Tag Archives: Alexa Land

Book Review: All In (Firsts and Forever #2) – Alexa Land

All InBLURB: Even though he’s not really over his ex-boyfriend Jamie, twenty-three-year-old former football player Charlie finds himself drawn to Dante Dombruso, the gorgeous, highly dangerous leader of a mafia crime family. Dante is the perfect rebound fling, six feet, four inches of raw sex and hard Italian muscle, wrapped in an expensive suit.

The confident, sexy crime boss is way out of Charlie’s comfort zone. But Charlie already lost everything once by giving in to his fear, and he’s not willing to make the same mistake again. If he’s going to do this, Charlie knows he can’t hold back. He can’t date this man a little, he can’t trust him a little, he can’t go to bed with him a little. If he’s going to get involved with Dante Dombruso, Charlie has to be All In.

 ***

We met Charlie and Dante in the first book. Charlie was closeted, cocky and yeah – a wee bit pathetic. Dante’s openly gay alright, a Mafia leader and loves BDSM. I’ve read the rest of the series from the first book up to the latest this year and this one remains to be my least favorite.

First, I didn’t get the BDSM side of Dante. I honestly cannot fathom any reasoning. I mean, If that’s what float his boat I guess it’s fine but I just cannot make sense of it. He loves it hard, like sadist kind of BDSM (although the book was not full on detailed about it). I guess it’s the fact that he loves control or something? He was even saying that he couldn’t get off without hurting his partner through sex. That was like – Ooookay….

Overall, this was still an okay read especially since we get to meet the rambunctious Nana and the prostitute Christopher Robin going into the next book!

 Rating: 2 out of 5 stars

Published February 14th 2013

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Book Review: Way Off Plan (Firsts and Forever #1) – Alexa Land

Way Off PlanBLURB: Jamie Nolan is a young cop on his first undercover assignment, sent to investigate Dmitri Teplov, a suspected major player in the Russian mafia. Jamie knows better than to get involved with the gorgeous nightclub owner. But right from the start, the spark of attraction between the two of them is undeniable.

Everything about Dmitri is just so unexpected. He’s sweet and shy, and has a nerdy side that Jamie finds irresistible. Can this man really be a criminal?

No matter if Dmitri is guilty or innocent, Jamie’s big Irish Catholic family of cops and his police captain are never going to accept this relationship. Dmitri’s dangerous and manipulative gangster uncle is also none too thrilled that these two are together, and wants Jamie out of the picture. On top of that, Jamie’s still reeling from a recent breakup, and Dmitri is unavailable anyway. Isn’t he?

No way should this thing between them be happening. Getting involved with Dmitri Teplov was never part of the plan. But sometimes, the best plan is the one you make up as you go along.

***

Despite of its silly characterization and story development, I’m still charmed by both characters here to no end. Both Jamie and Dmitri are just uber-adorable in their own ways. I loved the fact that the main premise of the story was too heavy though anti-climactic in the end, it still manage to win me over with their incredible chemistry and sappy romance. Really, this book is an easy book to read and if you’re too serious about life – then this is not for you. You’d end up getting annoyed. If you just want to smile and feel silly/giddy like the book – then this one’s totally for you!

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

Published December 19th 2012

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Book Review: Hunted (The Tinder Chronicles #2) – Alexa Land

When the vampires began to band together to eliminate the hunters and hunt in packs, Tinder found himself at a significant disadvantage, with his chances of survival appearing grim.

As one of the most revered and notorious hunters, he became a primary target for these vampires and found an unexpected ally in the form of the sexy and mysterious vampire, Bane. Things became complicated between them when they both succumbed to their overwhelming attraction. It was revealed that they shared a complicated history, and things could potentially become seriously complicated for Tinder.

Wow. I absolutely adored this series! The familiar snarky banter between Tinder and Bane, combined with their undeniable chemistry, was simply irresistible! Despite Tinder’s continued recklessness, it was evident that things were getting serious between him and Bane. I also enjoyed the unofficial love triangle involving Lee. It was like choosing between Team Lee or Team Bane, and I’m definitely rooting for the non-human! This is not your typical “gay” Twilight; it’s wickedly funny without being ridiculous. The whole vampire fiasco, leading to Bane’s confession when he kidnapped Tinder, was a standout moment in the series so far.

This is undoubtedly one of the best vampire stories I’ve encountered in this genre. It’s worth every penny and every moment of my time! I absolutely loved it, and I’m sure many others will too!

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

About the Author
Alexa Land has been writing gay romance since 2012 and is a true believer in happily ever after. She lives in the Pacific Northwest and keeps vampire hours, preferring to write when everyone else is asleep.

Alexa’s books are about friends, found family, and falling in love. She’s best known for the Firsts and Forever series and its spin-offs, including her new Firsts and Forever Stories. Alexa is also the author of the paranormal California Obscura series.

Book Review: Tinder (Tinder Chronicles #1) – Alexa Land

Tyler, also known as Tinder, was raised to hunt and exterminate vampires, making him one of the most skilled hunters in the field. Typically partnered with the equally skilled Texan hunter Lee Halstrom, Tinder’s life takes an unexpected turn when vampires begin to hunt in packs and daywalking vampires unsettle him. Amidst the chaos, Tinder finds himself rescued by Bane, a mysterious vampire who always seems to cross his path but never with the intention of killing him. Sensing something amiss, Tinder is determined to uncover the truth.

I found Tinder’s character to be immensely captivating! The story unfolds entirely from his perspective, and I found his personality incredibly refreshing. His dry humor, witty banter with Bane, and relaxed demeanor made for an engaging read. This is something many authors overlook when crafting their protagonists – Tinder isn’t your typical vampire slayer. He’s rough around the edges with hints of OCD, intensely focused, yet harboring hidden depths.

Initially, I was put off by Tinder’s promiscuity, but it quickly became apparent why he behaves that way. While Lee is a solid character, his lack of charm seems intentional, as Bane is clearly the perfect match for Tinder. Their love-hate dynamic, especially from Bane’s perspective, added an extra layer of intrigue to the story. Even the vampire-human couple, Nate and Nikolai, introduced in the preceding story, added depth to the narrative.

This first installment is a short yet satisfying read, setting the stage for Tinder to question the unusual occurrences involving his mortal enemies, the vampires. It also sets up numerous plot points for future installments, promising an exciting continuation of the story. I highly recommend this book if you’re seeking something refreshing, fast-paced, and delightfully witty.

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

About the Author
Alexa Land has been writing gay romance since 2012 and is a true believer in happily ever after. She lives in the Pacific Northwest and keeps vampire hours, preferring to write when everyone else is asleep.

Alexa’s books are about friends, found family, and falling in love. She’s best known for the Firsts and Forever series and its spin-offs, including her new Firsts and Forever Stories. Alexa is also the author of the paranormal California Obscura series.