A totally insane choice since, you know, I'm an actual monster.
And I did this right after finding out that the Hunter, Rafa, has a deep, personal connection with the vampires who are after me—vampires who've kidnapped the teen girl I'm supposed to rescue, and who need the magical watch I'm carrying to end the world.
As for that watch? It imprisons Collin—a handsome spirit who can answer any question and who gets me in a way no one else ever has. Over the last 24 hours, Collin and I have done a whole lot more than just making out.
The truth is, I actually think I'm falling in love with him. Which might be the craziest thing of all, since he still hasn't told me what he really is.
Look, I know I've made some bad decisions lately. But now I have people I need to protect, people I care about. And since I'm feeding, for the first time in my life, I have real power.
So yeah, maybe I'll never be good. But trust me—I am done running.
Because it's time to show those vampires what a real monster can do.
Incubus Vampire Slayer concludes the thrilling, laugh-out-loud adventure that began in The Reluctant Incubus, Book 1 of the New Adult MM urban fantasy duet Alvin Alonso's Secret Files. I recommend starting with The Reluctant Incubus so you can binge the whole story from the beginning through to Alvin's deeply satisfying HFN.
Alex Woolfson writes action-packed adventures with lovable gay heroes.
An East-Coaster who now calls the Bay Area home, Alex spent twenty years editing films and video before turning to comics, where he created the Lambda Literary Award finalist graphic novel Artifice and the long‑running LGBTQ‑superhero webcomic The Young Protectors.
His debut MM urban‑fantasy novel, The Reluctant Incubus, kicks off the Alvin Alonso's Secret Files duet, delivering high‑stakes action, slow‑burn romance, and queer heroes who save the world and each other.
When Alex isn't at his treadmill desk writing, you'll find him traveling the globe with his husband, on the hunt for the perfect taco.
Disclaimer: this review is made possible by an Advanced Reader's Copy but that free copy has not influenced my review.
I am not sure why Alvin's story is broken up into a duet exactly, as it could have just as easily been crammed into one larger book, I'm also aware there are things like optimal book lengths that don't push away readers due to size. Regardless, Alvin's story here picks up right where The Reluctant Incubus picked off. Thankfully by the beginning of this book, our hero is a little less reluctant with many things and is also a little less helpless than he was at the beginning of the previous book. Good judgement, introspection, the ability to act in his romantic desires, access at least spoken of the powers at his disposal all make for an evolving central character. He also has some friends and allies at this point, allowing him to grow through his interactions with others.The major plot from the last book is also not resolved. Rather, it keeps unfurling too with new twists and turns that leave you wondering how our heroes are going to get out of each scrap.
If you enjoyed the last book, enjoy a taught urban fantasy story that reminds me slightly of a slightly younger Dresden Files by Jim Butcher, and like it populated by an extremely diverse cast of characters peppered with some healthy spice here and there that never distracts from the story, then this duet series is for you. Speaking of Butcher, I hope Woolfson sees enough success from this duet allows him to expand these files much longer than two books. Besides the gripping main storyline, I'd love to see more of supporting characters interact in this delightful and dangerous world, both familiar and magical.
It's is so well written. I love the video game feel to it. It manages to be intense and fun and hilarious all at once.
Alvin is so dang sweet. He's a badass. He's brave, and also hella funny. “Adorable, plucky, and innocent.” 😆 I've just been feeling his struggles. You can't help but root for him. When he kicks down the metal door at the Benevolent Society on his way to go save the world I can hear Shania Twain singing "Let's go girls." That was awesome! And right after that he trips and falls on his butt. Keeping it real here. 😂 I love him.
Collin is adorable. He did get to make his own choices, and that didn't turn out how I thought it would. I'm so happy how it all works out. ❤️ His story made me cry.
Rafa is such a kickass sexy hunk. I did want to smack him, but I also just want to hug him. Poor baby. I love him so much.
