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Alfie #1
Alfie: Part One
Part 1 of 2 • Second Chances • Irish Mafia • Family • Hurt/Comfort • Age Gap
Two broken hearts, pent-up anger, the right amount of Philly grit, painful yearning, and the complete inability to move on… This is Alfie and West’s love story. It begins in the wreckage they created.
Mom always warned me when I was a kid. Remember, mijo, stay away from the Sons of Munster, she’d say, wagging her finger at me and all. They were bad. They were mobsters. Then we’d head into church, and she’d hold my hand almost as tightly as she clutched the secret of who my biological dad was.
Since I’d been a bit of a screw-up all my life, it only made sense for me to blow it out of the park when I finally gave up on my marriage years and years later. Then again, who could blame me? I had two success stories—my kids. I loved them to pieces. But the man I shared them with—the love of my life—was moving on. I was also done pretending to be someone else, I was sick of the lies, and…to be honest, I was going through an identity crisis.
So, to hell with it. Since West wasn’t taking me back, maybe the Sons of Munster would accept me.
----------------
Alfie belongs in the This Life universe by Cara Dee. However, Alfie and West’s story has been written so it can be enjoyed to its full extent as a standalone.
Two broken hearts, pent-up anger, the right amount of Philly grit, painful yearning, and the complete inability to move on… This is Alfie and West’s love story. It begins in the wreckage they created.
Mom always warned me when I was a kid. Remember, mijo, stay away from the Sons of Munster, she’d say, wagging her finger at me and all. They were bad. They were mobsters. Then we’d head into church, and she’d hold my hand almost as tightly as she clutched the secret of who my biological dad was.
Since I’d been a bit of a screw-up all my life, it only made sense for me to blow it out of the park when I finally gave up on my marriage years and years later. Then again, who could blame me? I had two success stories—my kids. I loved them to pieces. But the man I shared them with—the love of my life—was moving on. I was also done pretending to be someone else, I was sick of the lies, and…to be honest, I was going through an identity crisis.
So, to hell with it. Since West wasn’t taking me back, maybe the Sons of Munster would accept me.
----------------
Alfie belongs in the This Life universe by Cara Dee. However, Alfie and West’s story has been written so it can be enjoyed to its full extent as a standalone.
264 pages, Paperback
Published December 9, 2024
About the author
Cara Dee
163 books4,254 followers
I'm often stoically silent or, if the topic interests me, a chronic rambler. In other words, I can discuss writing forever and ever. Fiction, in particular. The love story—while a huge draw and constantly present—is secondary for me, because there's so much more to writing romance fiction than just making two (or more) people fall in love and have hot sex. There's a world to build, characters to develop, interests to create, and a topic or two to research thoroughly. Every book is a challenge for me, an opportunity to learn something new, and a puzzle to piece together. I want my characters to come to life, and the only way I know to do that is to give them substance—passions, history, goals, quirks, and strong opinions—and to let them evolve. Additionally, I want my men and women to be relatable. That means allowing room for everyday problems and, for lack of a better word, flaws. My characters will never be perfect.
Wait…this was supposed to be about me, not my writing.
I'm a writey person who loves to write. Always wanderlusting, twitterpating, kinking, and geeking. There's time for hockey and cupcakes, too. But mostly, I just love to write.
I'm often stoically silent or, if the topic interests me, a chronic rambler. In other words, I can discuss writing forever and ever. Fiction, in particular. The love story—while a huge draw and constantly present—is secondary for me, because there's so much more to writing romance fiction than just making two (or more) people fall in love and have hot sex. There's a world to build, characters to develop, interests to create, and a topic or two to research thoroughly. Every book is a challenge for me, an opportunity to learn something new, and a puzzle to piece together. I want my characters to come to life, and the only way I know to do that is to give them substance—passions, history, goals, quirks, and strong opinions—and to let them evolve. Additionally, I want my men and women to be relatable. That means allowing room for everyday problems and, for lack of a better word, flaws. My characters will never be perfect.
Wait…this was supposed to be about me, not my writing.
I'm a writey person who loves to write. Always wanderlusting, twitterpating, kinking, and geeking. There's time for hockey and cupcakes, too. But mostly, I just love to write.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 128 reviews
December 7, 2024
4.25 stars
The relationship angst was sooooo good. I'm annoyed she broke it up into 2 books, though. I hate waiting for the resolution.
The relationship angst was sooooo good. I'm annoyed she broke it up into 2 books, though. I hate waiting for the resolution.
January 19, 2025
”I remember the night we met. You poured me my beer and then glanced at the credit card I handed over, and you cocked a brow, smirked that smirk of yours, and said “Fucking Beaufort? Beaufort Weston Scott. Your folks do not love you, papi.”
Some say the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach. Feed him, and he will love you forever. For me, the magic word was evidently annoyance. With that single line, you irritated the fuck out of me—“
✔️Angst
✔️Second chance
✔️Mafia romance
✔️Mutual pining off the charts
✔️Class difference
Some say the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach. Feed him, and he will love you forever. For me, the magic word was evidently annoyance. With that single line, you irritated the fuck out of me—“
✔️Angst
✔️Second chance
✔️Mafia romance
✔️Mutual pining off the charts
✔️Class difference
February 16, 2025
4.5 Stars
I usually don't mind when books end on a cliffie and then I have to wait for more, as long as the wait isn't heinous. The wait for this one wasn't bad, but even still I am SO FUCKING GLAD I waited to read part 1 until I had part 2 on my ereader. Otherwise, there might have been tears. Big, ugly, crocodial tears. Shite.
Onto part 2!
I usually don't mind when books end on a cliffie and then I have to wait for more, as long as the wait isn't heinous. The wait for this one wasn't bad, but even still I am SO FUCKING GLAD I waited to read part 1 until I had part 2 on my ereader. Otherwise, there might have been tears. Big, ugly, crocodial tears. Shite.
Onto part 2!
May 9, 2025
Break your heart and stomp on your feelings as only Cara can in this story of opposites attract/second chance romance
Alfie and West are divorced but have 2 kids that need both of their attention. I normally loathe kids in books but these kids were written in a way where they were very endearing and not as a cock blocking plot device like many authors do.
Alfie is younger and still finding where he fits in the world. A family is waiting to accept him like no one else has. West must come to terms with this new reality. This is a book about second chances and when sometimes love just isn’t enough. Relationships take work and in part 2 I’m sure bonds will be tested. Can love get them through?? I hope so because I love both of these characters and they deserve the happiness that is just around the corner if they prioritize each other!
Off to read book 2…
Alfie and West are divorced but have 2 kids that need both of their attention. I normally loathe kids in books but these kids were written in a way where they were very endearing and not as a cock blocking plot device like many authors do.
Alfie is younger and still finding where he fits in the world. A family is waiting to accept him like no one else has. West must come to terms with this new reality. This is a book about second chances and when sometimes love just isn’t enough. Relationships take work and in part 2 I’m sure bonds will be tested. Can love get them through?? I hope so because I love both of these characters and they deserve the happiness that is just around the corner if they prioritize each other!
Off to read book 2…
December 30, 2024
*screams into pillow* CARA WHY! I AM BEGGING JUST GIVE US A 500 PAGE BOOK THE EDGING IS RUINING MY LIFEEEEE
I love you, I promise.
Ugh anyway. Absolutely ate this shit up in one day. No one, and I mean, NO. ONE. does angst and hurt like Cara Dee. This just scratched all those dumb little spots in my brain and it’s a CRIME (one the Sons wouldn’t even commit ✋🏻) to wait 2 months to see if these guys get their shit together. And like honestly, if they didn’t, I get it. Bc the one thing I’ve always LOVED about Cara’s books is that, while the situations/settings are like not super realistic, the emotions and actions taken by the characters very much are. These guys have so much shit between them that even to me it seems daunting for them to work through it all. BUT IM FUCKING ROOTING FOR YOU SWEET BABY ALFIE.
favorite scene: pub night. I have never pictured something so vividly in my life.
Favorite quotes:
“Heartbreakin’ cunt”
“We deepened the kiss at the same time, and it was like coming home.” Be so foreaaaal 😭
“Haven’t you ruined me enough?” “Not if I wanna even the score.”
I love you, I promise.
Ugh anyway. Absolutely ate this shit up in one day. No one, and I mean, NO. ONE. does angst and hurt like Cara Dee. This just scratched all those dumb little spots in my brain and it’s a CRIME (one the Sons wouldn’t even commit ✋🏻) to wait 2 months to see if these guys get their shit together. And like honestly, if they didn’t, I get it. Bc the one thing I’ve always LOVED about Cara’s books is that, while the situations/settings are like not super realistic, the emotions and actions taken by the characters very much are. These guys have so much shit between them that even to me it seems daunting for them to work through it all. BUT IM FUCKING ROOTING FOR YOU SWEET BABY ALFIE.
favorite scene: pub night. I have never pictured something so vividly in my life.
Favorite quotes:
“Heartbreakin’ cunt”
“We deepened the kiss at the same time, and it was like coming home.” Be so foreaaaal 😭
“Haven’t you ruined me enough?” “Not if I wanna even the score.”
December 7, 2024
**I am a member of the review team for Cara Dee; I received an electronic ARC of this book through BookSprout- thank you!**
Cara Dee returns to the boys of Philly with the newest installation in her Sons of Munster mafia series, Alfie Part I. While the world of the Sons of Munster intersects, this book can be an entry point to the series. Readers follow Alfie and West, who have gone through a divorce but are still coparenting together. Alfie (best friend to Kellan, who had his own book) is lost without West in his life as a partner. He is utterly convinced West is the only one for him, even if he didn't like who he became trying to fit in with the trust fund kids and upper class parties that West was born into. Alfie turns to the family that he had always denied for West's sake- he's going to become a Son. Not just their assistant scheduling appointments. He wants a family. Finnegan O'Shea didn't become head of the Sons of Munster by being stupid or reckless, but he's curious about the cousin he didn't know he had in Alfie, and family means everything. To Alfie and to the Sons.
For the record, I absolutely hate the second chance trope, but Cara Dee can apparently do no wrong as every time she's written it, I'm fully invested in the pair. Likewise, I don't like stories where children are big features, but none of my normal rules seem to apply to Cara Dee. All of the Sons put a huge focus on family in whatever format that they've built it, and that does include children. Their presence enhances the relationships of their parents and other family members rather than detracting or distracting.
The Sons of Munster series is somewhere in between The Game series and the Auctioned series in angst levels. It is obvious that Alfie and West are meant to be together, but it is also obvious why they divorced. There is a clear path forward where they come together again, and this seems to be inevitable, but it's also very clear that they will have to earn their relationship back. I like that there is a balance struck between simplicity and effort expenditure. Alfie and West have to choose each other. That's simple. But it isn't, because it never is. And it will hurt. But it will be worth it.
The ending was a cruel cut off, though well-placed, and doubtless the Sons will live rent free in my head until Alfie Part II is released.
Cara Dee returns to the boys of Philly with the newest installation in her Sons of Munster mafia series, Alfie Part I. While the world of the Sons of Munster intersects, this book can be an entry point to the series. Readers follow Alfie and West, who have gone through a divorce but are still coparenting together. Alfie (best friend to Kellan, who had his own book) is lost without West in his life as a partner. He is utterly convinced West is the only one for him, even if he didn't like who he became trying to fit in with the trust fund kids and upper class parties that West was born into. Alfie turns to the family that he had always denied for West's sake- he's going to become a Son. Not just their assistant scheduling appointments. He wants a family. Finnegan O'Shea didn't become head of the Sons of Munster by being stupid or reckless, but he's curious about the cousin he didn't know he had in Alfie, and family means everything. To Alfie and to the Sons.
For the record, I absolutely hate the second chance trope, but Cara Dee can apparently do no wrong as every time she's written it, I'm fully invested in the pair. Likewise, I don't like stories where children are big features, but none of my normal rules seem to apply to Cara Dee. All of the Sons put a huge focus on family in whatever format that they've built it, and that does include children. Their presence enhances the relationships of their parents and other family members rather than detracting or distracting.
The Sons of Munster series is somewhere in between The Game series and the Auctioned series in angst levels. It is obvious that Alfie and West are meant to be together, but it is also obvious why they divorced. There is a clear path forward where they come together again, and this seems to be inevitable, but it's also very clear that they will have to earn their relationship back. I like that there is a balance struck between simplicity and effort expenditure. Alfie and West have to choose each other. That's simple. But it isn't, because it never is. And it will hurt. But it will be worth it.
The ending was a cruel cut off, though well-placed, and doubtless the Sons will live rent free in my head until Alfie Part II is released.
December 9, 2024
I don’t know how Cara Dee always manages to hit the trifecta on emotional depth, spectacular storytelling and endearing characters, but she does and she’s done it again. What I’ve always loved about Dee’s stories is the strong thread of inherent permissibility that’s always running through - the message to be your unique self and this one had that in spades.
Her characters are always multilayered and come with a strong connection and Alfie and West were no different, you could feel the pining and need to be together from a mile away. You could also feel the very real challenges keeping them apart. Dee glosses over nothing and even though this falls on the darker end of the romance spectrum everything is parsed part and worked through. Also this is a fantastic mafia romance, letting you see how someone outside the world makes their way in - I mean it’s fiction and it’s fresh!
There is nothing black and white in this story. The break down and then the mending of a relationship, specially one involving imbalances and dependants is rarely that clear cut and Dee does a stellar job of navigating this complicated space and she does it with a sensitive hand and lays out their story in a way that grips you and doesn’t let go. I throughly enjoyed spending my weekend with Alfie and West. I can’t wait to read more of what’s to come. Also have you seen this cover 😍🤤!
I also loved seeing Finn and Emilia and Kellan and Shan.. maybe it’s time for a reread of This Life.
Expect
Opposites attract
Second chances
Slow burn
Established relationship
Mafia “affiliations”
Grey themes
Little bit of a Cliffie
Tattoos
Possessive MCs
Her characters are always multilayered and come with a strong connection and Alfie and West were no different, you could feel the pining and need to be together from a mile away. You could also feel the very real challenges keeping them apart. Dee glosses over nothing and even though this falls on the darker end of the romance spectrum everything is parsed part and worked through. Also this is a fantastic mafia romance, letting you see how someone outside the world makes their way in - I mean it’s fiction and it’s fresh!
There is nothing black and white in this story. The break down and then the mending of a relationship, specially one involving imbalances and dependants is rarely that clear cut and Dee does a stellar job of navigating this complicated space and she does it with a sensitive hand and lays out their story in a way that grips you and doesn’t let go. I throughly enjoyed spending my weekend with Alfie and West. I can’t wait to read more of what’s to come. Also have you seen this cover 😍🤤!
I also loved seeing Finn and Emilia and Kellan and Shan.. maybe it’s time for a reread of This Life.
Expect
Opposites attract
Second chances
Slow burn
Established relationship
Mafia “affiliations”
Grey themes
Little bit of a Cliffie
Tattoos
Possessive MCs
February 22, 2025
(4.5/5) Oh, hell. That was a big fucking punch in the heart.
Man, that hurt so much. And this ending? I gotta start part two right away.
Man, that hurt so much. And this ending? I gotta start part two right away.
October 10, 2026
The mutual pining and heartbreak is amazing. Not sure about the rest of it.
January 4, 2025
3.5⭐️
This was a good start to the duet. I vibe with most of Cara's books and this was no different. It wasn't that long so could have been 1 bigger book though? Anyway, I'll be ready for book 2!
This was a good start to the duet. I vibe with most of Cara's books and this was no different. It wasn't that long so could have been 1 bigger book though? Anyway, I'll be ready for book 2!
December 13, 2024
Did a re-read in anticipation of part 2, and loved it just as much the second time around. Bumped my rating to five stars because I really did love it, but my stance still stands that this practice of splitting books into multiple parts of annoying and unnecessary.
******
I have read everything Cara has written, and I'm pretty sure I'd read her grocery list if she published it. You can definitely say I'm a bit of a groupie - she is hands down my favorite MM author.
With that said, I haven't *loved* some of her newest works, mostly because they've been shorter, and I dislike short. I want big fat books with juicy plots and intricate characters. When Cara delivers those is when she's at her best in my opinion. And I'm really happy to say that this book, Alfie pt 1, felt like Cara came back to her sweet spot.
One thing about Cara is that she's always the exception for me. Even if I don't like a certain trope or device plot etc, I trust her to deliver what the story needs. I don't read angst and I hate second chance romance - this story has both. But Cara writes angst in a way that it feels really necessary to the story. She doesn't throw it in there willy nilly. It doesn't feel superfluous or that she just put it in there to stir the pot. Her angst serves a purpose.
Alfie and West are ex-husbands and there's that second chance romance that I hate. But you can FEEL the tension between them. They still love each other so much. They are angry and hurt and don't trust each other, but their love is SO strong. As a reader, I could feel Alfie's heartbreak and self loathing as he came to terms with his part in their divorce. When West took off his blinders and realized exactly what he had put Alfie through and why he'd set Alfie up to fail so spectacularly...gawd my heart.
And we get the Sons of Munsters! It's been awhile since I read the other books in this universe so I need to go back and do so. But Cara writes Philly grit so well. A lot of 'mobster' books feel forced and the characterization seems kind of flat - not here. We only get a little bit of the Sons here and there in this first part, but I have a feeling we'll get more in book two. Alfie is finding his footing and feeling more comfortable in embracing who is really is, even if that complicates things even more with West.
The pacing of everything in this book was written really well. We had time to feel each moment without rushing, but alternatively, nothing was drug out or hashed out to death. Alfie and West were both on rollercoasters when it came to their emotions and could flip a switch pretty quickly, but it always made SENSE. Pacing makes or breaks a book!
And that ending! It's definitely a cliffhanger which I HATE. Only because I'm really impatient. There's been a turning point between Alfie and West, but it also feels impossible to resolve. I know Cara will achieve it, but I also know it's going to hurt some more before we get that sweet HEA.
The only reason I gave 4 stars is because I'm really over this tendency to cut every story into multiple books. I prefer long books because I want a fleshed out story. Series can definitely make sense, and I love those too. But romance stories like this one don't need to be more than one book, IMHO. It feels like a marketing grab or at the very least, an attempt to stick to deadlines, rather than what the story actually needs.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
******
I have read everything Cara has written, and I'm pretty sure I'd read her grocery list if she published it. You can definitely say I'm a bit of a groupie - she is hands down my favorite MM author.
With that said, I haven't *loved* some of her newest works, mostly because they've been shorter, and I dislike short. I want big fat books with juicy plots and intricate characters. When Cara delivers those is when she's at her best in my opinion. And I'm really happy to say that this book, Alfie pt 1, felt like Cara came back to her sweet spot.
One thing about Cara is that she's always the exception for me. Even if I don't like a certain trope or device plot etc, I trust her to deliver what the story needs. I don't read angst and I hate second chance romance - this story has both. But Cara writes angst in a way that it feels really necessary to the story. She doesn't throw it in there willy nilly. It doesn't feel superfluous or that she just put it in there to stir the pot. Her angst serves a purpose.
Alfie and West are ex-husbands and there's that second chance romance that I hate. But you can FEEL the tension between them. They still love each other so much. They are angry and hurt and don't trust each other, but their love is SO strong. As a reader, I could feel Alfie's heartbreak and self loathing as he came to terms with his part in their divorce. When West took off his blinders and realized exactly what he had put Alfie through and why he'd set Alfie up to fail so spectacularly...gawd my heart.
And we get the Sons of Munsters! It's been awhile since I read the other books in this universe so I need to go back and do so. But Cara writes Philly grit so well. A lot of 'mobster' books feel forced and the characterization seems kind of flat - not here. We only get a little bit of the Sons here and there in this first part, but I have a feeling we'll get more in book two. Alfie is finding his footing and feeling more comfortable in embracing who is really is, even if that complicates things even more with West.
The pacing of everything in this book was written really well. We had time to feel each moment without rushing, but alternatively, nothing was drug out or hashed out to death. Alfie and West were both on rollercoasters when it came to their emotions and could flip a switch pretty quickly, but it always made SENSE. Pacing makes or breaks a book!
And that ending! It's definitely a cliffhanger which I HATE. Only because I'm really impatient. There's been a turning point between Alfie and West, but it also feels impossible to resolve. I know Cara will achieve it, but I also know it's going to hurt some more before we get that sweet HEA.
The only reason I gave 4 stars is because I'm really over this tendency to cut every story into multiple books. I prefer long books because I want a fleshed out story. Series can definitely make sense, and I love those too. But romance stories like this one don't need to be more than one book, IMHO. It feels like a marketing grab or at the very least, an attempt to stick to deadlines, rather than what the story actually needs.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 6, 2025
Not a fan of West. Alfie deserves someone better.
December 8, 2024
This book is an emotional journey that grabs your heart and doesn’t let go. Cara Dee once again delivers a story full of raw emotions and realistic, layered characters. With themes of family, belonging, and love, she creates a perfect balance between emotional depth and a gripping plot.
The story centers on Alfie and West, navigating their lives after divorce while co-parenting. Alfie’s struggle to fit in—whether with West’s wealthy social circle or the close-knit Sons of Munster family—feels real and relatable. The arc of Alfie finding his place and building relationships is incredibly heartfelt and, in some ways, reminds me of Darius and Gray from Cara Dee’s Auctioned series. Both stories beautifully explore themes of healing, self-discovery, and creating a family out of love and trust.
The emotions in this book are powerful, blending heartache and hope, while also showing how much effort it takes to rebuild relationships. The ending leaves you eager for Part II, but it’s a satisfying pause rather than an abrupt stop. Fans of Cara Dee’s other books will notice this one sits perfectly between her “Game” and “Auctioned” series in terms of angst and emotional depth.
I received an ARC through booksprout :)
The story centers on Alfie and West, navigating their lives after divorce while co-parenting. Alfie’s struggle to fit in—whether with West’s wealthy social circle or the close-knit Sons of Munster family—feels real and relatable. The arc of Alfie finding his place and building relationships is incredibly heartfelt and, in some ways, reminds me of Darius and Gray from Cara Dee’s Auctioned series. Both stories beautifully explore themes of healing, self-discovery, and creating a family out of love and trust.
The emotions in this book are powerful, blending heartache and hope, while also showing how much effort it takes to rebuild relationships. The ending leaves you eager for Part II, but it’s a satisfying pause rather than an abrupt stop. Fans of Cara Dee’s other books will notice this one sits perfectly between her “Game” and “Auctioned” series in terms of angst and emotional depth.
I received an ARC through booksprout :)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 22, 2025
4.5 stars
December 9, 2024
OKAY BUT I NEED PART 2 NOW CARA! YOU CAN'T JUST LEAVE ME HERE LIKE THIS!
This book is definitely a slow burn due to the second chance romance. There are ongoing issues and conversations that need to be had before the characters can find their way back to each other. Let me tell you though....when the burn finally burned Cara brought me to my knees with ONE LINE. I was putty. My kindle was even warm. Squealing occurred. The pet names. I die. I absolutely adore second chance romance and Cara writes it so well. I NEED MOREEEE!!
-second chance romance (they are divorced)
-irish mafia
-age gap
-coparenting
-opposites attract
-slow turn
-mutual pining
This book is definitely a slow burn due to the second chance romance. There are ongoing issues and conversations that need to be had before the characters can find their way back to each other. Let me tell you though....when the burn finally burned Cara brought me to my knees with ONE LINE. I was putty. My kindle was even warm. Squealing occurred. The pet names. I die. I absolutely adore second chance romance and Cara writes it so well. I NEED MOREEEE!!
-second chance romance (they are divorced)
-irish mafia
-age gap
-coparenting
-opposites attract
-slow turn
-mutual pining
December 13, 2024
Oh wow, that was a read full of hurt comfort and in the most realistic possible way!
Alfie and West are divorced, and it broke both of them.
They were a ‘forever’
The blame from both sides was heartbreaking to watch!
After two years Alfie hears from West he’s going on a date, and that’s the blow he couldn’t recover from. With nothing more to lose he seeks his solace with the mobsters.
Both men hate the situation, they don’t want to be separated, but the gap is too big to pass.
So many lies.
Watch them, together, apart, with their two kids, their work, family, the hurt, and struggles.
It was an impressive story, and not done yet.
Leave it to this author to make this a heartfelt story.
Can’t wait for part two!
Alfie and West are divorced, and it broke both of them.
They were a ‘forever’
The blame from both sides was heartbreaking to watch!
After two years Alfie hears from West he’s going on a date, and that’s the blow he couldn’t recover from. With nothing more to lose he seeks his solace with the mobsters.
Both men hate the situation, they don’t want to be separated, but the gap is too big to pass.
So many lies.
Watch them, together, apart, with their two kids, their work, family, the hurt, and struggles.
It was an impressive story, and not done yet.
Leave it to this author to make this a heartfelt story.
Can’t wait for part two!
December 13, 2024
Great characters with a lot of depth. I haven't read the previous book(s) where these characters feature, and this does work really well as a standalone. The cliffhanger to split the story into two wasn't as appalling as a previous split book, although I'm not convinced why it couldn't be published as one bigger book. The potential second chance feels very realistic. The MCs are clearly still completely in love. I really liked the parenting together. Alfie and West showed a lot of growth, and I'll be anxiously waiting how their story will continue.
December 26, 2024
Alfie deserves better.
February 22, 2025
Cara Dee broke my heart with this book. Alfie and West are perfect for each other, but life got in the way, leading to their divorce. Despite that, they remain the perfect co-parents to their kids. While the Mafia element is light, it makes for a great introduction if you're new to the genre. The angst and mutual pining shattered me! This book is packed with so many emotions—my heart could barely handle it.
November 6, 2026
I usually loathe second-chance romances, but somehow I really enjoyed it here. Maybe because there hasn't been a gap of a decade of wasted time due to miscommunications like second-chance usually has and the couple has only been officially divorced for a year.
I like that the relationship progress is slow without feeling unnecessarily dragged out, and I am greatly enjoying all the angsting. I love mutual pining and hurt/comfort, and this duology definitely delivers on that so far!
I like that the relationship progress is slow without feeling unnecessarily dragged out, and I am greatly enjoying all the angsting. I love mutual pining and hurt/comfort, and this duology definitely delivers on that so far!
December 16, 2024
I enjoyed the book! The plot is packed with hurt, angst, drama, and amazing family-found vibes that warmed my heart.
Alfie and West are clearly in love with each other despite the pain caused by one another.
It’s absolutely intriguing to see how they work through it.
Alfie is on a personal quest to find a place where he can truly be himself, while West is on a journey to discover who his ex-husband is as a person, not just the ghost of their past relationship.
Their journey is truly captivating, and intertwined, making for a compelling read.
Alfie and West are clearly in love with each other despite the pain caused by one another.
It’s absolutely intriguing to see how they work through it.
Alfie is on a personal quest to find a place where he can truly be himself, while West is on a journey to discover who his ex-husband is as a person, not just the ghost of their past relationship.
Their journey is truly captivating, and intertwined, making for a compelling read.
February 15, 2025
It’s been such a long time since a story has captivated my attention this much.
This author has an amazing writing style.
Her characters just seem to stay with you long after you’ve read their story.
Chose this one cos I saw that part 2 is close now.
I’ve only ready her Christmas novella so this is my first full length Cara Dee story, and I am a huge fan already.
This author has an amazing writing style.
Her characters just seem to stay with you long after you’ve read their story.
Chose this one cos I saw that part 2 is close now.
I’ve only ready her Christmas novella so this is my first full length Cara Dee story, and I am a huge fan already.
September 2, 2026
Review
Tropes and Themes :
Mafia
Âge gap
Adopted kids
Divorced men
Second chance
What I liked / loved :
The dual POV throughout the book. Thank goodness Dee f^cking finally seems to understand that a dual POV is necessary in that kind of story. This is exactly what I missed in This Will Hurt and If we could go back to get a better understanding and a better connection with Jake and Kieran (and in many other books of hers). Even if the single POV provides good glimpses into the other MC’s head, it’s just not enough.
The MC’s…
Alfie:
Alfie’s pain was so well written from the first chapter that I instantly fell in love with him. His emotions, raw, clear… I could feel the oppressing suffocation he felt, and that’s one thing I look for into characters, especially when angst is involved. I mean, it’s a horrendous and despairing emotion to have feelings for someone and you feel it’s hopeless, we’ve all felt that. He’s such a sweetheart with conflicted emotions, lost and finding his way, angry and so willing to get closer to West. He’s a fantastic dad too.
West:
His saying in the prologue that he was an ass man gave me good hope for the rest of the book. I’m usually a sucker for top/bottom couples, that’s one of my sweet spots, even if I also love verse couples. That’s for the superficial part, though. I loved his conflicting reflections on mafia because I’m the same. On one side you see characters depicted for the readers to get attached to, you fall for certain personalities, you connect with some of their traits. You see the right and supportive family. And on the other side, you see the mafia, because no matter what, they are mafia. They assassin, they deal drugs and arms, they steal, they subdue. They raise contradictory emotions. I loved West for seeing that. Both sides. I understood his worries for his children. Had he decided to take away the kids to protect them, I wouldn’t have blamed him. I also loved how he confronted his stupidity parents and I hope to see him stand his ground in the next book.
One aspect I’ve often disliked in Dee’s books is that we get answers towards the end, and it’s frustrating. In this one, although I hated that these two idiots are wasting years of their life apart just because of a lack of honesty and communication, I really appreciated that we were told within the first three chapters why they’d divorced, and we were provided with most of the context of their past story.
And all those secondary characters ! That’s bathing in heaven to me, because I love that. Even if I haven’t (and won’t) read the This Life books, I really love Finn and Emilia. They make a fun and solid couple with all their kids. I love Colm too a lot. I’ve seen he’ll have a MFM book, that’s too bad, especially if it’s with Nessa, but we’ll see. Might give it a chance depending on who the other male is. In all events, I loved all their kids family gatherings with all these endearing kids. I really want to see Alfie and West adopt Colby too and offer him a future outside of the mafia or a safe position with Eric behind computers.
What I disliked / hated :
Really, not much.
Just the rambling thoughts that were repetitive at times.
Hadn’t both instalments been released, I would have hated the cliffhanger at the end.
The repetitive things we read in Dee’s books
When push comes to shove
The blunt nails
Characters :
Alfie O’Dwyer: 30yo now, Kel’s only friend outside of SoM, yet he’s the secret son of John Murray, used to be Kel’s FWB in college, West’s ex-husband, lives in center city
West Scott: tv producer, Alfie’s ex-husband, lives in Ardmore
Ellie Noelle: 6yo, Alfie and West’s adopted daughter, girly
Tanner « Trip »: their son, 8yo, mature, nerdy, adopted when he was 4
Arthur Scott: West’s father, ex FBI, never liked Alfie
Giulia O’Dwyer: Alfie’s mom who had an affair with John Murray
Ben O’Dwyer: Alfie’s step dad, raised him, has always been his hero
Kellan Ford: 25, affiliated to Sons of Munster,
Shannon O’Shea: 46, Finn’s and Patrick’s dad, member of Sons of Munster
Patrick O’Shea: Shan’s first son who dies in the prologue
Grace O’Shea: Shan’s wife, who was shot on a sidewalk
Ian: died the same day as Grace, he was her brother
Vivian: Shan’s sister
Thomas: SoM, Vivian’s husband, most skilful cleaner
Luna: Kellan’s sister, best friend with Emilia, doesn’t get along well with Finn
Tadgh: Kel’s grandfather who encouraged him to hang out with Patrick and Finn when Kel’s father didn’t want anything to do with SoM
Finn O’Shea: leader of SoM after he took over his uncle , owns a security business, Shan’s second son
Emilia: barely 20, Finn’s wife, best friend with Luna, arranged marriage at first and she and Finn fell in love.
Autumn: 15, adopted by Finn and Emilia
Ryan: baby, Finn and Emilia’s first son
Ronan O’Shea: assassinated years ago, was the SoM’s boss and Shannon’s father, assassinated by Ennis’s son (Nessa’s dad)
Ennis Murray: was Ronan’s adviser, father to Grace and Nessa’s dad, assassinated by his own son
John Murray: Ennis’s son, Grace’s brother, Nessa’s dad, had Ennis and Ronan assassinated.
Liam: Finn’s oldest cousin who rules the Chicago faction, Nessa and Alec’s big brother
Max: Finn’s cousin, almost 18
Alec and Nessa: twins, teenagers, Finn’s cousins, Liam’s siblings, Nessa is very close to Kel and Alec to Finn
John Murray: Finn’s uncle, previous boss of SoM, was kidnapped and killed by Gio Avellino, was Alfie’s secret dad
Adam: member of SoM, mentioned only once in the prologue
Eric: Finn’s left hand man, computer whiz
Colm Noneya: head of personal security for wives and other family members, head of Patrick’s garages, Conn’s brother
Conn: Colm’s brother, died in the mafia war, was with Luna
Old Phil: old timer, SoM, over 70, has 10 kids
Lucas: one of Phil’s sons, under 18
Evan: one of Colm’s friends, owns a club
Red Mikey: member of SoM
Julien and Alex Bisset: French brothers who work in automobile fields, from shows to rentals
Gio Avellino: Italian Mafia boss who killed Grace, Ian and John. He was killed by Finn
Evan and Malina: multimillionaire couple but very normal, friends of West’s.
Lance: West’s date
Richard O’Brien: realtor, in debt to SoM, helps to find safe houses
JJ Doyle: around 30, crew boss with SoM
Tony: SoM, 25, Colby’s brother, JJ’s cousin, no respect for the job or Finn, gets shipped to Dublin after he messed up and got a beating by Finn and Alfie
Colby: 16, SoM, Tony’s brother, JJ’s cousin, got in the same shit as his brother but Alfie refused to beat him. Mom in prison after she killed the man she owed money to.
Full story (spoilers ahead) :
Context:
Alfie is a year younger than Kellan. His mother always told him as a kid to stay away from the SoM and he always did, until he met Kellan in college. They became friends with benefits even though they were both attracted to the same kind of men, older tops. They kept in touch when Alfie moved to Cali to continue his studies, where he also worked as a bartender and model too. That’s where he met West, an older man, who charmed him and became his husband. West comes from a high end family, his father, ex FBI, never liked Alfie. His sisters discreetly made remarks about him being a gold digger. Alfie actually did his best to change and fit into their world, no slang, no cursing. He tried to become someone else.
They adopted two children, then decided to move back to Philly, but that’s also when their couple started to fall. They gave it a try for a while, but they eventually divorced.
Upon arriving in Philly, Kellan had offered a position to Alfie as his assistant, which he couldn’t reject due to the high pay. For the past two years, Alfie and West have been sharing custody of their kids, Friday evening being the moment they’d transfer the kids from one house to the other. But Alfie never ceased to hope that they’d get back together. He hid from West the tattoos he’d gotten since their divorce, his address, his exact job, he kept dressing to fit around West.
At the end of the day, it’s an entire problem of miscommunication. Alfie wanted to fit in and became another person for fear of being judged and fear of West being judged too when West wanted him to be the man he’d met.
Indeed, West always wanted someone like Alfie, someone not coming from uptight and wealthy origins. As much as he loved his parents and admittedly some finer things, he wanted out of these strict and clean circles, and that’s why he had divorced eventually. Alfie had become one of them and he felt suffocated.
As Alfie drops the kids at West’s on a Friday evening, West informs him that he has a date on Saturday, rather than hearing it from the kids later, and it completely shatters Alfie’s heart. It changes the perspectives he’s had on many things. He’s never been able to be his own self in his life. He’s always had to hide the identity of his genitor, John Murray, to his friends, and even to West. Only John, his own mom and West’s dad know. When he started working for Kel, he had to hide even that to West, his tattoos. He wants out. He doesn’t want to hide anything anymore.
That evening, he goes to Mick’s pub, knowing that his boss will be there. Kel and Shan are now married, Finn is 31 and has five kids, so we’re like 3 years after the end of Unshackled. He speaks to Kellan about wanting to get more involved. kel is wary when Alfie mentions that he’s lost hope to get West back, but he explains that he’s more to the SoM and he confesses that John is actually his father, which leaves Kel weird to think about the family ties because that makes Alfie Grace and Shan’s nephew, Finn’s cousin, then Liam is big half brother, same for Nessa and Alec. Btw, we learn that Alec, 18yo now, is about to serve 5 years for a stunt he did to impress Finn. Kel promises to do his best to convince Finn that they should involve Alfie more, but he needs to talk to him first.
On Saturday, Alfie gets a text from West accusing him of being childish the way he reacted the day before, of having become a brick wall and for never sharing anything about his life. That angers Alfie who goes out for an intense run. When he returns home, Finn and Kel show up without warning for a talk. They start light with talking about kids, then Finn warns him about rules if he joined the SoM, and it’s mostly about loyalty. However, during their conversation, West shows up for the first time because Trip forgot his swim goggles and Alfie is still wearing shorts and shirtless, not showered. Alfie hesitates before opening but then remembers he’s not supposed to care or hide anymore. West is obviously stunned, and once Alfie has introduced Ellie to Kel and Finn, the girl goes to help Trip search his googles. Outside, Alfie and West argue, West reproaching him to hide too much, the tattoos, obvious wealth, cousins but it turns short as the kids return and they leave.
Later that day, West is fuming about the situation with Alfie, angry for all he discovered the day before. Truth is, he’ll never stop loving him. Not the guy he had become before their divorce, but the genuine Alfie he’d met back then.
In the evening, his parents come to watch over the kids while he goes to his date. His mom sounds stuck up. He knows that the kids much prefer Alfie’s parents. Caught in traffic on his way, he checks instagram and discovers that Alfie is changing his name back to O’Dwyer. He stalks his profile, his friends, the photos, noticing again how all the pictures never show how big and expensive his house is, remembering how they were good together. He makes to his date but can only think of Alfie, even more so when Alfie texts and reminds him of how he’d screwed him in an alley after their first date, causing West to get himself drunk. The date ends shortly and without anything happening.
Alfie is persuaded of the contrary, so he dives into work as he’s been approved by Finn. More security at his home. On weeks he doesn’t have the kids he’ll follow Kel and help with watching the shipments. He’ll have a condo where all things SoM will stay to separate both his lives. And he’ll keep his activity as Kel’s assistant. On Friday, while guys set security in his house, he meets Finn and Kel at Mick’s and they talk about work. Later, he’s getting ready for the moment he’s due to pick up the kids when Kel texts that he’s invited to dinner at Finn’s on Saturday, at the same time as his mom shows up. West talked to her and mentioned Finn and she’s upset Alfie had never told West about his roots. She’s also upset when he confirms that he’s connected with Finn and probably Liam on Saturday but he promises her that he won’t ever become a SoM, lying through his teeth as advised by Finn before. She still warns that the day he considers Grace a late aunt, he’ll be playing a different game.
On his way to Ardmore, Alfie reflects on how West is right when he says that Alfie changed, and on how much he lied all the time. How West would see him act and pretend around his rich family, then become someone else around Alfie’s family, and yet someone else without seeing much when he worked for Finn. He realises how he’d become someone else at their wedding, which wasn’t anything a fun marriage would have looked like in his own family. He feels like shit and like he should apologise to West, which he does while the kids get ready. West is shocked to learn that John Murray is his biological father, that Finn is his cousin and was in his home the previous week, that he works for the SoM, and he fears for Alfie and the kids, even if Alfie promises that he’s not involved in murders and the likes. Alfie also throws in something about West’s dad being aware about his roots but gets angry when West insinuates a threat about not trusting the kids to stay with him, so he cuts the conversation short.
On Sunday, it’s the bbq dinner at Finn’s and there are a lot of kids so Alfie’s are quickly at ease, especially Ellie. Luna had a second kid, from Liam apparently, though they’re not officially together. Alfie is introduced to everyone, and he finds himself loving that sense of family. Nessa seems to have a crush on Colm. There’s a lot of fun banter between all the men and Alfie is hitting it off very well with everyone, including Liam, his big brother, and Colm. The kids are enjoying themselves greatly too, mostly in the pool. Alfie also bonds with his own nephews, CJ and Eddie.
On the Sunday morning, West stalks Alfie and then Emilia’s public profile on Insta and sees all the pictures. There’s a bit of jealousy at his kids enjoying their new family with uncles, aunts and cousins, and then some concern for the kids hanging out with mobsters. He calls Trip just as they’re about to go to church and meet Liam for lunch, which leads West to reflect on Alfie and then on what he said in his text about his own family. He goes to his parents’ to confront them, thinking that Alfie lied, and is shocked to learn that everything was true about his dad threatening Alfie and his mom and sisters not being the kindest. He spends the next two days delving into work, though he’s lost some passion for the job lately now that his show is running smoothly, and ignores all the calls and texts from his family. He also stalks insta as usual. On his way back home, he reflects on contradictory thoughts about the mafia, and gets a text from Alfie who offers him to join him and the kids at a festival the next evening.
The festival is in Manayuk and the kids are so happy to have both their dads reunited for the occasion. Between the men, though, it’s bittersweet. West realises what a great and united family they were and how he misses Alfie, but he can’t get past the lies. It’s his turn to apologise after he confesses that he spoke with his parents and how sorry he feels for putting Alfie through that without seeing or defending him. But as their conversation shifts to the SoM, West sees a new Alfie again and he doesn’t like that one.
That same evening, Alfie is called to work so he drives the kids to West’s who’s surprised and clearly upset at the same time knowing what Alfie is going to do. He says that if Alfie goes to jail, he’ll tell the kids he’s dead. Alfie then goes to pick up Kellan and it turns out it’s a test for Alfie tonight. Kel explains a few tricks, gives him tips and explanations on MO while receiving shipments and also mentions they’re going to deal with two low men who showed up drunk when it was their job to deal with the shipment. Colby is 16, and genuinely remorseful, contrary to Tony, who’s 25, clearly useless and unrepentant, which gets him a beating from Finn and then Alfie. Alfie refuses to beat Colby who apologised so Finn makes him responsible for the kid while sending Tony to Ireland.
After checking Colby out of his motel, deciding he can stay at his place for a while, Alfie drives to West’s to honor the promise he’d made to Trip to stop by, but of course the kid’s asleep. West checks him out as if looking for wounds and asks questions but Alfie mentions being tired and Colby waiting in his car. That worries West and insists on meeting Colby if he’s to let his kids around him but Alfie breaks down in front of West no trusting him to keep the kids safe. West pulls him inside the house and hugs him, allowing Alfie to let it all out. West decides that Alfie will spend the night in the guest room and Colbie in the studio above the garage. Alfie spies their conversation from a window and overhears Colby telling West that Alfie saved his life, but can’t hear more, so he goes to refresh. Then he and West have a heartfelt conversation, finally speaking with honesty about how they respectively lived all that happened between them in the last three years. They manage to express themselves calmly and with respect. Alfie opens up a lot on his activities without revealing anything too secret and West seems genuinely interested. They banter a bit too.
The next morning, West is up first and invites Colby in for breakfast. When Alfie wakes up, he joins them and then Trip in the pool, still wearing joggers, which reminds West how he loved how Alfie was the fun and crazy light in his life. He also makes an offer to Colby to consider staying in the studio above the garage rather than at Alfie’s against letting at least try to talk him into going back to school, and also a device to see Alfie more often.
On Friday evening, West accepts Alfie’s offer to join him and the family for a private party at Mick’s pub. First watching Alfie from afar, West is a bit overwhelmed to see Alfie so happy and at ease, then he joins and gets introduced. As the family party with singing on a small stage, West half rediscovers the man he’d fell in love with, remaining somewhat upset by the mafia surroundings, but above all, he sees Alfie being himself, his real self. As they go out for a smoke, they talk some more, more openly, more honestly, Alfie opening up on his feelings for him, and with seductive tension raising they end up kissing and making out. They carry on at Alfie’s place, West fucking him in the stairs, then in the shower.
Later, they order food in and dine on the terrace and the conversation becomes more emotional and tense as Alfie decides to win West back. He mentions Colby considering West’s offer for the young man to stay at the studio, which Alfie would love as it’d allow him to see West more often, but when he confesses this, West wonders if it’s such a good idea. To him, getting back together would mean high risks of his father finding out and investing, rumors that might get him to lose his job. He says so and Alfie cries, oppressed and frustrated because he’d be ready to leave the SoM but West won’t let him because he knows Alfie belongs with them too. The book ends on West apologising and calling Alfie sweetheart and going back to the bedroom.
Tropes and Themes :
Mafia
Âge gap
Adopted kids
Divorced men
Second chance
What I liked / loved :
The dual POV throughout the book. Thank goodness Dee f^cking finally seems to understand that a dual POV is necessary in that kind of story. This is exactly what I missed in This Will Hurt and If we could go back to get a better understanding and a better connection with Jake and Kieran (and in many other books of hers). Even if the single POV provides good glimpses into the other MC’s head, it’s just not enough.
The MC’s…
Alfie:
Alfie’s pain was so well written from the first chapter that I instantly fell in love with him. His emotions, raw, clear… I could feel the oppressing suffocation he felt, and that’s one thing I look for into characters, especially when angst is involved. I mean, it’s a horrendous and despairing emotion to have feelings for someone and you feel it’s hopeless, we’ve all felt that. He’s such a sweetheart with conflicted emotions, lost and finding his way, angry and so willing to get closer to West. He’s a fantastic dad too.
West:
His saying in the prologue that he was an ass man gave me good hope for the rest of the book. I’m usually a sucker for top/bottom couples, that’s one of my sweet spots, even if I also love verse couples. That’s for the superficial part, though. I loved his conflicting reflections on mafia because I’m the same. On one side you see characters depicted for the readers to get attached to, you fall for certain personalities, you connect with some of their traits. You see the right and supportive family. And on the other side, you see the mafia, because no matter what, they are mafia. They assassin, they deal drugs and arms, they steal, they subdue. They raise contradictory emotions. I loved West for seeing that. Both sides. I understood his worries for his children. Had he decided to take away the kids to protect them, I wouldn’t have blamed him. I also loved how he confronted his stupidity parents and I hope to see him stand his ground in the next book.
One aspect I’ve often disliked in Dee’s books is that we get answers towards the end, and it’s frustrating. In this one, although I hated that these two idiots are wasting years of their life apart just because of a lack of honesty and communication, I really appreciated that we were told within the first three chapters why they’d divorced, and we were provided with most of the context of their past story.
And all those secondary characters ! That’s bathing in heaven to me, because I love that. Even if I haven’t (and won’t) read the This Life books, I really love Finn and Emilia. They make a fun and solid couple with all their kids. I love Colm too a lot. I’ve seen he’ll have a MFM book, that’s too bad, especially if it’s with Nessa, but we’ll see. Might give it a chance depending on who the other male is. In all events, I loved all their kids family gatherings with all these endearing kids. I really want to see Alfie and West adopt Colby too and offer him a future outside of the mafia or a safe position with Eric behind computers.
What I disliked / hated :
Really, not much.
Just the rambling thoughts that were repetitive at times.
Hadn’t both instalments been released, I would have hated the cliffhanger at the end.
The repetitive things we read in Dee’s books
When push comes to shove
The blunt nails
Characters :
Alfie O’Dwyer: 30yo now, Kel’s only friend outside of SoM, yet he’s the secret son of John Murray, used to be Kel’s FWB in college, West’s ex-husband, lives in center city
West Scott: tv producer, Alfie’s ex-husband, lives in Ardmore
Ellie Noelle: 6yo, Alfie and West’s adopted daughter, girly
Tanner « Trip »: their son, 8yo, mature, nerdy, adopted when he was 4
Arthur Scott: West’s father, ex FBI, never liked Alfie
Giulia O’Dwyer: Alfie’s mom who had an affair with John Murray
Ben O’Dwyer: Alfie’s step dad, raised him, has always been his hero
Kellan Ford: 25, affiliated to Sons of Munster,
Shannon O’Shea: 46, Finn’s and Patrick’s dad, member of Sons of Munster
Patrick O’Shea: Shan’s first son who dies in the prologue
Grace O’Shea: Shan’s wife, who was shot on a sidewalk
Ian: died the same day as Grace, he was her brother
Vivian: Shan’s sister
Thomas: SoM, Vivian’s husband, most skilful cleaner
Luna: Kellan’s sister, best friend with Emilia, doesn’t get along well with Finn
Tadgh: Kel’s grandfather who encouraged him to hang out with Patrick and Finn when Kel’s father didn’t want anything to do with SoM
Finn O’Shea: leader of SoM after he took over his uncle , owns a security business, Shan’s second son
Emilia: barely 20, Finn’s wife, best friend with Luna, arranged marriage at first and she and Finn fell in love.
Autumn: 15, adopted by Finn and Emilia
Ryan: baby, Finn and Emilia’s first son
Ronan O’Shea: assassinated years ago, was the SoM’s boss and Shannon’s father, assassinated by Ennis’s son (Nessa’s dad)
Ennis Murray: was Ronan’s adviser, father to Grace and Nessa’s dad, assassinated by his own son
John Murray: Ennis’s son, Grace’s brother, Nessa’s dad, had Ennis and Ronan assassinated.
Liam: Finn’s oldest cousin who rules the Chicago faction, Nessa and Alec’s big brother
Max: Finn’s cousin, almost 18
Alec and Nessa: twins, teenagers, Finn’s cousins, Liam’s siblings, Nessa is very close to Kel and Alec to Finn
John Murray: Finn’s uncle, previous boss of SoM, was kidnapped and killed by Gio Avellino, was Alfie’s secret dad
Adam: member of SoM, mentioned only once in the prologue
Eric: Finn’s left hand man, computer whiz
Colm Noneya: head of personal security for wives and other family members, head of Patrick’s garages, Conn’s brother
Conn: Colm’s brother, died in the mafia war, was with Luna
Old Phil: old timer, SoM, over 70, has 10 kids
Lucas: one of Phil’s sons, under 18
Evan: one of Colm’s friends, owns a club
Red Mikey: member of SoM
Julien and Alex Bisset: French brothers who work in automobile fields, from shows to rentals
Gio Avellino: Italian Mafia boss who killed Grace, Ian and John. He was killed by Finn
Evan and Malina: multimillionaire couple but very normal, friends of West’s.
Lance: West’s date
Richard O’Brien: realtor, in debt to SoM, helps to find safe houses
JJ Doyle: around 30, crew boss with SoM
Tony: SoM, 25, Colby’s brother, JJ’s cousin, no respect for the job or Finn, gets shipped to Dublin after he messed up and got a beating by Finn and Alfie
Colby: 16, SoM, Tony’s brother, JJ’s cousin, got in the same shit as his brother but Alfie refused to beat him. Mom in prison after she killed the man she owed money to.
Full story (spoilers ahead) :
Context:
Alfie is a year younger than Kellan. His mother always told him as a kid to stay away from the SoM and he always did, until he met Kellan in college. They became friends with benefits even though they were both attracted to the same kind of men, older tops. They kept in touch when Alfie moved to Cali to continue his studies, where he also worked as a bartender and model too. That’s where he met West, an older man, who charmed him and became his husband. West comes from a high end family, his father, ex FBI, never liked Alfie. His sisters discreetly made remarks about him being a gold digger. Alfie actually did his best to change and fit into their world, no slang, no cursing. He tried to become someone else.
They adopted two children, then decided to move back to Philly, but that’s also when their couple started to fall. They gave it a try for a while, but they eventually divorced.
Upon arriving in Philly, Kellan had offered a position to Alfie as his assistant, which he couldn’t reject due to the high pay. For the past two years, Alfie and West have been sharing custody of their kids, Friday evening being the moment they’d transfer the kids from one house to the other. But Alfie never ceased to hope that they’d get back together. He hid from West the tattoos he’d gotten since their divorce, his address, his exact job, he kept dressing to fit around West.
At the end of the day, it’s an entire problem of miscommunication. Alfie wanted to fit in and became another person for fear of being judged and fear of West being judged too when West wanted him to be the man he’d met.
Indeed, West always wanted someone like Alfie, someone not coming from uptight and wealthy origins. As much as he loved his parents and admittedly some finer things, he wanted out of these strict and clean circles, and that’s why he had divorced eventually. Alfie had become one of them and he felt suffocated.
As Alfie drops the kids at West’s on a Friday evening, West informs him that he has a date on Saturday, rather than hearing it from the kids later, and it completely shatters Alfie’s heart. It changes the perspectives he’s had on many things. He’s never been able to be his own self in his life. He’s always had to hide the identity of his genitor, John Murray, to his friends, and even to West. Only John, his own mom and West’s dad know. When he started working for Kel, he had to hide even that to West, his tattoos. He wants out. He doesn’t want to hide anything anymore.
That evening, he goes to Mick’s pub, knowing that his boss will be there. Kel and Shan are now married, Finn is 31 and has five kids, so we’re like 3 years after the end of Unshackled. He speaks to Kellan about wanting to get more involved. kel is wary when Alfie mentions that he’s lost hope to get West back, but he explains that he’s more to the SoM and he confesses that John is actually his father, which leaves Kel weird to think about the family ties because that makes Alfie Grace and Shan’s nephew, Finn’s cousin, then Liam is big half brother, same for Nessa and Alec. Btw, we learn that Alec, 18yo now, is about to serve 5 years for a stunt he did to impress Finn. Kel promises to do his best to convince Finn that they should involve Alfie more, but he needs to talk to him first.
On Saturday, Alfie gets a text from West accusing him of being childish the way he reacted the day before, of having become a brick wall and for never sharing anything about his life. That angers Alfie who goes out for an intense run. When he returns home, Finn and Kel show up without warning for a talk. They start light with talking about kids, then Finn warns him about rules if he joined the SoM, and it’s mostly about loyalty. However, during their conversation, West shows up for the first time because Trip forgot his swim goggles and Alfie is still wearing shorts and shirtless, not showered. Alfie hesitates before opening but then remembers he’s not supposed to care or hide anymore. West is obviously stunned, and once Alfie has introduced Ellie to Kel and Finn, the girl goes to help Trip search his googles. Outside, Alfie and West argue, West reproaching him to hide too much, the tattoos, obvious wealth, cousins but it turns short as the kids return and they leave.
Later that day, West is fuming about the situation with Alfie, angry for all he discovered the day before. Truth is, he’ll never stop loving him. Not the guy he had become before their divorce, but the genuine Alfie he’d met back then.
In the evening, his parents come to watch over the kids while he goes to his date. His mom sounds stuck up. He knows that the kids much prefer Alfie’s parents. Caught in traffic on his way, he checks instagram and discovers that Alfie is changing his name back to O’Dwyer. He stalks his profile, his friends, the photos, noticing again how all the pictures never show how big and expensive his house is, remembering how they were good together. He makes to his date but can only think of Alfie, even more so when Alfie texts and reminds him of how he’d screwed him in an alley after their first date, causing West to get himself drunk. The date ends shortly and without anything happening.
Alfie is persuaded of the contrary, so he dives into work as he’s been approved by Finn. More security at his home. On weeks he doesn’t have the kids he’ll follow Kel and help with watching the shipments. He’ll have a condo where all things SoM will stay to separate both his lives. And he’ll keep his activity as Kel’s assistant. On Friday, while guys set security in his house, he meets Finn and Kel at Mick’s and they talk about work. Later, he’s getting ready for the moment he’s due to pick up the kids when Kel texts that he’s invited to dinner at Finn’s on Saturday, at the same time as his mom shows up. West talked to her and mentioned Finn and she’s upset Alfie had never told West about his roots. She’s also upset when he confirms that he’s connected with Finn and probably Liam on Saturday but he promises her that he won’t ever become a SoM, lying through his teeth as advised by Finn before. She still warns that the day he considers Grace a late aunt, he’ll be playing a different game.
On his way to Ardmore, Alfie reflects on how West is right when he says that Alfie changed, and on how much he lied all the time. How West would see him act and pretend around his rich family, then become someone else around Alfie’s family, and yet someone else without seeing much when he worked for Finn. He realises how he’d become someone else at their wedding, which wasn’t anything a fun marriage would have looked like in his own family. He feels like shit and like he should apologise to West, which he does while the kids get ready. West is shocked to learn that John Murray is his biological father, that Finn is his cousin and was in his home the previous week, that he works for the SoM, and he fears for Alfie and the kids, even if Alfie promises that he’s not involved in murders and the likes. Alfie also throws in something about West’s dad being aware about his roots but gets angry when West insinuates a threat about not trusting the kids to stay with him, so he cuts the conversation short.
On Sunday, it’s the bbq dinner at Finn’s and there are a lot of kids so Alfie’s are quickly at ease, especially Ellie. Luna had a second kid, from Liam apparently, though they’re not officially together. Alfie is introduced to everyone, and he finds himself loving that sense of family. Nessa seems to have a crush on Colm. There’s a lot of fun banter between all the men and Alfie is hitting it off very well with everyone, including Liam, his big brother, and Colm. The kids are enjoying themselves greatly too, mostly in the pool. Alfie also bonds with his own nephews, CJ and Eddie.
On the Sunday morning, West stalks Alfie and then Emilia’s public profile on Insta and sees all the pictures. There’s a bit of jealousy at his kids enjoying their new family with uncles, aunts and cousins, and then some concern for the kids hanging out with mobsters. He calls Trip just as they’re about to go to church and meet Liam for lunch, which leads West to reflect on Alfie and then on what he said in his text about his own family. He goes to his parents’ to confront them, thinking that Alfie lied, and is shocked to learn that everything was true about his dad threatening Alfie and his mom and sisters not being the kindest. He spends the next two days delving into work, though he’s lost some passion for the job lately now that his show is running smoothly, and ignores all the calls and texts from his family. He also stalks insta as usual. On his way back home, he reflects on contradictory thoughts about the mafia, and gets a text from Alfie who offers him to join him and the kids at a festival the next evening.
The festival is in Manayuk and the kids are so happy to have both their dads reunited for the occasion. Between the men, though, it’s bittersweet. West realises what a great and united family they were and how he misses Alfie, but he can’t get past the lies. It’s his turn to apologise after he confesses that he spoke with his parents and how sorry he feels for putting Alfie through that without seeing or defending him. But as their conversation shifts to the SoM, West sees a new Alfie again and he doesn’t like that one.
That same evening, Alfie is called to work so he drives the kids to West’s who’s surprised and clearly upset at the same time knowing what Alfie is going to do. He says that if Alfie goes to jail, he’ll tell the kids he’s dead. Alfie then goes to pick up Kellan and it turns out it’s a test for Alfie tonight. Kel explains a few tricks, gives him tips and explanations on MO while receiving shipments and also mentions they’re going to deal with two low men who showed up drunk when it was their job to deal with the shipment. Colby is 16, and genuinely remorseful, contrary to Tony, who’s 25, clearly useless and unrepentant, which gets him a beating from Finn and then Alfie. Alfie refuses to beat Colby who apologised so Finn makes him responsible for the kid while sending Tony to Ireland.
After checking Colby out of his motel, deciding he can stay at his place for a while, Alfie drives to West’s to honor the promise he’d made to Trip to stop by, but of course the kid’s asleep. West checks him out as if looking for wounds and asks questions but Alfie mentions being tired and Colby waiting in his car. That worries West and insists on meeting Colby if he’s to let his kids around him but Alfie breaks down in front of West no trusting him to keep the kids safe. West pulls him inside the house and hugs him, allowing Alfie to let it all out. West decides that Alfie will spend the night in the guest room and Colbie in the studio above the garage. Alfie spies their conversation from a window and overhears Colby telling West that Alfie saved his life, but can’t hear more, so he goes to refresh. Then he and West have a heartfelt conversation, finally speaking with honesty about how they respectively lived all that happened between them in the last three years. They manage to express themselves calmly and with respect. Alfie opens up a lot on his activities without revealing anything too secret and West seems genuinely interested. They banter a bit too.
The next morning, West is up first and invites Colby in for breakfast. When Alfie wakes up, he joins them and then Trip in the pool, still wearing joggers, which reminds West how he loved how Alfie was the fun and crazy light in his life. He also makes an offer to Colby to consider staying in the studio above the garage rather than at Alfie’s against letting at least try to talk him into going back to school, and also a device to see Alfie more often.
On Friday evening, West accepts Alfie’s offer to join him and the family for a private party at Mick’s pub. First watching Alfie from afar, West is a bit overwhelmed to see Alfie so happy and at ease, then he joins and gets introduced. As the family party with singing on a small stage, West half rediscovers the man he’d fell in love with, remaining somewhat upset by the mafia surroundings, but above all, he sees Alfie being himself, his real self. As they go out for a smoke, they talk some more, more openly, more honestly, Alfie opening up on his feelings for him, and with seductive tension raising they end up kissing and making out. They carry on at Alfie’s place, West fucking him in the stairs, then in the shower.
Later, they order food in and dine on the terrace and the conversation becomes more emotional and tense as Alfie decides to win West back. He mentions Colby considering West’s offer for the young man to stay at the studio, which Alfie would love as it’d allow him to see West more often, but when he confesses this, West wonders if it’s such a good idea. To him, getting back together would mean high risks of his father finding out and investing, rumors that might get him to lose his job. He says so and Alfie cries, oppressed and frustrated because he’d be ready to leave the SoM but West won’t let him because he knows Alfie belongs with them too. The book ends on West apologising and calling Alfie sweetheart and going back to the bedroom.
July 8, 2025
First off, make sure you have book 2 on hand before you start this book.
So I get what happened but by the end of this, I wanted to smack West up the side of his head. Alfie was TRYING and this uppitty MF was still waffling about.
I felt so bad for Alfie… I just hope West locates his balls in the second part 😒
So I get what happened but by the end of this, I wanted to smack West up the side of his head. Alfie was TRYING and this uppitty MF was still waffling about.
I felt so bad for Alfie… I just hope West locates his balls in the second part 😒
December 31, 2024
Almost 4 stars...
As a big fan of Cara Dee’s more emotional novels, Alfie: Part I hit all the right notes for me. The angst, the pining, and the lingering love between the characters, even after their divorce, struck the perfect balance of emotional depth. It’s one of those books that tugs at your heartstrings while keeping you fully immersed in the story.
One aspect I absolutely loved was the found family dynamic and how Alfie fit into his Irish mafia family. It added another layer of complexity to the story, making it more than just a romance. Watching Alfie navigate the challenge of balancing family loyalty and the family business under one roof is sure to be fascinating in the next installment. And it will be just as interesting to see how West finds a way to accept and adapt to this new, complicated world of Alfie's.
Not all of Cara Dee’s books work for me—she writes across a wide range of tropes, some of which don’t align with my tastes. But then she writes gems like Alfie or my all-time favorite series, Abducted, and I remember why I adore her storytelling so much. These are the books I devour and treasure.
Knowing I’ll have to wait two months for Part II and the hopefully happy ending makes me wish I’d waited to start until both parts were out. But let’s be real—when it’s Cara Dee, waiting is simply not an option. She’s done it again, writing a book that kept me hooked and reminded me why I love her stories like If We Could Go Back and Abducted.
Alfie is more than just a steamy romance. It’s about hurt, heartbreak, and healing. It’s about mature characters facing their feelings, owning up to their failures, and trying to move forward. The story is filled with forgiveness and second chances, and the emotional depth is beautifully written without ever becoming too overwhelming.
Cara Dee knows how to write angst in a way that resonates deeply, and Alfie: Part I is no exception. I can’t wait to dive into Part II. February can’t come soon enough!
As a big fan of Cara Dee’s more emotional novels, Alfie: Part I hit all the right notes for me. The angst, the pining, and the lingering love between the characters, even after their divorce, struck the perfect balance of emotional depth. It’s one of those books that tugs at your heartstrings while keeping you fully immersed in the story.
One aspect I absolutely loved was the found family dynamic and how Alfie fit into his Irish mafia family. It added another layer of complexity to the story, making it more than just a romance. Watching Alfie navigate the challenge of balancing family loyalty and the family business under one roof is sure to be fascinating in the next installment. And it will be just as interesting to see how West finds a way to accept and adapt to this new, complicated world of Alfie's.
Not all of Cara Dee’s books work for me—she writes across a wide range of tropes, some of which don’t align with my tastes. But then she writes gems like Alfie or my all-time favorite series, Abducted, and I remember why I adore her storytelling so much. These are the books I devour and treasure.
Knowing I’ll have to wait two months for Part II and the hopefully happy ending makes me wish I’d waited to start until both parts were out. But let’s be real—when it’s Cara Dee, waiting is simply not an option. She’s done it again, writing a book that kept me hooked and reminded me why I love her stories like If We Could Go Back and Abducted.
Alfie is more than just a steamy romance. It’s about hurt, heartbreak, and healing. It’s about mature characters facing their feelings, owning up to their failures, and trying to move forward. The story is filled with forgiveness and second chances, and the emotional depth is beautifully written without ever becoming too overwhelming.
Cara Dee knows how to write angst in a way that resonates deeply, and Alfie: Part I is no exception. I can’t wait to dive into Part II. February can’t come soon enough!
January 26, 2025
In a small way, it's good due tot he angst. But if you're someone who needs a well written story, it may be hard for you to read this. I'd compare this to an insanely popular MF book... poorly written.
Is this author joking with the mob part? It's like a half written mob story and an insanely one sided second chance romance where the MC is literally pure evil selfish and cold. Yet Im unfortunately the type of reader that needs to see things through. I hated it. Sooo much.
Is this author joking with the mob part? It's like a half written mob story and an insanely one sided second chance romance where the MC is literally pure evil selfish and cold. Yet Im unfortunately the type of reader that needs to see things through. I hated it. Sooo much.
December 15, 2024
I have to preface this with, This is not really a review but more of a rant about my beef with West. And really, if having beef with a fictional character doesn't speak volumes of how good a story is, I don't know what does.
So, I loved this first part, and as much as I loved it, it frustrated me as well! And why did it frustrate me? Because of how real it was when it came to West and Alfie's emotions for their situation. The dead ends, the rationalizing, the hope, the dread, the anger, the back n forth and at the end of this part, them almost reaching a solution only for second thoughts to muddle things again.
Of course my main source of frustration was West! He was willfully ignorant when he knew his family pretty well and when Alfie told him about how they treated him, he was dismissive. That right there at the very beginning, pissed me off and I had a hard time liking West even more so afterwards when in two years he never sat down and thought things through from Alfie's side, he just stewed in anger and resentment. He only took a step back and started seeing their situation differently when Alfie had to serve everything on a silver platter for him and take sole responsibility about their failed marriage, a responsibility that wasn't only his to carry. By then of course Alfie had reached out to the part of the family he always longed for and gotten more involved with the Sons of Munster. Another thing that West didn't approve of, but really as it was said in the story West is a slum tourist, he wanted Alfie's rough edges and his vivacity in the safety of his suburban world, never mind how that made Alfie feel.
