What do you think?
Rate this book
Firsts and Forever #4
Gathering Storm
Working as a gay porn star has brought twenty-two-year-old Hunter Storm fame and fortune, but it’s cost him a lot, too. He’s learned to think of his body as little more than a commodity, and he copes with his loneliness by giving himself to whoever will have him. The job has also put him in the crosshairs of a stalker, a man so deeply disturbed that Hunter and everyone around him is in danger.
Fortunately, Hunter has allies, including his best friend Christopher and Nana, a feisty senior who’s decided he's family. And then there’s Brian Nolan.
When Hunter first meets the angry, wheelchair-bound former Marine, it’s hate at first sight. But despite his shattered body and tattered psyche, Brian might turn out to be the best ally of all.
This male/male erotic romance includes explicit language and graphic sex. For adult readers only !
Though this is the 4th book in the series, it may also be read as a stand-alone.
Fortunately, Hunter has allies, including his best friend Christopher and Nana, a feisty senior who’s decided he's family. And then there’s Brian Nolan.
When Hunter first meets the angry, wheelchair-bound former Marine, it’s hate at first sight. But despite his shattered body and tattered psyche, Brian might turn out to be the best ally of all.
This male/male erotic romance includes explicit language and graphic sex. For adult readers only !
Though this is the 4th book in the series, it may also be read as a stand-alone.
362 pages, ebook
Published January 6, 2014
83 people are currently reading
517 people want to read
About the author
Alexa Land
58 books787 followersIndependent MM romance author. For more information, please visit Alexa's blog: http://alexalandwrites.blogspot.com/
Please note: the author does not check messages on this site. The best way to contact them is through Facebook.
Please note: the author does not check messages on this site. The best way to contact them is through Facebook.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 135 reviews
January 31, 2014
This series is my book crack.
This review may actually contain some spoilery spoilers about Hunter's love interest, but not really, just sayin' you've been warned. I'm not going to tell you who it is, just giving you options to think about.
We all have that special literary place we like to go when we know we need a book hug, the book “happy place” that just works for us. Some people go to their Calmes, some their Lane, I have my Land. The series continues with all my favorite things, smark (smut+snark – *tips hat to JL* for that word that is now a permanent part of my vocabulary), amusing as hell banter, references to all things geeky and characters I really want to hang out with in real life.
I know that when I read an Alexa Land book, I am going to smile, laugh and fall in love with the characters, that’s just what happens. The 4th book in the First and Forever series is no exception. Every time I read one of these books I think,
“Oh, he’s my favorite.”
Then I read another one and I think,
“OK, he’s my favorite.”
Etc., etc.
So, now that I read Gathering Storm, Hunter is my new favorite. I love his refreshing open honesty and his heartbreaking loneliness. He’s a porn star with a heart of gold and he has no illusions that he’s nothing but a commodity in his industry and that his working days are numbered.
Hunter is VERY popular in his genre so he attracts a lot of attention, but unfortunately he has attracted the attention of a stalker who is continuously upping his threats and Hunter can no longer ignore the frightening letters, etc. All of the players in Hunter’s support system are here again and I missed them all so very much; Christopher Robin, Kieran, Nana (especially Nana) and all the boys from the previous installments. Everyone is in agreement that Hunter needs to get himself a bodyguard, this stalker isn’t going away any time soon and his threats are escalating. Hunter doesn’t want a bodyguard though. He doesn’t want to deal with somebody he’s not comfortable with and who may judge him for his lifestyle and career choice.
We know Hunter is going to have a love interest, that’s part of the deal here. What I really loved about this one is I didn’t know who it was going to be for a while. So much fun in the teasing and the guessing!
It’s either unlikely lucky man #1, Brian, Kieran’s REALLY bitter brother we met in In Pieces (“What???”, you say, “Surely you jest!?!?!”)
or
It's unlikely lucky dog #2, Vincent, the Dombruso offspring who is dark, mysterious and very dangerous (“What???, ok well, maybe, hmmmmm”).
I want to tell everybody everything and then gush about the perfect match that these two become, I really, really do. BUT, I loved not knowing, the uncertainty and surprise is too good for me to wreck and you are just going to have to trust me when I say, Hunter and ??? needed and completed each other in the best possible ways.
One of my absolute favorite things about this series is the banter and these two, Hunter and, well, let’s just call him X, have the absolute best conversations. Alexa’s characters have the uncertainty that comes with new love, but they are always honest and don’t drag out the angst for no reason, I love that. I get to see more than just the flirting and the getting-to-know-you phase of their relationships and it makes me more invested in the characters and I can believe in their connection and the real love they have for each other beyond the lust that I love so well.
There was more than just the relationship between Hunter and X going on too. The mystery of Christopher Robin’s attacker continues and Hunter has to deal with his stalker and how that affects his new relationship. Plus Hunter’s contract with his studio is up for renewal and he has some serious decisions to make about his future. Not an easy feat while entering into a new relationship that has a lot of issues that need to be dealt with and he doesn’t feel as if he has any real marketable skills to survive on if he quits the porn. That part of the story line broke my heart. As Hunter detailed his dealings with his smarmy manager I could feel his hopelessness and why he felt like nothing more than a commodity to the studio, and other men in general. Hunter is a tough cookie though. He never gives into a pity party and his innate optimistic nature was a pleasure to read, even throughout the painful parts.
Just a few words about X that are going to be incredibly obtuse because I don’t want to give him away. He is the unexpectedly best person on the planet for Hunter. He needed Hunter just as much as Hunter needed him and his sense of humor was the perfect counterpoint to Hunter’s honesty. He’s got issues, big time issues, but he’s a work in progress and on the right path. Both he and Hunter are and I so hope there is more about them in the next installment of this series.
I’m not ready to let them go yet, not even a little bit.
This review may actually contain some spoilery spoilers about Hunter's love interest, but not really, just sayin' you've been warned. I'm not going to tell you who it is, just giving you options to think about.
We all have that special literary place we like to go when we know we need a book hug, the book “happy place” that just works for us. Some people go to their Calmes, some their Lane, I have my Land. The series continues with all my favorite things, smark (smut+snark – *tips hat to JL* for that word that is now a permanent part of my vocabulary), amusing as hell banter, references to all things geeky and characters I really want to hang out with in real life.
I know that when I read an Alexa Land book, I am going to smile, laugh and fall in love with the characters, that’s just what happens. The 4th book in the First and Forever series is no exception. Every time I read one of these books I think,
“Oh, he’s my favorite.”
Then I read another one and I think,
“OK, he’s my favorite.”
Etc., etc.
So, now that I read Gathering Storm, Hunter is my new favorite. I love his refreshing open honesty and his heartbreaking loneliness. He’s a porn star with a heart of gold and he has no illusions that he’s nothing but a commodity in his industry and that his working days are numbered.
Hunter is VERY popular in his genre so he attracts a lot of attention, but unfortunately he has attracted the attention of a stalker who is continuously upping his threats and Hunter can no longer ignore the frightening letters, etc. All of the players in Hunter’s support system are here again and I missed them all so very much; Christopher Robin, Kieran, Nana (especially Nana) and all the boys from the previous installments. Everyone is in agreement that Hunter needs to get himself a bodyguard, this stalker isn’t going away any time soon and his threats are escalating. Hunter doesn’t want a bodyguard though. He doesn’t want to deal with somebody he’s not comfortable with and who may judge him for his lifestyle and career choice.
We know Hunter is going to have a love interest, that’s part of the deal here. What I really loved about this one is I didn’t know who it was going to be for a while. So much fun in the teasing and the guessing!
It’s either unlikely lucky man #1, Brian, Kieran’s REALLY bitter brother we met in In Pieces (“What???”, you say, “Surely you jest!?!?!”)
or
It's unlikely lucky dog #2, Vincent, the Dombruso offspring who is dark, mysterious and very dangerous (“What???, ok well, maybe, hmmmmm”).
I want to tell everybody everything and then gush about the perfect match that these two become, I really, really do. BUT, I loved not knowing, the uncertainty and surprise is too good for me to wreck and you are just going to have to trust me when I say, Hunter and ??? needed and completed each other in the best possible ways.
One of my absolute favorite things about this series is the banter and these two, Hunter and, well, let’s just call him X, have the absolute best conversations. Alexa’s characters have the uncertainty that comes with new love, but they are always honest and don’t drag out the angst for no reason, I love that. I get to see more than just the flirting and the getting-to-know-you phase of their relationships and it makes me more invested in the characters and I can believe in their connection and the real love they have for each other beyond the lust that I love so well.
There was more than just the relationship between Hunter and X going on too. The mystery of Christopher Robin’s attacker continues and Hunter has to deal with his stalker and how that affects his new relationship. Plus Hunter’s contract with his studio is up for renewal and he has some serious decisions to make about his future. Not an easy feat while entering into a new relationship that has a lot of issues that need to be dealt with and he doesn’t feel as if he has any real marketable skills to survive on if he quits the porn. That part of the story line broke my heart. As Hunter detailed his dealings with his smarmy manager I could feel his hopelessness and why he felt like nothing more than a commodity to the studio, and other men in general. Hunter is a tough cookie though. He never gives into a pity party and his innate optimistic nature was a pleasure to read, even throughout the painful parts.
Just a few words about X that are going to be incredibly obtuse because I don’t want to give him away. He is the unexpectedly best person on the planet for Hunter. He needed Hunter just as much as Hunter needed him and his sense of humor was the perfect counterpoint to Hunter’s honesty. He’s got issues, big time issues, but he’s a work in progress and on the right path. Both he and Hunter are and I so hope there is more about them in the next installment of this series.
I’m not ready to let them go yet, not even a little bit.
November 7, 2015
I am completely addicted to this series, and Hunter's story does not disappoint. Although the author gives enough information to read this as a standalone, I would suggest you at least read In Pieces where Hunter and the main storyline are both introduced. Alexa Land does a good job starting off these books with several potential love interests and I am not going to give away who Hunter's eventual romantic interest is in this review since it is not even mentioned in the story blurb, but I will say that I absolutely fell in love with this couple.
The story basically picks up where In Pieces ended, but gay porn star Hunter's stalker is now growing more aggressive and dangerous. Luckily for Hunter he has Christopher and Kieran, Nana and the extended Nolan and Dombruso families to help him out. There are also a few new characters thrown into the mix, including Hunter's ex. This story has all the humor, sex and underlying emotion that I have come to expect from these books. There is also a surprising twist to the storyline that I was not expecting. In addition to dealing with his stalker, Hunter also starts to question his future and whether he really wants to continue working in porn as his contract is about to run out.
The end of the book sets up the potential pairing for the next story and I am definitely looking forward to it. I definitely recommend this series for anyone looking for a fun, sexy read.
The story basically picks up where In Pieces ended, but gay porn star Hunter's stalker is now growing more aggressive and dangerous. Luckily for Hunter he has Christopher and Kieran, Nana and the extended Nolan and Dombruso families to help him out. There are also a few new characters thrown into the mix, including Hunter's ex. This story has all the humor, sex and underlying emotion that I have come to expect from these books. There is also a surprising twist to the storyline that I was not expecting. In addition to dealing with his stalker, Hunter also starts to question his future and whether he really wants to continue working in porn as his contract is about to run out.
The end of the book sets up the potential pairing for the next story and I am definitely looking forward to it. I definitely recommend this series for anyone looking for a fun, sexy read.
March 7, 2016
I'm really addicted to this series. I just can't stop reading these books, eventhough they are very high on the insta-love and the plots are usually ridiculous, and let's not forget the sugary sweetness between the MC's.
This time we got Hunter and Brian's story and I really reading about both of them. The banter between them was so funny and they were both very like-able characters.
I liked this one more than the previous one, probably because it was way funnier. It dealt with some serious subjects also, but still in a mild way.
The only thing that was missing in this one, was the extreme steamfactor. There was still steam, but it was toned down quite a bit and it took a while to get to that point. I didn't mind this one bit, because reading about these two, was pretty entertaining. Also this one wasn't as heavy on the insta-love and the sugary sweetness, which was very oke by me !!
These books can be read as stand alones, but they are so much better when you read them in order, because all the books are connected. All the old characters make appearences...to me they are all family ;)
So ofcourse I'm going to continue reading the next ones. I've already read book 6 some time ago, but I think I'll do a quick reread of that one too, since I remember I liked it a lot :))
3,5 stars, but I'm rounding it up to 4 because these boys really made me laugh !!
This time we got Hunter and Brian's story and I really reading about both of them. The banter between them was so funny and they were both very like-able characters.
I liked this one more than the previous one, probably because it was way funnier. It dealt with some serious subjects also, but still in a mild way.
The only thing that was missing in this one, was the extreme steamfactor. There was still steam, but it was toned down quite a bit and it took a while to get to that point. I didn't mind this one bit, because reading about these two, was pretty entertaining. Also this one wasn't as heavy on the insta-love and the sugary sweetness, which was very oke by me !!
These books can be read as stand alones, but they are so much better when you read them in order, because all the books are connected. All the old characters make appearences...to me they are all family ;)
So ofcourse I'm going to continue reading the next ones. I've already read book 6 some time ago, but I think I'll do a quick reread of that one too, since I remember I liked it a lot :))
3,5 stars, but I'm rounding it up to 4 because these boys really made me laugh !!
March 11, 2016
The story starts off strong with Hunter and Brian facing off and bantering back and forth. I liked both characters (which was really surprising considering what a mega asshole Brian was in In Pieces), and the hurt/comfort side was well handled in the beginning. As always, Land's humor shone through, especially with characters like Nana who just steal page time. Finally, I liked the way the threads of Hunter's Stalker and Christopher Robin's still at-large assailant were woven together for the mystery plot.
However, miscommunication and some unnecessary drama later in the story spoiled things for me a bit and it lost quite a lot of its momentum toward the end. I also thought Land lost a really good opportunity for some much needed hurt/comfort in the end.
Thankfully, it picked back up for the ending and I got all the cheesy goodness I've come to rely upon and expect from Land's writing in the HEA.
While it's not my favorite in the Firsts and Forever series, fans of the series should still enjoy it.
This review has been cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews.
However, miscommunication and some unnecessary drama later in the story spoiled things for me a bit and it lost quite a lot of its momentum toward the end. I also thought Land lost a really good opportunity for some much needed hurt/comfort in the end.
Thankfully, it picked back up for the ending and I got all the cheesy goodness I've come to rely upon and expect from Land's writing in the HEA.
While it's not my favorite in the Firsts and Forever series, fans of the series should still enjoy it.
This review has been cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews.
August 27, 2015
I lied before, THIS is my favorite of the series so far. Quick thoughts while I have a chance to get them down.
I laughed.
I cried.
I fell in love.
I laughed even more.
I adore the hell out of Hunter's sense of humor and when that humor and snark gets tossed at one Ex-Marine, it's pure comical bliss. Here I thought Nana owned the best lines but Hunter and Brian? Even when they are sexy as fuck they are still making jokes and it's so them, it's so sweet and it's SO THEM. Gah!
I love Hunter but I am IN love with Brian. Screw it, I am in love with both of them and this book, it felt more of a romance than the previous reads. Now don't get me wrong, they were romances but Hunter and Brian took their time and didn't fuck like bunnies right away. This was a sweeter romance of two men really dealing with their issues of trust, intimacy and self acceptance. Both Hunter and Brian have had a rough go of it but together, they can do anything, even blindfolded. *ahem* Yup.
So anyway. This was so much damn fun. I keep thinking of some of their banter, of their sweet and tender moments and of course, Nana with her acceptance of the gay homosexual love making and the discussion of condom sizing. *cackles*
This was a really fun read.
I laughed.
I cried.
I fell in love.
I laughed even more.
I adore the hell out of Hunter's sense of humor and when that humor and snark gets tossed at one Ex-Marine, it's pure comical bliss. Here I thought Nana owned the best lines but Hunter and Brian? Even when they are sexy as fuck they are still making jokes and it's so them, it's so sweet and it's SO THEM. Gah!
I love Hunter but I am IN love with Brian. Screw it, I am in love with both of them and this book, it felt more of a romance than the previous reads. Now don't get me wrong, they were romances but Hunter and Brian took their time and didn't fuck like bunnies right away. This was a sweeter romance of two men really dealing with their issues of trust, intimacy and self acceptance. Both Hunter and Brian have had a rough go of it but together, they can do anything, even blindfolded. *ahem* Yup.
So anyway. This was so much damn fun. I keep thinking of some of their banter, of their sweet and tender moments and of course, Nana with her acceptance of the gay homosexual love making and the discussion of condom sizing. *cackles*
This was a really fun read.
March 11, 2016
Oh man, this was laugh out loud funny! I loved the snark between Brian and Hunter, they were hilarious! And I have to say, the author did a masterful job in transforming Brian from a grade A douchenozzle to a yummy hero. Ahhh, personal growth, it's a wonderful thing.
And Hunter, just...oh mah gawd. He's just...what was it? Oh yeah, "the fairest of them all". Seriously, a porn star with a heart of gold and the looks to match.
Obviously, I loved this installment in this series. In fact, I'll say it's pretty much my favorite so far. And now I can't wait for Trevor's story to come out. WANT it, please.
And Hunter, just...oh mah gawd. He's just...what was it? Oh yeah, "the fairest of them all". Seriously, a porn star with a heart of gold and the looks to match.
Obviously, I loved this installment in this series. In fact, I'll say it's pretty much my favorite so far. And now I can't wait for Trevor's story to come out. WANT it, please.
March 29, 2016
In this book we meet Hunter, a porn-star who uses his body as a way to get people to touch him and be with him. He's been doing it so long, he has lost the ability to value himself in any other way. But making friends with the characters from the previous three books has led him to Christopher, a guy who finally has no interest in him for sex, and wants to be a friend.
Hunter has a stalker, whose attentions are escalating, but he's finding out he also has people willing to protect him. And Brian Nolan, Kieran's wheelchair-bound brother, is someone who needs Hunter for something other than just sex, and yet also offers him support. Hunter starts to look for a bigger life than the plastic porn-star existence he's had. If the stalker doesn't get to him first.
Once again, characters I enjoyed, and did care about, in a plot that was a little OTT here and there. The stalker motif isn't my favorite, so bear that in mind. There were some funny moments, amid the drama, and the story pulled me along to the conclusion. I did like the way it wrapped up, with some rough road and conflict, and not an immediate bow on top after the action climax.
My favorite character was actually the one whose story probably comes next, the dark mafia figure with an unrequited attraction to Hunter. But the portrayal of mafia family members so positively also irks me a bit - we'll see if the subject is too glossed over in the next book or not. Because I will be picking it up...
Hunter has a stalker, whose attentions are escalating, but he's finding out he also has people willing to protect him. And Brian Nolan, Kieran's wheelchair-bound brother, is someone who needs Hunter for something other than just sex, and yet also offers him support. Hunter starts to look for a bigger life than the plastic porn-star existence he's had. If the stalker doesn't get to him first.
Once again, characters I enjoyed, and did care about, in a plot that was a little OTT here and there. The stalker motif isn't my favorite, so bear that in mind. There were some funny moments, amid the drama, and the story pulled me along to the conclusion. I did like the way it wrapped up, with some rough road and conflict, and not an immediate bow on top after the action climax.
My favorite character was actually the one whose story probably comes next, the dark mafia figure with an unrequited attraction to Hunter. But the portrayal of mafia family members so positively also irks me a bit - we'll see if the subject is too glossed over in the next book or not. Because I will be picking it up...
July 21, 2014
Gathering Storm (92,460 words for $3.99 Available on Amazon and at Smashwords.com) is a fun and sexy novel of a Afghan war veteran who has PSTD and has lost both legs below the knee and a very successful, proud porn star who thinks people only want him for sex. There are none of the standard, tiresome, ubiquitous M/M Romance story tropes and plot devices. There's no 'big misunderstanding' while our porn star (that's him on the book cover with the really beautiful blue eyes) initially thinks the war vet is a homophobe that mixup is quickly resolved when the guy kisses him. After that these two communicate very well. They both have hangups to overcome and they do it together by talking and helping each other get on the right track.
To add some mystery and scariness to the story there is a stalker who is clearly dangerous and has made some very deathly serious threats. Fortunately our veteran has a gun and a massively strong upper body (and yeah that thing is massive too) plus he has a brother who is a cop so the police are on the job. Also on the job protecting our golden-haired star is organized crime who are involved because his adopted grandmother is a 80 year old mafiosi affectionately called Nana who considers our boy 'family'. No not crime family, the kind of family you love. She not going to let anyone hurt one single strand of that gorgeous blond head. Nor is our gay Afghan-war disabled vet or his brother the cop.
So we have two people with problems but also with loving togetherness, an unknown crazed maniac stalking and out to kill, a cop and a gangster cooperating to protect our lovers and enough psychological problems to baffle even Dr. Phil.
No this isn't your ordinary M/M Romance. Alexa Land writes with clarity and while the premise might seem a bit unusual, her words give us the story in a tone and depth that give us a realistic feeling of gay fiction while you can be certain the results will be a pleasing and sexy read.
WARNING: As it says in the blurb "The fourth book in Alexa Land’s best-selling Firsts and Forever series picks up where In Pieces left off, yet each book in the series is written to stand alone, so jump in anywhere…" That means if you like this story you can explore more of Alexa's writing.
Alexa has just become a Goodreads author who just recently (January 2014) joined the M/M Romance group and she is also a new member of the elite Complaint Department group where readers and writers of M/M Romance and gay fiction love stories have fun, joke around and make friends. Visit Alexa and the rest of us us us at: https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/...
All of the books in Alexa Land's Firsts and Forever Series are smart, smart-assed, fun, funny, romantic, contain problematic situations and have actual interesting stories instead of the typical M/M romance standard, trite plots which aren't actual plots at all. One of the reasons I enjoy these stories so much is that they all involve gay romance with mafia guys who fall in love with men who are outside of the "family" and include an 80-something year-old grandmother mafiosi whose "boys" make sure whatever she wants she gets and if that's not enough she's got her own pistol so that she can make sure all her grandchildren and all her "gay homosexual" boys get their romantic happily ever afters.
The order of reading the books is important. Here are the books in the series in order: Way Off Plan, All In, In Pieces, Gathering Storm and Salvation.
Available on Amazon for Kindle and at Smashwords.com for most all formats.
To add some mystery and scariness to the story there is a stalker who is clearly dangerous and has made some very deathly serious threats. Fortunately our veteran has a gun and a massively strong upper body (and yeah that thing is massive too) plus he has a brother who is a cop so the police are on the job. Also on the job protecting our golden-haired star is organized crime who are involved because his adopted grandmother is a 80 year old mafiosi affectionately called Nana who considers our boy 'family'. No not crime family, the kind of family you love. She not going to let anyone hurt one single strand of that gorgeous blond head. Nor is our gay Afghan-war disabled vet or his brother the cop.
So we have two people with problems but also with loving togetherness, an unknown crazed maniac stalking and out to kill, a cop and a gangster cooperating to protect our lovers and enough psychological problems to baffle even Dr. Phil.
No this isn't your ordinary M/M Romance. Alexa Land writes with clarity and while the premise might seem a bit unusual, her words give us the story in a tone and depth that give us a realistic feeling of gay fiction while you can be certain the results will be a pleasing and sexy read.
WARNING: As it says in the blurb "The fourth book in Alexa Land’s best-selling Firsts and Forever series picks up where In Pieces left off, yet each book in the series is written to stand alone, so jump in anywhere…" That means if you like this story you can explore more of Alexa's writing.
Alexa has just become a Goodreads author who just recently (January 2014) joined the M/M Romance group and she is also a new member of the elite Complaint Department group where readers and writers of M/M Romance and gay fiction love stories have fun, joke around and make friends. Visit Alexa and the rest of us us us at: https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/...
All of the books in Alexa Land's Firsts and Forever Series are smart, smart-assed, fun, funny, romantic, contain problematic situations and have actual interesting stories instead of the typical M/M romance standard, trite plots which aren't actual plots at all. One of the reasons I enjoy these stories so much is that they all involve gay romance with mafia guys who fall in love with men who are outside of the "family" and include an 80-something year-old grandmother mafiosi whose "boys" make sure whatever she wants she gets and if that's not enough she's got her own pistol so that she can make sure all her grandchildren and all her "gay homosexual" boys get their romantic happily ever afters.
The order of reading the books is important. Here are the books in the series in order: Way Off Plan, All In, In Pieces, Gathering Storm and Salvation.
Available on Amazon for Kindle and at Smashwords.com for most all formats.
August 10, 2016
4 stars
For a book about a gay porn star and a double amputee, this was surprisingly sweet and relatively low-angst. I loved Hunter and Brian's banter.
For a book about a gay porn star and a double amputee, this was surprisingly sweet and relatively low-angst. I loved Hunter and Brian's banter.
January 7, 2016
Yup best series in a long time. I love all the players.
August 30, 2022
This is the first book that I have read from the firsts and forever series and I have to say I really enjoyed it. Characters from the other series were mentioned but I didn't feel like I needed to read them to understand this book. However, I am going to read them because I really did love this one I hope I am not disappointed.
This book was about a surly closeted war veteran named Brian that was pushing every one away. He is miserable and was making everyone else miserable. Then comes along a beautiful porn star with his own issues but wont take Brian's crap. I love the give and take. Its not insta-love but it is a growing friendship and that makes for a really great story.
This book was about a surly closeted war veteran named Brian that was pushing every one away. He is miserable and was making everyone else miserable. Then comes along a beautiful porn star with his own issues but wont take Brian's crap. I love the give and take. Its not insta-love but it is a growing friendship and that makes for a really great story.
July 3, 2021
~Reading this series out of order ~
3.5 stars
This was an enjoyable read. I liked Hunter, a famous pornstar with a big personality who breaks through to Brian, a veteran struggling with his disability who pushes everyone away by being a grade-A asshole. I liked that Hunter didn't take any shit from Brian and was able to get him to open up and work on himself. I also liked that they accepted each other exactly as they were and how their relationship progressed from friendship to love.
It was a bit too corny for me at times and the miscommunication near the end kind of dampened my enjoyment but it was a decent read
3.5 stars
This was an enjoyable read. I liked Hunter, a famous pornstar with a big personality who breaks through to Brian, a veteran struggling with his disability who pushes everyone away by being a grade-A asshole. I liked that Hunter didn't take any shit from Brian and was able to get him to open up and work on himself. I also liked that they accepted each other exactly as they were and how their relationship progressed from friendship to love.
It was a bit too corny for me at times and the miscommunication near the end kind of dampened my enjoyment but it was a decent read
February 22, 2014
This is my first book by Alexa Land but it won't be my last. There's some great dialogue and bantering in this story. I always love an initially antagonistic relationship, especially when both parties give as good as they get. I liked the characters--both insecure for different reasons. The stalker side of the story was well done. I am looking forward to Trevor's story in "Salvation".
November 6, 2015
Loved loved loved it!
I LOVE reading about "broken" characters, I love them a little "damaged", and Brian is the ultimate one.
He is a Navy veteran, who lost both his legs in Afghanistan.
He is bitter, sad and depressed, and has no problem taking it out on everyone around him.
Hunter, the one telling this story from his POV, is a known porn star, and when the two meet, it is hate-at-first-sight.
But, it is soon ends, when Hunter is in danger from an obsessive stalker.
It brings all of Brian's instincts to protect Hunter, to the surface.
They soon become friends, and their deep feelings towards one another deepens as they spend time together.
They are both so perfect to one another.
*sigh*
Brian thinks no one will ever want him for the way he is, a broken man,
and Hunter thinks, no one will ever want more from him then his good looks.
This was my first book in the series, and I really want to read more!
I wonder if I should go back to the beginning of the series or go to the next one...???!!!
I LOVE reading about "broken" characters, I love them a little "damaged", and Brian is the ultimate one.
He is a Navy veteran, who lost both his legs in Afghanistan.
He is bitter, sad and depressed, and has no problem taking it out on everyone around him.
Hunter, the one telling this story from his POV, is a known porn star, and when the two meet, it is hate-at-first-sight.
But, it is soon ends, when Hunter is in danger from an obsessive stalker.
It brings all of Brian's instincts to protect Hunter, to the surface.
They soon become friends, and their deep feelings towards one another deepens as they spend time together.
They are both so perfect to one another.
*sigh*
Brian thinks no one will ever want him for the way he is, a broken man,
and Hunter thinks, no one will ever want more from him then his good looks.
This was my first book in the series, and I really want to read more!
I wonder if I should go back to the beginning of the series or go to the next one...???!!!
July 16, 2014
2.50 - 3 STARS
This one has an interesting premise and overall was an entertaining read, but I only like it. This was a sweet and funny story, but I’m a little disappointed how this story progressed. This story started really good and I enjoyed the first 20%-25%, but after it dragged a little bit. I was expecting something else, I think a different storyline.
I enjoyed the main characters and their banter at the beginning, but their dialogue after they become lovers is so damn cheesy. I didn’t feel the connection too much between the MC and there’s only one sex scene in the whole book…at the end…the last scene.Ughhh! Anyway, I really liked the side characters. Particularly I liked Nana, she was a great addition to the story and so damn funny!!
I can’t say a like the suspense because is poorly built. The end is rushed and I didn’t understand Brian’s decision to leave Hunter in the end. (???)
The writing was good, so maybe was only the story that didn’t work for me…
This one has an interesting premise and overall was an entertaining read, but I only like it. This was a sweet and funny story, but I’m a little disappointed how this story progressed. This story started really good and I enjoyed the first 20%-25%, but after it dragged a little bit. I was expecting something else, I think a different storyline.
I enjoyed the main characters and their banter at the beginning, but their dialogue after they become lovers is so damn cheesy. I didn’t feel the connection too much between the MC and there’s only one sex scene in the whole book…at the end…the last scene.Ughhh! Anyway, I really liked the side characters. Particularly I liked Nana, she was a great addition to the story and so damn funny!!
I can’t say a like the suspense because is poorly built. The end is rushed and I didn’t understand Brian’s decision to leave Hunter in the end. (???)
The writing was good, so maybe was only the story that didn’t work for me…
January 13, 2018
Hunter and Brian.
Brian has more than an anger management problem and Hunter has lost all sense of himself. Really so has Brian.
This is love story of healing and finding yourself and your value. It has a crazy believable stalker and looks in a fairly balanced way the gay porn industry.
We have the crazy antics of Nana, a great circle of friends, and really heartwarming love story.
Brian has more than an anger management problem and Hunter has lost all sense of himself. Really so has Brian.
This is love story of healing and finding yourself and your value. It has a crazy believable stalker and looks in a fairly balanced way the gay porn industry.
We have the crazy antics of Nana, a great circle of friends, and really heartwarming love story.
January 10, 2014
Loving this series and cannot wait for more!!!
January 24, 2015
3.5 stars. These boys sure liked to talk ... and talk ... and talk. Some of it was entertaining; some of it veered into info dump territory. At times, this book felt like dialogue strung together with a little plot thrown in. That made it difficult to get the connection between the MCs. It felt very emotionless.
Strangely enough (because this is the part I usually don't like), it was the stalker plot that held my attention. The climax of that was well-done. Lots of emotion.
The MCs were likable, and their banter was cute. (Nana, not so much). Hunter's meet-and-greet with the fans was fun. Even more, I liked that Hunter's porn career was not a factor once he and Brian met. No cheating or it's not really cheating because "it's work and not sexy." Thank you.
Strangely enough (because this is the part I usually don't like), it was the stalker plot that held my attention. The climax of that was well-done. Lots of emotion.
The MCs were likable, and their banter was cute. (Nana, not so much). Hunter's meet-and-greet with the fans was fun. Even more, I liked that Hunter's porn career was not a factor once he and Brian met. No cheating or it's not really cheating because "it's work and not sexy." Thank you.
February 1, 2015
I was wondering if Brian would be able to redeem himself after his douchebag behavior in the previous book and it took him a while but he did eventually do it. Hunter, I love Hunter. He needs love so much he'll sleep with just about anyone just get some physical contact. They were kinda perfect together. Most of their issues could have been avoided if they'd talked and quite blaming themselves but it added a bit of angst so I'm good. Loved Nana...again. He little clan makes this series so fun. I haven't looked at #5 yet and I'm hoping it's Vincent...
Read
January 10, 2014Connections
I really love this series. What surprises me is that with every new book I love the ones before even more. The way the characters connect with each other feels very satisfying and comforting. Not only the love connections but also the friendships that continue to grow throughout the series. I can't wait to read Trevor's story next and find how all of these relationships continue to evolve and new connections are made.
I really love this series. What surprises me is that with every new book I love the ones before even more. The way the characters connect with each other feels very satisfying and comforting. Not only the love connections but also the friendships that continue to grow throughout the series. I can't wait to read Trevor's story next and find how all of these relationships continue to evolve and new connections are made.
January 17, 2014
I loved Hunter since Christopher's book. This is my favorite book in the series so far. I really enjoyed knowing more about the other characters and learning more about Brian. Their relationship worked great as well as the rest of the plots. Looking forward to Vincent & Trevor's story. I would like to see more about Cole and Christopher's friend at the soup kitchen.
January 23, 2014
Yes, it's a decent read. Laughable moments, a paraplegic hunk with PTSD, a porn star and the crazy stalker on the loose and you have a decent read. Best supporting character is definitely the 80 year old mob grandma. Enjoy!
September 11, 2018
I call Alexa Land’s First & Forever series pendulum books. They swing back-and-forth between very serious subject matter to crazy hilarious situations. I will say this, if you don’t look to close and you go with the flow, if you’re not asking for real logic and precision these are so much fun, relax and enjoy. Hunter Storm has a serious problem and Brian had a serious challenge both of them come together and it’s both hilarious at times and then very serious at other moments.
Long story short I really enjoyed it and I can’t wait to read the next one.
Long story short I really enjoyed it and I can’t wait to read the next one.
January 15, 2020
4.5 Stars
July 7, 2020
Loved it
April 4, 2014
My Review:
I liked this book a lot...mainly because of Brian and Hunter and how their relationship develops.
Brian is former military and in a wheelchair as a double amputee. He's spent the last three years being bitter and angry and a pain in the ass to everyone around him.
Hunter knows about Brian through his best friend, but they've never actually met. He just knows how dreadful Brian has made life for his friend who's engaged to Brian's brother. So when they meet, it is NOT all sunshine and happiness. For the first time ever, someone isn't pussyfooting around Brian and his injury and surliness. Hunter tells it like it is...basically, that Brian needs to suck it up.
These guys can dish it up and sling it like no one else. Their back and forth insults were great and so entertaining. I loved that conflict especially at first. It really made the romance so much more. There is a bizarre set of circumstances at the beginning of the book which made it so Brian and Hunter have to rely on each other. I liked how that all played out and the way that it forced them together.
These are two guys who haven't had someone to really hold them just for security for a while. I could completely buy that that need pushed them together and to see each other for more than what they first thought. It really is a great set-up that I totally loved. They are both so vulnerable and that makes them incredibly defensive and abrasive, especially toward each other...at first, but as their relationship develops, they each begin to see more. I loved that.
This book definitely worked for me at all levels. There was the added intrigue of the stalker and edge of danger. Also, the unknown of how the guys will negotiate Hunter's career and fame in the porn world.
I also found myself intrigued by one of the other couples so I probably will go back and read some of the stories from the beginning of the series. But this book DEFINITELY works as a stand-alone and I didn't feel like I was missing parts of the story because I hadn't read the other three books in the series.
I liked this book a lot...mainly because of Brian and Hunter and how their relationship develops.
Brian is former military and in a wheelchair as a double amputee. He's spent the last three years being bitter and angry and a pain in the ass to everyone around him.
Hunter knows about Brian through his best friend, but they've never actually met. He just knows how dreadful Brian has made life for his friend who's engaged to Brian's brother. So when they meet, it is NOT all sunshine and happiness. For the first time ever, someone isn't pussyfooting around Brian and his injury and surliness. Hunter tells it like it is...basically, that Brian needs to suck it up.
These guys can dish it up and sling it like no one else. Their back and forth insults were great and so entertaining. I loved that conflict especially at first. It really made the romance so much more. There is a bizarre set of circumstances at the beginning of the book which made it so Brian and Hunter have to rely on each other. I liked how that all played out and the way that it forced them together.
These are two guys who haven't had someone to really hold them just for security for a while. I could completely buy that that need pushed them together and to see each other for more than what they first thought. It really is a great set-up that I totally loved. They are both so vulnerable and that makes them incredibly defensive and abrasive, especially toward each other...at first, but as their relationship develops, they each begin to see more. I loved that.
This book definitely worked for me at all levels. There was the added intrigue of the stalker and edge of danger. Also, the unknown of how the guys will negotiate Hunter's career and fame in the porn world.
I also found myself intrigued by one of the other couples so I probably will go back and read some of the stories from the beginning of the series. But this book DEFINITELY works as a stand-alone and I didn't feel like I was missing parts of the story because I hadn't read the other three books in the series.
April 13, 2014
5 Awesome Stars!!!
Hunter is a porn star. He meets Brian, his bff's fiancés homophobic brother. Brian is a double amputee who is angry at the world and everyone in it. Hunter and Brian meet when the BFF's fiancé is hurt and they have to pick him up. When Hunter and Brian meet it is insta hate!
Brian needs a place to stay for a few days and Hunter takes him in, but when they arrive at Hunters apartment, his stalker has broken in.
Brian and Hunter spend a lot of time together. Turns out Brian isn't so homophobic after all. Brian and Hunter become very close, but will they survive when tragedy strikes?
I loved this book and these characters. They had a really good chemistry and their snarky rapport is hilarious. The back and forth between them was hilarious and had a great give and take. They both gave as good as they got. The supporting characters are great. Nana! OMG Nana.. She is the funniest person. An old person that speaks her mind! LMAO (and I did lmao while reading this)
I loved these characters so much I didn't want this story to end.
This is book 4 in the series, but it is the first book I have read. I will have to go back and read books 1-3. I am really looking forward to Trevor's book and would love to see a book for River and Cole.
Hunter is a porn star. He meets Brian, his bff's fiancés homophobic brother. Brian is a double amputee who is angry at the world and everyone in it. Hunter and Brian meet when the BFF's fiancé is hurt and they have to pick him up. When Hunter and Brian meet it is insta hate!
Brian needs a place to stay for a few days and Hunter takes him in, but when they arrive at Hunters apartment, his stalker has broken in.
Brian and Hunter spend a lot of time together. Turns out Brian isn't so homophobic after all. Brian and Hunter become very close, but will they survive when tragedy strikes?
I loved this book and these characters. They had a really good chemistry and their snarky rapport is hilarious. The back and forth between them was hilarious and had a great give and take. They both gave as good as they got. The supporting characters are great. Nana! OMG Nana.. She is the funniest person. An old person that speaks her mind! LMAO (and I did lmao while reading this)
I loved these characters so much I didn't want this story to end.
This is book 4 in the series, but it is the first book I have read. I will have to go back and read books 1-3. I am really looking forward to Trevor's book and would love to see a book for River and Cole.
March 28, 2014
Book 4 of the series ...
This is the story of Hunter Storm , porn star and best friend with Christopher Robin.
Brian Nolan , ex marine and amputee ... Kieran's brother.
Hunter has a stalker and he is becoming increasingly afraid of the threats ... They are getting worst. Hunter self esteem is not good and he doesn't want to accept help with the issue.
Brian also has many issues since returning from the war and he has a constant bad attitude.
But faith had something different plan ...
Brian is there for Hunter when another threat happens. Brian wants to help Hunter , they become friends.
It is interesting to read how the relationship develops and they open up to each other ... They become close ...
They have many issues to overcome , the thruth , the stalker and most of all .. Their own personal demons.
The way they are with each other makes things more interesting.
Also Hunter learns to accept Christopher Robin , Nana and his friends help.
I like the fact of the new character Trevor and how he also is there for Hunter.
Next book ... Trevor's story.
This is the story of Hunter Storm , porn star and best friend with Christopher Robin.
Brian Nolan , ex marine and amputee ... Kieran's brother.
Hunter has a stalker and he is becoming increasingly afraid of the threats ... They are getting worst. Hunter self esteem is not good and he doesn't want to accept help with the issue.
Brian also has many issues since returning from the war and he has a constant bad attitude.
But faith had something different plan ...
Brian is there for Hunter when another threat happens. Brian wants to help Hunter , they become friends.
It is interesting to read how the relationship develops and they open up to each other ... They become close ...
They have many issues to overcome , the thruth , the stalker and most of all .. Their own personal demons.
The way they are with each other makes things more interesting.
Also Hunter learns to accept Christopher Robin , Nana and his friends help.
I like the fact of the new character Trevor and how he also is there for Hunter.
Next book ... Trevor's story.
February 6, 2014
Outstanding addition to the continuing stages of this wonderfully written entertaining series. The relationship between Brian and Hunter was filled mostly with humor and suspense. The humor and the way they interacted with each other is what kept their story so special. That they could laugh at the things in each other and find fun in the things that made them different is what made them perfect for one another. The insta-wet moments were magnificently written and beyond sexy. The danger that was always just around the corner, ready to strike kept you guessing all the time. This was of course terrifically written as all the other stories have been. This one I thought really grabs your attention. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS BOOK!!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 135 reviews