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First & Forever Stories #2
Kept Man
Micah is a has-been rock star under house arrest, who’s managed to push away everyone he’s ever cared about.
Jasper is the sweet, beautiful escort Micah hires to share his home—and his bed—for the next six months.
The heat between them is undeniable. But can two very different men learn to trust and build something real, before the six months are up and life pulls them in opposite directions?
This low-angst, opposites attract gay romance is set in the world of Alexa Land’s Firsts and Forever Series, and it can be read as a stand-alone.
Jasper is the sweet, beautiful escort Micah hires to share his home—and his bed—for the next six months.
The heat between them is undeniable. But can two very different men learn to trust and build something real, before the six months are up and life pulls them in opposite directions?
This low-angst, opposites attract gay romance is set in the world of Alexa Land’s Firsts and Forever Series, and it can be read as a stand-alone.
186 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 29, 2021
100 people are currently reading
159 people want to read
About the author
Alexa Land
58 books787 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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December 16, 2022
MM Romance
Rockstar/Professional Escort
2.5 Stars ⭐️
A To Z Book Title Challenge: K
Well this book started fabulously and then around 85% became a dumpster fire. At first, this book was so adorable for a disgraced rock star & professional escort type book that I had the biggest smile on my face through most of it. It was the sweetest thing as I loved watching Micah and Jasper’s relationship go from a job to so much more. The sex scenes between them were super hot especially the flip fucking ones. 😋 & I adored Nana. It also takes place in San Francisco, my city by the bay 💗 Part of my heart is still there even though I’ve been living in the mountains for over 10 years (yes it’s not all beach in California 😉😂). But, I will say this huge mansion Micah supposedly owned and the way it was described (in the middle of nothing) fits absolutely nowhere in SF.
HOWEVER, around 85% this book went sideways. It became a cliché, can’t stop rolling my eyes cheese fest. Micah is a washed up rock star who had a falling out with his bro decades ago which we never get the full story of btw and randomly the author tries to do ‘happy families’ and it made no sense. Micah was also on house arrest and what happened with his parole officer during this part was so unrealistic and ridiculous that it just kind of ruined the book. Also, Micah is this disgraced rock star that had ONE hit album decades ago and somehow he is still rolling in money because the items he was buying were crazy expensive and it didn’t make a lot of sense. Most washed up rock stars wouldn’t have the funds he did especially with all the lawyers he needed to hire recently. It just stopped making sense, I stopped smiling and started cringing 😬 and I went from wanting to keep reading this series to pushing it away. So disappointed ☹️ because this was so good at the start.
Rockstar/Professional Escort
2.5 Stars ⭐️
A To Z Book Title Challenge: K
Well this book started fabulously and then around 85% became a dumpster fire. At first, this book was so adorable for a disgraced rock star & professional escort type book that I had the biggest smile on my face through most of it. It was the sweetest thing as I loved watching Micah and Jasper’s relationship go from a job to so much more. The sex scenes between them were super hot especially the flip fucking ones. 😋 & I adored Nana. It also takes place in San Francisco, my city by the bay 💗 Part of my heart is still there even though I’ve been living in the mountains for over 10 years (yes it’s not all beach in California 😉😂). But, I will say this huge mansion Micah supposedly owned and the way it was described (in the middle of nothing) fits absolutely nowhere in SF.
HOWEVER, around 85% this book went sideways. It became a cliché, can’t stop rolling my eyes cheese fest. Micah is a washed up rock star who had a falling out with his bro decades ago which we never get the full story of btw and randomly the author tries to do ‘happy families’ and it made no sense. Micah was also on house arrest and what happened with his parole officer during this part was so unrealistic and ridiculous that it just kind of ruined the book. Also, Micah is this disgraced rock star that had ONE hit album decades ago and somehow he is still rolling in money because the items he was buying were crazy expensive and it didn’t make a lot of sense. Most washed up rock stars wouldn’t have the funds he did especially with all the lawyers he needed to hire recently. It just stopped making sense, I stopped smiling and started cringing 😬 and I went from wanting to keep reading this series to pushing it away. So disappointed ☹️ because this was so good at the start.
August 2, 2021
Super sweet opposites attract romance. Micah is a caretaker and Jasper does everything on his own and doesn't get romantically involved with anyone. Micah quickly gets under Jasper's defenses and the two are really just perfect for each other.
Sexy, romantic and fun, with a few cameos from prior stories, I read this in one day. It was a great read after a few intense stories and works just fine as a standalone.
Sexy, romantic and fun, with a few cameos from prior stories, I read this in one day. It was a great read after a few intense stories and works just fine as a standalone.
July 29, 2021
Perfect romance
Micah and Jasper have the most unusual meet cute.
Micah is under house arrest and wants Jasper’s company for the 6 months he’s in lockdown.
I LOVED their chemistry and true caring of one another. It was sexy and hot! There was minimum angst and definitely high heat! They truly supported one another. It was heartwarming to read!
We get to see peeks of past characters such as Ash, Wes and of course Nana. Loved their contribution to the story.
This has an epic HEA that was truly very romantic. Loved it! Highly recommend this book and series!
Micah and Jasper have the most unusual meet cute.
Micah is under house arrest and wants Jasper’s company for the 6 months he’s in lockdown.
I LOVED their chemistry and true caring of one another. It was sexy and hot! There was minimum angst and definitely high heat! They truly supported one another. It was heartwarming to read!
We get to see peeks of past characters such as Ash, Wes and of course Nana. Loved their contribution to the story.
This has an epic HEA that was truly very romantic. Loved it! Highly recommend this book and series!
August 1, 2021
'Kept Man' is a light and very sweet romance that's surprisingly low angst considering the main characters are a sex worker and a disgraced rock star on house arrest. But of course they fit in perfectly to the First and Forevers series universe. I've been waiting for Jasper's story, and genuinely happy he gets his perfect ending. This series is so fun to read and I'm looking forward to Seth getting his happy ending in the next book.
Single POV, contemporary romance, with some heat, humor, and a very happy ending.
Single POV, contemporary romance, with some heat, humor, and a very happy ending.
Read
August 3, 2021DNF at 59% - Change the name of the main character/narrator and this could be any M/F romance. The dialogue does not ring true for famous male rockstar and very experienced professional male escort.
August 3, 2021
Another great HEA. I love everything about this sweet sexy opposites attract story. Looking forward to Seths story.
December 15, 2022
Circus of a story containing grown men who yell while orgasming, spontaneously burst into tears, sit on each other laps or being carried around like children. WTF? Also contains appalling terrorizing of a neighbor whose only fault is supposedly being homophobic without actually doing anything. Would you like to live across a rainbow-painted house with a rainbow flag on top? Even a colorblind person would freak out. Yikes.
dnf
August 19, 2021Dnf. A little too sweet and saccharine for me. And both MC's speech patterns sound the same.
August 15, 2021
3 Stars. This book started out good, then around 89% it just became a cluster of clichés.
February 4, 2023
This started so well. I was really enjoying it, and then, I wasn't. I liked that Jasper had a life outside of living with Micah, and that he brought people into Micah’s life, so it wasn’t just the two of them hiding away in an altered reality the entire book. It gave the characters and story more depth. Other than that, I wasn't feeling it. I kept forgetting there was an age gap with these two. Micah definitely acts younger. He actually flip flops a lot, between acting young and acting almost daddy-like to Jasper, which drove me nuts. It's definitely instalove too, with “baby” this, and “baby” that, from the start. And as the story progressed, it seemed to get cheesier. I found myself just wanting to skim through it at the end to be done.
July 30, 2021
Ok ya’ll…
Sometimes reading low/no angst means the storytelling fails. Building an organic relationship without conflict and making it believable is so difficult. But this book (and the first) does it. It’s absolutely funny and sweet from beginning to end. This is one of those stories that just fills you up and makes you swoon but isn’t Insta love and so out there that the reader thinks “this could never happen.” I loved the first book but I think I may have loved this one even more. I cannot wait for more.
Sometimes reading low/no angst means the storytelling fails. Building an organic relationship without conflict and making it believable is so difficult. But this book (and the first) does it. It’s absolutely funny and sweet from beginning to end. This is one of those stories that just fills you up and makes you swoon but isn’t Insta love and so out there that the reader thinks “this could never happen.” I loved the first book but I think I may have loved this one even more. I cannot wait for more.
September 15, 2021
Problematic fun
I liked Jasper and Micah, they’re both givers who want to give/receive in complimentary ways. Historically they’ve been used and taken advantage of so they try not to do that to each other, which is nice. They bring out the best in each other, which is ideal.
3/5 stars because well meaning fun, low-ish angst love, & Nana easter egg scenes are offset by lots of details that are problematic either for the story or as unhealthy examples of taking care of themselves. I hate, hate, hated the scene where Jasper “gives up” his earned money. It’s foolish, performative nonsense, and disrespectful to his years as a sex-worker. Foolish because even if they wind up together, Jasper having a separate account with sufficient funds to facilitate leaving is wise & safe. Performative because he’s not giving up any money, he’s just wiring himself directly to the source of funds. And disrespectful because he was paid for a job, which he did. Loving a job or a boss shouldn’t ever mean you don’t get paid and I am tired of how often this well meaning author (and others) bang this drum, especially in pairings with wildly disproportionate wealth. That isn’t even a spoiler because you can see it coming from the first date. The rich love interest isn’t asked, ever, to give up his wealth & security to live a hardscrabble life of penury & stress. Why should the poor one always have to “give up” a life changing amount of money to prove “worthy”? It drives a dangerous (and all too common) narrative where wealthy people/bosses demand unnecessary sacrifice or proof of love/value, or worse, the poor characters inflict the sacrifice on themselves, like Jasper. It’s wrongheaded. The peons should be demanding sacrifices from above, if sacrificing is to be required at all. Please stop demanding poor characters give up money to prove themselves to rich ones, I am *begging you*. This has bothered me for a while but being so egregious here, and dishonest to Jasper’s character, is making me rethink further purchases.
Then, somehow Jasper is ok with announcing his criminal profession, multiple times, in front of strangers, including strangers who live with cops!?!, but privately feels cheap for doing paid sex work. That’s not a positive portrayal. His job shouldn’t be criminal, but he shouldn’t be risking arrest unnecessarily when arrest could keep him out of Micah’s house. The first chapter is all about how much care Jasper takes to stay off the radar, but then he walks around strangers talking about being a prostitute. Make it make sense!
That he’s changing jobs doesn’t concern me, people change jobs/professions. That he claims to be ok with treating sex work like a “real” job, but doesn’t act or feel that way is frustrating every time it comes up. It might also be fun to try to give up your last paycheck at McD’s to storm out in a huff, but if they don’t pay you for hours worked it’s illegal & rewards the richer party. You do the job; you get paid. Terrible job or great job, don’t let rich people keep the money they owe you for contracted labor.
Micah’s spending is also problematic. Rich has-beens can run out of money. Even if he won’t run out, buying recklessly isn’t healthy. Rehabbing the house is healthy; buying every thing that crosses his mind all day every day is unhealthy and exhausting. That needed attention in the story that it didn’t get.
The brothers’ fight is also badly done. Commit to that arc or leave it out, but don’t handwave years of animosity like this. We never find out what they did that needs apologies, or if Micah should have even apologized. If Arlen is too toxic to be around Micah, good riddance. And newsflash, if Micah winds up back in a situation that stresses his every last nerve, he will absolutely be “that guy” again in a heartbeat. He’s changed his situation to avoid being cornered into being his worst self. The book is written so he shouldn’t regress, but Arlen is a walking trigger puller for Micah and I was not convinced their reconciliation was warranted or healthy. It read too much like an “every time my spouse hurts me I ask him to stop, AITA?” post. Readers aren’t given enough info to judge if Micah is in the wrong or just being abused. Trying to figure out a non-toxic way for the brothers to relate would have been worthwhile. That didn’t really happen. Write the brother off or make the reconciliation more than Micah give a non-specific apology.
“I can just tell he’s a nice guy” was a recurring theme in this book. It was nearly as irritating as poor people giving up money. For all that Jasper’s work should make him a good judge of character, we *never see that put to the test*. The author is trying for low danger stories, so puts in lots of pleasant people. The problem is, Jasper trusts *everyone* he meets in this book, so comes off as a rube, not as a cynic whose luck runs well for a change. Jasper, Micah, and Ash all do this and it’s not endearing.
Steam: med-hot
I liked Jasper and Micah, they’re both givers who want to give/receive in complimentary ways. Historically they’ve been used and taken advantage of so they try not to do that to each other, which is nice. They bring out the best in each other, which is ideal.
3/5 stars because well meaning fun, low-ish angst love, & Nana easter egg scenes are offset by lots of details that are problematic either for the story or as unhealthy examples of taking care of themselves. I hate, hate, hated the scene where Jasper “gives up” his earned money. It’s foolish, performative nonsense, and disrespectful to his years as a sex-worker. Foolish because even if they wind up together, Jasper having a separate account with sufficient funds to facilitate leaving is wise & safe. Performative because he’s not giving up any money, he’s just wiring himself directly to the source of funds. And disrespectful because he was paid for a job, which he did. Loving a job or a boss shouldn’t ever mean you don’t get paid and I am tired of how often this well meaning author (and others) bang this drum, especially in pairings with wildly disproportionate wealth. That isn’t even a spoiler because you can see it coming from the first date. The rich love interest isn’t asked, ever, to give up his wealth & security to live a hardscrabble life of penury & stress. Why should the poor one always have to “give up” a life changing amount of money to prove “worthy”? It drives a dangerous (and all too common) narrative where wealthy people/bosses demand unnecessary sacrifice or proof of love/value, or worse, the poor characters inflict the sacrifice on themselves, like Jasper. It’s wrongheaded. The peons should be demanding sacrifices from above, if sacrificing is to be required at all. Please stop demanding poor characters give up money to prove themselves to rich ones, I am *begging you*. This has bothered me for a while but being so egregious here, and dishonest to Jasper’s character, is making me rethink further purchases.
Then, somehow Jasper is ok with announcing his criminal profession, multiple times, in front of strangers, including strangers who live with cops!?!, but privately feels cheap for doing paid sex work. That’s not a positive portrayal. His job shouldn’t be criminal, but he shouldn’t be risking arrest unnecessarily when arrest could keep him out of Micah’s house. The first chapter is all about how much care Jasper takes to stay off the radar, but then he walks around strangers talking about being a prostitute. Make it make sense!
That he’s changing jobs doesn’t concern me, people change jobs/professions. That he claims to be ok with treating sex work like a “real” job, but doesn’t act or feel that way is frustrating every time it comes up. It might also be fun to try to give up your last paycheck at McD’s to storm out in a huff, but if they don’t pay you for hours worked it’s illegal & rewards the richer party. You do the job; you get paid. Terrible job or great job, don’t let rich people keep the money they owe you for contracted labor.
Micah’s spending is also problematic. Rich has-beens can run out of money. Even if he won’t run out, buying recklessly isn’t healthy. Rehabbing the house is healthy; buying every thing that crosses his mind all day every day is unhealthy and exhausting. That needed attention in the story that it didn’t get.
The brothers’ fight is also badly done. Commit to that arc or leave it out, but don’t handwave years of animosity like this. We never find out what they did that needs apologies, or if Micah should have even apologized. If Arlen is too toxic to be around Micah, good riddance. And newsflash, if Micah winds up back in a situation that stresses his every last nerve, he will absolutely be “that guy” again in a heartbeat. He’s changed his situation to avoid being cornered into being his worst self. The book is written so he shouldn’t regress, but Arlen is a walking trigger puller for Micah and I was not convinced their reconciliation was warranted or healthy. It read too much like an “every time my spouse hurts me I ask him to stop, AITA?” post. Readers aren’t given enough info to judge if Micah is in the wrong or just being abused. Trying to figure out a non-toxic way for the brothers to relate would have been worthwhile. That didn’t really happen. Write the brother off or make the reconciliation more than Micah give a non-specific apology.
“I can just tell he’s a nice guy” was a recurring theme in this book. It was nearly as irritating as poor people giving up money. For all that Jasper’s work should make him a good judge of character, we *never see that put to the test*. The author is trying for low danger stories, so puts in lots of pleasant people. The problem is, Jasper trusts *everyone* he meets in this book, so comes off as a rube, not as a cynic whose luck runs well for a change. Jasper, Micah, and Ash all do this and it’s not endearing.
Steam: med-hot
July 29, 2021
Awe… I loved this book! It was sweet and beautiful with low angst. I cried a few times but finished the book in happy tears. It was the best. I love Jasper and Micah, they were meant to be. It was great to have Nanna D and the family for a visit in the book, always a laugh there as always. Epic! I’m so looking forward to the next book in the series!! A wonderful read!
February 19, 2022
This book was even better
Than the first, and I didn’t think that would be possible. Sweet, broken, taken advantage, Micah. I just adore him.
Than the first, and I didn’t think that would be possible. Sweet, broken, taken advantage, Micah. I just adore him.
July 31, 2021
So much caretaking!
This book hit many of the things I love—size difference, caretaking, a bit of domination, and swoon-worthy romance, plus a lot of lighthearted fun. The angst was minimal and the focus remained on the growth of the main characters, both individually and together. I loved how thoughtful they were in the things they did for each other, too. I can’t wait for the next in the series!
This book hit many of the things I love—size difference, caretaking, a bit of domination, and swoon-worthy romance, plus a lot of lighthearted fun. The angst was minimal and the focus remained on the growth of the main characters, both individually and together. I loved how thoughtful they were in the things they did for each other, too. I can’t wait for the next in the series!
August 14, 2021
OMG! You know it’s a Firsts and Forever Story when the first sentence is about a giant, inflatable penis.
*****
Kept Man is the second volume in Alexa Land's Firsts and Forever Stories series. As always, Ms. Land's skilled writing and humor shine through in this terrific novel. What I particularly love about this book is the unique premise: never have I read anything similar to an ex-rockstar hiring an escort to be a live-in companion for six months while he’s on house arrest.
Both of the leading men are utterly charming. Within a few sentences of meeting Micah, I knew I would adore him. His rock superstardom crashed and burned seventeen years prior when he had a nasty, very public falling out with his bandmate/brother. He’s loving and creative, but also insecure, vulnerable, terribly lonely, and a bit lost. After two months of house arrest, he’s stir crazy and falling apart from being touch starved. This man is so sweet, so sad, and completely sympathetic.
Jasper is a darling, but his life is not ideal. He begins to think sex is the only thing he has to offer a man. He’s been a prostitute for eight years and has grown weary of pretending, losing his autonomy, and being nothing more than a commodity. He’s an introvert, a bit of a hermit who never feels like he fits into social situations. His roommate Ash, from Pretenders, will soon be moving out with his boyfriend to buy a house, leaving Jasper alone.
When Micah approaches him with his six month proposition, Jasper doesn’t see a down side. Micah is gorgeous and kind. And, offering enough money to change Jasper's life and enable him to stop escorting. Micah wants a man for sex, yes, but much more, too. He’s desperate for someone to talk to, to spend his days with, to cook for, and to fill his big empty bed at night.
Micah and Jasper are an ideal couple. Micah is a “caretaker to his core” and Jasper is in need of pampering. Micah relishes indulging in heartfelt, romantic gestures for Jasper, just because. He’s almost childlike in the way he derives pleasure from bestowing kindness on his lover.
Speaking of lover … oh, the sexy times. Their lovemaking is just … beautiful. There’s some delicious edging, a wee bit of kink, and not quite dirty talk but sensual talk, maybe? It’s très sexy.
Jasper refers to one of the thoughtful meals Micah prepares for him as “profoundly intimate and sensuous”. I would use those same words to describe everything about their blossoming relationship. The trust, the care, the selflessness. The way they naturally meet the needs of the other and fit together like puzzle pieces. Ms. Land has never created a couple that wasn’t well-suited for each other, but there’s something a little bit extra special about Jasper and Micah.
Oh, the joy that is Nana! Even though she's fictional, I need to take a moment to celebrate the inimitable comedic presence that elevates every book she’s a part of. She’s a brilliant character – both loving and outrageously irreverent – who ties together the Firsts and Forever, Castaways, and Firsts and Forever Stories series. While it’s easy to enjoy the mirth she exudes, it’s important to recognize her unparalleled support of the LGBTQ+ community in San Francisco. All the men she has “adopted” over the years – I’ve had the pleasure of meeting each and every one – is so fortunate. I wish every queer person had a Nana in their corner.
One other point I’d like to make: I have always appreciated the sex positive message in Ms. Land's work. Numerous times she has featured sex workers in one form or another, but never with shame. These men are doing what they choose to do to survive, and while there’s no condescension, she offers a realistic view of sex work and doesn’t gloss over the hardships and the toll it takes on the young men, mentally, emotionally, and potentially physically.
In the end, Micah and Jasper fall in love, of course, but importantly, they encourage and support each other to make life-altering changes that result in more fulfilling lives. Micah decides to give more of himself to the queer community, while Jasper pursues a life-long dream that wasn’t previously attainable. The epilogue is sweet and more than satisfying – it’s the perfect ending to a truly special story.
Reviewed for Love Bytes Reviews
*****
Kept Man is the second volume in Alexa Land's Firsts and Forever Stories series. As always, Ms. Land's skilled writing and humor shine through in this terrific novel. What I particularly love about this book is the unique premise: never have I read anything similar to an ex-rockstar hiring an escort to be a live-in companion for six months while he’s on house arrest.
Both of the leading men are utterly charming. Within a few sentences of meeting Micah, I knew I would adore him. His rock superstardom crashed and burned seventeen years prior when he had a nasty, very public falling out with his bandmate/brother. He’s loving and creative, but also insecure, vulnerable, terribly lonely, and a bit lost. After two months of house arrest, he’s stir crazy and falling apart from being touch starved. This man is so sweet, so sad, and completely sympathetic.
Jasper is a darling, but his life is not ideal. He begins to think sex is the only thing he has to offer a man. He’s been a prostitute for eight years and has grown weary of pretending, losing his autonomy, and being nothing more than a commodity. He’s an introvert, a bit of a hermit who never feels like he fits into social situations. His roommate Ash, from Pretenders, will soon be moving out with his boyfriend to buy a house, leaving Jasper alone.
When Micah approaches him with his six month proposition, Jasper doesn’t see a down side. Micah is gorgeous and kind. And, offering enough money to change Jasper's life and enable him to stop escorting. Micah wants a man for sex, yes, but much more, too. He’s desperate for someone to talk to, to spend his days with, to cook for, and to fill his big empty bed at night.
Micah and Jasper are an ideal couple. Micah is a “caretaker to his core” and Jasper is in need of pampering. Micah relishes indulging in heartfelt, romantic gestures for Jasper, just because. He’s almost childlike in the way he derives pleasure from bestowing kindness on his lover.
Speaking of lover … oh, the sexy times. Their lovemaking is just … beautiful. There’s some delicious edging, a wee bit of kink, and not quite dirty talk but sensual talk, maybe? It’s très sexy.
Jasper refers to one of the thoughtful meals Micah prepares for him as “profoundly intimate and sensuous”. I would use those same words to describe everything about their blossoming relationship. The trust, the care, the selflessness. The way they naturally meet the needs of the other and fit together like puzzle pieces. Ms. Land has never created a couple that wasn’t well-suited for each other, but there’s something a little bit extra special about Jasper and Micah.
Oh, the joy that is Nana! Even though she's fictional, I need to take a moment to celebrate the inimitable comedic presence that elevates every book she’s a part of. She’s a brilliant character – both loving and outrageously irreverent – who ties together the Firsts and Forever, Castaways, and Firsts and Forever Stories series. While it’s easy to enjoy the mirth she exudes, it’s important to recognize her unparalleled support of the LGBTQ+ community in San Francisco. All the men she has “adopted” over the years – I’ve had the pleasure of meeting each and every one – is so fortunate. I wish every queer person had a Nana in their corner.
One other point I’d like to make: I have always appreciated the sex positive message in Ms. Land's work. Numerous times she has featured sex workers in one form or another, but never with shame. These men are doing what they choose to do to survive, and while there’s no condescension, she offers a realistic view of sex work and doesn’t gloss over the hardships and the toll it takes on the young men, mentally, emotionally, and potentially physically.
In the end, Micah and Jasper fall in love, of course, but importantly, they encourage and support each other to make life-altering changes that result in more fulfilling lives. Micah decides to give more of himself to the queer community, while Jasper pursues a life-long dream that wasn’t previously attainable. The epilogue is sweet and more than satisfying – it’s the perfect ending to a truly special story.
Reviewed for Love Bytes Reviews
October 23, 2021
I had to put this book on hold right when it came out because I had a personal crisis in my life that were shadowing everything else and Alexa Lands books have for the longest time been of comfort and joy to read so I wanted to save this book to I were ready to read it.
And man I was right to keep it on hold because at around 75% of the book made me cry a river because of what the story that Is packed with so many feelings between the two main characters give it such a sweet and loving story.
As always I’m so happy to read about Nana’s crazy fights with her neighbor and it always cracks me up reading about her.
Jasper has been a sex worker for most of his adult life so far and when he got an unusual job offer he’s first a bit unsure about it but once he meets Micah and hears about his house arrest after some awful mistakes he had done months in advance Jasper decides to take the offer of living with Micah for the next six months until his house arrest is over and he’s once again a free man again.
This is a lighthearted story about love and how two people can connect in ways that are just beautiful and I love it and this places this story close to the top of my fav. List of books from Alexa Lands' big library of books now!
And man I was right to keep it on hold because at around 75% of the book made me cry a river because of what the story that Is packed with so many feelings between the two main characters give it such a sweet and loving story.
As always I’m so happy to read about Nana’s crazy fights with her neighbor and it always cracks me up reading about her.
Jasper has been a sex worker for most of his adult life so far and when he got an unusual job offer he’s first a bit unsure about it but once he meets Micah and hears about his house arrest after some awful mistakes he had done months in advance Jasper decides to take the offer of living with Micah for the next six months until his house arrest is over and he’s once again a free man again.
This is a lighthearted story about love and how two people can connect in ways that are just beautiful and I love it and this places this story close to the top of my fav. List of books from Alexa Lands' big library of books now!
August 17, 2021
I absolutely adored this. This read was so easy and packed with sweet feels and had two men full of marshmallow fluff that I just wanted to hug and love. Jasper and Micah had my whole heart from the beginning and matched each other so well. You get a delicious age gap with a former rock star that’s a bit of a mess, but with a heart of gold and an escort that deserves all the love.
Micah is on house arrest for the next 6 months and proposes that Jasper live with him so he doesn’t lose his mind from loneliness. After a beautiful night together, Jasper agrees and the next two and a half months are full of beautiful house dates and watching these beautiful men fall in love. Micah is a caretaker and lives to make Jasper happy and feel cared for. Jasper accepts his care and appreciates Micah in ways that he’s never known before while also caring for Micah. It was just. So wonderful and it made me happy. I also loved getting more of Jasper and Ash’s friendship. The epilogue was equally amazing. I don’t know what else I can say except that if you need a dose of happiness and absolute live with some steamy scenes woven in then this is absolutely for you.
Micah is on house arrest for the next 6 months and proposes that Jasper live with him so he doesn’t lose his mind from loneliness. After a beautiful night together, Jasper agrees and the next two and a half months are full of beautiful house dates and watching these beautiful men fall in love. Micah is a caretaker and lives to make Jasper happy and feel cared for. Jasper accepts his care and appreciates Micah in ways that he’s never known before while also caring for Micah. It was just. So wonderful and it made me happy. I also loved getting more of Jasper and Ash’s friendship. The epilogue was equally amazing. I don’t know what else I can say except that if you need a dose of happiness and absolute live with some steamy scenes woven in then this is absolutely for you.
February 17, 2023
I can not get enough of Jasper and Micah! There was something about their passion and intimacy that just hit different. There was this honesty and raw emotion almost from the beginning which I wasn’t expecting given they entered into a business arrangement.
They immediately felt so comfortable with each other. There was also this respect and care they both had for the other. But when that dam broke…holy hell!
The complete flood of unadulterated lust and desire coupled with the unspoken connection deep within them made for some of the most satisfying and wildly sexy lovemaking I’ve read in a while. And let me tell you, these two made love they didn’t just fuck.
I was also enamor with how truly good and lovable both men were. They had the most sincere and kind hearts. They brought out the best in each other and it was beautiful!
I loved how we got more of Ash and Wes as well! It was so wonderful to see how Jasper seamlessly integrated Micah into his life and how he just fit. Everything about this was so special!
They immediately felt so comfortable with each other. There was also this respect and care they both had for the other. But when that dam broke…holy hell!
The complete flood of unadulterated lust and desire coupled with the unspoken connection deep within them made for some of the most satisfying and wildly sexy lovemaking I’ve read in a while. And let me tell you, these two made love they didn’t just fuck.
I was also enamor with how truly good and lovable both men were. They had the most sincere and kind hearts. They brought out the best in each other and it was beautiful!
I loved how we got more of Ash and Wes as well! It was so wonderful to see how Jasper seamlessly integrated Micah into his life and how he just fit. Everything about this was so special!
August 15, 2021
This book was good, a feel good, excellent Sunday afternoon read. What I liked best was how wonderful the two of them were together and how easily they behaved like adults and put each other first ... Micah was supposedly someone who pushed everyone away but I couldn't see a single instance of that happening, with anyone. The book made sure to avoid anything complicated ... Everyone behaved nicely (considering I'm all edges and person version of all things complicated, this almost jarred but if I look at it as a "moving away from the norm" I realize it made for the kind of perfect light read I was looking for).
Lastly, the dialogue can be much better. I sometimes lost the emotion coz the dialogue didn't match with it. But it can be overlooked, for the most part....
All in all, this made me feel lovely, I read it in more or less one deep breath ...
