The ending of an unhealthy relationship leaves Lexi Reed damaged, broken and alone. Fighting against self-doubt and an unsupportive family she runs away to Europe in an effort to not only heal but to discover who she is.
Settling in Rome had never been the plan but when the opportunity presented itself Lexi rolled with the punches. Lexi doesn't believe in a happily-ever-after, instead she enjoys the spoils of the majestic city and the many men that crossed her path, vowing to never again give away her heart.
When Lexi flirts with Riccardo Cassius, a good-looking stranger, she has no idea that he is the youngest son of one of the wealthiest and most influential families in all of Rome. The knowledge that he was “off-limits” inciting her desire for him further. Just one night, that’s all she asked. What Lexi hadn’t counted on was Riccardo’s unwillingness to let her walk away. Rebelling against his conservative upper class family and the crazy relationship rules she has imposed, Riccardo fights to keep Lexi in his life and defy the odds. How far will each of them go? Will Lexi allow Riccardo into her heart or is she destined to break his?
Lexi is a standalone novella in the Lexi Series. The prequel to A Twist of Fate, it delves into Lexi’s past and explores how she evolved into the impulsive, feisty woman who doesn't allow other’s ideals to define her
T Gephart is a USA Today and International bestselling author from Melbourne, Australia.
With an approach to life that is somewhat unconventional, she prefers to fly by the seat of her pants rather than adhere to some rigid roadmap.
Her lack of "plan" has resulted in a rather interesting and eclectic resume, which reads more like the fiction she writes than an actual employment history.
She'd tell you all about it, but the statute of limitations hasn't expired yet. But all those crazy twists and turns have led her to a career she loves—writing romantic comedy.
When she isn't filling pages with sassy and sexy characters with attitude, she's living her own reality show in the 'burbs of Melbourne with her American husband, two teenage children, and her fur child—Woodley.
She loves adventure, to laugh, travel, and strives to live her life to the fullest.
Alexandra 'Lexi' Reed has had an emotionally trying life. She wasn't expected and felt unwanted by her parents. The first real relationship she had in college was emotionally degrading. So when she graduates, she goes against her family an any convention and decides to travel around Europe, ending up in Rome where she meets the youngest son of a wealthy family who can name their ancestors back several centuries. Lexi's roommate and fellow waitress, Stefania, tries to warn her away from the Cassius family. But when Riccardo proposes something that will allow Lexi, whom he calls Alexi, to have unattached sex as well as stick it to his elitist family, its all the incentive she needs to play with him for a little while.
Soon Lexi is betting bored with her waitressing job and life in Rome in general. When Riccardo offers her a job as his assistant, she knows its time to grow up and little and make something of herself. Again thing happen to through Lexi off She decides to times to get back to her real life, leaving a heatbroken Riccardo, who really did love her, and her friend Stefania, both never knowing if they would ever see each other again.
I thought it was cute. Not spectacular, but sweet. I knew that someone's heart was going to get broken when all the dust settled. I also understand about staying longer than you should in a relationship.
I'm looking forward to reading more of this series and hope that Lexi finds what she needs and that we get to revisit Riccardo and Stefania
Absolutely adored this book. I took to Lexi straight away, I love her strong outward character and her vulnerable side. The attraction with her and Riccardo was off the scales and the final scene with them both and Stefania was HOT!
I will definitely be diving into the rest of the series once my Reading for the Edinburgh event is at a close.
A small confession here, i’ve only actually read a Twist of Fate so far from this series before reading Lexi. That’s not a reflection on the writing at all, as I really enjoyed it, just one of those, too many books, too little time.
Anyway, knowing that this is a prequel to the series, and a novella, I couldn’t resist diving into this book, to see what Lexi’s life was like before.
The book opens as the man she’s been living with for a couple of years leaves her broken. I thought we might be getting a bit of broken Lexi, but we nicely fast forward to Lexi a year later, picked back up and putting her pieces back together.
We join her on the latest leg of her moving around and exploring, where she’s currently in Rome, working and living with her friend Stefania, and it’s great to see sassy Lexi shining through. Here’s the moment where she’s working and being flirted with in the restaurant:
“Thomas and Shaun had no issue laughing at Josh’s expense; Josh himself appeared amused by my quick comeback. I could do this all day, quip-pro-quo was my speciality, especially when dealing with bulges.”
