Leamer places their experiences at the center. Through them, we see a Kennedy who was magnetic in public but secretive, manipulative, and increasingly reckless in private.
______
I expected a familiar account of JFK’s affairs, but this is much more than a list of famous names. Leamer looks at the pattern behind Kennedy’s behavior—the charm, pursuit, secrecy, and abrupt dismissal when a relationship no longer suited him.
The strongest part for me was the focus on the women. Some relationships were glamorous, some politically dangerous, and others deeply sad. Together, their stories reveal a man who could be witty and attentive one moment, then careless and manipulative the next.
I was surprised by how much the book explores Kennedy’s health, unexplained illnesses, and medications. Some of his symptoms puzzled doctors and were difficult to diagnose with the medical knowledge available at the time.
With so many women, overlapping relationships, and shifting timelines, I occasionally had trouble keeping everyone straight. I also wished the book had stayed with certain women longer and explored more of the consequences they faced.
Even so, this was an absorbing, well-researched biography that made me reconsider how history remembers powerful men and how often the women affected by their choices are pushed aside. I finished it seeing JFK and the Camelot legacy very differently.
Laurence Leamer
Publishes 10/20/26
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thank you to @putnambooks, @laurenceleamer, and @netgalley for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
⸻
In Ladies’ Man, Laurence Leamer examines John F. Kennedy’s relationships with the women in his life. Rather than treating them as footnotes in presidential history, Leamer places their experiences at the center. Through them, we see a Kennedy who was magnetic in public but secretive, manipulative, and increasingly reckless in private.
______
I expected a familiar account of JFK’s affairs, but this is much more than a list of famous names. Leamer looks at the pattern behind Kennedy’s behavior—the charm, pursuit, secrecy, and abrupt dismissal when a relationship no longer suited him.
The strongest part for me was the focus on the women. Some relationships were glamorous, some politically dangerous, and others deeply sad. Together, their stories reveal a man who could be witty and attentive one moment, then careless and manipulative the next.
I was surprised by how much the book explores Kennedy’s health, unexplained illnesses, and medications. Some of his symptoms puzzled doctors and were difficult to diagnose with the medical knowledge available at the time.
With so many women, overlapping relationships, and shifting timelines, I occasionally had trouble keeping everyone straight. I also wished the book had stayed with certain women longer and explored more of the consequences they faced.
Even so, this was an absorbing, well-researched biography that made me reconsider how history remembers powerful men and how often the women affected by their choices are pushed aside. I finished it seeing JFK and the Camelot legacy very differently.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thanks to the publisher for giving me an eARC of this book!
3.25 stars.
Whew. This man was exhausting. I didn't know a TON about JFK, but from what I did know he seemed like a decent guy, one of the "cool" presidents. Granted, one could argue that all presidents probably are bit of egomaniacs. Still, this book had me loathing this man, I don't know how any of the women in his life put up with him, because I barely could during the book. This book focused a lot on his health and at times felt repetitive, but I think that was reflective of the constant battle he had throughout his life. It's actually insane how much he hid his ailments. I never would've guessed he struggled as much as he did.
I really liked hearing about women in his life I had no clue about, like Arvad, Von Post, De Vegh, etc. I felt like I would've liked a bit more about Jackie and JFK's feelings toward her. While the book was extremely detailed in many parts, there were other important moments in his life that I felt were glossed over. I also thought the transitions for some of the chapters seemed a bit abrupt/didn't feel like the natural conclusion. Still, glad I read it and it definitely makes me look back on this part of U.S. history differently.
3.25 stars.
Whew. This man was exhausting. I didn't know a TON about JFK, but from what I did know he seemed like a decent guy, one of the "cool" presidents. Granted, one could argue that all presidents probably are bit of egomaniacs. Still, this book had me loathing this man, I don't know how any of the women in his life put up with him, because I barely could during the book. This book focused a lot on his health and at times felt repetitive, but I think that was reflective of the constant battle he had throughout his life. It's actually insane how much he hid his ailments. I never would've guessed he struggled as much as he did.
I really liked hearing about women in his life I had no clue about, like Arvad, Von Post, De Vegh, etc. I felt like I would've liked a bit more about Jackie and JFK's feelings toward her. While the book was extremely detailed in many parts, there were other important moments in his life that I felt were glossed over. I also thought the transitions for some of the chapters seemed a bit abrupt/didn't feel like the natural conclusion. Still, glad I read it and it definitely makes me look back on this part of U.S. history differently.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I received a free ebook from Netgalley in exchange for a fair and unbiased review. I have been a fan of the Kennedy's as far back as I can remember. This was a different book than I was expecting.
The book took longer to read for me than usual. The chapters were a little longer. Some of the chapters had smaller sub chapters and some didn't.
I knew about Jack Kennedy's affairs. Oh there were more women than I was expecting. It saddened me to have to reexamine my own beliefs on this president. I had a hard time thinking about his wife and even the other women he had affairs with.
The book offered facts. It appeared that the people in the Kennedy world were not too emotional. Therefore, the book is giving you a lot of facts. The book was challenging for me to read on my fronts. It isn't an emotional book. It made the book harder to read.
I am thankful to Netgalley and the author for the opportunity to read this book. I guess it will change how I know think of Jack Kennedy.
The book took longer to read for me than usual. The chapters were a little longer. Some of the chapters had smaller sub chapters and some didn't.
I knew about Jack Kennedy's affairs. Oh there were more women than I was expecting. It saddened me to have to reexamine my own beliefs on this president. I had a hard time thinking about his wife and even the other women he had affairs with.
The book offered facts. It appeared that the people in the Kennedy world were not too emotional. Therefore, the book is giving you a lot of facts. The book was challenging for me to read on my fronts. It isn't an emotional book. It made the book harder to read.
I am thankful to Netgalley and the author for the opportunity to read this book. I guess it will change how I know think of Jack Kennedy.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I was a senior in high school when John F. Kennedy was assassinated so I very well remember all the excitement when he announced his run for president. It was such an exciting time and people could not get enough of the Kennedys. Everyone was thrilled when he won the presidency. There were occasional rumors about his tie to the mob but any rumors were quickly squashed. I have read many books about the Kennedys since that time. However, I think this is the most thorough book about JFK and the author did an excellent job researching and writing this book. I only heard in later years that he was a womanizer and had girlfriends, but I did not know how serious his problem was. I think his family was very dysfunctional. I have always thought that he was a very good president and I still feel that way. When I think of him today as a man, the words philanderer, rake, horndog and tomcat come to mind.
Thank you NetGalley and G P Putnam's Sons publishers for the ARC of this very fascinating book that I could not put down.
Thank you NetGalley and G P Putnam's Sons publishers for the ARC of this very fascinating book that I could not put down.
October 22, 2026
Thank you to G. P. Putnam and Son’s for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This is a fascinating take on JFK’s life from a different angle than is typically explored. It not only goes into the womanizing from JFK but also his plentiful health issues, drug use and the effects of that on his and presidency.
I thoroughly enjoyed the depth it went into, not just listing of women like a salacious list but exploring the effects on the women themselves and what this behaviour reflects on JFK’s psyche and reasoning for it. The author does not try to make excuses either for JFK’s actions.
The level of health concerns he had and its effect on him both mentally and physically is astounding. The author again does a great job of exploring this topic, and the subsequent drug use that stemmed from this.
The author does an amazing job at writing an engrossing book. I never once felt bored and just wanted to keep reading to learn more about this under explored aspect of JFK.
I already plan on picking up further books by this author and would recommend for anyone with an interest in JFK.
This is a fascinating take on JFK’s life from a different angle than is typically explored. It not only goes into the womanizing from JFK but also his plentiful health issues, drug use and the effects of that on his and presidency.
I thoroughly enjoyed the depth it went into, not just listing of women like a salacious list but exploring the effects on the women themselves and what this behaviour reflects on JFK’s psyche and reasoning for it. The author does not try to make excuses either for JFK’s actions.
The level of health concerns he had and its effect on him both mentally and physically is astounding. The author again does a great job of exploring this topic, and the subsequent drug use that stemmed from this.
The author does an amazing job at writing an engrossing book. I never once felt bored and just wanted to keep reading to learn more about this under explored aspect of JFK.
I already plan on picking up further books by this author and would recommend for anyone with an interest in JFK.
October 26, 2026
very depressing
If a person who hadn’t yet been born in 1963 read this book, s/he would be baffled by how much love and admiration has been expressed by countless people toward JFK. This book is like a photographic negative. Kennedy inspired people in this country and around the world and caused us to believe in our better selves. He proposed the nuclear test ban treaty and had a private correspondence with Khrushchev which allowed each man to communicate freely and make breakthroughs in negotiation. He gave NASA the boost it needed and inspired us to look beyond our earthbound prejudices and lack of imagination. This book does Kennedy a terrible injustice in examining microscopically his serious flaws without giving an equally vivid experience of his greatness. Millions of people grieved for him and miss him still.
If a person who hadn’t yet been born in 1963 read this book, s/he would be baffled by how much love and admiration has been expressed by countless people toward JFK. This book is like a photographic negative. Kennedy inspired people in this country and around the world and caused us to believe in our better selves. He proposed the nuclear test ban treaty and had a private correspondence with Khrushchev which allowed each man to communicate freely and make breakthroughs in negotiation. He gave NASA the boost it needed and inspired us to look beyond our earthbound prejudices and lack of imagination. This book does Kennedy a terrible injustice in examining microscopically his serious flaws without giving an equally vivid experience of his greatness. Millions of people grieved for him and miss him still.
October 20, 2026
This was a fascinating look at JFK’s life and Presidency through the lens of all the women he slept with. At this point, it’s not a secret that he was a philanderer despite having such a good professional reputation. But this book brings to light just how sex addicted he was as well as the scope of his various ailments. While the book is seemingly well researched and engaging, it does seem like the author omitted quite a bit as well. Having read many other books about the man, there is very little included about his relationship with Jackie or even his siblings younger than Kick. That said, I have to wonder what would have become of him had he lived into the modern era of Me Too. Thank you to NetGalley and G.P. Putnam’s Sons for the ARC.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Laurence Leamer’s Ladies' Man offers an eye-opening and unsettling look into the private life of John F. Kennedy. Before reading this book, I was already aware of JFK's cheating and philandering. However, Leamer's detailed book exposes an outrageous pattern of behavior that goes far beyond what I had previously understood.
The sheer extent of his indiscretions is staggering, painting a picture of a man who operated with a profound sense of entitlement, recklessness, and a blatant disregard for the potential consequences. Leamer does an excellent job of laying out the facts without unnecessary sensationalism.
The sheer extent of his indiscretions is staggering, painting a picture of a man who operated with a profound sense of entitlement, recklessness, and a blatant disregard for the potential consequences. Leamer does an excellent job of laying out the facts without unnecessary sensationalism.
September 2, 2026
I am pretty invested into anything JFK. This was such an interesting take on aspects of his life. It gave an insight into the woman who were in his life
Although that’s putting it too nicely. I feel like the author did a great job telling the story and not taking a side either way.
This book depicts JFK at his core of being a ladies man. It showed through accounts of woman how much of a creep jfk really was. I feel like he didn’t even respect woman especially Jackie if I’m honest. This depicts accounts from many woman that jfk abused and used.
I felt the writing was done very well and it kept me intrigued the entire book
Although that’s putting it too nicely. I feel like the author did a great job telling the story and not taking a side either way.
This book depicts JFK at his core of being a ladies man. It showed through accounts of woman how much of a creep jfk really was. I feel like he didn’t even respect woman especially Jackie if I’m honest. This depicts accounts from many woman that jfk abused and used.
I felt the writing was done very well and it kept me intrigued the entire book
Did Not Finish
October 26, 2026DNF'ed at 30%. I might return to this at some point, but loading up the audiobook again after a weekend away just felt too depressing so I sent it along to the other library patrons waiting on hold. Maybe they'll have a better time with it. I personally felt like it was gearing up to be infinitely more sympathetic toward Kennedy than he deserves--I don't think it's simple "carelessness" to sexually menace just about every woman you come across that you deem attractive to feed a particularly rampant and unrestrained libido, and I certainly don't believe that having a secret chronic pain disorder and a mean gross dad excuse or absolve you of having done so.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Mesmerizing account of JFK’s life written with astoundingly researched detail. I do not think you will find a more comprehensive read on this enigmatic man, the 35th President of the United States. His outrageous antics, many fool hardy, along with his physical suffering and his many hospital stays, with some questionable medical diagnoses and treatments, were shocking. Through it all, Jackie stood steadfast by his side. Thank you NetGalley and Penguin Random House for granting this book to me for an honest review. All opinions are my own. #Ladies’Man, #NetGalley, #Goodreads.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
It's a fine book if you're a fan of JFK. I don't think you're going to learn really anything new. I mean, it's all stuff that's been out there before or you've seen an Insan magazine articles. But if you're new to wanting to learn, especially with the interest because of the JKF Jr we'll learn about what the president was like. Throwing up and and during his presidency and his reputation as a ladies man and the relationship of his wife, it's definitely worth a read.If you're into political books and jfk
Thank you to netgalley for the arc.and exchange for an honest review
Thank you to netgalley for the arc.and exchange for an honest review
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you to Netgalley and G.P. Putnam's Sons for this ARC!