Fluffy romance with a unwavering commitment to no angst - final verdict. ❤️
Lastly, the dialogue can be much better. I sometimes lost the emotion coz the dialogue didn't match with it. But it can be overlooked, for the most part....
All in all, this made me feel lovely, I read it in more or less one deep breath ...
Fluffy romance with a unwavering commitment to no angst - final verdict. ❤️
January 24, 2022
Was it an easy read? Deliciously so. Very little brain power required, sweet and fluffy. Get ready for a sugar coma!
How were the characters? Jasper has been on his own for a long time, and like a little lost kitten just wants to be taken in and loved and adored. Micah has made some questionable life choices, but he’s older and wiser now. Both men are unfailingly kind and put each other first.
Okay, but isn’t this story basically just Pretty Woman all over again? I mean…. Yes!!! But how could that be a bad thing?! We all LOVE that show!! Plus, a male prostitute is kind of a nice switch-up, yes?
How was the angst and drama? Nice and low. This one is all about the relationship and the characters, no need to manufacture drama here!
What about the ending? I need to know there’s a HEA! There absolutely is, along with tying up the loose ends nicely into a beautiful bow.
If you’re needing a super sweet escape book, look no farther
How were the characters? Jasper has been on his own for a long time, and like a little lost kitten just wants to be taken in and loved and adored. Micah has made some questionable life choices, but he’s older and wiser now. Both men are unfailingly kind and put each other first.
Okay, but isn’t this story basically just Pretty Woman all over again? I mean…. Yes!!! But how could that be a bad thing?! We all LOVE that show!! Plus, a male prostitute is kind of a nice switch-up, yes?
How was the angst and drama? Nice and low. This one is all about the relationship and the characters, no need to manufacture drama here!
What about the ending? I need to know there’s a HEA! There absolutely is, along with tying up the loose ends nicely into a beautiful bow.
If you’re needing a super sweet escape book, look no farther
July 29, 2021
This is another sweet, low-angst romance from Land. The characters were clearly a great match right from the start. It was fluffy and fun and I really enjoyed it. There was some very minor drama, but it was quickly dealt with. Overall a light and fun read.
Minor spoilers - I do wish there was a little more dealing with conflict. The brother storyline was never fully fleshed out or explained in detail. I’m still not sure what they stopped speaking over. I get that it was the pressure of fame, but it’s alluded to like the reader should know what the tabloids published (we aren’t told) and we never get details. I also wonder with Micah being so in the spotlight how no one even seems remotely concerned that Jasper will be outed for being a male escort. He worked as one for 8 years or something like that; it just seems like it would be a concern or discussion. So I loved the light and low-angst aspect of the book, but I feel like it skipped over some important discussions in the process.
Minor spoilers - I do wish there was a little more dealing with conflict. The brother storyline was never fully fleshed out or explained in detail. I’m still not sure what they stopped speaking over. I get that it was the pressure of fame, but it’s alluded to like the reader should know what the tabloids published (we aren’t told) and we never get details. I also wonder with Micah being so in the spotlight how no one even seems remotely concerned that Jasper will be outed for being a male escort. He worked as one for 8 years or something like that; it just seems like it would be a concern or discussion. So I loved the light and low-angst aspect of the book, but I feel like it skipped over some important discussions in the process.
August 19, 2021
4.5 stars. A good start as Jasper's attending one of Nana's parties while he waited til it was time to meet his new client.
Working as an escort he was due to see Micah for a diner date. A great first met and I liked Micah right of.
An age gap of 11 years and they get along great. Poor Micah was stuck at home under house arrest, okay so I've never read stories like that and I'm curious. Ohh I think just a simple arrangement between them ain't what's going ta happen. A little thing called feeling could upset the apple cart.
Hot sexy scenes included for a romance told by Jasper's POV. A few funny scenes and I absolutely love Nana and the rest if the guys in this series included for a great HEA ending.
Working as an escort he was due to see Micah for a diner date. A great first met and I liked Micah right of.
An age gap of 11 years and they get along great. Poor Micah was stuck at home under house arrest, okay so I've never read stories like that and I'm curious. Ohh I think just a simple arrangement between them ain't what's going ta happen. A little thing called feeling could upset the apple cart.
Hot sexy scenes included for a romance told by Jasper's POV. A few funny scenes and I absolutely love Nana and the rest if the guys in this series included for a great HEA ending.
August 30, 2021
Another 5 star Alexa book!
I adore this author! Kept Man is a beautiful love story of two men who fall in love under the most unusual of circumstances - an escort hired to keep a man under house arrest company. Jasper and Micah are fast friends and watching them fall in love was so satisfying. I feel like Alexa's books are such a breath of fresh air in the romance genre - not only in writing style, but also in how precious all of the relationships are (not just the romantic relationship; Alexa knows how to write the heck out of a found family!, so expect lots of fun cameos, as per usual.) This book is incredibly romantic, full of humor, and a 5 star read all around. Highly recommend and I can't wait for the next book!
I adore this author! Kept Man is a beautiful love story of two men who fall in love under the most unusual of circumstances - an escort hired to keep a man under house arrest company. Jasper and Micah are fast friends and watching them fall in love was so satisfying. I feel like Alexa's books are such a breath of fresh air in the romance genre - not only in writing style, but also in how precious all of the relationships are (not just the romantic relationship; Alexa knows how to write the heck out of a found family!, so expect lots of fun cameos, as per usual.) This book is incredibly romantic, full of humor, and a 5 star read all around. Highly recommend and I can't wait for the next book!
August 23, 2021
3.5
Sweet. Very low angst and cute. I love how these two just fell into step with each other. Their love blossomed from mutual hardships as a way to help each other. They generally cared for each other first and you could feel it. The is from only one persons POV which works, though I really wished I knew what the other was truly thinking. The writing was good the smexy was nice, and the side characters are EVERYTHING. This is a standalone book though other characters from the past books pop up. This in no way confuses the reader because everyone who pops up are re introduced.
Sweet. Very low angst and cute. I love how these two just fell into step with each other. Their love blossomed from mutual hardships as a way to help each other. They generally cared for each other first and you could feel it. The is from only one persons POV which works, though I really wished I knew what the other was truly thinking. The writing was good the smexy was nice, and the side characters are EVERYTHING. This is a standalone book though other characters from the past books pop up. This in no way confuses the reader because everyone who pops up are re introduced.
August 28, 2021
**3.5 Stars**
Sweet story but there were a few things I struggled with. The main one was... how is it Micah is so rich? I think I missed something.
Overall the story kept me entertained and I'm looking forward to Seth's story.
TAGS
-- fast easy read -- ex rock star/escort pairing -- age difference (11 years) -- sweet moments -- low angst -- opposites attract -- made me chuckle -- really likeable MCs... Micah & Jasper -- fun to see some old friends make an appearance -- not really a stand alone -- should read the First & Forever Series -- enjoyable read -- satisfying ending
Sweet story but there were a few things I struggled with. The main one was... how is it Micah is so rich? I think I missed something.
Overall the story kept me entertained and I'm looking forward to Seth's story.
TAGS
-- fast easy read -- ex rock star/escort pairing -- age difference (11 years) -- sweet moments -- low angst -- opposites attract -- made me chuckle -- really likeable MCs... Micah & Jasper -- fun to see some old friends make an appearance -- not really a stand alone -- should read the First & Forever Series -- enjoyable read -- satisfying ending
July 31, 2021
Brilliant sweet romance
Micah is a has-been rock star who is under house arrest and Jasper is an escort Micah hires for the remaining of his time at home. Micah want to take care of Jasper and Jasper wants Micah to drop the walls he has built up over the years. This is a low angst slow burn romance. The chemistry between the two is perfect. We get to see cameos by some of the past characters and it wouldn't be part of the Firsts and Forever universe if Nana didn't make an appearance and boy does she. Loved this book, can't wait for the next one.
Micah is a has-been rock star who is under house arrest and Jasper is an escort Micah hires for the remaining of his time at home. Micah want to take care of Jasper and Jasper wants Micah to drop the walls he has built up over the years. This is a low angst slow burn romance. The chemistry between the two is perfect. We get to see cameos by some of the past characters and it wouldn't be part of the Firsts and Forever universe if Nana didn't make an appearance and boy does she. Loved this book, can't wait for the next one.
August 3, 2021
"Kept Man" received TWO AND A HALF stars.
The novel gained *stars* for these items:
* gained for: "The book caught my interest in the first five pages."
* gained for: "I thought about the book when I was forced to set it down and re-enter society."
1/2 * gained for: "There were no info dumps, poor writing, or copy edit mistakes that jerked me out of the story."
The novel failed to gain stars for this item:
NO STAR gained for: "I was sad when the book ended. I wanted more!"
NO STAR gained for: "That's it. I'm hooked on this author. I will automatically try anything s/he writes."
The novel gained *stars* for these items:
* gained for: "The book caught my interest in the first five pages."
* gained for: "I thought about the book when I was forced to set it down and re-enter society."
1/2 * gained for: "There were no info dumps, poor writing, or copy edit mistakes that jerked me out of the story."
The novel failed to gain stars for this item:
NO STAR gained for: "I was sad when the book ended. I wanted more!"
NO STAR gained for: "That's it. I'm hooked on this author. I will automatically try anything s/he writes."
September 19, 2021
Sex worker Jasper is hired for a live-in, six-month gig as a companion to a wealthy, has-been rock star, Micah, who is under house arrest. The attraction between the two is instantaneous, but the agreement has a time limit and it seems difficult to establish a real relationship when money changes hands. Can these two last beyond the six months? This book is an especially endearing romance with tons of love, a beautiful and caring relationship, and fun exploits. Read Book 1 first to fully appreciate the surrounding cast of characters.
September 29, 2021
this was a refreshing romance where despite the topics at hand, the author managed to handle them without shaming them, instead embracing them and creating a positive environment where micah and jasper were supportive of each other and their decisions to change their futures while also taking care of one another. i was really impressed with how much i liked this book, i was hoping it was a little bit longer so i could stay in their world. to me, it was a bit mushy with VERY little drama, which was kind of weird because i was craving it but i loved it nonetheless.
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