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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
102 people are currently reading
210 people want to read
About the author
Cara Dee
97 books4,085 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 124 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.
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!
February 9, 2025
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 14, 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.
December 19, 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.
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 16, 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.
December 15, 2024
This one was painful for me in the best way possible. Second-chance romance is one of my favorite tropes when written well, and Cara hit on all best parts of it: pining, regrets, memories of happier times, the inability to move on from the absolute love of your life. And angst. All the angst.
At first I was worried about feeling in limbo after reading Part 1…I wanted so desperately to reach the point in these second-chance stories where you go “Finally. FINALLY they’re on their way back to each other.” And while I know ultimately Alfie and West will get their HEA, I think the way Cara has written the build-up to that inevitable point is perfect.
Having read This Life I&II, I did see the briefest glimpse of Alfie, so while I’m familiar with this world, these were two brand new characters for me.
Meeting Alfie and West, as they are now, both miserable in their own ways, both angry, yet both still so in love drew me right in. “What happened? Where did it go wrong? How did they get here? They must have been so in love to feel this kind of pain”.
Through their memories, through their interactions as co-parents, through their realizations (finally communicating!) we start to learn the answers to all those questions…which of course lead to more. What now? Can they start over? Or start AGAIN? Is Alfie’s “new” life too much? Can West be a part of two different worlds??
Sadly, I have no answers, but I also cannot get this book off my mind. I absolutely can’t wait for Part II.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
At first I was worried about feeling in limbo after reading Part 1…I wanted so desperately to reach the point in these second-chance stories where you go “Finally. FINALLY they’re on their way back to each other.” And while I know ultimately Alfie and West will get their HEA, I think the way Cara has written the build-up to that inevitable point is perfect.
Having read This Life I&II, I did see the briefest glimpse of Alfie, so while I’m familiar with this world, these were two brand new characters for me.
Meeting Alfie and West, as they are now, both miserable in their own ways, both angry, yet both still so in love drew me right in. “What happened? Where did it go wrong? How did they get here? They must have been so in love to feel this kind of pain”.
Through their memories, through their interactions as co-parents, through their realizations (finally communicating!) we start to learn the answers to all those questions…which of course lead to more. What now? Can they start over? Or start AGAIN? Is Alfie’s “new” life too much? Can West be a part of two different worlds??
Sadly, I have no answers, but I also cannot get this book off my mind. I absolutely can’t wait for Part II.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 14, 2025
4⭐️
As the title suggests, this is only half the story; something that became very clear when I hit the ending. (Seriously, that was just cruel. 😭) But since there’s a second book waiting, I guess I have no choice but to dive in immediately!
This is an MM mafia second-chance romance set in The Irish of Philly world, which includes a mix of MF and MM books. While there are ties to previous characters, Alfie is Kellan’s best friend, and Finnegan O’Shea leads the Sons of Munster, this book can definitely be read as a starting point for the series.
The story follows Alfie and West, ex-husbands who are still co-parenting. Alfie is wrecked without West, but their marriage didn’t just fall apart for no reason. Alfie never quite fit into the polished, upper-class world West was born into, and he lost himself trying. Now, after the divorce, he’s done pretending and he’s ready to embrace the family he’s always denied for his mother’s sake, something West never knew about. He’s not just going to be the Sons of Munster’s assistant anymore. He’s going to become a Son and Finnegan O’Shea, the not-so-gentle crime boss is his cousin, it's not that hard to do.
It’s painfully obvious that Alfie and West belong together, but it’s also painfully obvious why they didn’t work the first time around. Their reunion isn’t just a given, they have to earn their way back to each other. And I loved that.
My only real gripe? This really could’ve been one book instead of two. But I trust Cara Dee, and I’m already invested enough that I have to see how their story ends.
As the title suggests, this is only half the story; something that became very clear when I hit the ending. (Seriously, that was just cruel. 😭) But since there’s a second book waiting, I guess I have no choice but to dive in immediately!
This is an MM mafia second-chance romance set in The Irish of Philly world, which includes a mix of MF and MM books. While there are ties to previous characters, Alfie is Kellan’s best friend, and Finnegan O’Shea leads the Sons of Munster, this book can definitely be read as a starting point for the series.
The story follows Alfie and West, ex-husbands who are still co-parenting. Alfie is wrecked without West, but their marriage didn’t just fall apart for no reason. Alfie never quite fit into the polished, upper-class world West was born into, and he lost himself trying. Now, after the divorce, he’s done pretending and he’s ready to embrace the family he’s always denied for his mother’s sake, something West never knew about. He’s not just going to be the Sons of Munster’s assistant anymore. He’s going to become a Son and Finnegan O’Shea, the not-so-gentle crime boss is his cousin, it's not that hard to do.
It’s painfully obvious that Alfie and West belong together, but it’s also painfully obvious why they didn’t work the first time around. Their reunion isn’t just a given, they have to earn their way back to each other. And I loved that.
My only real gripe? This really could’ve been one book instead of two. But I trust Cara Dee, and I’m already invested enough that I have to see how their story ends.
December 13, 2024
It was great to be back in Philly with the Sons of Munster! This has become one of my favorite books by Cara Dee. The chemistry, intrigue, and plot were all exceptional.
I adore Alfie and West. My heart was such a mess with these two. There is so much chemistry there, so much love, and the angst is incredibly well done. Cara Dee strikes a perfect balance with them. There are real problems. It’s raw and emotional. And every bit of it is addictive. I desperately want them together, but sometimes want isn’t enough. I love watching Cara Dee weave a story together and having two characters that are so opposite, yet similar is fascinating.
I’m a huge fan of families in stories—whether biological or found family. I love the contrasts Cara Dee gave in this. The kids were exceptional and really added to the plot. The Sons of Munster offer the perfect balance on what family should be—even if it’s crimson tinged at times. After all, it’s the mafia.
The plot was captivating. I was thoroughly engaged and could not stop reading. I can’t wait for part 2. The way this ended…I desperately need resolution. Yet it was a perfect way to close it. It really shows the growth of the characters. I look forward to what happens in the future—even as I know I’ll be on the edge of my seat.
5 stars for an emotional, perfectly balanced story! I can’t wait for the next one!
I adore Alfie and West. My heart was such a mess with these two. There is so much chemistry there, so much love, and the angst is incredibly well done. Cara Dee strikes a perfect balance with them. There are real problems. It’s raw and emotional. And every bit of it is addictive. I desperately want them together, but sometimes want isn’t enough. I love watching Cara Dee weave a story together and having two characters that are so opposite, yet similar is fascinating.
I’m a huge fan of families in stories—whether biological or found family. I love the contrasts Cara Dee gave in this. The kids were exceptional and really added to the plot. The Sons of Munster offer the perfect balance on what family should be—even if it’s crimson tinged at times. After all, it’s the mafia.
The plot was captivating. I was thoroughly engaged and could not stop reading. I can’t wait for part 2. The way this ended…I desperately need resolution. Yet it was a perfect way to close it. It really shows the growth of the characters. I look forward to what happens in the future—even as I know I’ll be on the edge of my seat.
5 stars for an emotional, perfectly balanced story! I can’t wait for the next one!
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