I love the cover art. Alvin is a cutie. His mom though! I can't even. I like her and don't like her in equal amounts... ish... Ms Stryker acts like she's his mom too. She's so grumpy. 😆
I hope these books will get made into audiobooks. I know I'll read them again, but I want to be able to re-read them by listening to them.
Incubus Vampire Slayer is the second book in the Alvin Alonso's Secret Files series by Alex Woolfson. In my opinion this series should be read in order. We are back with Alvin and the guys just where the last book ended to continue the story. I loved this rollercoaster ride of twists and turns. I loved the plot and the steamy bits because they added to the story. I would love to read more stories about Alvin so I hope Alex Woolfson will continue this series. I loved the whole story and loved the writing style. I would definitely recommend this book and series as 5 star reads. received a free review copy
Well, having finished reading book one, I had to start book 2, “Incubus Vampire Slayer” immediately. First of all, thank you Alex for giving me the opportunity to review the books before they were published. I’m glad I volunteered to read and review the duets. I have to say that I thoroughly enjoyed book 2 just as much, if not more than the first one. Alvin has really grown on me, even when he’s annoyingly unsure of himself despite his capabilities.
Book two picks up right where book one ended, taking Alex into layers after layers of problems that he needs to deal with, culminating to a somewhat surprising ending that leaves room for future adventures. In the midst of saving the world, he also has to deal with his relationships with his mother, the Elven Prince, and his friends/companions, Collin and Rafa. I know, it sounds like a BL drama mixed with magic and monsters, but I find it quite entertaining.
I find that book two introduces more plot twists into Alvin’s world, which keeps the story more engaging for me. There were certain points in the story where I thought, “Oh great, this is going to happen and the ending will be tragic.” But then, the author hits you with a surprising twist that you might not expect. Even though the story reads like it’s for a younger audience due to Alvin’s lack of experience and innocence. However, don’t let that mislead you because there are certain racy scenes in the book. One thing I do appreciate about the racy scenes is that they don’t feel out of place. It’s weaved into the story in a way that makes it a necessary part of the story rather than people having sex just for the sake of including adult themes into the story. Of course, this is made easier because Alvin IS an “unfed” incubus.
Overall, I really enjoyed reading about Alvin and his struggles to become a reluctant hero. Do read the epilogue because it will keep you wanting to know more about what the future holds for Alvin and his companions. I have to say that I look forward to seeing future installments of Alvin’s adventures and learning more about his mysterious heritage.
Reviewed for Love Bytes – 4.25 hearts With the Avatar in his pocket, Alvin is on a mission with two goals. Firstly, to save the children kidnapped by vampires, and secondly, to free the Avatar, Colin. Thus far, Alvin has embarked on a whirlwind adventure where he has been scared, brave, determined and enlightened. Will the finale be his making or end? Incubus Vampire Slayer is the second book that is released simultaneously with its counterpart, The Reluctant Incubus, which must be read first. There’s a lot to like in this story, but I had a couple of issues which lowered the overall mark. The story is told in the first person from Alvin’s perspective. Worldbuilding is wonderfully vivid, leaving me with clear images of the characters and their surroundings. However, grammatically, there remains the issue of using far too many brackets, whose overuse could have been either avoided or at least significantly reduced. For the most part, I found the words contained within the brackets distracting, occasionally amusing, but mostly irritating. Alvin is a conflicted man. He believes himself to be an unwilling monster. He’s a good man with a heart of gold and a willingness to do good that goes beyond the stratosphere. Colin helps him on his journey to heroic enlightenment. However, other than prolonging the release of significantly important information to increase the dramatic effect, I struggled to understand why Colin chose the route of slow-release, providing scant reasoning for withholding details that could have helped Alvin gain more success and fewer failures. The extended cast was an interesting mix of characters, who I believe could have stories of their own. I especially liked the Elven Prince. He had a deliciously devious side, a way with words, and a little nugget of a good side. I’d gladly read a story with him as the MC, minus the brackets. Incubus Vampire Slayer was an action-packed, entertaining read. Some parts were sheer brilliance, while other aspects frustrated the demon out of me. This book was provided free in exchange for a fair and honest review for Love Bytes.
Just when you thought things couldn't get a worse, Alvin discovers why vampires have been kidnapping children with magic. Hint: it's not so they can magic up some Labubus.
Book 2 in Alvin Alonso's Secret Files opens right in the thick of things — so if you haven't read The Reluctant Incubus then go and do that first, then come back.
Alvin has to try to: save the children from magical vampire sacrifice; free an ancient spirit who happens to be the Avatar of Knowledge, and possibly Alvin's boyfriend; stop a curse being fulfilled by the vampires, led by his friend and ally, Rafa's, undead father. Oh, and not get killed for being an incubus himself.
The pace doesn't let up, the stakes continue to increase – both the world-ending ones, and Alvin's personal ones – and we see Alvin come to realise his own potential and worth, as well as learn some secrets about himself.
While the whole story is thrilling and satisfying, it's this that is the real pay-off. Seeing Alvin confront his personal demons, and come to a newer level of maturity and self-acceptance makes the whole story shine.
There's a really satisfying sense of completion by the end of the story, yet there are so many potential new avenues waiting to be explored, and I can't wait to see them!
Alvin is the queer hero we all need right now – fiercely loyal and principled, sassy, humble and hopeful.
I do hope we get more of Alvin, and follow him as he learns about his past, his powers, and learns to love and love himself.
I received an Advance Copy, and this is my honest review.
Incubus Vampire Slayer picks up exactly where The Reluctant Incubus left us hanging, and honestly, I couldn’t have asked for a better continuation. Alvin is still a complete disaster in the most endearing way possible—kissing monster hunters, arguing with the spirit trapped in his magical watch, and trying not to get killed by vampires. It sounds chaotic because it absolutely is, but it’s also enormous fun.
What I loved most is how the story balances humour, danger, and genuine emotional stakes. The plot moves at full speed—kidnappings, betrayals, secrets, magic—and yet the heart of it all is Alvin figuring out who he is and what (and who) he’s willing to fight for. His connection with Collin really shines here; it’s strange and tender and surprisingly moving, especially as we start to understand what Collin actually is.
There’s plenty of action, plenty of heat, and a surprising amount of character growth. Alvin finally taps into his power instead of running from it, and watching him step into that strength was incredibly satisfying. The whole book feels like a proper conclusion—high-energy, emotional, and very funny in places—while still leaving me hoping we might get more stories in this world one day.
If you enjoyed The Reluctant Incubus, this is an absolute must-read. A brilliant, fast-paced, and heartfelt ending to the duet. i received a free arc copy and this is my honest review
These books were just so sweet and well paced that they healed the malaise of my previous, heavier reads. If you’re unfamiliar, The Reluctant Incubus follows Alvin, an intern to a wizard for hire who also happens to be concealing the fact he is a super secret sex demon who refuses to use his powers on the off chance he will hurt someone. Unfortunately, that doesn’t stop an evil but crazy attractive elf lord from blackmailing him into stealing an unassuming watch from a vampire coven. The problem? The watch comes with an equally attractive and powerful spirit, and Alvin’s not super keen on just handing over his new friend to someone he knows he can’t trust to do the right thing. Throw in a witty monster hunter, the occult, and a missing teenage girl, and you have the makings of one weird but delectably addictive detective story. You may have noticed I haven’t revealed much about Incubus Vampire Slayer. That’s because book 1 does end on a cliff hanger which leads directly into book 2, making the fact they share a release day so utterly necessary. Overall, if you find yourself in need of something quick and entertaining, with some adorable character banter and a super sweet protagonist then I would highly recommend this. Just don’t be shocked if you feel the need to immediately pick up book 2 after finishing book 1.
This is book 2, but it really is book one. The first two books are one book the second book literally takes place like on the next page from the first book so I suggest you get both If you like fantasy and if you like a really good story, I highly recommend this book. It is extremely fast paced, which is awesome and I found myself that the edge of my seat while reading the story unfold Alvin is definitely someone that I think everybody can see themselves in the struggles that he’s going through his identity and his place in the world. The people that he meets really do develop him as a character and it is so hopeful and it’s so genuine and it’s so loving. Just as a sidenote, I know that in a lot of MM fantasy type of novels people expect a lot of explicit scenes. This book is not that. The scenes are necessary for the story and they’re necessary for the journey. Very well written very captivating and heartwarming all at the same time. This is a great story that just happens to have gay central characters, and I think that that is amazing but the book for the story is a must. I can’t wait for Alvin‘s Journey to continue literally. I cannot wait for Alvin‘s journey to continue. I will say that I am team RAFA all the way and I totally hope that he gets his own story And his own series would be so cool. You will not be disappointed!
Incubus Vampire Slayer is the second book in Alvin Alonso’s Secret Files series, and absolutely must be read after book one. This book continues on directly where book one finished, so if you haven't read that one, you won't know what's going on.
Alvin grows into his own character in this instalment, which is more than he ever imagined. At the heart of it, he still remains the 'good, innocent' Alvin we know from book one, who just wants to help people. There's just more to him than he thought. As for Rafa and Collin, well, they don't exactly overlap, and it's not exactly a love triangle, but for me, it did absolutely nothing. I'm sure others will love how it all came to be, but I found it to be quite meh.
There are a number of characters and realms left to be explored, should the author wish to do so, and possibly even more adventures for Alvin. I found his story to be concluded quite nicely at the end of this book, while leaving it open if wanted.
This was a solid Urban Fantasy story that I recommend, even if it didn't push all of my buttons.
** Same worded review will appear elsewhere. **
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book; the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books! Nov 13, 2025
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
OMG-what another wonderful book by this author. I love Alvin. He’s such a complex character. He grew into his powers in this book. I’m glad that this was only a two book series, because there really wasn’t that much to stretch out over the usual trilogy.
There were some not as exciting as the rest of the series spots, just like in the first book, but overall, the book is definitely another 5-star read!
Once again, I love how the author uses San Francisco as a character. It’s such a great city and he takes the reader there. I never knew there were office buildings in the Tenderloin and I lived in the area for about ten years and worked in the Financial District for most of that time.
I just want to say how excited I am to see a hero of color, especially a Filipino hero. It fits San Francisco so well. The area is home to one of the largest group of Filipinos outside the Philippines. The story is authentic. It makes sense.
Incubus Vampire Slayer is the second book in the Alvin Alonso's Secret Files series by Alex Woolfson. This book immediately follows book one, and is not a standalone. Alvin is a reluctant hero, it's very much "Who? Me? Save the world. Yeahhhhhh..... riggghhhttt." He still has to negotiate around his succubus mom, who has no problem using her powers. Rafa has been friend zoned but Collin tells Alvin that there's no reason he can't be with the both of them. Since there are things Rafa can give him that Collin can't being he's not flesh and blood. A lot of danger and some sneaky plot twists kept my attention. And sometimes on the edge of my seat. The book is spice lite. Perhaps when Alvin feels more comfortable with his powers. we'll see more sizzle. There's a few questions that need answering and enough room in the plot line for another book. Or three. Enjoyed this so much. Hoping for more. I received an advanced copy from GRR and this is my review.
This is a terrific follow-up to book one, and Alvin has come a long way in a very short amount of time. While he is still doubtful about his skills, the magic inside keeps proving itself. Alvin now goes back and forth between doubt and belief in himself, and it takes the wonderful characters around him, primarily Collin and Rafa, to keep him going. The scares from book one are magnified here, as Alvin works to save the captured children - and all of San Francisco - from the vile vampire king and the god he serves. I love this series so much. I can't wait for more adventures for this good hearted incubus, and I look forward to joining Alvin as he learns more about the powers he inherited from his mysterious father. This series is very entertaining, and I am on board for any future installments. I recommend it enthusiastically!
Well, I must admit that I have succumbed to the incubus' charm.
This second book in the series picks up immediately where book one, "The Reluctant Incubus", leaves off and whisks you into a revelation and gratifying ultimate resolution to the culminating event from the first book.
The main protagonist continues to be delightful and even more approachable as he develops his confidence and comes into a greater sense of self. In addition, the pacing and character interaction feels more balanced in this second book.
I'm fully invested in this set of characters and the world that Alex Woolfson has developed and sincerely hope to see more books in this series. A delightful and enjoyable read that sweeps you along for a fun ride.
Following on directly from the end of The Reluctant Incubus, this is the second part of the duet. Alvin's in it up to his neck and sinking fast. He stumbles from one catastrophe to the next, still second guessing everything, getting it wrong as often as not, but he is such an irresistible character. You just want to give him a big hug. The action takes us from burning churches to evil filled sunken caverns and everyone's life is in danger. I really enjoyed the story. The characters are well rounded and the plot ties up this adventure nicely. As far as romances go, I'm conflicted. There's incorporeal Collin and larger than life Rafa and I'm kinda rooting for both of them to be honest. Perhaps we'll get clarity during their next adventure?
Continuing directly on from the first book, this finishes that story arc. I don't want to give away too much, but it's an adrenaline fueled tale that barely slows to take a breath. To put it in perspective, both books (excluding the epilogue) take place over a 3 day period. I really enjoyed it, and I'm pleased there are going to be more books in the series.
My only complaint is the relationship end game. I wanted a different end game pairing, or even a throuple. I actually thought Alvin had more chemistry with the person he didn't end up with. I felt like the person he did end up with was a cop out, the safe option for him on an emotional and physical level. This is why I gave it 4 stars instead of 5.
I am so happy to see that Alvin's adventures will continue! Okay, so Alvin is a busy young man! When he's not learning about his powers and how they differ from his mother (see giant fire monster), he is being intimate, then not then yes again with both Rafe and Collin. I liked his mother's redemption arc and the elf's as well (Elioron? sp?) Rafe saving Alvin from a deal and doing some groveling for his shitty behavior was nice to see, too. all in all, I have mixed feelings on how the Collin situation played out, but I see how that was necessary for future books. I can't wait and I recommend this duet! single pov 1st P spicy scenes a bit drawn out so I skimmed action and some gore the bad guys get their due
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
🌟My Review!🌟 Alex Woolfson delivers another incredible read with this action-packed book, it’s filled with lovable and relatable characters. It seamlessly picks up where the first book, The Reluctant Incubus, left off, propelling readers through an epic adventure and battle that will keep them guessing about what's to come. Alvin, Collin, Rafa, and even Eirian are fascinating characters, and I am so excited for the next book in the series. ❤️
This book is the second in a series. It does not stand alone. Books 1 and 2 form one coherent plot. But what a plot! I loved watching Alvin grow from an uncertain soul who always thought the worst of himself into a person who understood his own strengths and weaknesses. He has both, but was wrong about what either were. Rafa, Ms. Stryker, the elven prince, and even Emma are all characters that I am sure we have not seen the last of. I look forward to what comes next. I just hope we have one plot line per book, rather than split into two.
I was given a free copy of this book in exchange for my fair and honest review.
Alex Woolfson really doesn't disappoint me with the continuation of this story. Book 1 warms you up little by little and you get to know Collin, Alvin and Rafa. They all have their own problems and traumas. Alvin has to learn a lot about himself and ends up in all kinds of situations that more or less put him on the right path. And don't forget the humor. Alvin's humor is really fantastic. Especially the one about that Fae in question. The story is beautifully written and keeps your attention. This book is a really enjoyable reading experience and I really can't wait for book 3. It can only get more exciting and even better.
