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Acceptable Losses
Quentin Thomas is in the middle of a separation from his wife that seems to have no conclusive end in sight, while his friend and colleague, Lena Chambers is stuck in Single Girl Hell. The only respite either of them have is their regular coffee dates, while working on shared projects at a very demanding law firm. Sick of hearing about Lena’s semi-disastrous attempts to couple-up, Quentin decides to fix her up. With his brother. Seems like a perfect solution; after all, his brother is a decent enough guy and Lena deserves that. A perfect solution ... at least until it appears that the fix-up might actually work. ** THIS BOOK CONTAINS PREVIOUSLY-RELEASED CONTENT, FROM THE E-BOOK COMPILATION 'BECAUSE MY HEART SAID SO' co-authored with Jacinta Howard, Rae Lamar and Lily Java. **
306 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 23, 2016
101 people are currently reading
140 people want to read
About the author
Nia Forrester
67 books957 followersI live in Philadelphia, PA where by day I work on public policy reform, and by night I read authors who move me, and write woman-centered fiction.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
January 2, 2023
What kinda book is this?!
A woman totally loses herself, never regains her self, and this is couched as some sort of - what- happiness? Enlightenment? Goodness? What?
See, this is one of the reasons why I don’t read AA romance. It’s always something. Because, honestly, what is being promoted here but smarmy noir-patriarchy.
I’m upset. Need to go wash the distaste out my mouth. Ridiculous ‘rib romance’ from beginning to stupid end. Ugh.
A woman totally loses herself, never regains her self, and this is couched as some sort of - what- happiness? Enlightenment? Goodness? What?
See, this is one of the reasons why I don’t read AA romance. It’s always something. Because, honestly, what is being promoted here but smarmy noir-patriarchy.
I’m upset. Need to go wash the distaste out my mouth. Ridiculous ‘rib romance’ from beginning to stupid end. Ugh.
April 6, 2017
Great Read!!
I read the shortened version which was a part of a collaboration with other authors. I loved it then and love the expanded version even more.
Quentin and Lena's story started as coworkers and friends. Their journey into a relationship is interesting even though at times volatile. The author has certainly not disappointed her readers.
I read the shortened version which was a part of a collaboration with other authors. I loved it then and love the expanded version even more.
Quentin and Lena's story started as coworkers and friends. Their journey into a relationship is interesting even though at times volatile. The author has certainly not disappointed her readers.
March 6, 2020
So good
I read the novella the other day and had to finish out the book. This was too good and I learned a lot from it. I’m so glad I read this. The couple was frustrating but loving all at the same time. I can’t wait to read another NF book.
I read the novella the other day and had to finish out the book. This was too good and I learned a lot from it. I’m so glad I read this. The couple was frustrating but loving all at the same time. I can’t wait to read another NF book.
February 23, 2017
Review coming soon!
Read
January 16, 2017Nia Forrester is one of my favorite writers because she has a talent for exploring flawed relationships and people and providing a full perspective into their inner workings. She can make you feel empathy toward the most unsympathetic characters even if you cannot relate to their truth. Acceptable Losses, although not my favorite, will definitely leave you feeling some emotion upon completion, whether it’s satisfaction or frustration. This story touches on several relationship issues such as commitment, extra-marital affairs, divorce and self-discovery.
As Quentin and Lena attempt to navigate the lines between friendship and becoming lovers, they often make hasty decisions without clearly thinking through the consequences of their actions. This leads to the majority of the problems they encounter. Lena appears at times insecure in their relationship and more reactive to Quentin than actually expressing what she wants. After learning more about Quentin, Mr. Do the Right Thing, I definitely understood why he was who he was and the experiences that shaped him. He just wasn’t the type of man that compelled me to root for him in the end.
This story kept me engaged and there were secondary characters, such as Marlon and Darius that definitely added to it with their wit and straight to the point advice. I loved the way Forrester incorporated the dynamics between the siblings into the story and showed their love for one another. However, the novel is ultimately about Quentin and Lena. Quentin just did not do it for me.
I am giving the story 3.5 stars because Forrester did a great job of sharing a complicated love story that is probably a reality for someone. However, I could not give it 4 stars simply due to the number of grammatical errors that at times became a distraction for me.
As Quentin and Lena attempt to navigate the lines between friendship and becoming lovers, they often make hasty decisions without clearly thinking through the consequences of their actions. This leads to the majority of the problems they encounter. Lena appears at times insecure in their relationship and more reactive to Quentin than actually expressing what she wants. After learning more about Quentin, Mr. Do the Right Thing, I definitely understood why he was who he was and the experiences that shaped him. He just wasn’t the type of man that compelled me to root for him in the end.
This story kept me engaged and there were secondary characters, such as Marlon and Darius that definitely added to it with their wit and straight to the point advice. I loved the way Forrester incorporated the dynamics between the siblings into the story and showed their love for one another. However, the novel is ultimately about Quentin and Lena. Quentin just did not do it for me.
I am giving the story 3.5 stars because Forrester did a great job of sharing a complicated love story that is probably a reality for someone. However, I could not give it 4 stars simply due to the number of grammatical errors that at times became a distraction for me.
April 4, 2022
APB Perspective Review:
Four authors got together and wrote a book of Novellas with a tag line written in each story " Because My Heart Said So. " I call their writing style Neo ,Sexy and Soulful. Nia Forrester's story Acceptable Losses Is a story I have been waiting for since I read the Novella. So what happens after the HFN for Lena and Quinton? My answer real life which is what we read , of course there is a honeymoon phase which is sexy to read . Then we get to real life , which was a struggle for Quinton and Lena. Cohabitation as lovers is so different from being friends and long distance love relationship. Man the both of them kinda pissed me off , and I felt Lena forgot herself for a while> I didn't by Quintin's need to hold onto things he should have let go of , but I do understand it was part of his personality . When I finished this book I was happy ?Yes but I did think there is more to this story, maybe the author will continue if she doesn't I always say a good storyteller always leave you wanting more even if the book they have written is complete.
Four authors got together and wrote a book of Novellas with a tag line written in each story " Because My Heart Said So. " I call their writing style Neo ,Sexy and Soulful. Nia Forrester's story Acceptable Losses Is a story I have been waiting for since I read the Novella. So what happens after the HFN for Lena and Quinton? My answer real life which is what we read , of course there is a honeymoon phase which is sexy to read . Then we get to real life , which was a struggle for Quinton and Lena. Cohabitation as lovers is so different from being friends and long distance love relationship. Man the both of them kinda pissed me off , and I felt Lena forgot herself for a while> I didn't by Quintin's need to hold onto things he should have let go of , but I do understand it was part of his personality . When I finished this book I was happy ?Yes but I did think there is more to this story, maybe the author will continue if she doesn't I always say a good storyteller always leave you wanting more even if the book they have written is complete.
March 23, 2025
June 4, 2023
Decided to revisit these characters. Still enjoyed!
Original review 2017: I read part 1 in the collection "because my heart says so" and it wrapped up the story in a nice box and bow. This story gives part 1 AND part 2, the what can happen after the nice box and bow gets a little unraveled. What can happen when you jump into something before finalizing past issues AND when there is a lack of communication.
Decided to revisit these characters. Still enjoyed!
Original review 2017: I read part 1 in the collection "because my heart says so" and it wrapped up the story in a nice box and bow. This story gives part 1 AND part 2, the what can happen after the nice box and bow gets a little unraveled. What can happen when you jump into something before finalizing past issues AND when there is a lack of communication.
December 28, 2016
Completion...
Wow, the completion of Nia Forrester's "Acceptable Losses" had me all in my emotions. I was happy, sad, afraid, disappointed, amazed, and etc... After finishing, I simply want more from this dynamic couple... Wow... Don't sleep on this incredible read...
T
Wow, the completion of Nia Forrester's "Acceptable Losses" had me all in my emotions. I was happy, sad, afraid, disappointed, amazed, and etc... After finishing, I simply want more from this dynamic couple... Wow... Don't sleep on this incredible read...
T
June 21, 2017
Lesson Learned
In this story I learned it takes work to balance any relationship, whether it's a marriage or a committed relationship. It takes hard work from both sides. Not fifty here and one hundred there., but 100% from both sides. Be honest from the beginning of the relationship. Honesty is the best policy because it can help you make the best decision and stop unnecessary drama. It can prevent many not so games from being played on each other's feelings. With the games Q and Lena displayed at the beginning of the story. The story line could have taken many wrong turns but I enjoyed the path that was chosen. I'm glad Q and Lenavfound out what they had before it was truly gone but Maura didn't. Great Read.
In this story I learned it takes work to balance any relationship, whether it's a marriage or a committed relationship. It takes hard work from both sides. Not fifty here and one hundred there., but 100% from both sides. Be honest from the beginning of the relationship. Honesty is the best policy because it can help you make the best decision and stop unnecessary drama. It can prevent many not so games from being played on each other's feelings. With the games Q and Lena displayed at the beginning of the story. The story line could have taken many wrong turns but I enjoyed the path that was chosen. I'm glad Q and Lenavfound out what they had before it was truly gone but Maura didn't. Great Read.
October 2, 2017
Friends First
Lena and Quentin were working friends helping each other in their profession of law. The more time was spent together the deeper the feelings were. Only one thing stood in the way, Quentin was legally married. Lena felt having feelings for a married man wasn't her steelo. Quentin decides to set her up with his brother Darius, but questions if it was a mistake due to his feelings.
