What do you think?
Rate this book
Love on... #1
Love on Site
It's mid-May, and Manny Garcia has just graduated from Florida University (FU) with his bachelor's degree in construction management and landed his dream job, working for handsome Walter Loredo on a warehouse project just west of downtown Miami. He's living in a condo on South Beach with two of his brothers from the gay frat at FU, Lambda Lambda Lambda.
Manny has a thing for older men, particularly construction workers, and he's got a real crush on Walter, even though he thinks the boss is straight. At first Manny's able to keep his South Beach life and his work separate. Then he runs into one of his coworkers on Lincoln Road when he is out with his roommates, and he's outed. Can he keep his job and win his boss's love?
Manny has a thing for older men, particularly construction workers, and he's got a real crush on Walter, even though he thinks the boss is straight. At first Manny's able to keep his South Beach life and his work separate. Then he runs into one of his coworkers on Lincoln Road when he is out with his roommates, and he's outed. Can he keep his job and win his boss's love?
256 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 7, 2013
About the author
Neil S. Plakcy
255 books668 followersThe Smiling Dog Cafe series now has four books in it: The Smiling Dog Cafe, The Bridge Between Us, Hope and Grace, and Drift and Return (published 5/11/2026).
My newest adventure romance books are The Big Race (a takeoff on The Amazing Race) and Driven Together, a Formula 1 MM romance.
I have been a voracious reader all my life, mostly in mystery, romance, and science fiction/fantasy, though a college degree in English did push a lot of literary works into my list of favorites.
Quick note: sign up for my newsletter at plakcy.substack.com to get free prologues, epilogues and short stories.
I began writing seriously in high school after an inspiring assignment with A Separate Peace by John Knowles. I didn't know I was gay then, but I knew I was longing for an emotional connection with a best friend. That desire shows up across my writing, from romance to mystery to adventure. I am lucky to have found my special person, and I want to inspire readers to make those connections, to one person or a found family.
It took getting an MFA in creative writing to kick-start my career. That's where I honed my technical skills and began to understand what kind of storyteller I am.
I remember reading Freddie the Detective about a very smart pig inspired by Sherlock Holmes. I’ve always believed that dogs make the best detectives. They notice what humans miss — a faint scent, a subtle shift in body language, the hidden treat in your pocket. That belief inspired my Golden Retriever Mysteries, where Rochester helps his human, Steve Levitan, nose out the truth.
My passion is telling stories where community, loyalty, and sometimes love solve problems just as much as clues do. Whether it’s a cozy mystery in Bucks County, a thriller on the streets of Miami, or a romance unfolding under the Mediterranean sun, I want readers to feel the heartbeat of the place and the people.
I write because stories helped me feel less alone growing up, and now I want to give readers that same feeling: a companion, a puzzle, and maybe a laugh.
When I’m not writing, I’m probably walking one of my own goldens, teaching writing, or daydreaming about my next story.
Since then I've written dozens of books, won a couple of treasured awards, and enjoyed the support of readers.
Every place I’ve lived has made its way into my fiction: the rolling hills of Bucks County, the neon heat of Miami, the beaches of Hawaii, the cobbled streets of Europe. I love exploring how communities work — from a café where dogs guide healing, to a fraternity house in South Beach, to a police unit in Honolulu.
My goal is simple: to write stories that feel grounded in real people and real places, but with enough twists, romance, or danger to keep you turning pages late into the night.
I hope you'll visit my website, where you can sign up for my occasional newsletter, and also follow my author page on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/neil.plakcy.
My newest adventure romance books are The Big Race (a takeoff on The Amazing Race) and Driven Together, a Formula 1 MM romance.
I have been a voracious reader all my life, mostly in mystery, romance, and science fiction/fantasy, though a college degree in English did push a lot of literary works into my list of favorites.
Quick note: sign up for my newsletter at plakcy.substack.com to get free prologues, epilogues and short stories.
I began writing seriously in high school after an inspiring assignment with A Separate Peace by John Knowles. I didn't know I was gay then, but I knew I was longing for an emotional connection with a best friend. That desire shows up across my writing, from romance to mystery to adventure. I am lucky to have found my special person, and I want to inspire readers to make those connections, to one person or a found family.
It took getting an MFA in creative writing to kick-start my career. That's where I honed my technical skills and began to understand what kind of storyteller I am.
I remember reading Freddie the Detective about a very smart pig inspired by Sherlock Holmes. I’ve always believed that dogs make the best detectives. They notice what humans miss — a faint scent, a subtle shift in body language, the hidden treat in your pocket. That belief inspired my Golden Retriever Mysteries, where Rochester helps his human, Steve Levitan, nose out the truth.
My passion is telling stories where community, loyalty, and sometimes love solve problems just as much as clues do. Whether it’s a cozy mystery in Bucks County, a thriller on the streets of Miami, or a romance unfolding under the Mediterranean sun, I want readers to feel the heartbeat of the place and the people.
I write because stories helped me feel less alone growing up, and now I want to give readers that same feeling: a companion, a puzzle, and maybe a laugh.
When I’m not writing, I’m probably walking one of my own goldens, teaching writing, or daydreaming about my next story.
Since then I've written dozens of books, won a couple of treasured awards, and enjoyed the support of readers.
Every place I’ve lived has made its way into my fiction: the rolling hills of Bucks County, the neon heat of Miami, the beaches of Hawaii, the cobbled streets of Europe. I love exploring how communities work — from a café where dogs guide healing, to a fraternity house in South Beach, to a police unit in Honolulu.
My goal is simple: to write stories that feel grounded in real people and real places, but with enough twists, romance, or danger to keep you turning pages late into the night.
I hope you'll visit my website, where you can sign up for my occasional newsletter, and also follow my author page on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/neil.plakcy.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
October 11, 2013
This was a nice read, but perhaps not my favourite from this author. I loved the first half of the book and the building tension between Manny and Walter. Loved the family interactiona and the glimpse of Miami.
There were some stylistic choices in how the characters interacted that kinda had me rolling my eyes a little about half way through, but not annoying enough for me to put the book down. It was sweet and kinda cheesy stuff.
However, there was one thing that did kinda rip my nightie right at the end when Walter is a monumental dick and says some pretty crappy things and then there is a serious lack of apology and suitable groveling. It didn't feel minor either, he was really a bell end. Manny's reaction and ability to brush it off seemed a bit off too.
In all a lovely read, I do enjoy blue collar heroes. 3 and a half stars.
There were some stylistic choices in how the characters interacted that kinda had me rolling my eyes a little about half way through, but not annoying enough for me to put the book down. It was sweet and kinda cheesy stuff.
However, there was one thing that did kinda rip my nightie right at the end when Walter is a monumental dick and says some pretty crappy things and then there is a serious lack of apology and suitable groveling. It didn't feel minor either, he was really a bell end. Manny's reaction and ability to brush it off seemed a bit off too.
In all a lovely read, I do enjoy blue collar heroes. 3 and a half stars.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 6, 2015
Loved this book!!!
Great writing and the characters were so real! Absolutely loved how we got to know Manny's family, his gradual adjusting to his work and his relationship with Walter, of course. The book has perfect pacing for me: the romance had been main, but not the sole focus of the story, it's refreshing! Sex scenes were hot and just the right amount too.
Wonderful story and I'll reread it for sure :)
PS. Just reread it two times almost in succession! LOVED the guys even more!
Totally recommending it for all! :))))
Great writing and the characters were so real! Absolutely loved how we got to know Manny's family, his gradual adjusting to his work and his relationship with Walter, of course. The book has perfect pacing for me: the romance had been main, but not the sole focus of the story, it's refreshing! Sex scenes were hot and just the right amount too.
Wonderful story and I'll reread it for sure :)
PS. Just reread it two times almost in succession! LOVED the guys even more!
Totally recommending it for all! :))))
March 22, 2019
Well...
It has potential, but as it stands it's just a story about a young man who is perpetually turned, sometimes by the weirdest things, who begins sleeping with his boss. There's drama, but almost zero character development...I'm not even sure how that works, but somehow...
What annoyed the ever loving crap outta me was the way Manny allowed Walter to treat him when he was stressed. And Walter never apologized. They never even talked about it. The ending was rushed and ridiculous. I won't be reading anymore from this author.
It has potential, but as it stands it's just a story about a young man who is perpetually turned, sometimes by the weirdest things, who begins sleeping with his boss. There's drama, but almost zero character development...I'm not even sure how that works, but somehow...
What annoyed the ever loving crap outta me was the way Manny allowed Walter to treat him when he was stressed. And Walter never apologized. They never even talked about it. The ending was rushed and ridiculous. I won't be reading anymore from this author.
October 11, 2013
My first Plakcy book, and wow... I'm so so glad I decided to pick this one up! Love Manny and Walter!
December 29, 2023
Horrible narration
October 10, 2015
Manny is young and horny and loves older men. Whilst I can't quite warm to Manny (he's not bad, I just didn't get a feel of him), I can see how his character is written - young, sexed up and wantng everything now! Starting in a new job, his first day is excruciating (wrong clothes and jibes from the workers) but bravado wins the day.
Walter is a bit more of an enigma as the book is from Manny's pov but he is gradually trying to get the life he wants - As well as Manny.
Lots of sexy encounters between Manny and Walter, it is a fairly light and fast paced read. I did like the hint of reference to the Mahu books when Manny is reading a book set in Hawai'i!
Walter is a bit more of an enigma as the book is from Manny's pov but he is gradually trying to get the life he wants - As well as Manny.
Lots of sexy encounters between Manny and Walter, it is a fairly light and fast paced read. I did like the hint of reference to the Mahu books when Manny is reading a book set in Hawai'i!
October 16, 2017
This book is a spin off from an erotica collection I wrote called "Three Lambs: Erotic Stories of a Gay Frat." One of the characters there was Manny Garcia, a construction management student, and when I wanted to start writing HEA stories for these guys, it was logical that I start with him, because of my own work background.
For most of her career, my mother worked as a secretary/bookkeeper for real estate developers. When I was a mere babe, she used to take me to work at the construction site for Lawrence Shopping Center, outside Trenton, so I guess construction got into my blood.
In business school, I majored in real estate and operations management, and my first couple of jobs after graduation were with shopping center developers. I was able to use my own experiences, as well as my knowledge of construction in Miami (where I worked on the teams that built three different centers, including downtown's Bayside Marketplace.)
It was lots of fun to revisit my past and create Manny's present. I hope readers enjoy the book.
For most of her career, my mother worked as a secretary/bookkeeper for real estate developers. When I was a mere babe, she used to take me to work at the construction site for Lawrence Shopping Center, outside Trenton, so I guess construction got into my blood.
In business school, I majored in real estate and operations management, and my first couple of jobs after graduation were with shopping center developers. I was able to use my own experiences, as well as my knowledge of construction in Miami (where I worked on the teams that built three different centers, including downtown's Bayside Marketplace.)
It was lots of fun to revisit my past and create Manny's present. I hope readers enjoy the book.
March 30, 2021
Walter had so much going on - divorce, business, financial woes. I was surprised that he had capacity for a relationship with Manny. Manny fantasized about sex a lot then had sex with Walter a lot. He felt like there wasn't a partnership between them. I felt the same way. It was irritating that he wanted to have sex right away with some older guy, then wondered why they didn't have a relationship.
January 25, 2021
Some 10+ years ago I fell in love with Plakcy's Hawaiin series of books so when I happened upon this book I was highly interested to read it and it rewarded me with well-developed characters and plot that I even read through it twice. I highly recommend this even though it does not have the nystery of the Hawaiin series.
January 4, 2020
Really needed another set of eyes before publishing. It's got a bunch of footnotes with suggested edits through it that presumably were intended to be removed. It's fine but needed a little more work.
June 11, 2018
too bad ,that there is only one pov.
too much construction talk.
not enough build up to romance.
not enough Chemistry.
rather boring and not a believable H.E.A.
too much construction talk.
not enough build up to romance.
not enough Chemistry.
rather boring and not a believable H.E.A.
September 28, 2022
I liked both Manny and Walter, and all the descriptions of life in Miami.
February 10, 2024
DNF - 50%. I tried but this is so bad.
Manny & Walter
Manny & Walter
April 16, 2026
DNF at 51%
Slow, drawn out, boring characters. Couldn’t warm to either of them.
Slow, drawn out, boring characters. Couldn’t warm to either of them.
May 12, 2026
Great story
Very different than I expected. I liked it a lot. Besides the romance, there was actouch of Cuban culture which was interesting.
Very different than I expected. I liked it a lot. Besides the romance, there was actouch of Cuban culture which was interesting.
January 9, 2014
3 Stars
A "Live Your Life, Buy The Book" Review
I think the cover of this one caught my eye. Then the author. I’ve never actually read their work but I’ve heard the Mahu series recommended over and over. The blurb sounded interesting so I thought I’d like this one more than I did. I think it started off with some good potential. An attraction seemingly one-sided creates a slow yearning from afar. The forbidden element of screwing your boss added to the hotness. Then there were moments you realize the boss, Walter, is attracted to Manny, too. From there you’re anticipating that moment when they finally give in. I think the first half of the book was pretty good. Typical closeted guy with a macho job that needs to play the part. He’s even married to a nasty woman whose father funded his business. He wants to leave her but he’s in a hard place with his responsibilities to his employees and what not having that money means in the big picture.
This all sounds pretty good, right? Well, it takes a turn after the MCs get together. Manny falls hard for Walter. Walter seems to fall for him but treats him really awful. The second half of the book flips between super sweet, almost cheesy and Walter being a jerk. Then there’s the religious nut vandalizing the site and threatening Manny. The second half abandoned the feel of the first half and got dramatic. I’m was disappointed I didn’t love this one. I’ll still probably read the Mahu series one day.
A "Live Your Life, Buy The Book" Review
I think the cover of this one caught my eye. Then the author. I’ve never actually read their work but I’ve heard the Mahu series recommended over and over. The blurb sounded interesting so I thought I’d like this one more than I did. I think it started off with some good potential. An attraction seemingly one-sided creates a slow yearning from afar. The forbidden element of screwing your boss added to the hotness. Then there were moments you realize the boss, Walter, is attracted to Manny, too. From there you’re anticipating that moment when they finally give in. I think the first half of the book was pretty good. Typical closeted guy with a macho job that needs to play the part. He’s even married to a nasty woman whose father funded his business. He wants to leave her but he’s in a hard place with his responsibilities to his employees and what not having that money means in the big picture.
This all sounds pretty good, right? Well, it takes a turn after the MCs get together. Manny falls hard for Walter. Walter seems to fall for him but treats him really awful. The second half of the book flips between super sweet, almost cheesy and Walter being a jerk. Then there’s the religious nut vandalizing the site and threatening Manny. The second half abandoned the feel of the first half and got dramatic. I’m was disappointed I didn’t love this one. I’ll still probably read the Mahu series one day.
November 19, 2013
Please leave comments on Petra's 4 sweet pea review at http://mrsconditreadsbooks.com/index....
I opened the trailer door to step outside, and Walter barreled right into me.
He was soaked with sweat and panting for breath. I instinctively put my arms around him, and his sweat leached onto my clothes. My dick pronged to attention at the feel of his skin against mine.
Our faces were close to each other, and there was some kind of magnetic force emanating from both of us that pulled our lips together into a kiss.
This book was slightly different from others I have read. You may think from reading the blurb that you know exactly how things will turn out, and maybe you do but there are surprises. One of the biggest for me was that when the two main characters first get together in the bedroom things are not completely fantastic, somethings need work. And really, isn’t that more like real life? The whole book has a very realistic feel to it, Manny’s family feature heavily in the story, but with their own relationship problems. You get a good look at Cuban culture, also the work on the site was very detailed, not in a boring way but in a way that again made the story real and not just another love story. All in all it was very interesting and one I think I will read again.
I opened the trailer door to step outside, and Walter barreled right into me.
He was soaked with sweat and panting for breath. I instinctively put my arms around him, and his sweat leached onto my clothes. My dick pronged to attention at the feel of his skin against mine.
Our faces were close to each other, and there was some kind of magnetic force emanating from both of us that pulled our lips together into a kiss.
This book was slightly different from others I have read. You may think from reading the blurb that you know exactly how things will turn out, and maybe you do but there are surprises. One of the biggest for me was that when the two main characters first get together in the bedroom things are not completely fantastic, somethings need work. And really, isn’t that more like real life? The whole book has a very realistic feel to it, Manny’s family feature heavily in the story, but with their own relationship problems. You get a good look at Cuban culture, also the work on the site was very detailed, not in a boring way but in a way that again made the story real and not just another love story. All in all it was very interesting and one I think I will read again.
March 30, 2016
3.5 stars
I think this is my first construction site book, so that's what immediately drew me to it. I've wanted to read this series for a while and while I liked it, I didn't love it. The build up between Manny and Walter was nice, but I didn't like how . Their story is not finished, so I wonder if they'll be mentioned in the rest of the series.
I think this is my first construction site book, so that's what immediately drew me to it. I've wanted to read this series for a while and while I liked it, I didn't love it. The build up between Manny and Walter was nice, but I didn't like how . Their story is not finished, so I wonder if they'll be mentioned in the rest of the series.
November 3, 2013
Manny Garcia has a thing for his, ten year, older boss, Walter Loredo. For Manny, Walter is simply perfect. So it’s no wonder he fells fast and hard for his oh so straight boss. This story is a nice, easy written romance between Manny and his boss Walter. To be sincere this is a nice, plain story. One of many!
Something was missing.
Something was missing.
August 8, 2014
As always, fantastic writing and story but the characters' actions didn't resonate as much as I could have wished. They seemed a little immature. That said, I loved the book and hope there will be more in this series. Neil Plakcy is an auto-buy for me.
November 5, 2013
Story plot is nothing special and writing stile is so, so. Even if we see how Manny comes together with Walter we don't feel the passion between them or rather I did not feel anything while reading it.
December 12, 2013
3.5 stars
December 11, 2013
2.5 stars
April 9, 2014
I dont even have words to describe how disappointed I am that I didnt like this book .. & I thought it had soo much potential ...
March 26, 2016
Mild sort of love story, not too much angst and a lot of sex. The story is sweet and I liked the ending but it dragged a bit in the middle
November 11, 2013
This was ok. Not as enjoyable as the Mahu series though.
Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews