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Firsts and Forever #16.5
Making Merry
These five interconnected holiday stories feature characters from Alexa Land’s Firsts and Forever Series and its spin-off, The Castaways Series. Chronologically, it takes place between Kindred Spirits (Castaways Series, Book 1) and Starting Over (Castaways, Book 2). What do the husband of a stressed out metal sculptor, a graffiti artist, an aging pop star, a young ranch hand, and an aspiring writer have in common? They each have a story to tell in Making Merry. Not everything goes according to plan in the quest for that mythical “Perfect Christmas”, but there are a lot of laughs, heartwarming romance, and some big surprises along the way. With the help of family and friends, somehow everything will work itself out – but maybe not in the way anyone was expecting.
222 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 6, 2018
61 people are currently reading
114 people want to read
About the author
Alexa Land
58 books786 followersIndependent MM romance author. For more information, please visit Alexa's blog: http://alexalandwrites.blogspot.com/
Please note: the author does not check messages on this site. The best way to contact them is through Facebook.
Please note: the author does not check messages on this site. The best way to contact them is through Facebook.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
December 19, 2018
***** A sweet and endearing set of tales that intertwine at Christmas on Catalina.
Dare & Skye, Christian & Shea, Zan & Gianni, Cassidy & Elijah, plus Gianni and the group again, as it wraps up Christmas.
After reading the series and knowing what these lovely characters have been through to get where they are today, it's a treat to see their happiness.
We get lots of celebrating, weddings, hot sexiness, and the great big love this family and group of friends delivers.
L O V E D IT !!
Marvelous ! ENJOY !
=========
Dare & Skye, Christian & Shea, Zan & Gianni, Cassidy & Elijah, plus Gianni and the group again, as it wraps up Christmas.
After reading the series and knowing what these lovely characters have been through to get where they are today, it's a treat to see their happiness.
We get lots of celebrating, weddings, hot sexiness, and the great big love this family and group of friends delivers.
L O V E D IT !!
Marvelous ! ENJOY !
=========
October 17, 2019
Alexa Land hit all the right notes in this holiday story - actually five interconnected shorts that all come together in the end. The focus is on revisiting Skye and Dare (Skye Blue), Christian and Shea (Against the Wall), Zan and Gianni (Belonging) and Elijah and Cassidy (Kindred Spirits) in the days leading up to Christmas.
All the couples are at different stages but they are all devoted to each other and their extended family. Some of the stories are all fun and some are a bit more emotional but all of them were completely entertaining. There's a visit to Nana and a trip to the Sea Horse Ranch. There are plenty of secondary characters that readers know and love popping in to support their friends and family.
No spoilers here, but if you've enjoyed the previous books or love any of these couples you are not going to want to miss this one! There are a few surprises in store that will give you that happy holiday feeling and warm your heart. This one was perfection! It left me with a smile and looking forward to more.
All the couples are at different stages but they are all devoted to each other and their extended family. Some of the stories are all fun and some are a bit more emotional but all of them were completely entertaining. There's a visit to Nana and a trip to the Sea Horse Ranch. There are plenty of secondary characters that readers know and love popping in to support their friends and family.
No spoilers here, but if you've enjoyed the previous books or love any of these couples you are not going to want to miss this one! There are a few surprises in store that will give you that happy holiday feeling and warm your heart. This one was perfection! It left me with a smile and looking forward to more.
August 11, 2022
Christmas vignettes
Fans get to check back in with several characters from the Firsts and Forever/Castaways series at Christmas time. Filled with humor, Nana Dombruso shenanigans, romantic surprises, and very happy endings for all involved.
Fans get to check back in with several characters from the Firsts and Forever/Castaways series at Christmas time. Filled with humor, Nana Dombruso shenanigans, romantic surprises, and very happy endings for all involved.
December 9, 2018
What a marvelous Christmas present from Alexa Land!
