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Firsts and Forever #16
The Rest of Forever
Does love stand a chance between two very different long-time friends?
Mike Dombruso’s life is anything but glamorous. He’s a shy, nerdy accountant and a widower with three young sons, whose world revolves around his kids.
In many ways, Yoshiro Miyazaki is Mike’s polar opposite. He’s a confident, sophisticated tattoo artist who seems to have it all, from his successful business to his stylish loft apartment and rock star boyfriend.
Their unlikely friendship has spanned more than a decade, and Mike is surprised when he realizes he’s fallen for the best friend he’s ever had. After Yoshi breaks up with his boyfriend, Mike sees a window of opportunity. But he has some decisions to make.
Should he risk their friendship for a shot at something more, and is he really ready to explore his bisexuality for the first time? Most of all, can the young widower let go of the past and take a chance on love again?
And even if Mike decides to give it a try, will Yoshi really be willing to trade life in the fast lane for kids and carpools?
This friends-to-lovers and opposites attract MM romance is part of Alexa Land’s bestselling Firsts and Forever Series, but each book is written to stand alone, so jump in anywhere. Please note: it contains adult content and is intended for mature readers.
Mike Dombruso’s life is anything but glamorous. He’s a shy, nerdy accountant and a widower with three young sons, whose world revolves around his kids.
In many ways, Yoshiro Miyazaki is Mike’s polar opposite. He’s a confident, sophisticated tattoo artist who seems to have it all, from his successful business to his stylish loft apartment and rock star boyfriend.
Their unlikely friendship has spanned more than a decade, and Mike is surprised when he realizes he’s fallen for the best friend he’s ever had. After Yoshi breaks up with his boyfriend, Mike sees a window of opportunity. But he has some decisions to make.
Should he risk their friendship for a shot at something more, and is he really ready to explore his bisexuality for the first time? Most of all, can the young widower let go of the past and take a chance on love again?
And even if Mike decides to give it a try, will Yoshi really be willing to trade life in the fast lane for kids and carpools?
This friends-to-lovers and opposites attract MM romance is part of Alexa Land’s bestselling Firsts and Forever Series, but each book is written to stand alone, so jump in anywhere. Please note: it contains adult content and is intended for mature readers.
439 pages, Paperback
First published May 25, 2018
93 people are currently reading
196 people want to read
About the author
Alexa Land
57 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 78 reviews
May 30, 2018
Arghhhhhh....this pains me...
This pains me to say because it wasn’t badly written and I quite like Mike and there’s nothing wrong with Yoshi. It’s just....maybe I picked the wrong book to start with because it just seemed like everyone in the history of this series, is featured! They all show up for Nana’s not-birthday party!
I think if I read the entire series, I would have been thrilled with the not-Birthday party and everyone who was anyone turning up in most of the book. But this is my first book of the series, it only confused me because I don’t know who’s who!
Also, there was a lot of tell going on. It wasn’t too much but it was enough to annoy me. I realise it was to keep me, the clueless reader up to speed but argh, the way it was executed could have been better.
The one thing that had me scratching my head was, Mike and Yoshi have been friends for 12 years and best friends for at least the last couple of years. It’s funny how they don’t actually know each other. I mean, how could they not know simple things about each other’s lives? It seemed absurd! It was like the author forgot they’ve been best friends.
The transition from friends to lovers was awkward yet too seamless at times. Awkward because it’s funny how Mike doesn’t know the meaning of Yoshi’s tattoos or hasn’t noticed that it’s grown over time. It’s a sleeve tattoo not hidden! And too seamless because they didn’t have any problems at all! It was too perfect!
In fact, everyone was too perfect. Everyone was lovely, everyone was nice, everyone was so inclusive...it went right over the edge and on to too sickly sweet. I never imagined I’d ever complain about any book being sickly sweet but alas, I found it! Lol....
It’s not a bad book. It’s just....really not for me, I guess 😖
This pains me to say because it wasn’t badly written and I quite like Mike and there’s nothing wrong with Yoshi. It’s just....maybe I picked the wrong book to start with because it just seemed like everyone in the history of this series, is featured! They all show up for Nana’s not-birthday party!
I think if I read the entire series, I would have been thrilled with the not-Birthday party and everyone who was anyone turning up in most of the book. But this is my first book of the series, it only confused me because I don’t know who’s who!
Also, there was a lot of tell going on. It wasn’t too much but it was enough to annoy me. I realise it was to keep me, the clueless reader up to speed but argh, the way it was executed could have been better.
The one thing that had me scratching my head was, Mike and Yoshi have been friends for 12 years and best friends for at least the last couple of years. It’s funny how they don’t actually know each other. I mean, how could they not know simple things about each other’s lives? It seemed absurd! It was like the author forgot they’ve been best friends.
The transition from friends to lovers was awkward yet too seamless at times. Awkward because it’s funny how Mike doesn’t know the meaning of Yoshi’s tattoos or hasn’t noticed that it’s grown over time. It’s a sleeve tattoo not hidden! And too seamless because they didn’t have any problems at all! It was too perfect!
In fact, everyone was too perfect. Everyone was lovely, everyone was nice, everyone was so inclusive...it went right over the edge and on to too sickly sweet. I never imagined I’d ever complain about any book being sickly sweet but alas, I found it! Lol....
It’s not a bad book. It’s just....really not for me, I guess 😖
June 23, 2018
Hmm, I expected more from this. I really liked the part before Mike and Yoshi became a couple and there was a fun part at the end, but the relationship itself was so incredibly boring. Not even the sex toys or the ‘BDSM’ parts could make it any spicier.
Mike is a single father of 3. His boys certainly make his life interesting. MJ is 13, Mitchell is 11 and Mark is 9, and they’re a handful. But even though Mike is exhausted, he is managing. He is glad he at least has the help of his best friend Yoshi.
Mike and Yoshi have been friends for 12 years, but it never occurred to Mike that they’re basically have been acting like a couple for the last couple of years. When it hits him he is in love with Yoshi, he is not sure what to do. He wants to tell Yoshi, but Yoshi has a boyfriend, even though that boyfriend is a rock star who never calls.
When Nana has invited the entire family to a ranch in Catalina, Mike doesn’t hesitate to ask Yoshi to come along. And when Yoshi shows up to tell him he has broken up with his boyfriend, Mike knows this is his chance…
These guys were both pretty likable. Mike was amazing as a father, exhausted and still trying to take care of his kids the best he could. And Yoshi was always there for Mike, no matter what. But…. these guys missed some chemistry together for some reason. I just never felt it. I was instantly bored as soon as they got together.
I had a feeling there was nothing special between them and that’s why the author decided to had them dabble a little in bondage and in some power play. But it felt so unnatural to me that I never got into it. The same with their visit to a sex shop. It was the exact opposite of sexy. These guys talked everything to death and were so sensible about everything that I was bored immediately…
I really did like the parts with the kids though. Normally those are never my favorite, but these kids were awesome. I also wanted to read all about MJ and his budding ‘relationship’ with Aidan.
I also really loved Nana and the rest of the family with their antics.
But unfortunately they couldn’t quite save this book for me. It was nice, but the relationship was simply okay, and just not that special.
Mike is a single father of 3. His boys certainly make his life interesting. MJ is 13, Mitchell is 11 and Mark is 9, and they’re a handful. But even though Mike is exhausted, he is managing. He is glad he at least has the help of his best friend Yoshi.
Mike and Yoshi have been friends for 12 years, but it never occurred to Mike that they’re basically have been acting like a couple for the last couple of years. When it hits him he is in love with Yoshi, he is not sure what to do. He wants to tell Yoshi, but Yoshi has a boyfriend, even though that boyfriend is a rock star who never calls.
When Nana has invited the entire family to a ranch in Catalina, Mike doesn’t hesitate to ask Yoshi to come along. And when Yoshi shows up to tell him he has broken up with his boyfriend, Mike knows this is his chance…
These guys were both pretty likable. Mike was amazing as a father, exhausted and still trying to take care of his kids the best he could. And Yoshi was always there for Mike, no matter what. But…. these guys missed some chemistry together for some reason. I just never felt it. I was instantly bored as soon as they got together.
I had a feeling there was nothing special between them and that’s why the author decided to had them dabble a little in bondage and in some power play. But it felt so unnatural to me that I never got into it. The same with their visit to a sex shop. It was the exact opposite of sexy. These guys talked everything to death and were so sensible about everything that I was bored immediately…
I really did like the parts with the kids though. Normally those are never my favorite, but these kids were awesome. I also wanted to read all about MJ and his budding ‘relationship’ with Aidan.
I also really loved Nana and the rest of the family with their antics.
But unfortunately they couldn’t quite save this book for me. It was nice, but the relationship was simply okay, and just not that special.
Read
June 12, 2018Mike and Yoshi's story was super sweet. I had expected some angst or drama, but outside of some minimal drama and frustrations for them at the start of things, it flowed really smoothly. They've known each other so long and were so involved in each other's lives it was almost as if they had already been together.
There were some surprises along the way, especially when it comes to what little we knew about Mike. He's not just the quiet, dull, buttoned-up accountant and dad we saw in the background. I really did like these two together and enjoyed their story. The love and care between both them - especially with Mike exploring a side of himself he never had before - really was touching. The two were absolutely a perfect team all-around.
I'm thrilled the Elijah was featured as well and that there will be a spin-off series for him and the new people we met. He's been a favorite of mine since he was introduced and he really needs a HEA. I'm always happy to see Dante as well and Alexa also gives us some time with the Dombruso brothers all together. Of course, as always, there were plenty of appearances from most of the past characters and ones I'd forgotten about as well.
Again, I wouldn't suggest anyone jump int the series at this point due to the sheer amount of characters and backstory involved (and really, if someone is jumping in at book 16 you should expect to be confused although there is some recap for each character which established readers might find a bit redundant at times). This was definitely on the sweeter side of the series' scale, and didn't pack the emotional punch of some of the other stories. Even the little bit of kink wasn't anything wild. If you've been waiting on Mike and Yoshi's story I think you'll be happy with how things work out and the changes in Mike as he finds happiness.
There were some surprises along the way, especially when it comes to what little we knew about Mike. He's not just the quiet, dull, buttoned-up accountant and dad we saw in the background. I really did like these two together and enjoyed their story. The love and care between both them - especially with Mike exploring a side of himself he never had before - really was touching. The two were absolutely a perfect team all-around.
I'm thrilled the Elijah was featured as well and that there will be a spin-off series for him and the new people we met. He's been a favorite of mine since he was introduced and he really needs a HEA. I'm always happy to see Dante as well and Alexa also gives us some time with the Dombruso brothers all together. Of course, as always, there were plenty of appearances from most of the past characters and ones I'd forgotten about as well.
Again, I wouldn't suggest anyone jump int the series at this point due to the sheer amount of characters and backstory involved (and really, if someone is jumping in at book 16 you should expect to be confused although there is some recap for each character which established readers might find a bit redundant at times). This was definitely on the sweeter side of the series' scale, and didn't pack the emotional punch of some of the other stories. Even the little bit of kink wasn't anything wild. If you've been waiting on Mike and Yoshi's story I think you'll be happy with how things work out and the changes in Mike as he finds happiness.
August 20, 2018
We get sweet, funny, serious, endearing, and loving moments with these big-hearted folks. We open with morning chaos as Mike Dombrusco, 32, accountant,
and the 6'4" father of three boys, Mike JR./MJ-12, Mark- 9, and Mitchell-10, plus their out of control dog, Gizmo.
We get up to date with Mike's history of losing his wife to a drunk driver 8 yrs. ago, and now his peaceful life is gone. We see the wild and crazy extended Dombrusco family, who get together in good times and rally together during tough times. Nana is 80, and the brothers are planning a surprise.
Mike'as best friend is Yoshi, 5'11", elegant and caring owner of a tattoo shop.
He's Asian, smart, and dating a rock star.
He's always been there for Mike and the family, and now, he and Mike start hanging out on Mondays to help Mike regain some sanity, as they get closer.
We see the long process of planning their event on Catalina Island, the talent show at school, and the daily commotion of family life.
I love this series and the magnificent characters, the issues and conversations, plus the heartwarming story of love and enlightening discoveries. Hot sexy M/M first times for Mike once Yoshi breaks up with his boyfriend. Mike also discovers he likes to be bound and dominated. Not full BDSM, just light and fun sexiness.
Of course there are serious talks and issues, too, and much more.
This is a wonderful tale and a grand edition to the series. We also have a glimpse of the next spin-off series centered on Catalina.
Yanis Marshall dancing to One More Time... Brittany ...
https://youtu.be/GOFnBEhIFnw
I highly recommend this book.
ENJOY !
====
and the 6'4" father of three boys, Mike JR./MJ-12, Mark- 9, and Mitchell-10, plus their out of control dog, Gizmo.
We get up to date with Mike's history of losing his wife to a drunk driver 8 yrs. ago, and now his peaceful life is gone. We see the wild and crazy extended Dombrusco family, who get together in good times and rally together during tough times. Nana is 80, and the brothers are planning a surprise.
Mike'as best friend is Yoshi, 5'11", elegant and caring owner of a tattoo shop.
He's Asian, smart, and dating a rock star.
He's always been there for Mike and the family, and now, he and Mike start hanging out on Mondays to help Mike regain some sanity, as they get closer.
We see the long process of planning their event on Catalina Island, the talent show at school, and the daily commotion of family life.
I love this series and the magnificent characters, the issues and conversations, plus the heartwarming story of love and enlightening discoveries. Hot sexy M/M first times for Mike once Yoshi breaks up with his boyfriend. Mike also discovers he likes to be bound and dominated. Not full BDSM, just light and fun sexiness.
Of course there are serious talks and issues, too, and much more.
This is a wonderful tale and a grand edition to the series. We also have a glimpse of the next spin-off series centered on Catalina.
Yanis Marshall dancing to One More Time... Brittany ...
https://youtu.be/GOFnBEhIFnw
I highly recommend this book.
ENJOY !
====
May 29, 2018
I dare you to read this without smiling!
I've been in love with Alexa Land's First and Forever series ever since I read Coming Home, the ninth book in the series. Then I binge read the first eight. The Rest of Forever is book #16, and it's just as fresh, funny and heartwarming as ever!I
This book features Mike Dombruso, single dad of three young boys, and as the book begins, we are dropped right into the middle of their chaotic morning routine. It's funny, but also serves to underscore just how exhausted Mike is. He needs a break. He needs some time to himself. He needs help!
Yoshi and Mike have been best friends for years. Even more, they have had a crush on each other for ages. But Mike has never believed that the worldly and sophisticated Yoshi would be interested in a family man like him, and Yoshi always assumed Mike was straight, and therefore unattainable.
This is a wonderful story with a friends-to-lovers theme, and features a Dombruso family reunion. Yes, all four Dombruso brothers, their husbands, children, other relatives, frends-turned-honorary-Dombrusos, and of course Ollie and Nana rent out an entire ranch on Southern California's beautiful Catalina Island, for a week of fun, relaxation and good times!I
We also get to see what several other characters are up to, most especially Gianni and his boyfriend Zan (from Belonging) and Quinn and his husband Duke (from Take a Chance On Me.) Plus, we find out a lot more about Elijah, since his book will be next.
Every time a new book by Alexa Land comes out, I have to put down anything else I'm reading and dive right in. And the entire time I read The Rest of Forever, I couldn't stop smiling. Cheers!
I've been in love with Alexa Land's First and Forever series ever since I read Coming Home, the ninth book in the series. Then I binge read the first eight. The Rest of Forever is book #16, and it's just as fresh, funny and heartwarming as ever!I
This book features Mike Dombruso, single dad of three young boys, and as the book begins, we are dropped right into the middle of their chaotic morning routine. It's funny, but also serves to underscore just how exhausted Mike is. He needs a break. He needs some time to himself. He needs help!
Yoshi and Mike have been best friends for years. Even more, they have had a crush on each other for ages. But Mike has never believed that the worldly and sophisticated Yoshi would be interested in a family man like him, and Yoshi always assumed Mike was straight, and therefore unattainable.
This is a wonderful story with a friends-to-lovers theme, and features a Dombruso family reunion. Yes, all four Dombruso brothers, their husbands, children, other relatives, frends-turned-honorary-Dombrusos, and of course Ollie and Nana rent out an entire ranch on Southern California's beautiful Catalina Island, for a week of fun, relaxation and good times!I
We also get to see what several other characters are up to, most especially Gianni and his boyfriend Zan (from Belonging) and Quinn and his husband Duke (from Take a Chance On Me.) Plus, we find out a lot more about Elijah, since his book will be next.
Every time a new book by Alexa Land comes out, I have to put down anything else I'm reading and dive right in. And the entire time I read The Rest of Forever, I couldn't stop smiling. Cheers!
May 30, 2018
Awe the feels , smiles & love in this book, so beautiful & inspiring. It was actually happy tears to cry for a change. The family & love they share in this book is so heartwarming. I so love Mike & Yoshi hard & the whole family. Alexa did a beautiful job writing this book & I can't wait for the next book!
May 27, 2018
Right in the feels.
I love this series and this book doesn't disappoint. The romance and the doubt are real aspects people feel in the start of a relationship before they give everything of themselves to it. I can't wait for the next book in the series.
I love this series and this book doesn't disappoint. The romance and the doubt are real aspects people feel in the start of a relationship before they give everything of themselves to it. I can't wait for the next book in the series.
May 31, 2018
Had great difficulty with this book ... or perhaps it's this author's writing that is no longer for me :-/!! I dislike having to rate it so low, but this fell very flat for me :-/!!
I have a few thoughts to mull over and I'll be back with them shortly ...
I WILL say this though: WHAT on earth is with all the "I adore you"-s?!!? From a personal perspective, I use the word 'adore' A LOT when describing something I, well, ADORE!! But see, 'adore', for me, is a rung or two BELOW the word 'love'; it's incredibly incredibly INCREDIBLY rare for me to use the word 'love' or say I love something, and of course ONLY ever use it when I ACTUALLY love that something or someone [to those things or to THEM, I of course shower those words of love, ABSOLUTELY]!! But what I'm saying is, I use those words incredibly carefully; they mean something and that meaning is PROFOUND!! That being said, I say 'adore' A LOT when I want to express a deep, significant, and TRUE appreciation for something or someone that goes WAAAAY above just liking something, but isn't something or someone I LOVE!! VERY clear distinctions for me!! Adoring something or someone (for me) is definitely NOT as powerful as loving something or someone; STILL POWERFUL, but definitely NOT in the same way! I mean, sure, if I love someone then I OF COURSE adore them as well, but if I only adore someone, it doesn't necessarily mean I love them too! All circles are shapes but not all shapes are circles ... ya know?!!? There is a very VERY clear distinction for me!! Anyway ... to cut the ramble ...
It is odd to me that after confessing their love for one another, they revert back to saying "I adore you" a gazillion times each way! By the way, I find it very difficult to believe men would keep saying this to one another, ESPECIALLY after having already shared the climactic "I love you"!! They talk about getting married and they say "I adore you" instead of 'I love you', and I just find that incredibly odd!! You're talking about spending the rest of your lives with one another ... shouldn't you go all out in continuing to express your incredible love, the love you've already mutually declared and admitted to sharing?!!? I don't know ... based on how I differentiate the two sentiments, this fell VERY flat for me!!
If they love one another, it's most definitely okay to say they adore one another too ... both apply when love is involved, but you'd think that in such an important moment, they wouldn't spare their declarations and would be shouting their love from the rooftops!!
It's 04:00 here and I am going on and on and I haven't even proofread this yet ... but I'm confident this makes complete (and legitimate) sense!!
Example #1::
“I held up his left hand and traced a line around the base of his ring finger as I said, “Wedding bands.” “What?” He looked startled.
“You know I adore you,” I told him, as I got down on one knee. The boys all gathered around, and Dante took off his shoe and threw it at Vincent. Vinny woke with a start and knocked the shoe into the blazing fire pit, and when he realized what was happening, he shook Trevor, who awoke with an unflattering snort.
I watched my brothers with a raised eyebrow, and then I turned my attention back to Yoshi and took his hand in both of mine. “As I was saying, I adore you, and I can’t imagine life without you by my side. More than anything, I want to be your husband and spend the rest of forever making you as happy as you make me, so will you marry me, Yoshi?”
Example #2::
“The ceremony was short and sweet. I pledged to love my sweet, gorgeous Yoshi forever, and he promised to love me in return. When the official pronounced us married, I brushed a tear of happiness from my husband’s cheek and whispered, “I absolutely adore you.” We kissed passionately, as the audience cheered and applauded and our sons threw glitter confetti.”
I mean, “I absolutely ADORE you” (or this or that) is most definitely a sentence I say A LOT [it’s weird seeing it somewhere else - haha - however that’s beside the point] ... BUT, what I’m saying is, to me, it’s not necessarily ANYWHERE NEAR a declaration of LOVE!! I get that in this case, the two sentiments and emotions walk hand in hand with one another (as they can do), but still, I just find it very VERY odd that on their WEDDING DAY, instead of professing their love for one another, they say “I adore you”!! It’s off and anticlimactic and just ... well, MEH!!!
As a whole, this author is clearly not for me at all anymore :-/!!
OH!! And Ferrets are DEFINITELY NOT weasels (I have 4 ferrets)!!!! Same genus (they’re very distant cousins in that they belong to the same scientific family - the Mustelidae), YES, but they’re NOT weasels!! Ferrets are also NOWHERE NEAR being in the same category as rodents; NOT EVEN CLOSE 😡!!!!!!!!
So yeah, once again, this just fell flat for me :-/!!
I have a few thoughts to mull over and I'll be back with them shortly ...
I WILL say this though: WHAT on earth is with all the "I adore you"-s?!!? From a personal perspective, I use the word 'adore' A LOT when describing something I, well, ADORE!! But see, 'adore', for me, is a rung or two BELOW the word 'love'; it's incredibly incredibly INCREDIBLY rare for me to use the word 'love' or say I love something, and of course ONLY ever use it when I ACTUALLY love that something or someone [to those things or to THEM, I of course shower those words of love, ABSOLUTELY]!! But what I'm saying is, I use those words incredibly carefully; they mean something and that meaning is PROFOUND!! That being said, I say 'adore' A LOT when I want to express a deep, significant, and TRUE appreciation for something or someone that goes WAAAAY above just liking something, but isn't something or someone I LOVE!! VERY clear distinctions for me!! Adoring something or someone (for me) is definitely NOT as powerful as loving something or someone; STILL POWERFUL, but definitely NOT in the same way! I mean, sure, if I love someone then I OF COURSE adore them as well, but if I only adore someone, it doesn't necessarily mean I love them too! All circles are shapes but not all shapes are circles ... ya know?!!? There is a very VERY clear distinction for me!! Anyway ... to cut the ramble ...
It is odd to me that after confessing their love for one another, they revert back to saying "I adore you" a gazillion times each way! By the way, I find it very difficult to believe men would keep saying this to one another, ESPECIALLY after having already shared the climactic "I love you"!! They talk about getting married and they say "I adore you" instead of 'I love you', and I just find that incredibly odd!! You're talking about spending the rest of your lives with one another ... shouldn't you go all out in continuing to express your incredible love, the love you've already mutually declared and admitted to sharing?!!? I don't know ... based on how I differentiate the two sentiments, this fell VERY flat for me!!
If they love one another, it's most definitely okay to say they adore one another too ... both apply when love is involved, but you'd think that in such an important moment, they wouldn't spare their declarations and would be shouting their love from the rooftops!!
It's 04:00 here and I am going on and on and I haven't even proofread this yet ... but I'm confident this makes complete (and legitimate) sense!!
Example #1::
“I held up his left hand and traced a line around the base of his ring finger as I said, “Wedding bands.” “What?” He looked startled.
“You know I adore you,” I told him, as I got down on one knee. The boys all gathered around, and Dante took off his shoe and threw it at Vincent. Vinny woke with a start and knocked the shoe into the blazing fire pit, and when he realized what was happening, he shook Trevor, who awoke with an unflattering snort.
I watched my brothers with a raised eyebrow, and then I turned my attention back to Yoshi and took his hand in both of mine. “As I was saying, I adore you, and I can’t imagine life without you by my side. More than anything, I want to be your husband and spend the rest of forever making you as happy as you make me, so will you marry me, Yoshi?”
Example #2::
“The ceremony was short and sweet. I pledged to love my sweet, gorgeous Yoshi forever, and he promised to love me in return. When the official pronounced us married, I brushed a tear of happiness from my husband’s cheek and whispered, “I absolutely adore you.” We kissed passionately, as the audience cheered and applauded and our sons threw glitter confetti.”
I mean, “I absolutely ADORE you” (or this or that) is most definitely a sentence I say A LOT [it’s weird seeing it somewhere else - haha - however that’s beside the point] ... BUT, what I’m saying is, to me, it’s not necessarily ANYWHERE NEAR a declaration of LOVE!! I get that in this case, the two sentiments and emotions walk hand in hand with one another (as they can do), but still, I just find it very VERY odd that on their WEDDING DAY, instead of professing their love for one another, they say “I adore you”!! It’s off and anticlimactic and just ... well, MEH!!!
As a whole, this author is clearly not for me at all anymore :-/!!
OH!! And Ferrets are DEFINITELY NOT weasels (I have 4 ferrets)!!!! Same genus (they’re very distant cousins in that they belong to the same scientific family - the Mustelidae), YES, but they’re NOT weasels!! Ferrets are also NOWHERE NEAR being in the same category as rodents; NOT EVEN CLOSE 😡!!!!!!!!
So yeah, once again, this just fell flat for me :-/!!
November 7, 2020
This could have been great ... but seriously, that was a very fast turn from friendship to lovers. Too fast for me, which is a pity because I had high hopes after the first half
June 22, 2018
If you like this series, you should enjoy this book. Do not start the series here, however. There are too many characters to give you pleasure.
But for those deep in the series, this book marks an arc toward a more contained subset in the series so Land can manage a smaller cast again.
She does a great job with Yoshi's and Mike's friends to lovers tale. It is sweet and hot as the romance slides into what were already very committed friends.
I like kids so I like Mike's kids and there is really tender fatherhood stuff in here especially around parenting a teen.
The cast is huge but they don't steal the light from the couple.
We get a not really needed grand gesture.
A comfort read.
But for those deep in the series, this book marks an arc toward a more contained subset in the series so Land can manage a smaller cast again.
She does a great job with Yoshi's and Mike's friends to lovers tale. It is sweet and hot as the romance slides into what were already very committed friends.
I like kids so I like Mike's kids and there is really tender fatherhood stuff in here especially around parenting a teen.
The cast is huge but they don't steal the light from the couple.
We get a not really needed grand gesture.
A comfort read.
May 27, 2018
The Rest of Forever
This book was everything I wanted and more! I’ve been so excited for Mike and Yoshi’s story I loved getting to know Mike’s boys more and Mike. This was not as full of Nana’s shenanigans and it definitely wasn’t missed. Even though I’m not a fan of BDSM the elements in this book didn’t bother me and seemed to just be natural for Mike and Yoshi.
This book was everything I wanted and more! I’ve been so excited for Mike and Yoshi’s story I loved getting to know Mike’s boys more and Mike. This was not as full of Nana’s shenanigans and it definitely wasn’t missed. Even though I’m not a fan of BDSM the elements in this book didn’t bother me and seemed to just be natural for Mike and Yoshi.
May 29, 2018
Great as always
I love Alexa Land's First and forever series and this is another great love story. Mike and Yoshi are meant to be together !! They are absolutely stunningly wonderful ,two very different people that complete each other. The Dombrusos are fabulous, Dante and Vincent along with Gianni are the brothers who support Mike without making miss him the jokes and mockery typical of siblings, but that love him unconditionally (with them there are their husbands and partners Trevor,Charlie and Zan) Nana, that even if,already appears very little from the second last book is great as always!! beside them, there are all the other characters ( the main and the secondary as well) that have told us their stories which are too many to name one by one. I don't know if this is the last book of the series but what I know for sure is that I'll miss all of them; people that I have started to love ; they made me laugh to tears, they made me cry and cheer for their love and that kept me company for many hours. Thanks Alexa ! Ok I'm done with it. For the plot please read the blurb
I love Alexa Land's First and forever series and this is another great love story. Mike and Yoshi are meant to be together !! They are absolutely stunningly wonderful ,two very different people that complete each other. The Dombrusos are fabulous, Dante and Vincent along with Gianni are the brothers who support Mike without making miss him the jokes and mockery typical of siblings, but that love him unconditionally (with them there are their husbands and partners Trevor,Charlie and Zan) Nana, that even if,already appears very little from the second last book is great as always!! beside them, there are all the other characters ( the main and the secondary as well) that have told us their stories which are too many to name one by one. I don't know if this is the last book of the series but what I know for sure is that I'll miss all of them; people that I have started to love ; they made me laugh to tears, they made me cry and cheer for their love and that kept me company for many hours. Thanks Alexa ! Ok I'm done with it. For the plot please read the blurb
October 26, 2018
Now that’s how you end a series. This is the story of Yoshi, Mike and Mike’s three boys. Really, this is the story the end of a really fun sometimes heavy but mostly sweet series about the Dumbrusos and the people they love. I’ve been calling these ‘pendulum stories’ because the mood of the books successfully swing back-and-forth between really funny sometimes hilarious to serious and romantic. I can happily say kudos to Alexa Land for this series. She made me a complete and total fan.
May 29, 2018
Cute One
I find these a bit hit or miss usually. This one was a hit. I think the humor with the kids really elevated it. Enjoyable read.
I find these a bit hit or miss usually. This one was a hit. I think the humor with the kids really elevated it. Enjoyable read.
May 15, 2024
Love makes a family
The rest of forever was such a beautifully told story i loved it so much
I felt everything mike and Yoshi was going though their laughter tears their happiness and most of all love it jumped of every page
I was hooked from beginning to end of Mike and yoshi's journey
I really enjoyed The catch up with previous characters from this amazing and beautiful series
The rest of forever was such a perfect and beautiful instalment to this amazing series
I can't wait to see what the wonderful alexa land has for us next
The rest of forever was such a beautifully told story i loved it so much
I felt everything mike and Yoshi was going though their laughter tears their happiness and most of all love it jumped of every page
I was hooked from beginning to end of Mike and yoshi's journey
I really enjoyed The catch up with previous characters from this amazing and beautiful series
The rest of forever was such a perfect and beautiful instalment to this amazing series
I can't wait to see what the wonderful alexa land has for us next
May 30, 2018
I'm sorry to be giving this book only 2 stars. It will be a first for this series that I've loved so far. It was just... so monotonous, boring even. Not even a little bit of emotion was aroused during reading this story today.
It just wasn't right. And to think I've been waiting for this book, Mark and Yoshi's story, for so long.
Hopefully Eli and Cas's story will be better. Fingers crossed.
It just wasn't right. And to think I've been waiting for this book, Mark and Yoshi's story, for so long.
Hopefully Eli and Cas's story will be better. Fingers crossed.
May 30, 2018
I've said this before but sadly it needs to be repeated....
Once a series gets so big the author needs to decide whether they want to give their LOYAL readers a FULL STORY or if they want to drive away their loyal readers who have been with them from the start in order to give new readers ALL OF THE OTHER CHARACTERS AND THEIR STORIES in each and every book!
It is my humble opinion that if the author truly wants NEW readers they should be encouraged to start the series at the beginning. Not spoil the previous books with all of the info dumps in these following books. That way NEW readers can be encouraged to actually buy the other books in the series and LOYAL READERS WON'T be driven away with all the info dumps.
I hate being forced to say this about what has been my all time favorite series. It's filled with info dumps about past stories. Stories that I have purchased multiple copies for friends and family because I loved them so much. Stories that I've re-read just because I loved them so much. Stories that I Do NOT NEED RECAPPED OVER AND OVER AGAIN.
As a devoted reader of this series I already know ALL OF THE OTHER CHARACTERS AND THEIR STORIES! I've already paid hard earned money on their stories! I WANT A NEW BOOK!! NOT a book riddled with INFO DUMPS OF THE OTHER BOOKS!
Furthermore, we readers do not need things repeated over and over again.
I've waited a very long time for Mike and Yoshi's story. I didn't hesitate to purchase this as soon as it was released. The parts of the book that are truly their story I enjoyed. Those parts didn't disappoint. However, I would have liked the whole book to be their story.
My notes made while reading...
13.0% "I love this series. I always buy the newest book as soon as it's released. I love the characters. I love revisiting the characters. But damn, I get so tired of all of the info dumping backstory in them. This is book 16.... fans already know all of this! New readers shouldn't be starting here & if they do they should expect that there will be things they missed."
15.0% "OMDG! The info dumps continue...... *sigh*"
17.0% "Awwww.... what an absolutely sweet father/son moment! ....it's these moments that keep me buying this series despite all of the info dumps."
18.0% "SMH!!! Info dumps are still info dumps even if you try to hide it by making it a conversation!! Mike has been around for all of this! He didn't have to ask, he already knows!! And so do all of us loyal readers that have bought all of the previous 15 books!!!! I want new story!!"
39.0% "Readers aren't stupid. We don't need to be told multiple times that Carla and Maya are pregnant or people's ages and relationships. SMH...."
43.0% "and the info dumps sadly continue..... 😞😞😞
89.0% "*sigh**sigh**sigh* turn the page and still more backstory.... *sigh**sigh**sigh*"
89.0% ""Vincent's son Josh and Josh's boyfriend Darwin" *sigh* Again, we are not stupid! We've already read "Vincent's son Josh and Josh's boyfriend Darwin" *sigh* We don't need it repeated. SMH...."
Despite all of those complaints I did enjoy Mike and Yoshi's transition from friends to lovers. I did enjoy getting to know MJ, Mitchell and Mark better. I did enjoy seeing everyone again. So of course,I do recommend this to everyone.
Once a series gets so big the author needs to decide whether they want to give their LOYAL readers a FULL STORY or if they want to drive away their loyal readers who have been with them from the start in order to give new readers ALL OF THE OTHER CHARACTERS AND THEIR STORIES in each and every book!
It is my humble opinion that if the author truly wants NEW readers they should be encouraged to start the series at the beginning. Not spoil the previous books with all of the info dumps in these following books. That way NEW readers can be encouraged to actually buy the other books in the series and LOYAL READERS WON'T be driven away with all the info dumps.
I hate being forced to say this about what has been my all time favorite series. It's filled with info dumps about past stories. Stories that I have purchased multiple copies for friends and family because I loved them so much. Stories that I've re-read just because I loved them so much. Stories that I Do NOT NEED RECAPPED OVER AND OVER AGAIN.
As a devoted reader of this series I already know ALL OF THE OTHER CHARACTERS AND THEIR STORIES! I've already paid hard earned money on their stories! I WANT A NEW BOOK!! NOT a book riddled with INFO DUMPS OF THE OTHER BOOKS!
Furthermore, we readers do not need things repeated over and over again.
I've waited a very long time for Mike and Yoshi's story. I didn't hesitate to purchase this as soon as it was released. The parts of the book that are truly their story I enjoyed. Those parts didn't disappoint. However, I would have liked the whole book to be their story.
My notes made while reading...
13.0% "I love this series. I always buy the newest book as soon as it's released. I love the characters. I love revisiting the characters. But damn, I get so tired of all of the info dumping backstory in them. This is book 16.... fans already know all of this! New readers shouldn't be starting here & if they do they should expect that there will be things they missed."
15.0% "OMDG! The info dumps continue...... *sigh*"
17.0% "Awwww.... what an absolutely sweet father/son moment! ....it's these moments that keep me buying this series despite all of the info dumps."
18.0% "SMH!!! Info dumps are still info dumps even if you try to hide it by making it a conversation!! Mike has been around for all of this! He didn't have to ask, he already knows!! And so do all of us loyal readers that have bought all of the previous 15 books!!!! I want new story!!"
39.0% "Readers aren't stupid. We don't need to be told multiple times that Carla and Maya are pregnant or people's ages and relationships. SMH...."
43.0% "and the info dumps sadly continue..... 😞😞😞
89.0% "*sigh**sigh**sigh* turn the page and still more backstory.... *sigh**sigh**sigh*"
89.0% ""Vincent's son Josh and Josh's boyfriend Darwin" *sigh* Again, we are not stupid! We've already read "Vincent's son Josh and Josh's boyfriend Darwin" *sigh* We don't need it repeated. SMH...."
Despite all of those complaints I did enjoy Mike and Yoshi's transition from friends to lovers. I did enjoy getting to know MJ, Mitchell and Mark better. I did enjoy seeing everyone again. So of course,I do recommend this to everyone.
January 11, 2021
I found Mike and Yoshi's story absolutely adorable. It was very heartwarming to see this "friends to lovers" dynamic as their relationship blossomed throughout the story. As Mike began stepping out of his comfort zone, he realized the importance of considering his own needs as well as accepting help from others (which Yoshi emphasized several times in the story). We see how this introverted accountant falls in love with a tattoo artist and how much their ideals align. It was such a nice journey when you see how relationships are when you are with someone who loves you for who you are and accepts your strengths and faults. Mike and Yoshi had shown that as they exposed their past vulnerabilities and underscored how they would continue to be there for each other.
Another thing that captured my attention from this story was the level of support that the Dombruso family provided each other. Mike's sons (MJ, Mitchell, and Mark) were incredibly supportive and would not hold back cheering their dad on. Mike's grandmother Nana Dombruso still had her crazy antics but that's what makes her so lovable. Celebrations went above and beyond to show how much the Dombrusos cared about each other and stuck by each other through the good and the bad (whether it was sharing moments on Catalina Island or providing support in a custody battle).
There were a few minor issues that didn't flow as well for me such as the dialogue between Mike and Yoshi's ex, Gale and the use of "adore" in certain situations where I would have expected "love" instead. But it didn't detract from the main context of the situation.
I've read another one of Alexa Land's books, Comfort & Joy and am going through the others in the First & Forever series. She knows how to capture the right emotions for her stories. Even if people are not main characters in a particular book, her characterization of these individuals allow their personalities to shine (like Zan and his supportive role for Mike's son, MJ). I could not stop smiling after reading about how Mike and Yoshi were meant for each other. Since they had a past history with each other (Yoshi being Mike's brother Gianni's close friend), it wasn't just a love at first sight situation. It was incredibly sweet.
I highly recommend this book for a nice, feel-good romance read!
Another thing that captured my attention from this story was the level of support that the Dombruso family provided each other. Mike's sons (MJ, Mitchell, and Mark) were incredibly supportive and would not hold back cheering their dad on. Mike's grandmother Nana Dombruso still had her crazy antics but that's what makes her so lovable. Celebrations went above and beyond to show how much the Dombrusos cared about each other and stuck by each other through the good and the bad (whether it was sharing moments on Catalina Island or providing support in a custody battle).
There were a few minor issues that didn't flow as well for me such as the dialogue between Mike and Yoshi's ex, Gale and the use of "adore" in certain situations where I would have expected "love" instead. But it didn't detract from the main context of the situation.
I've read another one of Alexa Land's books, Comfort & Joy and am going through the others in the First & Forever series. She knows how to capture the right emotions for her stories. Even if people are not main characters in a particular book, her characterization of these individuals allow their personalities to shine (like Zan and his supportive role for Mike's son, MJ). I could not stop smiling after reading about how Mike and Yoshi were meant for each other. Since they had a past history with each other (Yoshi being Mike's brother Gianni's close friend), it wasn't just a love at first sight situation. It was incredibly sweet.
I highly recommend this book for a nice, feel-good romance read!
June 4, 2018
This is clearly a friends to lovers tale. Considering these two have known each other for years and are best friends, there really shouldn't be any fireworks. But there are some! And not the typical--"oh! I can't do anything about this newfound desire because I will ruin the friendship!" There is some of that, but thankfully it's not the main source of conflict.
I enjoyed seeing this take on two very close friends with an established relationship try and shift it over into something deeper and new.
Michael has been devoting himself entirely to his three sons after his wife's death. He's buried himself deep in the guise of father and boring accountant, safe from any new loss, and keeping his kids safe from that too.
His best friend Yoshi, originally good friend of Michael's brother Gianni, sees that Michael is slowing drowning under the responsibilities he's forcing on himself. Yoshi has been around to help all this time, but now makes Michael accept some of that help and take some time for himself.
So... building on everything, these two start to change even more. Michael, the most, but Yoshi, too. And it's sweet and lovely to see.
Not a little in the bedroom, too, since Michael is very inexperienced, with sex and with men. He discovers he's also got some extra little kinks (very mild).
This all happens against the background of the huge Dombruso family. Definitely read the previous books--at least some of them--to get an idea of who the cast of characters are (although I don't think it should interfere with the enjoyment if you don't read the previous books... the characters are all explained enough for their appearances).
If you like this series, you'll know what to expect: a sweet tale of men in love--and how that works within their huge family and relations. That works for me.
I enjoyed seeing this take on two very close friends with an established relationship try and shift it over into something deeper and new.
Michael has been devoting himself entirely to his three sons after his wife's death. He's buried himself deep in the guise of father and boring accountant, safe from any new loss, and keeping his kids safe from that too.
His best friend Yoshi, originally good friend of Michael's brother Gianni, sees that Michael is slowing drowning under the responsibilities he's forcing on himself. Yoshi has been around to help all this time, but now makes Michael accept some of that help and take some time for himself.
So... building on everything, these two start to change even more. Michael, the most, but Yoshi, too. And it's sweet and lovely to see.
Not a little in the bedroom, too, since Michael is very inexperienced, with sex and with men. He discovers he's also got some extra little kinks (very mild).
This all happens against the background of the huge Dombruso family. Definitely read the previous books--at least some of them--to get an idea of who the cast of characters are (although I don't think it should interfere with the enjoyment if you don't read the previous books... the characters are all explained enough for their appearances).
If you like this series, you'll know what to expect: a sweet tale of men in love--and how that works within their huge family and relations. That works for me.
July 9, 2022
So this being the last book of this part of the Firsts world, it seems like an overview of my feelings feels right. My favorite books in this series are #7-14, but I've enjoyed all of them to a decent extent. Sometimes I have sincere doubts that there are men who would behave the way some of the men in this series behave, (or people in general). Sometimes things are so unbelievably unrealistic & everyone's financial situations are so outlandish that I have to just force myself to pretend it's like Fantasy, minus things like dragons & literal unicorns & shit. But overall, I've really, truly enjoyed the series quite a lot.
This one kinda fell flat for me though, but not so much because of Mike & Yoshi, though it did seem like problems were solved too quickly and they changed for each other with so little drama - humor is a great part of this series, but my favorite books in the series involved far more suspense, angst, and pathos. There was a lot of potential for that in this book, but the emotional depth just wasn't there enough for me. However, what most distracted me & kept me from loving it was the involvement of other characters, or lack thereof, depending. With this book and with the last couple, some characters from previous books repeatedly pop up and sometimes they seem like it makes sense for them to be there and sometimes it just seems like an excuse for a cameo. But with this book in particular, there are characters from previous books who weren't there who I think should have been there, particularly since this book contains a celebration of Nana. There was this perfect opportunity to bring back crucial characters from earlier books, (like Jessie), but it was an opportunity lost.
For those who like slightly lighter reads & have loved all the previous books though, I think it'll still be enjoyable.
This one kinda fell flat for me though, but not so much because of Mike & Yoshi, though it did seem like problems were solved too quickly and they changed for each other with so little drama - humor is a great part of this series, but my favorite books in the series involved far more suspense, angst, and pathos. There was a lot of potential for that in this book, but the emotional depth just wasn't there enough for me. However, what most distracted me & kept me from loving it was the involvement of other characters, or lack thereof, depending. With this book and with the last couple, some characters from previous books repeatedly pop up and sometimes they seem like it makes sense for them to be there and sometimes it just seems like an excuse for a cameo. But with this book in particular, there are characters from previous books who weren't there who I think should have been there, particularly since this book contains a celebration of Nana. There was this perfect opportunity to bring back crucial characters from earlier books, (like Jessie), but it was an opportunity lost.
For those who like slightly lighter reads & have loved all the previous books though, I think it'll still be enjoyable.
May 31, 2018
Oh how I loved this book, let me count the ways. I might even go as far out on a limb to say it was my favourite of the series. We have had Mike and Yoshi in the background for pretty well most of the series. Mike is the quintessential nerd, the straight accountant with 3 young boys and a wife who was killed in an accident 8 years previous. Yoshi is Gianni's best friend, but since Gianni took off a few years before with the man of his dreams, Yoshi and Mike become very very close.
Fast forward part way through the book Mike's son lets slip in front of Yoshi that Mike is in fact bi-sexual. Mike doesn't understand Yoshi's strong reaction, little did he know Yoshi has loved him even when he was married to Jenni, ans we discover Yoshi is only with his boyfriend because he can't have the man of his dreams, his straight best friend.
To say things heat up pretty quickly from that revelation is an understatement. When these two come together it is truly beautiful, and who would suspect Mike has submissive tendencies. yikes!! their coupling is sexy and super duper hot... It was wonderful how Mike got all alpha on Yoshi's X also.
Over the period of the book we watch Mike fly in the face of change, he was already a great character, but Yoshi is the hero in this book, the love and support he's always given Mike is wonderful, but how they transition as a couple is pretty well all on Yoshi.
It was also epic to see the family back together, and I love how it was set up for a new series on Catalina Island. i envision also we will be back in a few years when the next generation of Dombruso's age out... MJ and Aiden in particular... all I can say is Alexa, please don't make us wait tooooo long for the next book.
Fast forward part way through the book Mike's son lets slip in front of Yoshi that Mike is in fact bi-sexual. Mike doesn't understand Yoshi's strong reaction, little did he know Yoshi has loved him even when he was married to Jenni, ans we discover Yoshi is only with his boyfriend because he can't have the man of his dreams, his straight best friend.
To say things heat up pretty quickly from that revelation is an understatement. When these two come together it is truly beautiful, and who would suspect Mike has submissive tendencies. yikes!! their coupling is sexy and super duper hot... It was wonderful how Mike got all alpha on Yoshi's X also.
Over the period of the book we watch Mike fly in the face of change, he was already a great character, but Yoshi is the hero in this book, the love and support he's always given Mike is wonderful, but how they transition as a couple is pretty well all on Yoshi.
It was also epic to see the family back together, and I love how it was set up for a new series on Catalina Island. i envision also we will be back in a few years when the next generation of Dombruso's age out... MJ and Aiden in particular... all I can say is Alexa, please don't make us wait tooooo long for the next book.
May 28, 2018
Another awesome add to the series. Mike and Yoshi were definitely worth the wait. This book hit on a lot of real issues with discovering who you are (at any age) and coming to terms with accepting yourself at your time. It was so sweet, romantic and hot (of course!). After years of just being friends, then developing deeper feelings you would struggle with insecurities and wanting to do the right thing for everyone involved. With Mike being a single dad of 3 kids under 12, the kids (Mj, Mitchell, and Mark) played a huge role in the story which I loved getting to know more about them. Being a parent is kinda all Mike knows about himself, he has to be brave to find out who he is as a person. Yoshi has always kept parts of himself from others, never wanting more because he's only had eyes for the one guy he could never have. I loved how Yoshi fit into Mike's life perfectly and it made sense he was there. This family knows him and loves him already, and each scene with the kids was adorable. Some old favorites of course and some new added stories from them (Zan and Gianni, Eli, Quinn, Duke and Aiden) and some new faces (Red and Beck Medina, Cassidy, Sage) and places (Avalon on Catalina Island). Can't wait for the spin off! So excited. As always this Dombruso Universe is filled with loving characters and a amazing supporting family and I can't get enough. Can't wait for the next.
May 28, 2018
The Rest of Forever is the 16th book in The Firsts and Forever series. I have no clue how Alexa Land keeps this series so fresh and exciting, but she does.
If you follow the series, we have been waiting for Mike's story for years. I have to admit, the wait was worth it. ABSOLUTELY worth it!
Mike and Yoshi's story is just beautiful. The two men have been best friends for years. Watching them become lovers is just wondrous.
As in every book in the series, we have fantastic scenes with the rest of the crazy crew. Having Gianni and Zan around is delightful. The entire family and extended family has a place in my heart forever. Each book makes me so happy and I am left feeling like I am home with my family. That is how well this series is written. Along with the fantastic stories of each man, we also have so much humor, crazy antics, love and acceptance. I cannot thank Alexa Land enough for bringing these characters to life and gifting us all with this amazing group of people.
July 12, 2018
How great was this book?
It made me DECIDE TO READ THE WHOLE SERIES!
This is a nicely written character study of a 'not-so-ready-made-family' and their interactions with the world around them.
Mikey is a GREAT dad! Like seriously! And to watch him grow and change as a man, even as a 30-plus year old single father, is such a treat! Yoshi and the boys made me happy too! Even their growth/development was well presented!
And speaking of their world...
Nana is simply THE BEST! I admit that I loved her in 'Take a Chance,' but her appearance and interactions in this book, are what made me decide to sample and then read the entire series. It also didn't hurt that the snatches of story line, and character development, that was shown, or hinted at, for a host of others from the series completely drew me in!
Once I finish the rest of the series (I'm done with 5 already and have 5 queued up), I'll read this one again and enjoy how everyone fits together even more!
It made me DECIDE TO READ THE WHOLE SERIES!
This is a nicely written character study of a 'not-so-ready-made-family' and their interactions with the world around them.
Mikey is a GREAT dad! Like seriously! And to watch him grow and change as a man, even as a 30-plus year old single father, is such a treat! Yoshi and the boys made me happy too! Even their growth/development was well presented!
And speaking of their world...
Nana is simply THE BEST! I admit that I loved her in 'Take a Chance,' but her appearance and interactions in this book, are what made me decide to sample and then read the entire series. It also didn't hurt that the snatches of story line, and character development, that was shown, or hinted at, for a host of others from the series completely drew me in!
Once I finish the rest of the series (I'm done with 5 already and have 5 queued up), I'll read this one again and enjoy how everyone fits together even more!
June 4, 2018
FINALLY MIKE AND YOSHI
Wow, Wow, WOW!!! This is a magnificently written story of how dedicated father, Mike, finally lets someone else love him. He finally lets someone else love his kids. Not just someone else, but Yoshi, his best friend. The only person, other than his brothers, he is close to and trusts. The kids MJ, Mark and Mitchell are a joy to read. They were written so well, they sounded like my nephews. The Dombruso clan is always a fantastic, fun time to read about. You can never have enough Nana. This was another beautifully written story of love and family. But the bottom line is always, family isn't only DNA, usually it's unconditional love and acceptance. This story has absolutely everything with two weddings, two talent shows, a happily ever after and an EPILOGUE!!! My favorite kind of book. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS BOOK AND THIS MAGNIFICENT SERIES!!!!!
Wow, Wow, WOW!!! This is a magnificently written story of how dedicated father, Mike, finally lets someone else love him. He finally lets someone else love his kids. Not just someone else, but Yoshi, his best friend. The only person, other than his brothers, he is close to and trusts. The kids MJ, Mark and Mitchell are a joy to read. They were written so well, they sounded like my nephews. The Dombruso clan is always a fantastic, fun time to read about. You can never have enough Nana. This was another beautifully written story of love and family. But the bottom line is always, family isn't only DNA, usually it's unconditional love and acceptance. This story has absolutely everything with two weddings, two talent shows, a happily ever after and an EPILOGUE!!! My favorite kind of book. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS BOOK AND THIS MAGNIFICENT SERIES!!!!!
July 2, 2018
Amazing series
This series was one the most amazing series I have ever read. I have been an avid reader for 40+ years. I can’t say enough about it! Each book can be read as a stand-alone but you will be totally missing out on something great! This book was about the youngest Dombruso, Mikey. Mike and Yoshi melted my heart and left me craving more. Spoiler alert...please do not read if you hate spoilers.
Now, while I am looking forward to Elijah’s story... I’m ambivalent about him. I feel like he just turned his back on Finn and Chance...which seems tacky to me. Im hoping he will fix that in his book! Anyway, I am not sure how I will make it until September...maybe I will re-read the series again in August...
This series was one the most amazing series I have ever read. I have been an avid reader for 40+ years. I can’t say enough about it! Each book can be read as a stand-alone but you will be totally missing out on something great! This book was about the youngest Dombruso, Mikey. Mike and Yoshi melted my heart and left me craving more. Spoiler alert...please do not read if you hate spoilers.
Now, while I am looking forward to Elijah’s story... I’m ambivalent about him. I feel like he just turned his back on Finn and Chance...which seems tacky to me. Im hoping he will fix that in his book! Anyway, I am not sure how I will make it until September...maybe I will re-read the series again in August...
September 6, 2018
Yearning for someone
If, they were more open about their feelings, when they first met, it would have safe a lot of heart break and confusion. It took over three years of yearning for the heart of another, to see what was always there, LOVE. After all those years of yearning, he finally found out the truth about Mike's sexuality, and his love for him. They both went through a lot of suffering. Mike was marry and became a widower, with three young sons. Youshi was involved with a band leader, who was never there for him. They finally saw what was always missing, that they were ment to be together. The Firsts and Forever series is a great series to read, and I highly recommend it.
If, they were more open about their feelings, when they first met, it would have safe a lot of heart break and confusion. It took over three years of yearning for the heart of another, to see what was always there, LOVE. After all those years of yearning, he finally found out the truth about Mike's sexuality, and his love for him. They both went through a lot of suffering. Mike was marry and became a widower, with three young sons. Youshi was involved with a band leader, who was never there for him. They finally saw what was always missing, that they were ment to be together. The Firsts and Forever series is a great series to read, and I highly recommend it.
June 25, 2020
Sweet
Another ride with the wonderfully crazy Dombrusos. This time we get Mike and his boys. Mike is a wonderful father. His and Yoshi's story was lovely, Mike gets to discover who he is and what he wants. Then again, I am a sucker for the falling in love with the bff trope. Don't let the humor, sweetness, and domesticity mislead you, the are some spicy moments in the book. Of course, we can't have a firsts and forever book with out the huge zany bio and found family. Come for the spicy, and stay for the family togetherness.
Another ride with the wonderfully crazy Dombrusos. This time we get Mike and his boys. Mike is a wonderful father. His and Yoshi's story was lovely, Mike gets to discover who he is and what he wants. Then again, I am a sucker for the falling in love with the bff trope. Don't let the humor, sweetness, and domesticity mislead you, the are some spicy moments in the book. Of course, we can't have a firsts and forever book with out the huge zany bio and found family. Come for the spicy, and stay for the family togetherness.
May 28, 2018
I just love Mike and Yoshi! This book had so much balance to it. As a parent, it was comical to see that Mike went through so many of the same struggles with his boys as I do with mine. Mike and Yoshi’s shift from friends to lovers was a long time coming and, as usual, Alexa Land pulled it off flawlessly. This book was fun, sexy, emotional, and a perfect set-up for Ms. Land’s spin-off series that is to come. Mike and Yoshi’s story was a perfect addition to The Firsts and Forever series.
May 29, 2018
It's His Turn Now
This is a sweet hot read a about Mike finally coming to term with his feelings about Yoshi. But he doesn't want to mess up their friendship if the feeling aren't mutual. But he doesn't know that he is late in coming to his conclusions. Nana is always up for a party and Dante takes care of them all. It's always an entertaining read when the Dombruscos get together. Enjoy I did.
This is a sweet hot read a about Mike finally coming to term with his feelings about Yoshi. But he doesn't want to mess up their friendship if the feeling aren't mutual. But he doesn't know that he is late in coming to his conclusions. Nana is always up for a party and Dante takes care of them all. It's always an entertaining read when the Dombruscos get together. Enjoy I did.
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