Jump to ratings and reviews
Rate this book

Her Real Man

Rate this book
An imperfect firefighter defined by his past.

A determined author on a mission for the truth.


When Ana Mathews searches for book-boyfriend inspiration, she gets more than she expected from Gavin McLeod. Her quest to find imperfection could be the spark that brings to life their chance at happiness, or the burn that could destroy it all.

132 pages, Kindle Edition

First published March 6, 2018

9 people are currently reading
107 people want to read

About the author

Natalina Reis

30 books310 followers

Ratings & Reviews

What do you think?
Rate this book

Friends & Following

Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!

Community Reviews

5 stars
21 (31%)
4 stars
38 (56%)
3 stars
2 (2%)
2 stars
5 (7%)
1 star
1 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
Profile Image for ItaPixie.
1,279 reviews151 followers
February 28, 2018

Her Real Man was a sweet romantic story a little bit on the short side but perfect for a lazy Sunday read.

I enjoyed so much to read Ana' s quest to find a real man to write and to portray the Heroes of her books less stereotypically.When she meets Gavin she thinks she's found what she was looking for and she is ready to put him into her next novel but he will also surprise her.

I recommend to read Natalina Reis stories because they are all good and her writing is flawless.


Copy kindly provided by the Publisher/Author.

Profile Image for A.BookNerd.Bookseller&Bibliophile.Blog.
2,787 reviews107 followers
February 25, 2018
I was interested in this book because of the fireman aspect of it. Not for the ripped abs and tattooed biceps but because my own “real man” used to be a firefighter. I was hoping for something different with this book and that’s what I got! There were a couple of unexpected plot twists that made this story more intriguing. I liked the humor and especially Ana’s awkwardness because I can relate to that. There were two things about the book I didn’t like. One being that it was so short. I get invested in these characters and when it only takes me a day to read the book I feel like I don’t get enough time with them. The other thing was I couldn’t get a good idea in my head of what Gavin looked like. I knew he had green eyes and was tall but at the beginning of the book he was described as having blondish brownish hair then later he was described as having dark hair. That threw me off from what I had pictured in my head. Regardless this was an enjoyable book to read. It was written in a humorous way that made me chuckle a few times but it also had some sad and heartbreaking parts to it. If you want a quick read then this is the book for you. Ana and Gavin are a fun, REAL couple of people!

Reviewed by: Alexis B.
Profile Image for Bobbi Wagner.
5,031 reviews65 followers
March 7, 2018
Her Real Man (Rescue Me Collection Book 0) by Natalina Reis is a short romantic comedy that you won't be able to put down. I love this author's books as they are well written and everyone of them pull me into the story with ease. This one is no different. Her attention to details made me feel as if I was right there with the characters. The characters are lovable and connectable. They will make you feel as if you are friends with them. This story will show you that you never know what fate has in store for you, love could be right around the corner. This is the story of Ana and Gavin. Ana is a writer looking for a “real man” book boyfriend. She thinks that she has found her inspiration but in reality she might have found more then what she was expecting. Gavin is a fireman with a past and his life is reflected by that. Because of his past her prefers to only go out with models and the like. When he meets Ana and feels an attraction for her, he is surprised. What will happen when they path crosses again and he asks her out? When she finds out about his past, will she run? Will a simple misunderstanding stop them from having a future together? I loved both of these characters. Ana is a woman who is not very experienced with boyfriends in real life so she has a few insecurities. She does know that she is attracted to him. She is tired of fantasy boyfriends and needs a real man in her life. Gavin has an insecurity himself that could be the end for them. He is strong and proud but when she finds out about his past will they be done for? These two did take me on an emotional roller coaster ride from laughter to compassion. I found myself hoping these two would find their happily ever after. They have great chemistry together and really do belong together. But sometimes fate don't see it that way. I also enjoyed the secondary characters. They are supportive and lovable for the most part. They help make this story flow and also made me laugh. I highly recommend this book. Find out what happens to the writer and the fireman!
Profile Image for E.A..
952 reviews28 followers
March 26, 2018
Her Real Man by Natalina Reis was an epic cute, feel good book that had me all gushy on the inside.

A short read and my first by this author, I was a little worried that the characters would fall flat. But, that was not the case. Ana went from a shut in, to a sex kitten in a matter of 156 pages. It wasn't all easy sailing, ups, downs, emotional growth and of course that moment I wanted to slap her for being a stubborn fool. God it's amazing what talking does.

Gavin, Gavin, Gavin... I think you're the male MC I've been waiting to read about. The ungod like looks, the realism and of course a real man. Ana as well, they were both within normal looking people. Not these overly beautiful creatures that I don't think even exist outside of the fictional world. This grounded the story and made it more enjoyable.

The plot was cute, predicable, but at the same time it still had a dash of originality, making it stand out form other similar stories. As I said, this is a very grounded story, and as I said for it being so short and a fast read, the characters grew, matured, and they moved at a realistic pace. Again making it an very satisfying read.

Overall I loved this book and I highly recommend you get your hands on it. And you can guarantee that I will reading the rest of the book in this series.

Happy Reading

-E.A. Walsh
Profile Image for Angela.
8,598 reviews121 followers
March 7, 2018
4 Stars

Her Real Man by Natalina Reis is part of the Rescue Me Collection and was everything I expected from this talented author. It was funny, a little sad at times- with complex characters that I couldn’t help but like. They were realistic and believable. There were some unexpected developments that really pulled me in. The story was a very quick, easy and delightful read.
I would have liked to have read a slightly longer version of this story, because I would like to have stayed in Ana and Gavin’s world a little longer. But the length of the book didn’t detract from my enjoyment of the story.
Ana Matthews is an author who is looking for the perfect inspiration for her story- a ‘real’ man to be her muse. But when she finds ‘the one’, she definitely gets a lot more than she bargained for.
Gavin McLeod is a fireman at the local fire department. He’s just the right kind of inspiration. What happens when inspiration becomes reality? This story is worth reading to find out…
This was a fun, romantic and enjoyable read.

Thank you, Ms. Reis!
Profile Image for Celtic Chic Books.
243 reviews14 followers
March 27, 2018
Her Real Man (Rescue Me Collection Book 0)
By Natalina Reis
4 Stars

Natalina Reis spins an enjoyable story about an author and her subject. Being a reader of romance books I was interested to read this. The story is short but does manage to hook the reader fairly quickly. This book looks to be the first in the ‘Rescue Me Collection’ for Ms. Reis.

Ana is a writer and just like all writers she is looking for inspiration (at least I would think most writers look for inspiration for their characters). She heads down to her local fire station to find an “average guy” that she can write a short story on. It’s there she meets Gavin and there’s no doubt that these 2 have chemistry. But with his past, he’s used to dating a certain kind of woman and Ana does not meet that bill. So, imagine his surprise when he becomes instantly attracted. Ana’s insecurities do not help her with the intense feelings she is feeling after meeting Gavin.

Ms. Reis does a good job of keeping the story flowing for such a short read. Believable characters and plot line will have the reader wanting more. I really hope to see more from this author. It will be interesting to see what she can bring in a full-length book.
Profile Image for Cindy.
853 reviews13 followers
March 27, 2018
Her Real Man
Rescue Me Collection
Book 0
By Natalina Reis
☆☆☆☆☆
This novel is a romance story. Loaded with many feels, honesty and trust play a big role in this story.

Ana Mathews is a romance writer. She is out and about looking for a real man. Her subject, a fireman with down to earth perfection. Not the muscle bound hot man that most books talk about. Being shy this subject is going to push her out of her comfort zone. Can Ana found her perfect fireman?

Gavin McLeod is a firemen, just not the model type, we see in magazines and on calendars. With all of his imperfections, is he perfect? But now he is faced with fighting his heart, mind and soul. Never in his life has he met such a refreshing young lady. Will this be the girl for him?

Natalina Reis has written such a wonderful and refreshing story. It was so nice to read this story. Her characters are so real! I laughed and cried while reading her story. It touched on trust as well as honesty. Communication is so strong in the story as well. I love this story! I look forward to reading more from this author.
Profile Image for Kathy.
2,613 reviews43 followers
March 6, 2018
Natalina is a new to me author. I really enjoyed this book. It had me laughing out loud. This book is different than most. Ana is an author. She writes typical books about hot, muscled, alpha men. However, she decides that she wants to write a book about a real man. She heads down to her local firehouse to find one. She needs to write a novella about a firefighter so why shouldn’t she use that book as her book about a real man. She finds a real man, a real man for her. I love Gavin so much. He has issues like a real man. While he is built and does have a tattoo he is a real man. Ana finds that maybe she needs a real man for her and not for her book. This book had me laughing one minute and biting my nails the next. There is a fair bit of angst in this book. Ana lets insecurities from her past dictate her present. I look forward to reading the next book in this series.
I was given this book in return for an honest review.
Profile Image for Jennifer Pierson.
11.7k reviews188 followers
March 6, 2018
Her Real Man is a very sweet & shorter story that I really enjoyed thoroughly. Ana Mathews is an author looking for a "normal" firefighter for her next book because she's tired of writing about the "perfect" fantasy men. When she stakes out a firehouse nearby her house, she meets Gavin McLeod, a very yummy firefighter that she feels an instant connection with. And on her quest for imperfection, they start to date. Ana was a naive woman who has been burned in the past by her marriage so she is easily spooked & runs before she knows the whole story which drove me a bit crazy. And Gavin's inner monologue was kind of mean at first, but somehow they worked as the story went on. It was the colorful cast of secondaries that added a humor element to the story that had me laughing a lot. I really enjoyed Natalina Reis' talented writing style, so I will be reading her work again in the future. HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
Profile Image for Kelli.
583 reviews19 followers
March 22, 2018
Book Review: Her Real Man
Author Natalina Reis
FOUR STARS
This book is part of the Rescue Me series by Natalina Reis. In Her Real Man, Ms. Reis is writing about a writer who is looking for a " real man" not a super sexy, Adonis to grace the pages of her novella. Ana is in need of a firefighter who is an average guy to please her editor. Being tired of the "super-buff, testosterone-oozing, romantic hero", she was looking for an everyday man.
Gavin is a firefighter with a secret, or not so much of a secret. Having been injured in an accident several years ago, Gavin has learned to manuvere with his hinderances and still has a position on the fire department. While he may not be able to actively fight the fires himself, he can man a truck and make sure his fellow fire fighters are watched out for from the outside of the fire.
This story is a mix of feel good moments and rocky moments. In just the short time they have been getting to know each other, they develop so many feelings and not all of them are tingly butterflies in your stomach feelings.
After a couple rocky situations, can Ana and Grant find their happily ever after?
Natalina Reis has a good writing style and it was a really good quick read that keeps you cheering on the main characters, I really could have done without Ana's overbearing, obnoxious mother but I guess you have to have at least on character in each story that grates at your nerves. LOL
Kelli Harper
62 reviews3 followers
March 27, 2018
An imperfect firefighter defined by his past.
A determined author on a mission for the truth.
When Ana Mathews searches for book-boyfriend inspiration, she gets more than she expected from Gavin McLeod. Her quest to find imperfection could be the spark that brings to life their chance at happiness, or the burn that could destroy it all.

I loved the humor and I can especially relate to Ana’s awkwardness. It was a short read which isn't really a problem except it made the characters feel like I didn't get to know them or they weren't as described as other books I have read in the past. It was written in a humorous way that made me chuckle but you I did find sad and heartbreaking parts to it too though. For me it had some short coming but the good for sure outweighs though by a long shot. Overall it is a well written book that I did enjoy.
Profile Image for Tracy Margis.
65 reviews
March 27, 2018
Her Real Man by Natalina Reis was part of her Rescue Me Collection, Book 0. This was a short, sweet novella where Ana, a romance author is trying to write a story about a "normal" man instead of the regular romance God that is created in most Romance books. She starts shadowing the local Fire Dept, trying to finding a normal guy, but instead runs into Gavin. Who she falls for. But they both have scars from their past. Can they get over their pasts to be able to come together? I thought the book was well written, it was a bit short for my liking, hopefully the other books in her Rescue Me collection are longer and give her more time to flesh out her characters and sub-characters more. I feel like she delved into the main characters well, but there was a lot left that could have been said about them both. I received an ARC for my honest review of this book.
Profile Image for Katie.
2,260 reviews15 followers
March 23, 2018
Her Real Man
By Natalina Reis
4 stars

I really do adore this authors writing! She manages to fill such short books with wonderful storylines, characters and plots. I love it when authors wrote books about authors as I always wonder is that what its really like, is that how they research their books etc. I fell in love with Ana straight away, she made me laugh, especially when she is caught ‘spying’ in the firemen (although given half a chance I would probably spy on firemen too!!)
Gavin was a great character too and I thought the author did a great job with bringing his complexities into such a short. His character development was really good.
This isn’t the first book that I have read by this author and I do really enjoy her writing style. Her books are really engaging and fun to read. There were a few unexpected plot twists that made the book even more exciting to read and I would have happily read a much longer version of Ana and Gavin’s story!
Overall a solid 4 star read that I highly recommend.
679 reviews5 followers
March 20, 2018
Her Real Man (Rescue Me Collection Book 0) by Natalina Reis
4 out of 5 stars
Her Real Man (Rescue Me Collection Book 0) by Ms. Reis is the first book that I have read by this author and it won’t be the last. I read this book in one sitting, so if you are looking for a quick getaway this is the perfect book. The Characters are well written. Ms. Reis storyline is engaging and easy flowing. It made me feel as if I was right there with the characters.
Ana is a cute and quirky romance writer looking for fireman book boyfriend inspiration and she gets more than she expected from Gavin McLeod. Her quest to find imperfection could be the spark that brings to life their chance at happiness, or the burn that could destroy it all. Ana has her own demons she needs to get over or work through in order for Gavin and her to have a chance.
Gavin has his flaws but he owns them and is kind, strong, courageous and so easy to fall in love with. Because of his past he rather only go out with the likes of models and such. But once he meets Ana he's instantly attracted to her which is a complete surprise to him.
Gavin has his own issues in the past that has made him not be the ideal real man that Ana wants to write about.
I enjoyed this story and can’t wait to see what Ms. Reis has in-stored for us in this series.
By
Tracy
Profile Image for Lisa.
2,357 reviews13 followers
February 27, 2018
Romance author Ana wants a break from writing about men who are 'unrealistic' and decides that her next book will be about a 'real' man. Her research mission leads her to the local fire station and finds a 'real' man in form of Gavin.

Whilst I found I could relate to Ana in some ways, I did find her judgmental at times. I think Ana was looking for an 'ordinary' man rather than a 'real' man and there is nothing ordinary about Gavin. He has his flaws but he owns them and is kind, strong, courageous and so easy to fall in love with. I swooned and laughed my way through this, connecting with the characters most of the time.

***Reviewed for LBM Book Blog***
Profile Image for Cindy Fong.
2,048 reviews
February 27, 2018
What a fun read. Ava in her quest to write about a "real man" embarks on a fun and quirky romance with Gavin a local fireman. Just as in real life, tenuous situations arise due to not fully sharing everything with each other. This story and characters are completely relate able and shows the ability to laugh when faced with ridiculous situations and preconceptions. It was an enjoyable easy read.
Profile Image for Sassy Southern Book Blog.
5,423 reviews274 followers
March 6, 2018
5 stars to Her Real Man by Natalie Reis!! This book was phenomenal and heart stopping. The twists and turns and the down to earth fireman was just amazing. Gavin and Ana are such a cute couple. Ana is so dorky and simple and Gavin is just dreamy. I hope you write more about the other fireman. I can't wait to read more. Highly recommend!!- By Cheyenne
Profile Image for Lyndsey.
1,086 reviews4 followers
March 24, 2018
Her Real Man by Natalina Reis
4 stars

I really enjoyed this book. Ana is a romance writer who would rather have a real man, not the ones she writes about who look like greek gods. When her publisher asks her to write about a fireman, she sets off to the fire station but chickens out. When confronted by Gavin she spills her motive and he invites her in to the station to get answers to her questions.
As the story goes on, we learn they both react first ask questions later and this causes many hurt feelings and wrong impressions.

Can Ana keep this real man for herself or will she write him into her book for the world to have too?
Profile Image for United Indie Book Blog.
4,684 reviews85 followers
February 28, 2018
Her Real Man is a funny, romantic read. I enjoyed Gavin and Ana’s characters. The storyline flows nicely between the two points of views and we get to know both this way. I love how awkward Ana is and how Gavin is so caring. This is a quick romantic read and I enjoyed every word.

Review by Raychel
Profile Image for Reanna Hanley.
255 reviews13 followers
April 22, 2019
This was a great story but Ana really annoyed me lol. Too quick to jump to conclusions then wasting too much time in her own head. All in all I did enjoy the book though, Gavin the hot fireman definitely kept me entertained. Alternating POV without too much overlap. Fun characters and good story.
Profile Image for Felicia  Bates.
617 reviews7 followers
March 22, 2018
I’ve really enjoyed what I have read from
Natalina Reis so far and Her Real Man is no exception. I love the wit and humor within the story making the characters completely lovable.
I like the premise of the book, an author looking for a “real man” instead of her typical chiseled, tattoo leads. It really made for a fun story. I felt like the conflict between the characters was well thought out and there were miscommunications amongst Ana and Gavin that had me close to slapping my forehead… get it together guys!
As mentioned, Her Real Man is a fun, light hearted read that is on the shorter side. I would recommend if you like a good romantic comedy type of romance.
Profile Image for Skye McNeil.
Author 18 books151 followers
May 15, 2019
A quick, fun, and lovely romance. I could relate to Ana when it comes to writing and finding a 'real' man. This book had some very 'deep' moments which surprised me. Definitely an author to watch for future stories.
Profile Image for Coco.V.
50k reviews129 followers
Want to read
May 8, 2019
🎁 FREE on Amazon today (5/8/2019)! 🎁
Profile Image for Read.Review.Repeat Blog.
5,927 reviews101 followers
March 4, 2018
What a fun read. Ava in her quest to write about a "real man" embarks on a fun and quirky romance with Gavin a local fireman. Just as in real life, tenuous situations arise due to not fully sharing everything with each other. This story and characters are completely relate able and shows the ability to laugh when faced with ridiculous situations and preconceptions. It was an enjoyable easy read.
Profile Image for Tracy Wilkin.
1,208 reviews15 followers
March 28, 2018
Her Real Man by Natalina Reis was a little story with a lot going on. It had attitude, personality, humour and excitement. This is the first book I have read by this author and I will gladly say it is just the beginning. I plan to read more of her work as it is evident that this is a top quality author.

Ana was a character I instantly liked and respected. Engaging with these characters was effortless and highly enjoyable. Gavin was a lovable leading man with a beguiling personality that drew me in easily. I absorbed their story and was left wanting more. A captivating story deserving of 5 stars.
Profile Image for Alex.
132 reviews
March 23, 2018
Great quick read. Couple twists that I didn't see coming that I thought were super interesting. The only thing I didn't enjoy was Ana's consent degrading herself and always assuming the worst in everything specially without talking to the person about it. But the ending made the whole deal worth it! I love his imperfectness is what she loved most about him. Made me tear up.
Profile Image for Angela Shirley.
941 reviews6 followers
March 29, 2018
Her Real Man by Natalina Reis is a story about two broken people finding each other in the most normal situation.

Have ever read a book and fell in love with the lead male character, I know we all have our favourite book boyfriends but the real thing never quite matches up. Well Ana writes those unbelievable,hard to find ,hunks of fiction, she is getting bored and with her publishers push wants to find a real man to write about.

Gavin is a normal man, not particularly stunning but a hero as a fireman, he has had his issues and problems but enjoys his job as a fireman but just lonely,until he sees a woman perched just outside the station spying on them. So he asks what's she doing, Ana explains she is doing research so Gavin invites her in for lunch with the guys. The rest they say is history.

There is a magic in this story that I just enjoyed, at times I was shouting at Ana as some of her reactions were OTT but overall loved the interaction between the main characters. This is not the first book I have read by this author and it did not disappoint.

I love me a flawed character and this was no different, the writing flowed and the depth of theses characters was brilliant. Can't wait to read more of this wonderful series.
Profile Image for Maura.
2,185 reviews6 followers
March 28, 2018
This book has a great premise - an author who is sick of writing/reading about the current industry's obsession with the 6 pack abs, 25 y/o CEO billionaire. She goes in search of a "real man" to write about and ends up stalking the local fire station for inspiration.

This was a quick story that is filled with insta-love, miscommunication, annoying mothers and hot sex. At times I was frustrated by the protagonist's inability to gather all of the facts before potentially making life changing decisions. Other times I was excited by the speed that this book moved forward.

I've enjoyed this author's books in the past and look forward to continue reading her work
2,083 reviews20 followers
March 7, 2018
5 Star

Her Real Man (Rescue Me Collection Book 0)by Natalina Reis

 

 

Her Real Man ( Rescue Me Collection Book 0 ) by Natalina Reis is the first book in her Rescue me Collection. This is my first book by this author and I can honestly say that it will not be my last.I truly enjoyed this quick read in fact I couldn't put it down once I started reading. Her ability to grab the readers attention and actually keep till the end .This story is about  you never knowing what is in store for you and fate.This is Ana and Gavin ' s story.Ana is a writer who is looking for a  real man book boyfriend, one who isn't like her other  male characters. She's pretty sure she's found her inspiration in the local Firemen. But really what she's found is way more than she was expecting. Then there's Gavin, a local Foreman,whom has a past in which his life is reflected by.But because of this past he rather only go out with the likes of models and such.But once he meets Ana he's instantly attracted to her which is a complete surprise to him.What happens when they cross paths again and asks her out?How does she react when she finds out about his past? Can one misunderstanding  be what's keeps them from having a future together?  I freaking loved these two characters. Ana is one who hasn't had much experience with real boyfriends so that causes her to be insecure. These two definitely have attraction for each other. She's ready for a real man and not the fantasy boyfriend. These two will take you on one heck of a emotional roller-coaster ride with you laughing to compassion. I was hoping for these to and a HEA. I highly recommend you read this especially if you want to know how it ends.I can’t wait to see what this author comes out with next.

Profile Image for Lisette Gonzalez.
188 reviews2 followers
March 29, 2018
Her Real Man (Rescue Me Collection Book 0)
By Natalina Reis
4 stars


Her Real Man (Rescue Me Collection Book 0) by Natalina Reis is a short romantic comedy about Ana Mathews and Gavin McLeod. Ana Mathews is a writer in search of her next book boyfriend. Not your usual book boyfriend, but one that real to life. While researching at the local fire station, she meets one of the firemen, Gavin McLeod. Has Ana found her real life inspiration for her next book boyfriend in Gavin? It is an instant attraction between Ana and Gavin, but Gavin has a past and his insecurities can get the best of him, which has always attracted him to date the model-type girls. Ana is not your typical model-type and has been burned in the past in her relationships and marriage. What will happen between Gavin and Ana after cross paths again after their first encounter? Will she run when she finds out about Gavin’s past? The relationship between Ana and Gavin is an emotional roller coaster that will take you for a spin, one moment you are laughing and then you wanting to beat these two character senseless. This is the second book I have read by Natalina Reis and I enjoy her writing and characters. I enjoyed this short read and recommend this book to anyone that enjoys a quick, romance read.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews

Can't find what you're looking for?

Get help and learn more about the design.