Enter Riccardo, a friend of the people above and demi god. Lexi and him have such great chemistry, and I loved his character so much (Tina told me he’s in books 2 and 3 so they are getting bumped up my tbr list), that I want him to have his own book! If you agree with me, let Tina know as i’m sure if enough of us ask, we might get what we want. His humour and fun is a great blend with Lexi’s. If I didn’t love Alex so much, I would want him for her, but hey, I just want him. Here’s a little bit of him after Lexi tries to sneak out after their first night together in a hotel, leaving some money towards the cost of the room:
“I have to say i’m a little surprised. I would have thought the kind of person who has sex and then disappears would be taking money out of my wallet not trying to put it in.” He unfolded his arms. allowed one to rub the base of his chin. His eyes gleamed with mischief.
This book is full of humour and also many situations that I know so well. I was really amused by this next passage, as i’d had a similar experience in Greece (not Italy like the book) and it brought the memory back and made me smile:
“Of course not. It is silly for you to take a taxi when my car is right here. Just make sure you keep up with the flow of traffic. You know the rules are just show, drivers take no notice of them.” Stefania towelled off her hair as I took one final look in the mirror. “Yes i’m aware of the insanity of this city’s drivers. I’ll do my best not to piss anyone off by doing something as stupid as following the road rules.” I smirked as I left the bathroom.
I love Tina’s writing and i’ll definitely get to books 2 and 3 once I get a break in my reviews. She’s someone who I might never have discovered if I hadn’t signed on to attend the mass book signing in Edinburgh and i’m so glad I did.
Because what I found as well as a talented author, was an author who truly appreciates her fans and the journey she’s gone on. Lexi is her gift to her fans, this novella is free to everyone (although only available on Itunes at present), when she could have released it to make money from it.
Tina Gephart - I <3 you - now give me Riccardo pretty please - Maz x
I'm not usually a fan of prequels if they come out after I've read the series already, but I loved Lexis character so much in the series and I loved this story! Even though there's no Alex, you get a wonderful story of her time in Rome and a Hot rich Italian boy....yum! I loved Riccardo. I kinda want him to get his own book now. This prequel still had classic Lexi humour and a little further insight into her last long term relationship that made her the way she was before meeting Alex. It has made me want to re read the series because Lexi is one of my fave heroines.
It's tricky reading the prequel last. I know who Lexi ended up with, so reading about her life-changing time in Rome with Riccardo was hot and full of fantastic chemistry, but at the same time I was a little detached from investing fully in their story because I know the ending. This was a relatively short read but I was engrossed - great for a freebie. This whole series is really worth reading - recommended
OMG! T does it again, i absolutely loved this book. It was great to get a glimpse of Lexi's past and see how she got to be the amazing ball busting person she is today. Her "relationship" with Ricardo was so Lexi and the scene with the three of them was written perfectly, without making you uncomfortable. I must now read the rest of the series again. Now that the Lexi series is over SNIFF SNIFF SNIFF, I cannot wait to read what T comes up with next
I really enjoyed this book, it was the first one I have read out of the series and will definitely be reading the others. The story was set in Rome, Lexi is sassy, confident, sexy and broken she's a really likable character. Richardo the hot Italian, I loved everything about him. They had excellent sexual chemistry. This book is a novella but it filled with fun, heartbreak and sex.
This book is awesome!!!! It is so great reading about a strong woman who stands up for what she believes in and calls it as it is!!! DEFINITELY WORTH THE READ!!!
It was with a heavy heart that I opened the book of Lexi. Reading the final installment of this story is like saying "Goodbye" to a dear friend. Lexi, the book, is a prequel to A Twist Of Fate. Lexi starts off with a bang. The big break-up scene that is the catalyst for Lexi to become the ball-busting outspoken take charge woman that she is. Broken and full of loathing for the person she had become, Lexi pulls herself up and figuratively washes away the remnants of her existence until all that is left is a core of steel.
Needing a change of scenery, Lexi goes to Rome with a few dollars in her pocket and her worldly belongings in suitcases. She waits tables in an Italian restaurant with her flatmate and friend Stefania. Being flatmates works out very well for them both - Stefania taught Lexi how to speak italian and Lexi is teaching her english. Both Stefania and Lexi are outrageous flirts and enjoy clubbing together. Stefania falls in and out of love like most people change their pants. Lexi doesn't allow herself to fall in love; she doesn't want attachments; doesn't want strings of any kind. She's only in it for a night of sex - nothing more.
One fateful night a group of American gents are meeting their italian friend for dinner and drinks at the restaurant. The gents are instantly enamored of Lexi and she is happy to flirt with them until their friend arrives. Here is a peek into Lexi's thoughts when she sees the friend: "WOW, was pretty much the first and only word that came into my mind. He was tall. I didn't really know how tall, but he was tall enough that even in my highest heels he would still tower over me. Not that I was measuring him, and if I was I'd rather take my ruler to something other than his height."
Stefania gets all quiet and funny when she sees the friend too. She tries to warn Lexi that Riccardo is Riccardo Cassius of the Cassius family. Lexi agrees to go on a date with Riccardo despite Stefania's warnings about his mob-like family. Riccardo and Lexi hit it off and wind up spending the night together. You'll have to read about what happens when she tries to leave in the morning - it is too funny. Irregardless of how it began, Riccardo and Lexi keep seeing each other publicly but it's not a "real" relationship per their agreement.
So I am guessing you want to know how Lexi winds up back in Australia - I can't tell you - it'd spoil the book. What I can tell you is that T. Gephart does through us a bone in the end - although this is the last of the Lexi series - the band Power Station continues to live on in subsequent books. I enjoyed reading Lexi. I feel she (the author) does Lexi, the character, justice although I would have liked to seen more lead up to the big break-up. The book definitely gave good insight into how Lexi became the ball-buster that she is. T. Gephart has a way with characters - I love the dialogue the characters have with one another and the smart-alecky comments. I can almost see the characters playing out the scenes before my eyes. Although this may be the last book of Lexi, I have feeling she will be putting in an appearance in the Power Station books. T. Gephart if you are listening - do Riccardo, Emma, Mark and Stefania get their own books too?
This fan can't wait to get her hands on your next book!
A complimentary copy of Lexi was provided in exchange for an honest review.
It was with a heavy heart that I opened the book of Lexi. Reading the final installment of this story is like saying "Goodbye" to a dear friend. Lexi, the book, is a prequel to A Twist Of Fate.
Lexi starts off with a bang. The big break-up scene that is the catalyst for Lexi to become the ball-busting outspoken take charge woman that she is. Broken and full of loathing for the person she had become, Lexi pulls herself up and figuratively washes away the remnants of her existence until all that is left is a core of steel.
Needing a change of scenery, Lexi goes to Rome with a few dollars in her pocket and her worldly belongings in suitcases. She waits tables in an Italian restaurant with her flatmate and friend Stefania. Being flatmates works out very well for them both - Stefania taught Lexi how to speak italian and Lexi is teaching her english. Both Stefania and Lexi are outrageous flirts and enjoy clubbing together. Stefania falls in and out of love like most people change their pants. Lexi doesn't allow herself to fall in love; she doesn't want attachments; doesn't want strings of any kind. She's only in it for a night of sex - nothing more.
One fateful night a group of American gents are meeting their italian friend for dinner and drinks at the restaurant. The gents are instantly enamored of Lexi and she is happy to flirt with them until their friend arrives. Here is a peek into Lexi's thoughts when she sees the friend:
"WOW, was pretty much the first and only word that came into my mind. He was tall. I didn't really know how tall, but he was tall enough that even in my highest heels he would still tower over me. Not that I was measuring him, and if I was I'd rather take my ruler to something other than his height."
Stefania gets all quiet and funny when she sees the friend too. She tries to warn Lexi that Riccardo is Riccardo Cassius of the Cassius family. Lexi agrees to go on a date with Riccardo despite Stefania's warnings about his mob-like family. Riccardo and Lexi hit it off and wind up spending the night together. You'll have to read about what happens when she tries to leave in the morning - it is too funny. Irregardless of how it began, Riccardo and Lexi keep seeing each other publicly but it's not a "real" relationship per their agreement.
So I am guessing you want to know how Lexi winds up back in Australia - I can't tell you - it'd spoil the book. What I can tell you is that T. Gephart does throw us a bone in the end - although this is the last of the Lexi series - the band Power Station continues to live on in subsequent books.
I enjoyed reading Lexi. I feel she (the author) does Lexi, the character, justice although I would have liked to seen more lead up to the big break-up. The book definitely gave good insight into how Lexi became the ball-buster that she is. T. Gephart has a way with characters - I love the dialogue the characters have with one another and the smart-alecky comments. I can almost see the characters playing out the scenes before my eyes. Although this may be the last book of Lexi, I have feeling she will be putting in an appearance in the Power Station books. T. Gephart if you are listening - do Riccardo, Emma, Mark and Stefania get their own books too?
This fan can't wait to get her hands on your next book!
A small confession here, i’ve only actually read a Twist of Fate so far from this series before reading Lexi. That’s not a reflection on the writing at all, as I really enjoyed it, just one of those, too many books, too little time.
Anyway, knowing that this is a prequel to the series, and a novella, I couldn’t resist diving into this book, to see what Lexi’s life was like before.
The book opens as the man she’s been living with for a couple of years leaves her broken. I thought we might be getting a bit of broken Lexi, but we nicely fast forward to Lexi a year later, picked back up and putting her pieces back together.
We join her on the latest leg of her moving around and exploring, where she’s currently in Rome, working and living with her friend Stefania, and it’s great to see sassy Lexi shining through. Here’s the moment where she’s working and being flirted with in the restaurant:
“Thomas and Shaun had no issue laughing at Josh’s expense; Josh himself appeared amused by my quick comeback. I could do this all day, quip-pro-quo was my speciality, especially when dealing with bulges.”
Enter Riccardo, a friend of the people above and demi god. Lexi and him have such great chemistry, and I loved his character so much (Tina told me he’s in books 2 and 3 so they are getting bumped up my tbr list), that I want him to have his own book! If you agree with me, let Tina know as i’m sure if enough of us ask, we might get what we want. His humour and fun is a great blend with Lexi’s. If I didn’t love Alex so much, I would want him for her, but hey, I just want him. Here’s a little bit of him after Lexi tries to sneak out after their first night together in a hotel, leaving some money towards the cost of the room:
“I have to say i’m a little surprised. I would have thought the kind of person who has sex and then disappears would be taking money out of my wallet not trying to put it in.” He unfolded his arms. allowed one to rub the base of his chin. His eyes gleamed with mischief.
This book is full of humour and also many situations that I know so well. I was really amused by this next passage, as i’d had a similar experience in Greece (not Italy like the book) and it brought the memory back and made me smile:
“Of course not. It is silly for you to take a taxi when my car is right here. Just make sure you keep up with the flow of traffic. You know the rules are just show, drivers take no notice of them.” Stefania towelled off her hair as I took one final look in the mirror. “Yes i’m aware of the insanity of this city’s drivers. I’ll do my best not to piss anyone off by doing something as stupid as following the road rules.” I smirked as I left the bathroom.
I love Tina’s writing and i’ll definitely get to books 2 and 3 once I get a break in my reviews. She’s someone who I might never have discovered if I hadn’t signed on to attend the mass book signing in Edinburgh and i’m so glad I did.
Because what I found as well as a talented author, was an author who truly appreciates her fans and the journey she’s gone on. Lexi is her gift to her fans, this novella is free to everyone (although only available on Itunes at present), when she could have released it to make money from it.
Tina Gephart - I <3 you - now give me Riccardo pretty please - Maz x
I enjoyed this quick, sexy story, which I understand is the start of Lexi's adventures. Lexi left her home in Australia to travel around Europe, after her boyfriend cheated and her family has never been supportive or even loving towards her. She ends up in Rome, where she meets Riccardo while working as a waitress in a trattoria. Ric's family is uber-wealthy and powerful and Lexi knows she doesn't fit in with them, so she can rest assured her time with Ric will just be a fling. Although the story was short and ends is a bit of a cliffy, it captured my attention enough to want to read on in the series. I do hope she finds her way back to Riccardo!!!
This the Lexi series ,which starts with" A Twist of Fate " and for anyone who hasn't read this great series you should try it ,I thoroughly enjoyed the story. Lexi has just gone through a bad controlling relationship and has decided to take control of her own future and her own life ,she also decided to enjoy sex when ever she was it ,with who ever she wants to without any ties. So she decides she needs a change in her life, so she moves to Rome with only a few dollars in her pocket, and all her worldly belongings in her suitcases. She gets a job waiting tables in an Italian restaurant with her roommate and friend Stefanie , which their are also good for each other .Lexi is learning Italian from Stefanie and Lexi is teaching Stefanie English. When they are out clubbing together their do a lot of outrageously flirting ,Stefanie is a girl who falls in and out of love just as much as people change their clothing. Lexi on the other hand is in it for a good night of sex without a commitment of an relationship.With anyone until she meets hot and sexy Alex stone a famous rock god , and oh god they have an instant connection right off and it can't be ignored in any way which both can't resist.Will she run from him or what? Can she learn to love himI could goon and tell you more about this great series ,but that would spoil it for you. I highly recommend you read this great story , you won't be disappointed
4 Hooked Stars Lexi what can I say I love her & hate her all at the same time. This is the first Lexi book I have read. IF YOU HAVE NOT READ THE OTHER BOOKS GO READ THEM FIRST!!!! I now wish I would have. I have purchased A Twist of fate but I need time :(
On with the review...I really enjoyed reading Lexi's story. Lexi is one you love and then I had this love/hate for her. I understand her parents are asses and her ex destroyed what emotions she had left but damn her already.....but goodness Riccardo is amazing!
Lexi has had a shitty life her parents reminded her constantly she was not planned or wanted they only planned her brother and then she came along. She also has this ass of an ex that takes everything else emotionally from her and she makes the decision to live her life emotionless, it's safer that way. Lexi lost her independence in the past but no more will she give up who she is again. Lexi becomes who she wants to be and does as she wants with who she wants while traveling living free. Then she meets Riccardo who also can provide her the emotionless sex friendship they both crave until one night changes it all and IT BREAKS ALL OUR HEARTS DAMNIT!
This short novel is a prequel to the Lexi series, which starts with A Twist of Fate. For those of you who enjoy that series, you need to read this. Lexi has gotten out of a very controlling relationship and has decide that she will be taking control of her future and is going to enjoy all the sex she likes, but will not get into a relationship. She is living in Rome and working as a waitress when she meets Riccardo. Riccardo comes from a notorious family, but Lexi is only interested in one night with him. One hot night turns into more and their friendship with benefits affects both of them in ways they didn't imagine.
Even knowing where this story goes based on reading the series, it was great to experience what Lexi went through that brought her to the present. Seeing her become the strong, independent woman we know her to be was really interesting. Plus the sexual chemistry between she and Riccardo was smoking hot and their passion was intense. This was a really enjoyable way to get to spend more time with Lexi and it makes me want to re-read the rest of the series.
*An ARC was provided in exchange for an honest review
This is my first book by this author and I just loved it. I-Tunes was offering it “Free”, so I decided to read it. Now, I plan to read the entire Series. Lexi is a complex lady with her own luggage, most of which I felt is in her mind. I think she is too hard on herself. Lexi is doing her best enjoying life on her own terms in the eternal city of Rome. Of course, with a setting like Italy, it’s not too hard to enjoy life. She has a fun-loving friend and works for a very nice man. While waiting on tables, she meets Riccardo. I absolutely fell in love with Riccardo and his character made this book. I have to say, I was absolutely floored on the way Lexi left things with Riccardo. He was so nice, fun to be around, a kind soul, good-looking, and very patient with Lexi, and if that wasn’t enough, he is rich, Harvard educated, and extremely sexy, plus he gave Lexi earthshaking orgasms! I understand from reading the reviews on the first book in Series, Lexi falls in-love with a man named, Alex. I am very interested in meeting this Alex, as I can’t even begin to envision how this Alex can top Riccardo, especially since Lexi refers to Riccardo as a “Demi-God” and I would agree. I sure hope Riccardo gets his own book.
You will find yourself asking "How can this book be free!". Oh how much I have missed Lexi. Such a strong powerful woman; independent, a go getter, an inspiration to women all over the world. I have to say I'm finding it very difficult to write this review my emotions are all over the shop as this is the end of an era for me! I have followed Lexi's journey and this is fantastic addition to the series. This shows us where it all began for Lexi; reasons behind how she became who she was when she met Power Station.
I just want to say that T.Gephart's writing never ceases to amaze me! Her writing style is unique, you find yourself feeling like you know every single character, from the Adonis that is Riccardo to Luigi and Maria who owned the restaurant. All of T.Gephart's characters all have their place which make you feel like you know every one of them on a personal level.
Stop by my blog to read the rest on my review and for teasers Lexi Review
Lexi what can I say I love her & hate her all at the same time. This is the first Lexi book I have read. IF YOU HAVE NOT READ THE OTHER BOOKS GO READ THEM FIRST!!!!
I really enjoyed reading Lexi's story. Lexi is one you love and then I had this love/hate for her. I understand her parents are asses and her ex destroyed what emotions she had left but damn her already.....but goodness Riccardo is amazing!
Lexi has had a shitty life her parents reminded her constantly she was not planned or wanted they only planned her brother and then she came along. She also has this ass of an ex that takes everything else emotionally from her and she makes the decision to live her life emotionless, it's safer that way. Lexi lost her independence in the past but no more will she give up who she is again. Lexi becomes who she wants to be and does as she wants with who she wants while traveling living free. Then she meets Riccardo who also can provide her the emotionless sex friendship they both crave until one night changes it all and IT BREAKS ALL OUR HEARTS DAMNIT!
T. Gephart has reduced me to tears again with this latest book. Lexi is my favourite female lead. I've enjoyed every single one of the books she's in, but for me, there's something special about this one. This is Lexi before we meet her in A Twist of Fate. It's the story of how she realises how broken she is. It's the story of a fling that could have and should have been more. Despite knowing what the future will bring I still cried for her in this book.
Lexi is such a well written character you can't fail to engage with her. She's feisty, spunky, flawed and broken. She gets to live the life you wish you could have experienced, heartaches aside.
This book is set in Rome, and the authors love and affection for the city shines through.
It's an excellent story, and as much as I've really loved the other books, there's something about this one that feels special. I really loved it that much.
It's 8:25am and I've been reading Lexi since I woke-up at 6:30...
You know what? I really enjoyed this prequel. I think I enjoyed it a lot more than the first book I read in this series. Great writing, editing, characters. Lexi is a strong female and one of the things I liked from book one. She definitely doesn't disappoint in the prequel.
And Riccardo? Well... That initial sex scene with them was hot as hell. An assertive and demanding woman vs a very ripped and equally assertive male. Loved it.
It's made me want to continue on with this series for more Lexi to be honest, because she is a good lead. Oh, and her mate drives a Fiat Cinquecento which made my life. Reminded me of The Inbetweeners and I had a giggle.
Looking for something short and steamy then look no further!
Lexi by T Gephart was given to me by a friend to read. I did not know that this was a prequel to a whole series. Surprisingly, I was able to bond with the characters and storyline.
The characters of Lexi,her roommate and Riccardo were very well written and easy to get along with. Lexi was temperamental at times but I believe this is from her upbringing. Many funny scenes are written into this story that had me laugh out loud. I will have to be unlike everyone else and now begin the rest of the series.
I give this a 4 1/2 stars since I feel like it could of had just a tad bit more to what was happening seemed to jump around at some points but other then that it was really great story. This is a 1 person POV story that will throw your emotions at you and test you at the same time. I think that's what I like most about the story; that and the characters are just really outgoing and seem like actual real humans not made up :)
***I received this story for free in exchange for an honest review, see more of my review @ http://jmhoward2007.blogspot.com on 6-19-14***
My only real criticism of this (ebook) is going to make me sound like a pain-in-the-arse grammar Nazi, but if run-on sentences, misspellings, etc. bother you, then you might not like this story so much. BUT, that being said, I enjoyed the story itself very much. My three-star rating comes mostly from the ENDING! No spoilers, just... well, you'll understand it if you read it. Fun story, sexy characters, and it took me out of my own reality and planted me firmly in the beautiful world of Rome, Italy. Enjoyed this one!
I really like Lexi – she is so strong, determined, witty and rolls with the punches. Riccardo is sexy and funny. There is steam, lots of steam, and I really enjoyed watching their relationship unfold. It’s a funny, happy, whirlwind romance – although there is a slight sense of foreboding throughout. I’d gone into this book blind so was quite surprised by the unconventional path their relationship took, but I’m actually pretty interested in reading more about it and see where it goes. I really liked the writing, and I loved lexi so am interested in reading more in this series.