The thing that drove me insane though, when it came to West and Alfie being with the Sons, is that even though West show how Alfie found a place to belonged, he didn't put himself through the mental gymnastics of how they can make this work, only how it would affect his life. Again Alfie was the one ready to sacrifice anything just to have the man he loves back and with their kids, be a family again. What did West do? He backed off, and let Alfie again with new wounds, because everything revolves around West's world, a world he himself has grown tired off but doesn't want to risk his cushion...
I did tell ya that I have a beef with West!!! And Cara better make him grovel in part 2 because Alfie deserves better for always trying to fit into West's world only for West to accuse him of changing when he was no shield for him!!!
One of the best highlights in the book is the Colby situation. I loved how Alfie spoke up for him and West's offer to house Colby was a point in his favor.
Can't wait for the second part and a little more problem solving from West's POV.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
December 17, 2024
📚 SPOILER📚
4.5 ⭐
Alfie, dear sweet and caring Alfie.
What can I say? I fell in love with these thoughtful but hard mobsters and their loved ones.
I loved the introduction to this universe with Finn and Emilia, and later on with Kellan and Shannon; I was intrigued by Alfie since his first mention and this book didn’t disappoint.
It starts at the right time, we get to know West and Alfie some time after their divorce which I appreciated, we have the adult version of them with all the hard feelings and resentment for the failed marriage.
Their different backgrounds were one if not the main reason why they didn’t work, when you feel judged for who you are and made feel not worthy of your partner, is truly harmful.
“You brought a pair of scuffed boots to a black-tie affair and got pissy when the boots tried to look better,” I said. “I don’t wanna hear another fucking word about my changes. If you didn’t want me to grow up and clean up my act, then you shouldn’t have put me on display to be judged by your family and coworkers. Because you don’t have the slightest fucking idea how much that hurt.”
And when you feel alone in the relationship, when you feel that your partner is not taking your concern seriously, what other choice do you have if not change who you are and adapt?
In my defense, I did try to bring up some of these issues with you. But you dismissed that, West. Please admit that you did. Same with your family. You know deep down that I never fit in, and your family didn’t want me to. So yeah, I changed.
The growth and the changes are on both of them, which I really liked. It’s not a perfect man and an imperfect one BUT we have both acknowledging their mistakes and shortcomings and trying to move forward.
And their found family and actual family is just what they need to find themselves again and to find a way to love each other’s again.
“Well, we want the brain- fucking as well, to put it as crudely as my son,” Shan reasoned. “Just not as the keys to the castle.” “Jesus Christ.” Finn closed his eyes and rubbed at his temples. “Kellan’s ass is now known as the castle. Fuck me, I’m seeing images again.”
Finn is and always will be my favorite!
4.5 ⭐
Alfie, dear sweet and caring Alfie.
What can I say? I fell in love with these thoughtful but hard mobsters and their loved ones.
I loved the introduction to this universe with Finn and Emilia, and later on with Kellan and Shannon; I was intrigued by Alfie since his first mention and this book didn’t disappoint.
It starts at the right time, we get to know West and Alfie some time after their divorce which I appreciated, we have the adult version of them with all the hard feelings and resentment for the failed marriage.
Their different backgrounds were one if not the main reason why they didn’t work, when you feel judged for who you are and made feel not worthy of your partner, is truly harmful.
“You brought a pair of scuffed boots to a black-tie affair and got pissy when the boots tried to look better,” I said. “I don’t wanna hear another fucking word about my changes. If you didn’t want me to grow up and clean up my act, then you shouldn’t have put me on display to be judged by your family and coworkers. Because you don’t have the slightest fucking idea how much that hurt.”
And when you feel alone in the relationship, when you feel that your partner is not taking your concern seriously, what other choice do you have if not change who you are and adapt?
In my defense, I did try to bring up some of these issues with you. But you dismissed that, West. Please admit that you did. Same with your family. You know deep down that I never fit in, and your family didn’t want me to. So yeah, I changed.
The growth and the changes are on both of them, which I really liked. It’s not a perfect man and an imperfect one BUT we have both acknowledging their mistakes and shortcomings and trying to move forward.
And their found family and actual family is just what they need to find themselves again and to find a way to love each other’s again.
“Well, we want the brain- fucking as well, to put it as crudely as my son,” Shan reasoned. “Just not as the keys to the castle.” “Jesus Christ.” Finn closed his eyes and rubbed at his temples. “Kellan’s ass is now known as the castle. Fuck me, I’m seeing images again.”
Finn is and always will be my favorite!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 28, 2025
I read this and liked a lot of it, but by the time I got to the end I was skimming. You know it's bad when I'm skipping sex scenes. I just didn't LOVE these characters. They both got on my nerves for various reasons, but I disliked West more. There is no way West could possibly be as obtuse as he was portrayed. How on earth could he not have known why 'rough around the edges' Alfie had to change to fit in with his bourgeois family? And HOW did West get to the point of filing for divorce without them having a real conversation about how he felt? The whole thing made no sense. How could West blow off Alfie's concerns about the way his family treated him, KNOWING how his family is? He annoyed me right down to the last chapter. Just dangle what Alfie wants in front his face, and then magnanimously let him go. Jerk.
Alfie deciding he was going to be an Irish mobster in his off weeks when he didn't have the kids was beyond ridiculous. Like I couldn't even follow the logic on that one. Then he had the gall to be offended when West was concerned about the children's safety. Huh? I did love seeing how his family embraced him, but the initial decision made no sense at all, considering he hadn't planned on being outed as family in the first place. Him trying to take the bulk of the blame for his and West's failed marriage annoyed me, like CLEARLY West should carry the bulk of that, even though Alfie lied about the job and his heritage. The two issues really weren't comparable. It was more like it gave West an out to say I know I did this, but you did that....nah, not really. Most of their interaction is them trying to each take the blame for the failed marriage and it got boring fast. Like ok, you both made mistakes. Let's move on.
The best parts of the book are the kids, the Irish family embracing Alfie, and the moments when Alfie and West co-parent well. Them as a couple is the least interesting part of the book for me. I'm deciding whether I even want to read Book 2, and I guess I will but only for the mob element.
Alfie deciding he was going to be an Irish mobster in his off weeks when he didn't have the kids was beyond ridiculous. Like I couldn't even follow the logic on that one. Then he had the gall to be offended when West was concerned about the children's safety. Huh? I did love seeing how his family embraced him, but the initial decision made no sense at all, considering he hadn't planned on being outed as family in the first place. Him trying to take the bulk of the blame for his and West's failed marriage annoyed me, like CLEARLY West should carry the bulk of that, even though Alfie lied about the job and his heritage. The two issues really weren't comparable. It was more like it gave West an out to say I know I did this, but you did that....nah, not really. Most of their interaction is them trying to each take the blame for the failed marriage and it got boring fast. Like ok, you both made mistakes. Let's move on.
The best parts of the book are the kids, the Irish family embracing Alfie, and the moments when Alfie and West co-parent well. Them as a couple is the least interesting part of the book for me. I'm deciding whether I even want to read Book 2, and I guess I will but only for the mob element.
December 10, 2024
I'm giving this 4 1/2 stars
Back to the mafia world where I first discovered Cara Dee. The Irish mafia in Philadelphia, the Sons of Munster. This book is VERY TAME in terms of violence compared to the others. Instead it is more of a man finding who he really is and making no apologies for it.
We get a quick first chapter flashback of Alfie and West meeting. Chapter 2 brings us back to the present. And a lot has happened in those years. The scenes or flashbacks to what has happened are pretty seamless in the story itself. It never felt clunky like, oops, I'd better explain that. It all just flows.
Now we have two men, divorced, co parenting two kids while being barely civil to each other. And that is just for the sake of the kids. Whom I really liked and also fit really well into the story.
While West is a tv producer and comes from money, Alfie is a street kid from Philly. And even though he had a seemingly lucrative career as a model in the past, Alfie ingratiates himself into a position in "the syndicate" AKA, the mafia. Insisting he is stays more in the shadows for the sake of his children, but he feels so at home and welcome in this group that is family. Literally and figuratively.
All of this while still nursing a broken heart from his divorce. A divorce that wasn't his idea at all. West had his reasons, and the reasons really are valid. But so are Alfie's.
The pacing of the story was just spot on. Nothing was rushed, nothing was forgotten. My only nitpicking- and it is that, nitpicking- is the stereotypical Irish stuff-the drinking, listening to the Dropkick Murphys all the time- and the random "aye", "shite" and "mate" spoken by Americans.
But still, I cannot wait for book 2.
Back to the mafia world where I first discovered Cara Dee. The Irish mafia in Philadelphia, the Sons of Munster. This book is VERY TAME in terms of violence compared to the others. Instead it is more of a man finding who he really is and making no apologies for it.
We get a quick first chapter flashback of Alfie and West meeting. Chapter 2 brings us back to the present. And a lot has happened in those years. The scenes or flashbacks to what has happened are pretty seamless in the story itself. It never felt clunky like, oops, I'd better explain that. It all just flows.
Now we have two men, divorced, co parenting two kids while being barely civil to each other. And that is just for the sake of the kids. Whom I really liked and also fit really well into the story.
While West is a tv producer and comes from money, Alfie is a street kid from Philly. And even though he had a seemingly lucrative career as a model in the past, Alfie ingratiates himself into a position in "the syndicate" AKA, the mafia. Insisting he is stays more in the shadows for the sake of his children, but he feels so at home and welcome in this group that is family. Literally and figuratively.
All of this while still nursing a broken heart from his divorce. A divorce that wasn't his idea at all. West had his reasons, and the reasons really are valid. But so are Alfie's.
The pacing of the story was just spot on. Nothing was rushed, nothing was forgotten. My only nitpicking- and it is that, nitpicking- is the stereotypical Irish stuff-the drinking, listening to the Dropkick Murphys all the time- and the random "aye", "shite" and "mate" spoken by Americans.
But still, I cannot wait for book 2.
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