I’m really glad that this book came out right after I read the first one because that one ends on a cliffhanger. I love how Alex Woolfson has written such a wonderful take on Incubuses, or is it incubi and their abilities. I also really like how everything turned out because I really wondered what was going to happen with these characters. Mr Woolfson also says in the blurb that this is a duet of books, but I really hope that he continues with this series because it’s one of the more interesting things that I have read this year. I highly suggest that you read these books if you like paranormal MM.
This is our second book with Alvin and it was so good after the way things started in the first book to visit with him again and to see him starting to come into his own. The situation is crazy, and this author does a great job of drawing us into the action and drawing great characters that make this an entertaining story. And it was good to see Alvin evolve and step into his power so much more this time. The romance was very interesting as the players are somewhat unusual. I enjoyed spending time with Alvin, Rafa and Collin and would like to spend more time reading about them. This was a very good duet. I received an ARC from GRR and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Incubus Vampire Slayer is the second book in Alex Woolfson’s fabulous Alvin Alonso’s Secret Files duet. This book picks up immediately after the end of the first, The Reluctant Incubus, and completes the story. So this book and review will have spoilers for book one and you should start at the beginning if you want to check out this series. I absolutely loved both books and highly recommend them.
'I don’t need to be scared of being a monster anymore. Collin was right. I’m not my mother. I wasn’t born to hurt people with this power. I was born to make good things happen. Maybe even divine things happen. And now I’m going to use what I am to save the world.'
I loved The Reluctant Incubus, so I was excited to continue Alvin's story. This book picked up where the first left off. I liked Alvin's continued character development as he came into his own and had to figure out how powers, his relationships, along with saving Collin and even more at stake. Fast-paced with twists and turns. I couldn't put it down. 5 stars
I just finished the second book, and I loved it even more than the first. Alvin is such a warm-hearted character, you can’t help but love him. His allies Rafa and Collin are great, too. Heck, even Alvin’s mother was bearable by the end…well, maybe. LOL! Anyway, this book was so much fun with fascinating reveals, steamy scenes, really tense action, and just so much more. I can’t wait to see what adventures we’ll be taken on when the series gets another book. I’m down for it. Highly recommend. I was provided a complimentary copy which I voluntarily reviewed.
Vampires, ancient gods, monster hunters, ancient fonts of knowledge trapped in a watch, and an incubus who doesn’t want to be one and is truly so much more than that. If that isn’t a recipe for an edge of your seat story, I don’t know what is. My only complaint is that I wish we had seen more of all three of these guys together. No one can see Collin but Alvin. Alvin and Rafa also make a good pair. The full relationship felt like it got left behind. You get clues that it could happen, but it was left to interpretation. Still, this was a good story and I would recommend a read.
I enjoyed this second book even more than the first one. Alvin is coming into his powers even though he's still not 100% confident about using them but he's learning fast in order to protect those he cares about. His relationships with Rafa and Collin continue to be interesting and I'm really enjoying the take on a genii story with Collin in the watch. There are some great twists in this one and I didn't guess where the author would take everything. I certainly hope we get more Alvin stories.
Picking up right where book one ends, this story throws Alex back into chaos, stacking problem after problem on his already exhausted shoulders. Every step forward costs him something, and the weight of saving the world presses harder with each choice he makes. As his powers begin to come more easily, so do the consequences, reminding us that growth is never simple or painless. Even with a surprising ending that hints at hope, nothing feels truly finished — and that lingering sense of unease leaves your heart aching for whatever comes next.
This is book 2 in this duology and you need to read the first one to better understand the growth Alvin goes through. This book starts off right as book one finishes which I loved. This time around, Alvin needs to go up against vampires who, the head vampire, wants to bring back an old god. I am loving how Alvin is getting to be more confident with who is as a person and incubus. This is an amazing world with great friends, allies and a chance for more. I cannot wait to read what happens next.