I enjoyed reading this book. The characters were well developed which is helpful in keeping my attention. I love the relationship between Quentin, Darius and their parents. Good read. I love a book that flows and this book did just that!
Lena and Quentin were working friends helping each other in their profession of law. The more time was spent together the deeper the feelings were. Only one thing stood in the way, Quentin was legally married. Lena felt having feelings for a married man wasn't her steelo. Quentin decides to set her up with his brother Darius, but questions if it was a mistake due to his feelings.
I enjoyed reading this book. The characters were well developed which is helpful in keeping my attention. I love the relationship between Quentin, Darius and their parents. Good read. I love a book that flows and this book did just that!
November 26, 2021
Draws me in every time!
After finishing up the first of the final four reads needed to complete Nia Forrester's entire catalog, I'm 100% convinced that she can do no wrong. The characters in her stories are always captivating and alluring... multi-layered and complex... complicated, frustrating, and magnetic! I could go on, but I'll just say that Lena and Quentin were no exception. And another constant is the colorful supporting cast that always seems to brring out the best and the worst in the lead characters. Another job well done, but it's just an expectation of mine when I read any of her stories. And she lives up to it every time!
After finishing up the first of the final four reads needed to complete Nia Forrester's entire catalog, I'm 100% convinced that she can do no wrong. The characters in her stories are always captivating and alluring... multi-layered and complex... complicated, frustrating, and magnetic! I could go on, but I'll just say that Lena and Quentin were no exception. And another constant is the colorful supporting cast that always seems to brring out the best and the worst in the lead characters. Another job well done, but it's just an expectation of mine when I read any of her stories. And she lives up to it every time!
January 26, 2021
She’s Done It Again 🥳
I can’t believe I waited all this time to read this. If one thing Nia can do is play tug of war with my emotions. Her characters will pull you into their web and you’re stuck! Lena and Quentin clearly had chemistry but they did all the things but act on them when they knew. However, they did not hold back at all once they say yes to love and new beginnings. I would love to see if you have something on Darius and Ashe! If not, you should consider.
I can’t believe I waited all this time to read this. If one thing Nia can do is play tug of war with my emotions. Her characters will pull you into their web and you’re stuck! Lena and Quentin clearly had chemistry but they did all the things but act on them when they knew. However, they did not hold back at all once they say yes to love and new beginnings. I would love to see if you have something on Darius and Ashe! If not, you should consider.
January 8, 2023
whew Chile……
I first read this story in the Friends to Lovers series Because my Heart Said So. And I knew I wanted to continue reading about Quentin and Lena. I was a little worried for a couple of chapters. Let me be honest I was NOT mad at all with Lena when she left Quentin (that’s probably very petty of me but it is what it is). But all is well they got what they wanted I guess LOL. That’s all I’m going to say because if I say more I will tell the whole book.
I first read this story in the Friends to Lovers series Because my Heart Said So. And I knew I wanted to continue reading about Quentin and Lena. I was a little worried for a couple of chapters. Let me be honest I was NOT mad at all with Lena when she left Quentin (that’s probably very petty of me but it is what it is). But all is well they got what they wanted I guess LOL. That’s all I’m going to say because if I say more I will tell the whole book.
July 6, 2023
Loved this book
Loved this book. Nia is absolutely gifted with attributes such as developing her characters. The situations in this book were realistic, especially how she expresses the characters thoughts. My favorite authors are those who have me feeling the characters and the book well after I’ve completed it. They have a way of making the characters in the book seem real. That is a gift this author possesses and never disappoints.
Loved this book. Nia is absolutely gifted with attributes such as developing her characters. The situations in this book were realistic, especially how she expresses the characters thoughts. My favorite authors are those who have me feeling the characters and the book well after I’ve completed it. They have a way of making the characters in the book seem real. That is a gift this author possesses and never disappoints.
July 16, 2017
Love it
Quentin and Leah found out that there are some things that they were willingly to lose, but losing each other was not acceptable. They endured trials that came with life changes and new relationship. I enjoyed reading about them finding their love. I enjoyed reading this book.
Quentin and Leah found out that there are some things that they were willingly to lose, but losing each other was not acceptable. They endured trials that came with life changes and new relationship. I enjoyed reading about them finding their love. I enjoyed reading this book.
August 7, 2017
Quentin and Lena
Their attraction to one another was undeniable, but Quentin was oblivious, at first. Quentin was a by the books kind of guy, he wanted the career, the wife, the perfect marriage with no thought of divorce. But life doesn't work that way. Lena was a relatable character, she wanted what most people want, to love and to be loved in return.
Their attraction to one another was undeniable, but Quentin was oblivious, at first. Quentin was a by the books kind of guy, he wanted the career, the wife, the perfect marriage with no thought of divorce. But life doesn't work that way. Lena was a relatable character, she wanted what most people want, to love and to be loved in return.
January 9, 2018
A beautiful love story...
I loved this book in every way. Ms. Forrester always manages to weave a beautiful tale when the pen is in her hand. I wasn’t ready for it to be over. The characters are wonderful and well thought out. They are both professionals with a lil bit of gangsta in them. Well done once again!!!!
I loved this book in every way. Ms. Forrester always manages to weave a beautiful tale when the pen is in her hand. I wasn’t ready for it to be over. The characters are wonderful and well thought out. They are both professionals with a lil bit of gangsta in them. Well done once again!!!!
December 29, 2016
I almost hate to write this review. Lena almost drove me nuts. But I couldn't not help but feel that there was something off about her. Even after reading it I still feel the same way. But anywho it is a great book no doubt and cannot wait to read more about these characters.
July 13, 2017
Quentin (Q) and Lena (Lene) are two bright hardworking lawyers that have a good working relationship and develop a close friendship. Q and Lene work towards building a chance at true love. Yes there is a HEA. A marriage proposal and a surprise pregnancy. This was a fantastic novel that I recommend.
October 6, 2017
Inspiring read
As usual breathes life into realistic and flawed characters. Didn't put this book down until the end. This is a writer I can rely on to make me think, laugh and cry while rooting for love.
As usual breathes life into realistic and flawed characters. Didn't put this book down until the end. This is a writer I can rely on to make me think, laugh and cry while rooting for love.
September 26, 2019
It’s so Authentic
I love her writing style it so realistic and at the same time authentic. Although I wish this and Rhythm Reason had a sequel. I am satisfied with the ending. Can’t wait to read more.
I love her writing style it so realistic and at the same time authentic. Although I wish this and Rhythm Reason had a sequel. I am satisfied with the ending. Can’t wait to read more.
October 19, 2019
Nia Nia Nia oooh my Misssss Forrester you are such a great writer!!!
Whoooo she took me on a rollercoaster up and down great read!!! Had me happy, sad, all emotional, an stuffff lol.
Whoooo she took me on a rollercoaster up and down great read!!! Had me happy, sad, all emotional, an stuffff lol.
December 1, 2020
Beautiful romance💕
What a beautiful love story! Very entertaining Quentin and Lena love were so steamy🔥🔥🔥 So addicted to love stories, can’t get enough of them, always looking to see, what up next 🙌🏾
What a beautiful love story! Very entertaining Quentin and Lena love were so steamy🔥🔥🔥 So addicted to love stories, can’t get enough of them, always looking to see, what up next 🙌🏾
June 3, 2022
Ready for it
This one was like a rollercoaster ride, all the ups and downs, twists and turns. I wasn't sure where this was going at times. Poor Quinton didn't understand his own habits. Thank God for his family.
This one was like a rollercoaster ride, all the ups and downs, twists and turns. I wasn't sure where this was going at times. Poor Quinton didn't understand his own habits. Thank God for his family.
January 2, 2023
It was okay but I was not wowed. I feel like tomorrow, or by this evening, I would forget about Quentin and Lena. It is not a book that I would keep around to reread a chapter here and there like so many of her other books. Not all books have to put you on edge or fill you with anticipation but my overall feeling after reading this book is ..meh, okay, I finished a book. Maybe I didn't connect to the characters? Maybe things moved a little too fast? Maybe I am not in the mood? I don't know. What I do know it is that for me, It wasn't 5 or 4 stars . Maybe a 2.5.
June 11, 2017
Never Disappoints
Nia is one of my favorite authors. She never disappoints. Although this isn't my favorite story by Nia, it was still a good read.
Nia is one of my favorite authors. She never disappoints. Although this isn't my favorite story by Nia, it was still a good read.
August 9, 2017
Up all night
This was the first book I read by Nia Forrester and I gotta say I'm a fan! I stayed up all night reading this book. I was hooked after the first page.
This was the first book I read by Nia Forrester and I gotta say I'm a fan! I stayed up all night reading this book. I was hooked after the first page.
October 12, 2017
Good read
The characters were believable, I really wanted them to work it out. I want to read more of the authors books
The characters were believable, I really wanted them to work it out. I want to read more of the authors books
December 31, 2017
Loved it
April 21, 2018
Loved
Loved the story of Lena and Quinten. Well written, great character development and storyline. This author is an awesome storyteller!
Loved the story of Lena and Quinten. Well written, great character development and storyline. This author is an awesome storyteller!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews