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Firsts and Forever #11
The Distance
What if everything you think you know about someone is completely wrong?
Twenty-four-year-old Jessie thinks he has fellow street racer Kai all figured out. The tall, dark-haired Hawaiian might be gorgeous, but he’s also arrogant, angry, and a total menace when he gets behind the wheel. So why does an argument with Kai lead to the hottest sex of Jessie’s life?
As sex starts to give way to so much more, Jessie wants to trust Kai. But after a betrayal in his past cut Jessie to the core, that doesn’t come easily. Even if Kai proves to be far more than the gruff exterior he shows the world, Jessie’s sure he’ll screw up any chance at a relationship and get hurt all over again. He just needs to keep his distance, which would be a lot easier if the attraction between them wasn’t off the charts.
The Distance is the eleventh book in Alexa Land’s best-selling Firsts & Forever Series, but each book is written to stand alone, so jump in anywhere. The contemporary gay romance is approximately 100,000 words.
Twenty-four-year-old Jessie thinks he has fellow street racer Kai all figured out. The tall, dark-haired Hawaiian might be gorgeous, but he’s also arrogant, angry, and a total menace when he gets behind the wheel. So why does an argument with Kai lead to the hottest sex of Jessie’s life?
As sex starts to give way to so much more, Jessie wants to trust Kai. But after a betrayal in his past cut Jessie to the core, that doesn’t come easily. Even if Kai proves to be far more than the gruff exterior he shows the world, Jessie’s sure he’ll screw up any chance at a relationship and get hurt all over again. He just needs to keep his distance, which would be a lot easier if the attraction between them wasn’t off the charts.
The Distance is the eleventh book in Alexa Land’s best-selling Firsts & Forever Series, but each book is written to stand alone, so jump in anywhere. The contemporary gay romance is approximately 100,000 words.
250 pages, ebook
First published April 8, 2016
76 people are currently reading
320 people want to read
About the author
Alexa Land
58 books786 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.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 118 reviews
May 4, 2019
Audio - 5 +++ Greg does it again stars!
Story - 3.5 stars
Story - 3.5 stars
May 2, 2016
I just love this series. And I TOTALLY can't wait for Zachary's story next... My heart hurts for him.
Jessie and Kai were soo adorable. This book is onw of the great additions to the series..:-)
Jessie and Kai were soo adorable. This book is onw of the great additions to the series..:-)
April 28, 2016
Jessie and Kai
This was my first read from the serie and this one was the #11 !! It says it's a stand alone.
It is but with all the couples and names it was (for me) a bit confusing.
There was a whole lot of side story and *naughty me I skipped here and there. It was just a lot of story and I wanted some Jessie and Kai. At some point i had to return to somewhat % to understand a situation because stupid me I skipped to much.
It started hot as hell and I hoped that was the trend but at some point it get sweet sweeter sweetest.
Overall is was a good story, a little to sweet sometimes.
The characters were all great and the storyline acceptable. The flow was good
I'm really looking forward Zachary's story.
This was my first read from the serie and this one was the #11 !! It says it's a stand alone.
It is but with all the couples and names it was (for me) a bit confusing.
There was a whole lot of side story and *naughty me I skipped here and there. It was just a lot of story and I wanted some Jessie and Kai. At some point i had to return to somewhat % to understand a situation because stupid me I skipped to much.
It started hot as hell and I hoped that was the trend but at some point it get sweet sweeter sweetest.
Overall is was a good story, a little to sweet sometimes.
The characters were all great and the storyline acceptable. The flow was good
I'm really looking forward Zachary's story.
May 21, 2016
I've been waiting for Jessie's story for a while and trying to anticipate just who would be the one to give him his happily ever after. I totally wasn't expecting it to be Kai, the drag racer Jessie knows at first only as "Trigger" whom he holds responsible for the accident nearly a year prior that could have killed him. So imagine my surprise and happiness at the twist that leads to some pretty hot hate fucking in the beginning!
Of course, once we get both sides of the story and Jessie and Kai really get to know each other we get to see just how perfect they are for one another.
I really liked that Land creates a little more hurt/comfort with this installment in the series. I enjoyed the emotional connection Jessie makes with Kai and his family, and was happy that while Nana is liberally sprinkled throughout she is not quite so front and center in this story. It really does focus on Jessie and Kai.
What I didn't like is how much I thought happened off page and all the time jumps. Also, the story dragged a little for me in the middle, but thankfully there was some really interesting intrigue sprinkled toward the end to spice things up nicely.
Two things I'm looking forward to is the wrap up to the threats against the family in future installments of the series and the audiobook of this story. I think Greg Tremblay will really be able to make this baby shine!
Sweet, funny and sexy as hell with an element of hurt/comfort and some intrigue. Check it out!
This review has been cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews.
Of course, once we get both sides of the story and Jessie and Kai really get to know each other we get to see just how perfect they are for one another.
I really liked that Land creates a little more hurt/comfort with this installment in the series. I enjoyed the emotional connection Jessie makes with Kai and his family, and was happy that while Nana is liberally sprinkled throughout she is not quite so front and center in this story. It really does focus on Jessie and Kai.
What I didn't like is how much I thought happened off page and all the time jumps. Also, the story dragged a little for me in the middle, but thankfully there was some really interesting intrigue sprinkled toward the end to spice things up nicely.
Two things I'm looking forward to is the wrap up to the threats against the family in future installments of the series and the audiobook of this story. I think Greg Tremblay will really be able to make this baby shine!
Sweet, funny and sexy as hell with an element of hurt/comfort and some intrigue. Check it out!
This review has been cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews.
April 23, 2018
4.5 stars
I forgot how much fun this series is. I wasn’t too sure about this book since everyone was talking about hate-sex, and I really don’t like that. But it’s narrated by Greg Tremblay, so I decided to go for it anyway. And I’m so glad I did!
We know Jessie as the skinny blond driver of Nana’s limo. And in this book he finally finds love.
Jessie loves to street race every now and again, but hasn’t for a while. Ever since his accident where he flipped his car after another driver hit him, he has been hesitant to go back to racing. But now he’s ready. When he sees that Trigger is there, the one who caused his accident, he wants a rematch. When Jessie loses because Trigger suddenly swerved into his lane, Jessie is super pissed.
And that’s how he finds himself at Trigger’s garage late at night. To tell him what an asshole Trigger is and that he should apologize. Of course Trigger keeps insisting it wasn’t his fault at all and won’t apologize. Just when Jessie thinks he might have to hit the guy, they end up kissing, and then having sex, right there on the floor of the garage.
After that Jessie runs away and doesn’t know what to think. When the two of them run into each other again it ends in a blowjob. Once again Jessie is at a loss for words.
Jessie has a hard time holding onto his anger and keeps thinking he might be all wrong about Trigger. Trigger did say he wasn’t the once who caused his accident and he is not the bad guy Jessie thinks he is.
And that’s why Jessie decides to make amends. It turns out Trigger’s real name is Kai and he is not a bad guy at all. He’s actually pretty sweet. But when Jessie asks him out on a real date, Kai is hesitant. He has a young daughter and he’s scared of her getting attached to people and then leaving again. But it looks like Kai can’t forget about Jessie either, and so they take the plunge….
I really loved this. From the sweet romance, to the family time spent with Kai’s daughter and his crazy family (I loved them!). And of course the time spent with Nana and everyone she considers family. I also LOVED the cooking shows with Nana and everything that went wrong.
This book was just so much fun. I loved listening to it and it made me smile like a loon while driving. I think I scared all the other drivers when I burst out in laughter all the time.
I was glad the hate sex wasn’t all that hateful. Both Jessie and Kai just came to all the wrong conclusions about the other one. But once they cleared that up, they were a perfect fit.
I can’t wait to read the rest of the books.
I forgot how much fun this series is. I wasn’t too sure about this book since everyone was talking about hate-sex, and I really don’t like that. But it’s narrated by Greg Tremblay, so I decided to go for it anyway. And I’m so glad I did!
We know Jessie as the skinny blond driver of Nana’s limo. And in this book he finally finds love.
Jessie loves to street race every now and again, but hasn’t for a while. Ever since his accident where he flipped his car after another driver hit him, he has been hesitant to go back to racing. But now he’s ready. When he sees that Trigger is there, the one who caused his accident, he wants a rematch. When Jessie loses because Trigger suddenly swerved into his lane, Jessie is super pissed.
And that’s how he finds himself at Trigger’s garage late at night. To tell him what an asshole Trigger is and that he should apologize. Of course Trigger keeps insisting it wasn’t his fault at all and won’t apologize. Just when Jessie thinks he might have to hit the guy, they end up kissing, and then having sex, right there on the floor of the garage.
After that Jessie runs away and doesn’t know what to think. When the two of them run into each other again it ends in a blowjob. Once again Jessie is at a loss for words.
Jessie has a hard time holding onto his anger and keeps thinking he might be all wrong about Trigger. Trigger did say he wasn’t the once who caused his accident and he is not the bad guy Jessie thinks he is.
And that’s why Jessie decides to make amends. It turns out Trigger’s real name is Kai and he is not a bad guy at all. He’s actually pretty sweet. But when Jessie asks him out on a real date, Kai is hesitant. He has a young daughter and he’s scared of her getting attached to people and then leaving again. But it looks like Kai can’t forget about Jessie either, and so they take the plunge….
I really loved this. From the sweet romance, to the family time spent with Kai’s daughter and his crazy family (I loved them!). And of course the time spent with Nana and everyone she considers family. I also LOVED the cooking shows with Nana and everything that went wrong.
This book was just so much fun. I loved listening to it and it made me smile like a loon while driving. I think I scared all the other drivers when I burst out in laughter all the time.
I was glad the hate sex wasn’t all that hateful. Both Jessie and Kai just came to all the wrong conclusions about the other one. But once they cleared that up, they were a perfect fit.
I can’t wait to read the rest of the books.
May 5, 2019
*** Sweet, surfer looking, smaller man, but big-hearted Jessie,
works for Nana and treated like family. His own family disowned his when he came out as gay. *** Kai/Trigger, a tall Hawaiian, tattooed, muscled,
Dad of a darling girl, races against Jessie. Last year they crashed.
This time when Jessie confronts him, accusations are cast, and things become wanton, carnal, and fevered as they surprisingly come together. They become friends, lovers, and eventually inseparable.
The story opens with a hilarious scene of Jessie and Nana's friends all dressed in wedding gowns to help her pick a style. This lovely story shows us how everyone is doing in the "family". Once again we have truly fabulous characters, fast flowing events, and super hot sexiness. Yummy ! As in every book in this awesome series, it is perpetual motion, with fun, chaos, arson, deep loving moments, and heartwarming understanding, as personal tales are revealed.
There is a masquerade ball, Cockstock, a crab hunt, etc !
I am thrilled about this eclectic group of amazing people. Kai and Jessie move along quickly, even though they are trying to go slow. Sometimes the heart just knows.
Loved, loved, loved this beautiful romance of Jessie finally finding a strong man to live with, a family, true trust and a secure heart to bring him happiness, adventure and peace.
Solid, sexy, and amazing. Highly recommended. ENJOY !!
========================================
works for Nana and treated like family. His own family disowned his when he came out as gay. *** Kai/Trigger, a tall Hawaiian, tattooed, muscled,
Dad of a darling girl, races against Jessie. Last year they crashed.
This time when Jessie confronts him, accusations are cast, and things become wanton, carnal, and fevered as they surprisingly come together. They become friends, lovers, and eventually inseparable.
The story opens with a hilarious scene of Jessie and Nana's friends all dressed in wedding gowns to help her pick a style. This lovely story shows us how everyone is doing in the "family". Once again we have truly fabulous characters, fast flowing events, and super hot sexiness. Yummy ! As in every book in this awesome series, it is perpetual motion, with fun, chaos, arson, deep loving moments, and heartwarming understanding, as personal tales are revealed.
There is a masquerade ball, Cockstock, a crab hunt, etc !
I am thrilled about this eclectic group of amazing people. Kai and Jessie move along quickly, even though they are trying to go slow. Sometimes the heart just knows.
Loved, loved, loved this beautiful romance of Jessie finally finding a strong man to live with, a family, true trust and a secure heart to bring him happiness, adventure and peace.
Solid, sexy, and amazing. Highly recommended. ENJOY !!
========================================
May 22, 2016
Loved it ...favourite so far. ....looking forward to Zachery's now
May 14, 2016
One of the best in this series so far. I cracked up several times, and I'm not usually the type to react visibly to things I'm reading. Nana seemed even funnier this time around, and Jessie and Kai are so adorably hot together. There are several hilarious scenes with them, as well, particularly the scene where Jessie discovers his room has been stuffed full of cocks. This one is definitely remaining on my Kindle for a while.
Read
October 27, 2021DNF @35% not even Greg Tremblay (Boudreaux) could help this book.
The way that this was written was idk how to put it in to words. It felt jerky to me. Like the conversations that everyone had felt unnatural. It didn’t flow for me, and the only shining star was Nana.
Honestly even though this is stated to be a standalone you will get a little lost with all the names of secondary characters that are brought up.
This book felt a little juvenile and compared to the last book I read didn’t compare at all… I am bummed it’s been a while since I dnf’ed a book.
The way that this was written was idk how to put it in to words. It felt jerky to me. Like the conversations that everyone had felt unnatural. It didn’t flow for me, and the only shining star was Nana.
Honestly even though this is stated to be a standalone you will get a little lost with all the names of secondary characters that are brought up.
This book felt a little juvenile and compared to the last book I read didn’t compare at all… I am bummed it’s been a while since I dnf’ed a book.
April 15, 2016
I've been waiting for Jessie's story ever since we met him as nana's driver. Eeventhough he has been a background character for some time now...he has alway been my favorite !!
He's funny sweet and adorable and I was so happy that he got matched with an awesome guy. I liked Kai the moment he was introduced as Trigger ;)
Both Jessie en Kai are streetracers and they have been enemies ever since Kai clipped Jessie's car and pushed him of the road and made him crash. Jessie had blamed Kai ever since and Kai refuses to apologize, because it wasn't his fault.
There romance...not suprisingly...starts out as a hate-fuck (which I loved) but grows into so much more. Kai however wants to take it slow, he has a 6 year old daughter and he wants to see if things between them are serious before formally introducing Jessie to his daughter.
Jessie is known for rushing into relationships and pushing too hard too fast. He will have to tone down a bit, if he wants this relationship to work out....and he really wants it to work out :)
Like I said...I loved Jessie and I loved his book. Eventhough there were was still a form of suspence in this one...it wasn't as ott as the other books. For some reason it felt more real. It also felt a bit more serious...but don't worry, there were still some really funny and ridiculous parts. I mean it is Jessie's book after all and nana is still very much in the picture :))
The suspence part in this book was not solved and I'm sure it will continue on in the next book which will be Zachary's. He annoyed me a bit in this one...I wanted to scream at him to open his damned mouth and explain what was going on !! Ofcourse I want to know what his issues are, so I will definitely be reading the next book !
Also, not only were all the members of the old gang in this book, we also got introduced to a number of new characters, which makes me very happy, because that means Alexa can write a lot more books this series !!
4 stars from me :)
April 13, 2016
I really really adore this series, and the books keep getting better! The First and Forevers-series is now an instant 1-click buy for me, and MAAAAN had I been waiting for Jessies story.
As always for this series, the 'smiling-'till-my-cheeks-hurt-factor' was strong. The only reason that I didn't give it 5 stars, is that Alexa Land still uses too much telling, instead of showing (especially in regards to previous characters. I know that you're supposed to be able to jump into the series anywhere, but being a fan, it grates on my nerves, when she goes through an abridged version of almost all the characters' previous stories. Especially because she included an overview in the end). And sometimes when the characters are having a conversation it comes across as though they are giving each other a lecture on 'the state of things'.
The other thing that bothered me were the sexy-times in this one. They were too rushed and weirdly detailed while still being superficial, which was too bad because the build-up was AWESOME, no '2-minute-I-love-you-insta-lust' here! For me this was the most anticipated and so far the best book in the series.
This series will be read again and again!
As always for this series, the 'smiling-'till-my-cheeks-hurt-factor' was strong. The only reason that I didn't give it 5 stars, is that Alexa Land still uses too much telling, instead of showing (especially in regards to previous characters. I know that you're supposed to be able to jump into the series anywhere, but being a fan, it grates on my nerves, when she goes through an abridged version of almost all the characters' previous stories. Especially because she included an overview in the end). And sometimes when the characters are having a conversation it comes across as though they are giving each other a lecture on 'the state of things'.
The other thing that bothered me were the sexy-times in this one. They were too rushed and weirdly detailed while still being superficial, which was too bad because the build-up was AWESOME, no '2-minute-I-love-you-insta-lust' here! For me this was the most anticipated and so far the best book in the series.
This series will be read again and again!
September 29, 2018
Kai & Jessie have a good solid story.
There is a child in the story that is handled well.
The grandmothers were wonderfully entertaining.
The humor was funny.
The romance was simple not forced.
The drama was appropriate not added for the sake of drama.
The resolution of the story was on point.
There is a child in the story that is handled well.
The grandmothers were wonderfully entertaining.
The humor was funny.
The romance was simple not forced.
The drama was appropriate not added for the sake of drama.
The resolution of the story was on point.
August 11, 2019
Another great installment from this series. I listened to the audio book. This is a mm contemporary story with Jessie and Kai as the main characters. Lots of side characters too. Love and drama. I'll read more from this author.
August 10, 2017
I loved & still can't get over the crab scene that was the funniest thing I have ever read. I loved Jessie & Kai. My heart is so very broken over River & Cole!
August 14, 2017
This was my first book in this series but after this one I will have to go back and start at the beginning . I so loved this story it was sweet funny and it made me smile a.
September 2, 2016
.....Sigh.... I wish I was a Dombruso!......
Okay, I wasn't sure I was going to like this one because the beginning just wasn't happening for me. They way these two argued and their back and forth was really immature and they could reaaallly tell their age.... I wasn't a fan; I actually almost stopped reading a time or two.... If Kai said "What the actual F" one more time.... shewww. Blah....
BUT THEN, something amazing happened...we meet Izzy.....Okay, I'm getting ahead of myself.
First, I love Jessie; he wanted a family so bad but was always afraid to trust in the one that he made. He started out as the driver of Nana's big limo but quickly turned into her side kick and partner in crime. He always went along with Nana's crazy idea's and was always right along side her making sure she stayed safe and out of trouble....lol, well, as much as he could I suppose.
Nana and the whole Dombruso clan adopted him though and there was no two ways about it; I hate that it took him so long to accept it because in this one we saw how badly he wanted that.
Then, at a race where he was racing Sharona; he meets Kai who he thinks made him wreck last year and has been a huge pain in the neck the few times he sees him off and on. Their anger erupts into lust and they're both disgusted with themselves when it keeps happening... THEN, we meet Izzy .Kai's daughter. ... those of you who read my reviews, know that I am a complete sucker for hot guys with kids, and Kai was the best Dad. He was raising his daughter with the help of his own Gran, his mom and his sister plus they were all sharing a house together. Kai always put his daughter first and was at first hesitant to let her meet Jessie again, she'd met him once before back before Kai and Jessie became a thing and like all of us; she loved Jessie too.
My heart hurt for how badly Jessie wanted Kai and how afraid he was of messing up their relationship because others often told him he was too needy or too clingy. I didn't feel that way at all. Wanting to spend as much as you can with someone you care about is normal and I hated that people made him feel self-conscious about it...... isn't it amazing that I get so worked up over fictional people?
I loved seeing Jessie's relationship with everyone. He's always trying to do whats best for his friends, even if the way he goes about doing it is questionable. Like, how he helps Chance and how he worries about Zachary; whom I can't wait to read about next; I literally bought it three books back when I realized how many of these were out and I had some major catching up to do!
I hate hate hate what's going on with River and Cole and I hate hate hate that we didn't see the conclusion to that. I really hope they stay together, they both deserve each other and from the blowout at Christopher Robins exhibit; you can tell they still love each other so much. So, I'm hopeful!
I also hate that we didn't get any closure about Jerry. Where is he and I really hope we get to witness the vengence that Dante and Vincint dish out when they catch him... I also hope they let Nana get in on the action LOL I'd be scared of her for many different reasons.
Speaking of Nana; I love her and Ollie and how things progressed for them. Their wedding was sweet and I wondered how things would work out with Jessie once Nana and Ollie got married, but I shouldn't have worried. He's family! And now so is Kai and all his family.
Overall, except from the little bits at the beginning, I adored this story and I can not wait to read more! I also hope Six gets a story AND Jed... hmm... maybe them together? :D just a suggestion :P
Okay, I wasn't sure I was going to like this one because the beginning just wasn't happening for me. They way these two argued and their back and forth was really immature and they could reaaallly tell their age.... I wasn't a fan; I actually almost stopped reading a time or two.... If Kai said "What the actual F" one more time.... shewww. Blah....
BUT THEN, something amazing happened...we meet Izzy.....Okay, I'm getting ahead of myself.
First, I love Jessie; he wanted a family so bad but was always afraid to trust in the one that he made. He started out as the driver of Nana's big limo but quickly turned into her side kick and partner in crime. He always went along with Nana's crazy idea's and was always right along side her making sure she stayed safe and out of trouble....lol, well, as much as he could I suppose.
Nana and the whole Dombruso clan adopted him though and there was no two ways about it; I hate that it took him so long to accept it because in this one we saw how badly he wanted that.
Then, at a race where he was racing Sharona; he meets Kai who he thinks made him wreck last year and has been a huge pain in the neck the few times he sees him off and on. Their anger erupts into lust and they're both disgusted with themselves when it keeps happening... THEN, we meet Izzy .Kai's daughter. ... those of you who read my reviews, know that I am a complete sucker for hot guys with kids, and Kai was the best Dad. He was raising his daughter with the help of his own Gran, his mom and his sister plus they were all sharing a house together. Kai always put his daughter first and was at first hesitant to let her meet Jessie again, she'd met him once before back before Kai and Jessie became a thing and like all of us; she loved Jessie too.
My heart hurt for how badly Jessie wanted Kai and how afraid he was of messing up their relationship because others often told him he was too needy or too clingy. I didn't feel that way at all. Wanting to spend as much as you can with someone you care about is normal and I hated that people made him feel self-conscious about it...... isn't it amazing that I get so worked up over fictional people?
I loved seeing Jessie's relationship with everyone. He's always trying to do whats best for his friends, even if the way he goes about doing it is questionable. Like, how he helps Chance and how he worries about Zachary; whom I can't wait to read about next; I literally bought it three books back when I realized how many of these were out and I had some major catching up to do!
I hate hate hate what's going on with River and Cole and I hate hate hate that we didn't see the conclusion to that. I really hope they stay together, they both deserve each other and from the blowout at Christopher Robins exhibit; you can tell they still love each other so much. So, I'm hopeful!
I also hate that we didn't get any closure about Jerry. Where is he and I really hope we get to witness the vengence that Dante and Vincint dish out when they catch him... I also hope they let Nana get in on the action LOL I'd be scared of her for many different reasons.
Speaking of Nana; I love her and Ollie and how things progressed for them. Their wedding was sweet and I wondered how things would work out with Jessie once Nana and Ollie got married, but I shouldn't have worried. He's family! And now so is Kai and all his family.
Overall, except from the little bits at the beginning, I adored this story and I can not wait to read more! I also hope Six gets a story AND Jed... hmm... maybe them together? :D just a suggestion :P
April 30, 2016
I love this series. The stories are Mostly sweet with low angst/conflict.
In this book Jessie, Nanas chauffeur meets and falls in love with Kai. They have a turbulent beginning with an argument over street racing that leads to the best sex of their lives. Once they move past it and get to know each other, they realize they are perfect for each other. Their love grows from there.
It's always fun catching up with previous couples and Nana, and this one delivers nicely. There are lots of laughs when she's involved.
In this book Jessie, Nanas chauffeur meets and falls in love with Kai. They have a turbulent beginning with an argument over street racing that leads to the best sex of their lives. Once they move past it and get to know each other, they realize they are perfect for each other. Their love grows from there.
It's always fun catching up with previous couples and Nana, and this one delivers nicely. There are lots of laughs when she's involved.
April 18, 2016
I have to say, I'm thinking this is one of my favorites in the series. I really enjoyed it and I loved Jessie and Kai together. They were so sweet together and Kai's daughter, so adorable. I loved seeing Nana again. . I honestly wish Nana was real. I would love going to her house and hanging with her, hehe. Once again a lot happens in this book, so you're going to have to read it because I won't be able to explain it all ;-)
October 21, 2016
3.5 stars rounded up. So glad my sweetie Jessie got his HEA, and looking forward to Zachary's story. Shame about Nanna and Olly's wedding, but glad everyone escaped, mostly safe and sound. As usual, Mr Tremblay does a great job whether it's with mediocre material or stellar stuff.
January 13, 2018
Yea! Jessie finds love.
This is a really good love story. Jessie is a wonderful light, talented man and yet despite how very good he is, we get to see him taking a journey to being his even better self.
Kai is grumpy. His family is great and watching fall in love with Jessie is a pleasure.
This book is really a pleasure with a wonderful cast and new characters and the crazy at just the right happy amounts.
Good stuff!
This is a really good love story. Jessie is a wonderful light, talented man and yet despite how very good he is, we get to see him taking a journey to being his even better self.
Kai is grumpy. His family is great and watching fall in love with Jessie is a pleasure.
This book is really a pleasure with a wonderful cast and new characters and the crazy at just the right happy amounts.
Good stuff!
July 7, 2021
Maybe, if you don't know all those side characters from previous novels, what you get is a bland, gossamer thin romance attempt.
May 5, 2016
I absolutely loved this story and I absolutely adore Jessie and Kai! I didn’t exactly pictured Jessie as a twink and one who’s into drag racing for that matter but I liked how the author incorporated this aspect into his character. Although, I’ve to say that I’m still a bit clueless how he found himself so into racing and cars in general. He just mentioned that he started with go-cart and it was a bit vague from there and we were told he came out of the closet at 17 with his family disowning and kicking him out. It’s not a very important detail but it’s just so unlikely with his upbringing I think but at the end of the day, I’m still okay with that vagueness. Sort of.
Malakai “Kai” Kahale aka Trigger is a reminiscent of Dare’s character from “Sky Blue.” This is the 12th couple in total so there are 22 guys in the series but for some reason, Kai’s personality reminded me so much of Dare – laidback, silent and determined. He’s got an amazing chemistry with Jessie and although I’m not a big fan of kids in my MM books, I’d say that I am loving how Alexa Land characterized Joshie and Izzy. ( Joshie’s the adopted son of Trevor and Vincent.)
This series is one of those series you’d just have to enjoy and not over-analyzed (hahaha! I know, I just overanalyzed that detail about racing but yeah – you get the drift). The story doesn’t have much of a conflict and is still over the top like the rest of the series but again, it’s very much enjoyable! It’s pretty long for such a plot but of course, we need to get updates every now and then with the other / previous ‘gay homosexuals’ in the series and you simply have to watch out for Nana’s wedding!!!
If you have not read anything from the series, this one is pretty much a stand-alone read and let me tell you that Alexa Land’s writing is the kind of writing I go to whenever I feel shitty or on the verge of experiencing a book slump. And this book is an example of that kind of writing.
Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
Malakai “Kai” Kahale aka Trigger is a reminiscent of Dare’s character from “Sky Blue.” This is the 12th couple in total so there are 22 guys in the series but for some reason, Kai’s personality reminded me so much of Dare – laidback, silent and determined. He’s got an amazing chemistry with Jessie and although I’m not a big fan of kids in my MM books, I’d say that I am loving how Alexa Land characterized Joshie and Izzy. ( Joshie’s the adopted son of Trevor and Vincent.)
This series is one of those series you’d just have to enjoy and not over-analyzed (hahaha! I know, I just overanalyzed that detail about racing but yeah – you get the drift). The story doesn’t have much of a conflict and is still over the top like the rest of the series but again, it’s very much enjoyable! It’s pretty long for such a plot but of course, we need to get updates every now and then with the other / previous ‘gay homosexuals’ in the series and you simply have to watch out for Nana’s wedding!!!
If you have not read anything from the series, this one is pretty much a stand-alone read and let me tell you that Alexa Land’s writing is the kind of writing I go to whenever I feel shitty or on the verge of experiencing a book slump. And this book is an example of that kind of writing.
Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
April 11, 2016
The thing about this author is that I love each set of main characters that she pairs up in each book, but at the same time her secondary characters are so present and vital to the stories that I want all of their books, like now. I admit I was hoping for a different side characters before Jessie's but I'm so glad we got his now. With every gay Dombruso and Nolan paired up, that I know of, it looks like the characters from here on out will probably not be part of those two families. I expect Nana and her grandsons to be present still because she adopts all "gay homosexuals" into her family. Jessie who started out her driver and became close to the family finds love at last. A racing adversary of his turns out to be not as bad as he thought. At least they can't keep their hands off each other. Kai is more introverted, and doesn't make friends easily. It's hard for him to be attracted to a guy who kept blaming him for an accident that happened a year before. As a father it's also hard for him to trust that someone as bold and interesting as Jessie won't leave him and his daughter when he finds Kai boring. Both are what the other needs and luckily they get over their hurdles to start a relationship. In the meantime, Nana is planning another wedding...for herself. And an enemy of the Dombrusos tries to put an end to all their happy endings. I hope that story arc carries over. Many new gay characters are introduced in this book. I am eagerly awaiting Zachary's story next and wonder which one he might be paired with or if it will be someone completely new.
April 9, 2016
I've been eagerly awaiting Jessie's story since we first met him as Nana's chauffeur so long ago and 'The Distance' didn't disappoint! Jessie is such an amazing character and it was wonderful to see more of him. Of course, it wouldn't be 'Firsts and Forever' if we didn't get to catch up with some of our old favorites, too! I really enjoyed the new over-arching plot developing alongside the romance. Things took a darker turn this time around, but it was perfectly balanced by Jessie and Kai.
Speaking of whom, I fell in love with Kai almost instantly. Learning his story and seeing him interact with Jessie and Nana and the whole wacky gang was wonderful. I'm sure I'm not alone when I say I wish "Cooking with Nana" was a real show! I had to put the book down at one point during that scene, I was laughing so hard!
As I've come to expect from this series, it was incredibly heartfelt and beautiful. I fall in love right alongside the main characters and we're drawn into their story, while at the same time meeting new characters and seeing the threads that will spiral out and form their stories, as well. The mystery of Zachary deepened in 'The Distance' and I can't wait to read his story. I'm sure we'll also see more of the darker plot unfolding, which I'm greatly looking forward to!
Speaking of whom, I fell in love with Kai almost instantly. Learning his story and seeing him interact with Jessie and Nana and the whole wacky gang was wonderful. I'm sure I'm not alone when I say I wish "Cooking with Nana" was a real show! I had to put the book down at one point during that scene, I was laughing so hard!
As I've come to expect from this series, it was incredibly heartfelt and beautiful. I fall in love right alongside the main characters and we're drawn into their story, while at the same time meeting new characters and seeing the threads that will spiral out and form their stories, as well. The mystery of Zachary deepened in 'The Distance' and I can't wait to read his story. I'm sure we'll also see more of the darker plot unfolding, which I'm greatly looking forward to!
March 31, 2017
The fun never ends!
It was lovely to see Jessie get his happily ever after in this story. As usual, Nana's shenanigans were hysterical, and she's even gotten a new partner in crime. Kai and Jessie had a rough start and I do have to say, their first intimate encounter was not one I liked very much. But it improved greatly from there. There's a darker element rising as this series continues, but there also lots of new faces. There's also lots of favorite faces we get to look in on again. Yes, Alexa's books are just a little bit formulaic but there's nothing wrong with anticipating a happy ending. It's also amazing how she thinks up new situations for Nana to get involved in, without overwhelming the whole story. Can't wait to find out what's up with Zachary and who he might find to give his heart to.
It was lovely to see Jessie get his happily ever after in this story. As usual, Nana's shenanigans were hysterical, and she's even gotten a new partner in crime. Kai and Jessie had a rough start and I do have to say, their first intimate encounter was not one I liked very much. But it improved greatly from there. There's a darker element rising as this series continues, but there also lots of new faces. There's also lots of favorite faces we get to look in on again. Yes, Alexa's books are just a little bit formulaic but there's nothing wrong with anticipating a happy ending. It's also amazing how she thinks up new situations for Nana to get involved in, without overwhelming the whole story. Can't wait to find out what's up with Zachary and who he might find to give his heart to.
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May 2, 2016If We Have One More Good 'Ol
That's right if we have one more good 'Ol home week I may have to puke. Now don't get me wrongI love these books and I do not want them to stop but, Alexa, you got with the plan now get over it. It's the same Ol same Ol. Sweet wonderful meets sweet wonderful. Everybody loves everybody and they just happen to live happily ever after. Couldn't Nana not like a new boyfriend. Maybe he could start off being such a homophobe that she kicks him out of the family; to begin with anyway. Maybe the son of Nana's x is a transgendered tiny boy who is in trouble with drugs. Ok, read this book you will not be disappointed.
That's right if we have one more good 'Ol home week I may have to puke. Now don't get me wrongI love these books and I do not want them to stop but, Alexa, you got with the plan now get over it. It's the same Ol same Ol. Sweet wonderful meets sweet wonderful. Everybody loves everybody and they just happen to live happily ever after. Couldn't Nana not like a new boyfriend. Maybe he could start off being such a homophobe that she kicks him out of the family; to begin with anyway. Maybe the son of Nana's x is a transgendered tiny boy who is in trouble with drugs. Ok, read this book you will not be disappointed.
April 9, 2016
Holy Crap Amazing!!!
As always Alexa Land's book is out of this world phenomenal. I've been dying for Jessie's story and this just far exceeded my expectations. Jessie has been my favorite character since he was first introduced in the series and I am so excited that he got his happily ever after. He and Kai were amazing and adorable together, not to mention sexy. This book was so worth staying up until 4:00 in the morning for. In fact, it was so good that I can't wait to read it again, soon! Love Love Love Jessie and Kai!!!! Can't wait for the next book!
As always Alexa Land's book is out of this world phenomenal. I've been dying for Jessie's story and this just far exceeded my expectations. Jessie has been my favorite character since he was first introduced in the series and I am so excited that he got his happily ever after. He and Kai were amazing and adorable together, not to mention sexy. This book was so worth staying up until 4:00 in the morning for. In fact, it was so good that I can't wait to read it again, soon! Love Love Love Jessie and Kai!!!! Can't wait for the next book!
June 4, 2016
Ok, as per usual, lots and lots of rainbows and fluffy unicorns!!!!
So many extreme Nana scenes!
I like Nana, she's fun. But sometimes the craziness gets too much & I have to say I'm no big fan of those scenes.
A sweet love story.
I love Dante the most! Just saying.
The fire gave me a heart attack & I was nervous for the rest of the story because of it.
All in all, beautiful love story, worth my time.
Can't wait to read about Zachary! Is he going to be with Jed?! Plz let them fall in love!!!! Plz! Plz! Pretty plz!
So many extreme Nana scenes!
I like Nana, she's fun. But sometimes the craziness gets too much & I have to say I'm no big fan of those scenes.
A sweet love story.
I love Dante the most! Just saying.
The fire gave me a heart attack & I was nervous for the rest of the story because of it.
All in all, beautiful love story, worth my time.
Can't wait to read about Zachary! Is he going to be with Jed?! Plz let them fall in love!!!! Plz! Plz! Pretty plz!
November 9, 2016
Audiobook
I loved Jessie's story. This is a lovely feel good series. Humor, love, and crabs. ;-) Greg Tremblays narration was excellent as always.
I loved Jessie's story. This is a lovely feel good series. Humor, love, and crabs. ;-) Greg Tremblays narration was excellent as always.
June 10, 2016
I just love Alexa Land! :)
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