Really loved this book! Written like a romance novel (with nothing but broken hearts), but all based on history and interviews. Focuses on the women JFK enjoyed, but never loved, and the impact it had on their lives. Would've given 5 stars, but the ending felt very abrupt, especially in comparison to the pacing of the entire book. Felt like there was closure that didn't get to happen. Otherwise, can't stop sharing with friends and JFK fanatics!
Really loved this book! Written like a romance novel (with nothing but broken hearts), but all based on history and interviews. Focuses on the women JFK enjoyed, but never loved, and the impact it had on their lives. Would've given 5 stars, but the ending felt very abrupt, especially in comparison to the pacing of the entire book. Felt like there was closure that didn't get to happen. Otherwise, can't stop sharing with friends and JFK fanatics!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This was quite an interesting read, I did not know so much about JFKs health and relationship history. It was interesting the balancing act he took on into order to be pain free and also spend his time the way he wanted. This book talked a little about how he treated certain people and I had to remind myself it was due to the time of which he grew up. If you have interest in history or JFK I would highly recommend checking this out. I'm curious even more than I was before and may be looking into further books by this author.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Absolutely fascinating! After reading this I have a whole new opinion on JFK and a brand new appreciation for Jackie Kennedy. I still think JFK was a great President and would have continued to do great things but as a man and a husband - extremely disappointing. This book will have you look at JFK in a whole other light. I couldn't put it down. Thanks to NetGalley, the author and publishers for an advanced copy in exchange for my honest opinion.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Ladies' Man: The Careless Heart of John F. Kennedy offers a compelling behind-the-scenes look at John F. Kennedy’s life, exploring the complexities of the Kennedy dynasty from multiple perspectives. The varied points of view add depth and make the narrative especially engaging. Well researched and detailed, it provides an insightful examination of both the public image and private life of JFK.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this ARC. Look for this book on October 20th!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this ARC. Look for this book on October 20th!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I would like to thank Net Galley for the opportunity to read this as an ARC. I have read a number of books about John F. Kennedy, and was not sure that anyone could bring anything new to the subject. This book, however, did a deeper dive , not just the who and how many, but the why. The second part of the title- The Careless Heart, says it all. He was careless, and did and got what he wanted. This book sheds more light on his health as well, as a reason for his constant search for sex. The book speaks to his upbringing, his family and his roots. It covers familiar ground,but does ( for me at least) provide new insights.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I’ve always been fascinated by the Kennedys and have read many books about them, but this one introduced me to several women I hadn’t known about before. I especially appreciated how the author portrayed these women as individuals in their own right, rather than simply as names on a list of women JFK slept with. It was an entertaining, fast-paced read with just the right amount of historical context to bring their stories to life. Thank you NetGalley for the advanced copy.
Read
October 25, 2026It is so hard to believe how shallow and careless the president was. More concerning was the people that surrounded him, like his staff and the secret service enabling his every move. not being concerned about his health and national security while taking drugs every day is just unacceptable. I now question every government officials actions. I do not trust our government any longer. To say we were duped is an understatement.
October 26, 2026
I think this book shows JFK’s greatest talent. He made those people feel very important to him, even when they weren’t really important to him. This included his friends, aides, wife, siblings, and all these women. They all believed they had a special place in JFK’s life. In reality, they didn’t mean very much to him. The biggest weakness of the book is the author couldn’t reach ‘Fiddle’, who is still alive. She would be a game changer.
October 30, 2026
Few new details, but overall a good review of this sad chapter.
Not as detailed as The Dark Side of Camelot, but worth reviewing what is known. The number of surgical procedures JFK endured is mind boggling. As is the number of medications he was on. JFK’s recklessness in full display.
Not as detailed as The Dark Side of Camelot, but worth reviewing what is known. The number of surgical procedures JFK endured is mind boggling. As is the number of medications he was on. JFK’s recklessness in full display.
October 28, 2026
It always amazes me what people do with power. Sometimes for good and sometimes not, most often a bit of both.
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