One of my favorite things about the First and Forever series is being able to catch up with characters from previous books, and seeing where their lives have taken them. In Making Merry, we join Blue and his husband Dare as they get hilariously sidetracked while trying to create the perfect Christmas. We then meet up with Christian and his husband Shea while on a road trip, where they make some important decisions. Then Zan and Gianni try to make their first Christmas in their new home one to remember, even when faced with the Christmas tree from Hell! Finally Elijah and Cassidy conclude the story as Nana Dombruso (who is in her element!) and her entire extended family meet up at the Seahorse Ranch on Catalina Island for one big party and lots is surprises, so enjoy! And laugh! And have a Merry Christmas from the Dombruso family!
One of my favorite things about the First and Forever series is being able to catch up with characters from previous books, and seeing where their lives have taken them. In Making Merry, we join Blue and his husband Dare as they get hilariously sidetracked while trying to create the perfect Christmas. We then meet up with Christian and his husband Shea while on a road trip, where they make some important decisions. Then Zan and Gianni try to make their first Christmas in their new home one to remember, even when faced with the Christmas tree from Hell! Finally Elijah and Cassidy conclude the story as Nana Dombruso (who is in her element!) and her entire extended family meet up at the Seahorse Ranch on Catalina Island for one big party and lots is surprises, so enjoy! And laugh! And have a Merry Christmas from the Dombruso family!
December 9, 2018
This book of 5 novellas was amazing! I loved getting a glimpse into the relationships a few years down the line for Zan and Gianni, Christian and Shea, and Dare and Skye. I also liked the story for Cassidy and Elijah.
I don't want to give away any spoilers for people who haven't read it yet, but I loved the surprises Alexa put in there for us and another glimpse at Colt that makes me so ready for his story. Also, so many hilarious scenes- my favorite has to be in Zan's story and if you read it then you know exactly what I'm talking about. ;)
I don't want to give away any spoilers for people who haven't read it yet, but I loved the surprises Alexa put in there for us and another glimpse at Colt that makes me so ready for his story. Also, so many hilarious scenes- my favorite has to be in Zan's story and if you read it then you know exactly what I'm talking about. ;)
February 10, 2019
A must read for fans of the series. We get a little joy from many of the couples. A good time is had by all and a good Christmas.
January 2, 2019
For me, Alexa Land's Making Merry is the perfect Christmas book.
With Alexa probably being my favorite author, I can't praise this book enough. Not only do we get a wonderful story from the Castaways Series, we also get some fantastic moments of catching up with some of my favorites from the Firsts and Forever Series.
We get to spend time with Skye and Dare, Christian and Shea, Zan and Gianni, Elijah and Cassidy. There are five short stories, that all entwine.
And yes Nana Dombruso, you are certifiable!
This book is the perfect example of why I love Alexa's series. With each story, we are able to revisit past characters, which all feel like family. Spending Christmas with this huge extended group of family and friends, is like spending Christmas with my own family. That is how much we get to know these men and get to care about them. By catching up with past men in each book, these series give a unique feeling that is hard to get with other books/series. It is wonderful, fun, romantic, and always a good laugh.
If you've read Alexa Land's books, do not miss out on this gem! Thank you Alexa for Making Merry!
With Alexa probably being my favorite author, I can't praise this book enough. Not only do we get a wonderful story from the Castaways Series, we also get some fantastic moments of catching up with some of my favorites from the Firsts and Forever Series.
We get to spend time with Skye and Dare, Christian and Shea, Zan and Gianni, Elijah and Cassidy. There are five short stories, that all entwine.
And yes Nana Dombruso, you are certifiable!
This book is the perfect example of why I love Alexa's series. With each story, we are able to revisit past characters, which all feel like family. Spending Christmas with this huge extended group of family and friends, is like spending Christmas with my own family. That is how much we get to know these men and get to care about them. By catching up with past men in each book, these series give a unique feeling that is hard to get with other books/series. It is wonderful, fun, romantic, and always a good laugh.
If you've read Alexa Land's books, do not miss out on this gem! Thank you Alexa for Making Merry!
December 7, 2018
Sweet adorable beautiful incredible
Making merry was such a beautiful collection of 5 short stories from alexa lands first and forever series and her castaways series
I could feel so much love on every page i felt every emotion
The stories are sweet cute adorable beautiful incredible moving powerful meaningful that have you not wanting to put the holiday bundle down
By the time I finished the Christmas stories my heart was full of so much love and you get one main message love and family it was perfect
Making merry was such a beautiful collection of 5 short stories from alexa lands first and forever series and her castaways series
I could feel so much love on every page i felt every emotion
The stories are sweet cute adorable beautiful incredible moving powerful meaningful that have you not wanting to put the holiday bundle down
By the time I finished the Christmas stories my heart was full of so much love and you get one main message love and family it was perfect
December 8, 2018
A great collection of holiday stories
I loved this collection of short stories. Skye and Dare are one of my favorite couples in the whole First and Forever series so getting a view into their life from Dares POV was great. This book is full of zainy kookiness and emotional feels that Alexa’s books are well known for.
I loved this collection of short stories. Skye and Dare are one of my favorite couples in the whole First and Forever series so getting a view into their life from Dares POV was great. This book is full of zainy kookiness and emotional feels that Alexa’s books are well known for.
December 9, 2018
Another great add to the series. Loved being able to see past favorites in a whole new light with the added Holiday element this is a read you can't miss. This feels fresh and new, with surprises along the way. Don't want to say too much because I think it will ruin it but you'll laugh, smile and it will warm your heart. Can't wait for the next.
December 11, 2018
A wonderful Christmas collection.
I love Alexa Land’s Firsts and Forever series and her new Castaways series is equally brilliant. Five couples from these two series, five interwoven short stories, love, laughter and beautiful moments all come together to provide a highly entertaining holiday read. Highly recommended.
I love Alexa Land’s Firsts and Forever series and her new Castaways series is equally brilliant. Five couples from these two series, five interwoven short stories, love, laughter and beautiful moments all come together to provide a highly entertaining holiday read. Highly recommended.
December 13, 2018
Christmas understanding
Through the many different couples you will read about , you will see love . Old rock star feeling he is getting to old for his love . Artist who feels like he is letting everyone down but through love and understanding everything comes together with a happy ending.
Through the many different couples you will read about , you will see love . Old rock star feeling he is getting to old for his love . Artist who feels like he is letting everyone down but through love and understanding everything comes together with a happy ending.
December 13, 2018
Making Merry
What a beautiful story to end the year! This was as usual hilariously entertaining as well as feeling like you’re once again visiting with old friends. I absolutely love how these people from so many diverse backgrounds come together to make this truly loving and accepting family, not to mention the truly hot, hot guys.
What a beautiful story to end the year! This was as usual hilariously entertaining as well as feeling like you’re once again visiting with old friends. I absolutely love how these people from so many diverse backgrounds come together to make this truly loving and accepting family, not to mention the truly hot, hot guys.
December 23, 2018
Best Christmas book ever!
Loved it from the second I started reading! Couldn’t put it down till I finished. I loved reconnecting with past couples & all the laughter and surprises and love that this book blessed me with. Alexa will always be one of my favorite authors as every single book is another favorite! This is a MUST read!!!
Loved it from the second I started reading! Couldn’t put it down till I finished. I loved reconnecting with past couples & all the laughter and surprises and love that this book blessed me with. Alexa will always be one of my favorite authors as every single book is another favorite! This is a MUST read!!!
March 10, 2019
Loved this collection of short stories. Love the characters the Alexa Land has created. The only thing I felt uncomfortable about was some of the humour in one of the stories wasn't the kind I like. I prefer laughing with them. not at them. But even in this scene, it ended with me laughing at the final lines.
December 8, 2018
Merry Christmas indeed
I so loved the glimpses given into some of our favorite men. And the surprise in the last book was one I had been cheering for since the first met. Well done
I so loved the glimpses given into some of our favorite men. And the surprise in the last book was one I had been cheering for since the first met. Well done
December 9, 2018
Was nice to to visit some old friends.
Nicely written Christmas story featuring the Dombrusco family and some of their friends from Ms Land's books. Full of romance and humour. If you're a fan of this lady's books, you'll really enjoy these overlapping short stories.
Nicely written Christmas story featuring the Dombrusco family and some of their friends from Ms Land's books. Full of romance and humour. If you're a fan of this lady's books, you'll really enjoy these overlapping short stories.
December 9, 2018
Perfect Christmas
I absolutely loved reading this from these characters view point. From Dare to Christian to Zan to Cassidy then to Gianni. This collection is full of laughter and undeniable love. Alexa has really out drone herself i can't wait for what comes next.
I absolutely loved reading this from these characters view point. From Dare to Christian to Zan to Cassidy then to Gianni. This collection is full of laughter and undeniable love. Alexa has really out drone herself i can't wait for what comes next.
December 10, 2018
Awesome
I love this series!! It was so good to revisit old friends! One of my favorite things about this series is the humor. I laughed myself silly. Each book deals with a tough subject, but this author handles it with class. This book did not disappoint!!
I love this series!! It was so good to revisit old friends! One of my favorite things about this series is the humor. I laughed myself silly. Each book deals with a tough subject, but this author handles it with class. This book did not disappoint!!
December 11, 2018
Heartwarming and hilarious!
I loved the chance to catch up with some of our favorite family members. The way this was written for each story to seamlessly blend into the next was refreshing and made for an easy, delightful read. Thank you for making our holidays brighter.
I loved the chance to catch up with some of our favorite family members. The way this was written for each story to seamlessly blend into the next was refreshing and made for an easy, delightful read. Thank you for making our holidays brighter.
December 15, 2018
I loved this! It had all my favorite characters (which is like...all of them....in this series, how the hell can you pick?!) and it was awesome getting to see of their HEAs. Thanks for writing another amazing story!
December 26, 2018
Alexa Land has done it again. Gosh can't get enough of these boys (to men). Revisited book 3 more than once . Absolutely hilarious. Can't wait to see Colt get his HEA
Gosh I hope their stories go on for ever.
...please🤗🤗
Gosh I hope their stories go on for ever.
...please🤗🤗
March 17, 2020
A Dombrusco Family Christmas
This gave a little update on some of the family. We never read the marriage proposal or marriage of Zan and Gianni, this gave it to us, along with an update on Dare and Skye. Great work.
This gave a little update on some of the family. We never read the marriage proposal or marriage of Zan and Gianni, this gave it to us, along with an update on Dare and Skye. Great work.
December 14, 2018
Amazing! I laughed & I cried, smiled a lot too. It was sweet & loving, had two proposals & family gathering for Christmas & two surprise weddings. So good!
December 17, 2018
3.5 stars
December 21, 2018
Yes, I am an Alexa Land fan-boy and proud of it. This collection of Christmas stories involving the guys from her series is wonderful and heart-warming.
December 30, 2018
Oh, man, these glimpses into everyone's lives is so wonderful. I love how we got little updates of everyone and there is still the same heat and laughter as in all Alexa Land's books.
December 30, 2018
Beautiful.
I just loved it, revisiting with all the characters. It was fun, in the usual Dombrusso fashion, sweet and romantic. I will never get tired of reading this family.
I just loved it, revisiting with all the characters. It was fun, in the usual Dombrusso fashion, sweet and romantic. I will never get tired of reading this family.
January 20, 2019
Read the series first then enjoy this book.
Only read this if you have read the series. If you have not read the series yet, correct that immediately.
Funny and sweet holiday peek into the lives of some of my favorite characters.
Only read this if you have read the series. If you have not read the series yet, correct that immediately.
Funny and sweet holiday peek into the lives of some of my favorite characters.
April 6, 2019
Merry Christmas, everyone. *gives a happy contented sigh*
Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews