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Afterwards #7
Rhyme & Reason
“Maybe friendship is all that’s realistic for us right now.” With those words, Zora ended their long-distance relationship, shattering Deuce’s vision of a life with the only woman he’s ever loved. But after months of silence, he thought he was over it. He’d moved on, and as far as he knew she might have done the same. But now Zora is back on the East Coast from California, and he’s thrown into an immediate tailspin. Nothing’s changed.She’s the one, the only, his rhyme, and his reason … ... but there are serious obstacles standing in the way, and the other woman in his life isn’t even the half of it. Over a few short summer weeks, Deuce and Zora will have to decide whether the love they shared as college sweethearts is a thing of the past, or whether there is still enough of a foundation upon which to build a future together.
406 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 19, 2019
611 people are currently reading
401 people want to read
About the author
Nia Forrester
67 books959 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 156 reviews
May 1, 2019
3.5 to 4 stars. I liked this one, but not quite as much as some others I've read by this author. It's about Chris Scaife's son Deuce and his on-again-off-again girlfriend Zora. The book follows their growth as individuals and as a couple, and there is a HEA, or at least, you presume they will stay together.
It's kind of about two young adults finding their places in the world. Also the clash of cultures, with their two different backgrounds. Both Deuce and Zora show a lot of personal growth during the book. But I found this one dragged a little in parts. I kind of wanted more about their other lives e.g. in the workplace or (for Zora) her studies. There was a bit about Deuce starting to really develop his own music business, and I for one would like to have read more about this storyline. It seemed to get a bit too bogged down in all of the relationship angst.
It was good, as always, to revisit some old friends from other books in the Commitment series. Deuce's mother finally became a character you felt you could like, whereas in other books she's appeared to be a bit shallow.
I think I prefer the books with older characters with their complicated histories and baggage, such as the Afterwards-Afterburn duo, and The Fall. But still, I'll keep reading these ones. Hoping for Devin's book next, but it would also be interesting to read books about Chris's other (older) kids.
It's kind of about two young adults finding their places in the world. Also the clash of cultures, with their two different backgrounds. Both Deuce and Zora show a lot of personal growth during the book. But I found this one dragged a little in parts. I kind of wanted more about their other lives e.g. in the workplace or (for Zora) her studies. There was a bit about Deuce starting to really develop his own music business, and I for one would like to have read more about this storyline. It seemed to get a bit too bogged down in all of the relationship angst.
It was good, as always, to revisit some old friends from other books in the Commitment series. Deuce's mother finally became a character you felt you could like, whereas in other books she's appeared to be a bit shallow.
I think I prefer the books with older characters with their complicated histories and baggage, such as the Afterwards-Afterburn duo, and The Fall. But still, I'll keep reading these ones. Hoping for Devin's book next, but it would also be interesting to read books about Chris's other (older) kids.
December 30, 2024
Rhyme and Reason? If I’m being real, it’s just nonsense and nonsense.
April 21, 2019
Love is complicated. Not always in the byzantine sense because not every complication is all that intricate. Sometimes they’re simple or emotional complexities and have everything to do with who you are, where you come from, and what connections you have to others. Ms. Forrester’s newest novel takes a layered and poignant look at how a relationship between two people who love one another can be stunted or developed in the bright light of self-examination and ‘adulting’. Zora Diallo and Deuce Scaife have always been full, rich, sophisticated characters to read about and never more so than in this novel. But they are also, to quote an important character from the book, “Babies.” The often-fraught groping for solid growth in one’s life, the endless angling as you determine your own values and worth – it can be a punishing and difficult time when you’re going through it alone but doing it in a relationship is beyond challenging. Reading about it though, in the hands of a skilled writer is just wonderful, especially because Deuce and Zora are so likable. This is a terrific book that stands solidly alone but I highly recommend reading the companion piece to it “Young, Rich, & Black”, where we meet Deuce and Zora for the first time. These two young people are totally worth a long literary ride so there’s no rhyme or reason to miss either story.
March 14, 2020
“So, yeah. Lemme take you home. Because I swear, I will ride for you ‘til the wheels come off, Zee. But when it comes to me … that just ain’t how you roll.”
I was swept away by this story immediately as it picked up where Young, Rich and Black left off. I was so emotionally involved with these characters. I have to admit— I usually am when it’s one of Nia Forrester books. With any of Nia’s stories ..you want to read them ..get to know the characters ..let some time pass ..think about yourself in their shoes ..pick it back up ..read more ..repeat. Her stories make you want to feel what the characters feel even if their experience is not one that it totally familiar. This is Love Jones remixed. This is a love story. Kinda. It’s complicated.
P.S. I soooo want Devin’s story. You’ve been teasing us long enough—and Harper!
I was swept away by this story immediately as it picked up where Young, Rich and Black left off. I was so emotionally involved with these characters. I have to admit— I usually am when it’s one of Nia Forrester books. With any of Nia’s stories ..you want to read them ..get to know the characters ..let some time pass ..think about yourself in their shoes ..pick it back up ..read more ..repeat. Her stories make you want to feel what the characters feel even if their experience is not one that it totally familiar. This is Love Jones remixed. This is a love story. Kinda. It’s complicated.
P.S. I soooo want Devin’s story. You’ve been teasing us long enough—and Harper!
May 14, 2022
Chris Scaife's son!!!Afterwards
💕Did a reread and stand by my initial 4 star rating. I’m reminded why I love this author’s style and how much I respect her use of the English language and her knowledge of all things relevant to the worlds she builds. Kudos. 🙇♀️
💕This one is about Deuce and his heroine Zora (Zee).
We know this gorgeous couple from a previous book where they’re college sweethearts. Inseparable and obsessed with each other.
💔In the beginning:
Him:
“I swear, I will ride for you ‘til the wheels come off, Zee. But when it comes to me … that just ain’t how you roll.”
❤️🩹During:
Him and her:
“…all I need to know is that it’s you and me, rollin’ …”
“Till the wheels fall off,” Zora finished for him.
Deuce grinned. “Nah. That phrase …” He shook his head. “That ain’t for you.”
“What do you mean?” Zora pulled back pretending to be offended. “I said it right. Didn’t I?”
Grimacing, Deuce shook his head. “The inflection was a little janky. You said it like the un-cool Social Studies teacher who tries to use slang to get through to her students.”
❤️In the end:
Her and him:
“Yes. To all of that. It’s you and me till the …”
Deuce came back to the bed. He came close enough that she could see his face again. He was smiling….
“Nah,” he said, before he kissed her. “These wheels ain’t comin’ off.”
The author knows her stuff and how to execute it. All showing and no telling. Again, kudos.
📚The world of music/Hollywood and everything it entails, from corporate to club life. The wheeling and dealing, networking and shmoozing, beauty and brains; hangers-on and lifelong friendships
📚Muslim culture, black America, up and coming professionals in the industry, sickness and death, parental love and expectations, broken homes, healing love, men with mommy issues and girlfriends who are “a dime a dozen”.
📚I adore how the author subtlety, during moments of jest and seriousness, depending on the situation, has her Hxh roll into the authentic African American vernacular that’s so unique; how her other characters’, whose vocabulary is solely this, communicate. Its true and real and I can almost hearthem speak.
🖤it’s so much more than a heroine who ran and has now returned.
🖤More than just a hero who has a girlfriend he’s cheating on.
🖤It’s about sex and love, music and money, art and perception, religion sans the preaching to the reader. Intellectualism. Success. Facing your failures. Healing and acceptance. Family. Deep bonds and intense connections.
❤️She’s a 22 year old arty intellectual with a firm Muslim background. She’s searching for her individuality while straddling the line between her family’s faith and her place in the western world. I thought she fit in well in both worlds. She’s comfortable with the excessive wealth of the rich and famous and loves her simple but strong family.
Even during her most vulnerable times I never once felt she was weak or less than.
His mother, who isn’t fond of her at all, says this about her:
“You’re like one o’ them chicks. Who always seem to have it together. Always know where you’re headed. And why. The ones who … get everything... “You’re way more beautiful than Regan (the ow). Regans come a dime a dozen in this world. I should know. I was just like her. Pretty and with plenty of hustle. But not … not like you. Not … smart.”
❤️He’s the 23 yr old son and heir of the founder of “one of the most successful privately-held music empires in the country”. You’d never say he’s "spoiled and over privileged" because he’s genuinely a good guy.
His almost tangible love for her is so heartwarming and thrilling at the same time. He’s growth as a person is wonderful to see. He literally becomes more “self possessed” and “powerful” right there on page. He becomes a sexy confident man who has people to see and places to be.
🎵That’s when their relationship evolves and renews and even though they are familiar with each other there’s a newness to them and it’s gorgeous to see!
🙄The ow
-Is really just there to show:
- How much of a bond he still has with the heroine despite her leaving him.
- How he tried to move on but it wasn’t happening.
- That he sort of fell into a relationship with the ow but she was obviously more committed to him than he was to her.
- He stayed with her when she needed him because that’s the person he is and that’s the person Zee loves
- How, when’s the time is right, he chooses the h over the ow
The om
- one or 2 dates and nothing much comes of it although she is attracted to him
⚠️The ending was too abrupt for me but the next book features their wedding (Black America's Wedding of the Decade) and I'm about to re-read it just to catch up with them again
❗️Not 5 star because
- he cheats on his gf, who, granted, is irritating and knows she’s not it for it him, but still deserves exclusivity.
- he sleeps with both women a few times - I should’ve expected it but I didn’t.
NTS: neaten review, esp tenses
💕Did a reread and stand by my initial 4 star rating. I’m reminded why I love this author’s style and how much I respect her use of the English language and her knowledge of all things relevant to the worlds she builds. Kudos. 🙇♀️
💕This one is about Deuce and his heroine Zora (Zee).
We know this gorgeous couple from a previous book where they’re college sweethearts. Inseparable and obsessed with each other.
💔In the beginning:
Him:
“I swear, I will ride for you ‘til the wheels come off, Zee. But when it comes to me … that just ain’t how you roll.”
❤️🩹During:
Him and her:
“…all I need to know is that it’s you and me, rollin’ …”
“Till the wheels fall off,” Zora finished for him.
Deuce grinned. “Nah. That phrase …” He shook his head. “That ain’t for you.”
“What do you mean?” Zora pulled back pretending to be offended. “I said it right. Didn’t I?”
Grimacing, Deuce shook his head. “The inflection was a little janky. You said it like the un-cool Social Studies teacher who tries to use slang to get through to her students.”
❤️In the end:
Her and him:
“Yes. To all of that. It’s you and me till the …”
Deuce came back to the bed. He came close enough that she could see his face again. He was smiling….
“Nah,” he said, before he kissed her. “These wheels ain’t comin’ off.”
The author knows her stuff and how to execute it. All showing and no telling. Again, kudos.
📚The world of music/Hollywood and everything it entails, from corporate to club life. The wheeling and dealing, networking and shmoozing, beauty and brains; hangers-on and lifelong friendships
📚Muslim culture, black America, up and coming professionals in the industry, sickness and death, parental love and expectations, broken homes, healing love, men with mommy issues and girlfriends who are “a dime a dozen”.
📚I adore how the author subtlety, during moments of jest and seriousness, depending on the situation, has her Hxh roll into the authentic African American vernacular that’s so unique; how her other characters’, whose vocabulary is solely this, communicate. Its true and real and I can almost hearthem speak.
🖤it’s so much more than a heroine who ran and has now returned.
🖤More than just a hero who has a girlfriend he’s cheating on.
🖤It’s about sex and love, music and money, art and perception, religion sans the preaching to the reader. Intellectualism. Success. Facing your failures. Healing and acceptance. Family. Deep bonds and intense connections.
❤️She’s a 22 year old arty intellectual with a firm Muslim background. She’s searching for her individuality while straddling the line between her family’s faith and her place in the western world. I thought she fit in well in both worlds. She’s comfortable with the excessive wealth of the rich and famous and loves her simple but strong family.
Even during her most vulnerable times I never once felt she was weak or less than.
His mother, who isn’t fond of her at all, says this about her:
“You’re like one o’ them chicks. Who always seem to have it together. Always know where you’re headed. And why. The ones who … get everything... “You’re way more beautiful than Regan (the ow). Regans come a dime a dozen in this world. I should know. I was just like her. Pretty and with plenty of hustle. But not … not like you. Not … smart.”
❤️He’s the 23 yr old son and heir of the founder of “one of the most successful privately-held music empires in the country”. You’d never say he’s "spoiled and over privileged" because he’s genuinely a good guy.
His almost tangible love for her is so heartwarming and thrilling at the same time. He’s growth as a person is wonderful to see. He literally becomes more “self possessed” and “powerful” right there on page. He becomes a sexy confident man who has people to see and places to be.
🎵That’s when their relationship evolves and renews and even though they are familiar with each other there’s a newness to them and it’s gorgeous to see!
🙄The ow
-Is really just there to show:
- How much of a bond he still has with the heroine despite her leaving him.
- How he tried to move on but it wasn’t happening.
- That he sort of fell into a relationship with the ow but she was obviously more committed to him than he was to her.
- He stayed with her when she needed him because that’s the person he is and that’s the person Zee loves
- How, when’s the time is right, he chooses the h over the ow
The om
- one or 2 dates and nothing much comes of it although she is attracted to him
⚠️The ending was too abrupt for me but the next book features their wedding (Black America's Wedding of the Decade) and I'm about to re-read it just to catch up with them again
❗️Not 5 star because
- he cheats on his gf, who, granted, is irritating and knows she’s not it for it him, but still deserves exclusivity.
- he sleeps with both women a few times - I should’ve expected it but I didn’t.
NTS: neaten review, esp tenses
avoid
May 13, 2022H sleeps with ow and h at the same time.
April 28, 2019
The mantle has passed...
My first and longest standing book crush has been Chris Scaife, Sr., this book however has sealed it for me, the mantle has passed and young Duece is “that man!” I am not a big fan of the new adult/young adult genre but the poise and grace of Duece and (sometimes) Zora (lol) transcends age and experience. This book is stellar because it’s the offshoot of a stellar series (Afterwards) with stellar characters penned by a stellar author.
I won’t summarize the book but suffice it to say that I felt this book in my core—every heartfelt emotion from identity crisis, parental approval, religious freedom/bondage, fear, control, terminal illness—my gosh, by the final chapter I was emotionally wrought.
When I finished the book, ‘Afterwards’, a few years back; I knew it was a game changer. I knew that, the book was a shift and now some time later, there has been another shift that has left an indelible mark and impression upon the readers and although there may not be a rhyme or reason, there is a Deuce and Zora, and theirs is a love story for the ages! From Chris and Robyn to Deuce and Zora—the mantle has passed ❤️
My first and longest standing book crush has been Chris Scaife, Sr., this book however has sealed it for me, the mantle has passed and young Duece is “that man!” I am not a big fan of the new adult/young adult genre but the poise and grace of Duece and (sometimes) Zora (lol) transcends age and experience. This book is stellar because it’s the offshoot of a stellar series (Afterwards) with stellar characters penned by a stellar author.
I won’t summarize the book but suffice it to say that I felt this book in my core—every heartfelt emotion from identity crisis, parental approval, religious freedom/bondage, fear, control, terminal illness—my gosh, by the final chapter I was emotionally wrought.
When I finished the book, ‘Afterwards’, a few years back; I knew it was a game changer. I knew that, the book was a shift and now some time later, there has been another shift that has left an indelible mark and impression upon the readers and although there may not be a rhyme or reason, there is a Deuce and Zora, and theirs is a love story for the ages! From Chris and Robyn to Deuce and Zora—the mantle has passed ❤️
Read
January 6, 2026Nia Forrester raised a man!
I’ve been watching Duce grown up from a teenager, to a college student, and now a full grown man and I love him. Yes this was Zora’s story too , but I almost felt he needed to grow into the person or man she needed . Zora was always more emotionally mature than Duce , but life and love made him grow up and reading this book made me proud to sit on the sidelines and watch it happen. There’s so much that happens in this book but the very best part, the very right part was watching Duce become a man and Zora seeing him.
I’ve been watching Duce grown up from a teenager, to a college student, and now a full grown man and I love him. Yes this was Zora’s story too , but I almost felt he needed to grow into the person or man she needed . Zora was always more emotionally mature than Duce , but life and love made him grow up and reading this book made me proud to sit on the sidelines and watch it happen. There’s so much that happens in this book but the very best part, the very right part was watching Duce become a man and Zora seeing him.
December 25, 2024
Update: visuals - https://www.instagram.com/p/CoV-Fb6u6...
Deuce and Zora... such a beautiful couple. So, I really liked this book. I would recommend reading Young, Rich, and Black first or you may not be as vested in the story. The only reason I didn't give it 5 stars is because it didn't pull me in like Snowflake, but it was an awesome book none-the-less. I am a Christian and really don't know many details about the Muslim faith or the lifestyle, so it was very interesting to see Zora's perspective even as it pertains to how that faith plays into a relationship with someone of a different faith. I just love how Nia Forrester tells a story and the way she weaves in major topics of discussion as well. Her characters are always well-developed, and you'll take on such an interest with the side characters as well. This is 4.5 stars for me, and I definitely recommend it
Deuce and Zora... such a beautiful couple. So, I really liked this book. I would recommend reading Young, Rich, and Black first or you may not be as vested in the story. The only reason I didn't give it 5 stars is because it didn't pull me in like Snowflake, but it was an awesome book none-the-less. I am a Christian and really don't know many details about the Muslim faith or the lifestyle, so it was very interesting to see Zora's perspective even as it pertains to how that faith plays into a relationship with someone of a different faith. I just love how Nia Forrester tells a story and the way she weaves in major topics of discussion as well. Her characters are always well-developed, and you'll take on such an interest with the side characters as well. This is 4.5 stars for me, and I definitely recommend it
February 4, 2021
Uggggggh Nia did it again! The intimacy between zora and deuce is POWERFUL, and the way in which Nia captured it, wheeled me in and able to hold me, moved me entirely.
That sometimes insanely blurred line between love and lust? Keeping your own identity in relationship, sometimes even losing it while being in that bubble? Yeah we all have gone through it.
Nia was able to take us on a journey of struggle a lot of black women go through, navigating love and life through our complex, multiple intersectionalities, balancing that with what people expect of us, whether it’s our partner, family or friends.
Top 5 couple
That sometimes insanely blurred line between love and lust? Keeping your own identity in relationship, sometimes even losing it while being in that bubble? Yeah we all have gone through it.
Nia was able to take us on a journey of struggle a lot of black women go through, navigating love and life through our complex, multiple intersectionalities, balancing that with what people expect of us, whether it’s our partner, family or friends.
Top 5 couple
May 2, 2019
When I finished this book, I said to myself, Wow that was extremely good and wonderfully layered. Nia Forrester is one of the reasons I am still reading romance. Her books are character driven wonders that always have me interested and invested in the couple's happy every after. Considering that I generally do not like young adult/new adult novels irregardless of genre, the fact that I loved Zora and Deuce is a testament to Nia's writing skills and story crafting abilities. Her characters and their struggle to find love not only feel read but are vivid.
Rhyme and Reason is a continuation of probably my favorite Nia Forrester book Young, Rich, and Black which I reread about five times after I finished reading it the first time. In this book we learn that the happily ever after at the closing of that first book became not so happy after graduation lead Zora and Deuce in different directions. However, it is slowly revealed what happened to these two people who were so in love and the cultural differences that they have to overcome to be together again despite loving each other. I loved the reading of this book to such an extent that I quite happily carried around my Kindle with me to dinner at a restaurant with family and tried to sneak reading it at the table I was so engrossed in Zora and Deuce's story. As always, Nia's characters have a depth and texture that does not need grand plot devices to keep the reader interested. Such a wonderful story.
Rhyme and Reason is a continuation of probably my favorite Nia Forrester book Young, Rich, and Black which I reread about five times after I finished reading it the first time. In this book we learn that the happily ever after at the closing of that first book became not so happy after graduation lead Zora and Deuce in different directions. However, it is slowly revealed what happened to these two people who were so in love and the cultural differences that they have to overcome to be together again despite loving each other. I loved the reading of this book to such an extent that I quite happily carried around my Kindle with me to dinner at a restaurant with family and tried to sneak reading it at the table I was so engrossed in Zora and Deuce's story. As always, Nia's characters have a depth and texture that does not need grand plot devices to keep the reader interested. Such a wonderful story.
April 20, 2019
Grown folks stuff💙
This book was full of Zora and Duece getting to the solid place in their relationship that makes it lasting, formidable, and unmoving. This entire book showed us how relationships evolve and I mean every type of relationship. Deuce, his mother, and father-Zora and her father, Duece and Kal-Kal and Asha- and most of all Duece and Zora.
I was never a huge Chris Scaife fan, but Lord in this book this man made me respect him! Duece showed us that he’s truly a honorable person and his parents got really lucky that he turned out the way he did. Zora, my darling Zora, was soooo flawed but she definitely grew up. Kal and Asha💞....gosh I love them.
I stayed up all night to take this ride with these characters and I’d do it again in a heartbeat. That’s the mark of a great author, she has me not willing to go to sleep on them. Bravo 👏🏾This is definitely a 5 star ⭐️ read!
This book was full of Zora and Duece getting to the solid place in their relationship that makes it lasting, formidable, and unmoving. This entire book showed us how relationships evolve and I mean every type of relationship. Deuce, his mother, and father-Zora and her father, Duece and Kal-Kal and Asha- and most of all Duece and Zora.
I was never a huge Chris Scaife fan, but Lord in this book this man made me respect him! Duece showed us that he’s truly a honorable person and his parents got really lucky that he turned out the way he did. Zora, my darling Zora, was soooo flawed but she definitely grew up. Kal and Asha💞....gosh I love them.
I stayed up all night to take this ride with these characters and I’d do it again in a heartbeat. That’s the mark of a great author, she has me not willing to go to sleep on them. Bravo 👏🏾This is definitely a 5 star ⭐️ read!
April 21, 2019
In my feelings and awed!
I knew Deuce would become the man he was destined to be as an adult. It was so nice to see his relationship with his father and the example he set with Cheryl. His relationship with his mother was heartfelt love. Even though his mother didn't like Zoe, it was nice they finally made peace with one another. Zoe kept wanting to run, but she knew deep down, staying was what her heart needed from her, what Chris needed. He showed her one thousand times how much he loved her, and it was about time she listened. I can't recall his fill in girls name because she wasn't important. Kal and Asha getting a nice part in this story was another treat. The author showed us why her storyline resonates with readers. She takes us there and back with a smoothness. I am awed with the intricate storytelling and the message delivery by this author. Bravo!
I knew Deuce would become the man he was destined to be as an adult. It was so nice to see his relationship with his father and the example he set with Cheryl. His relationship with his mother was heartfelt love. Even though his mother didn't like Zoe, it was nice they finally made peace with one another. Zoe kept wanting to run, but she knew deep down, staying was what her heart needed from her, what Chris needed. He showed her one thousand times how much he loved her, and it was about time she listened. I can't recall his fill in girls name because she wasn't important. Kal and Asha getting a nice part in this story was another treat. The author showed us why her storyline resonates with readers. She takes us there and back with a smoothness. I am awed with the intricate storytelling and the message delivery by this author. Bravo!
April 30, 2019
Good continuation
This was a good continuation of Deuce and Zora's love story. Through all of their up's and downs the love they had for each other was always clear. They both made mistakes, but I feel like some reviewers were more critical of Zora, yes she could be frustrating at times, but Deuce frustrated me too. I felt he kept Regan around way longer than he should have. This just showed how young, and at times how immature they both could be.
This is why I love how Nia tells a story. Her characters feel real, warts and all. I loved seeing Kal, Ash, and Chris Sr in this book, my heart broke for Sheryl. I hope in future books we will see how this couple made out, but I know if it's up to Deuce, they will ride for each other forever, and the wheels will never fall off lol. Great job Nia as usual.
This was a good continuation of Deuce and Zora's love story. Through all of their up's and downs the love they had for each other was always clear. They both made mistakes, but I feel like some reviewers were more critical of Zora, yes she could be frustrating at times, but Deuce frustrated me too. I felt he kept Regan around way longer than he should have. This just showed how young, and at times how immature they both could be.
This is why I love how Nia tells a story. Her characters feel real, warts and all. I loved seeing Kal, Ash, and Chris Sr in this book, my heart broke for Sheryl. I hope in future books we will see how this couple made out, but I know if it's up to Deuce, they will ride for each other forever, and the wheels will never fall off lol. Great job Nia as usual.
April 24, 2019
I love Deuce and Zora! I think I’ve finally accepted that Deuce is an adult and not the teenager we first met. Life and love can be complicated, and once again Nia captured this truth. This story is about love, family, and friendship. Well done, Nia Forrester.
April 22, 2019
Wow
This book took to my hear strings. The love that is sprinkled all over this book. The fear of the unthinkable end, not being able to deal with it. The love of others and knowing you will be ok. The book packed a punch. I cried, laugh, was shocked and awe. Great book @ Nia. Always Hope.
This book took to my hear strings. The love that is sprinkled all over this book. The fear of the unthinkable end, not being able to deal with it. The love of others and knowing you will be ok. The book packed a punch. I cried, laugh, was shocked and awe. Great book @ Nia. Always Hope.
April 21, 2019
Deuce♥️
I adore Deuce! He was so vulnerable with his parents and their issues yet he came out of his childhood resilient, humble, and loving. He was a generous and loving friend. What he did for Kal and then Asif just because of his connection to Zee was amazing. Watching him get hazed by Jamal was funny but he handled it like a man. I loved seeing him interact with his father. Just knowing from the past books how Chris Scaif sucked as a father before especially when Deuce was little and seeing him guide him, make time for him and love Deuce presently was a love story in and of itself! Seeing his mom and dad interact the way they did in the end was closure for all the bad memories of them fighting in his childhood. Now for the main attraction😊 The love story between Zora and Deuce man I liked them back in college and was shocked that they broke up. The were disgustingly sweet last time we read about them. So just like Deuce I felt like they needed to get back on track with marriage and babies. It seemed absurd that Kal and Asha would pass them by. But I understood Zee’s cultural dilemma and having gone through law school as a newly wed myself I also understood their individual interests as they grow their relationship. The love was there and never left! So many emotions in this one! Absolutely fantastic!
I adore Deuce! He was so vulnerable with his parents and their issues yet he came out of his childhood resilient, humble, and loving. He was a generous and loving friend. What he did for Kal and then Asif just because of his connection to Zee was amazing. Watching him get hazed by Jamal was funny but he handled it like a man. I loved seeing him interact with his father. Just knowing from the past books how Chris Scaif sucked as a father before especially when Deuce was little and seeing him guide him, make time for him and love Deuce presently was a love story in and of itself! Seeing his mom and dad interact the way they did in the end was closure for all the bad memories of them fighting in his childhood. Now for the main attraction😊 The love story between Zora and Deuce man I liked them back in college and was shocked that they broke up. The were disgustingly sweet last time we read about them. So just like Deuce I felt like they needed to get back on track with marriage and babies. It seemed absurd that Kal and Asha would pass them by. But I understood Zee’s cultural dilemma and having gone through law school as a newly wed myself I also understood their individual interests as they grow their relationship. The love was there and never left! So many emotions in this one! Absolutely fantastic!
April 24, 2019
Upon first meeting Zora and Deuce in ‘Young, Rich & Black,’ they easily became one of my favorite—if not my absolute favorite—Nia Forrester couples.
Deuce was so much more than I anticipated he would be. He was earnest in his love for Zora, honest about the depth of his emotions for her, and so very proud and humbled to be her man. Zora was bold, brilliant, beautiful and prideful. In ‘Young, Rich, & Black,’ their love was new yet undoubtedly real...but could it last? Did it have the stuff of a rooted, longtime partnership?
Now Zora and Deuce are (kinda) grown. They are still young—only a year out of college—but life has changed them in completely unexpected ways. They are no longer together (*sheds tear*). There are other folks in both of their lives(*sheds more tears*). There’s really wonderful, unanticipated news that has them wondering what could have been, and there’s completely sobering news that forces them to reconsider what could be. In ‘Young, Rich, & Black,’ their relationship was so easy. In this novel, nothing could be further from the truth. They still love each other--that much isn't in question, but they need so much more than that.
Catching up with Zora and Deuce was...exhilarating. I smiled, I cried. Their story didn’t take me where I thought it would go, and I think the two of them would say the same. Deuce’s character development over the course of the two novels has been so incredible. He is so generous, so intentional, so steady. He is so different from the guy I thought he was and the guy I thought he would be. Zora too is different. In ‘Young, Rich, & Black,’ so much of Zora’s personality was tied to her activism. Here, we see her without pretensions. She is still a headstrong, playful, passionate dreamer, but she is also a little insecure, a lot uncertain, feeling as though she lacks direction—going through all the motions of instability that one’s early 20s bring. In this novel, Zora engages in a lot of inner work and reflection. She's struggling to figure out who she is and who she wants to be. Zora and Deuce’s relationship had the same vibe as before but a completely different dynamic.
This novel is a *DEFINITE* must read. I recommend it without reservation. I read it in a single sitting, and I can’t wait to read it again. I'm always in awe of Nia Forrester’s gift and grateful that she shares her writing with us <3
Deuce was so much more than I anticipated he would be. He was earnest in his love for Zora, honest about the depth of his emotions for her, and so very proud and humbled to be her man. Zora was bold, brilliant, beautiful and prideful. In ‘Young, Rich, & Black,’ their love was new yet undoubtedly real...but could it last? Did it have the stuff of a rooted, longtime partnership?
Now Zora and Deuce are (kinda) grown. They are still young—only a year out of college—but life has changed them in completely unexpected ways. They are no longer together (*sheds tear*). There are other folks in both of their lives(*sheds more tears*). There’s really wonderful, unanticipated news that has them wondering what could have been, and there’s completely sobering news that forces them to reconsider what could be. In ‘Young, Rich, & Black,’ their relationship was so easy. In this novel, nothing could be further from the truth. They still love each other--that much isn't in question, but they need so much more than that.
Catching up with Zora and Deuce was...exhilarating. I smiled, I cried. Their story didn’t take me where I thought it would go, and I think the two of them would say the same. Deuce’s character development over the course of the two novels has been so incredible. He is so generous, so intentional, so steady. He is so different from the guy I thought he was and the guy I thought he would be. Zora too is different. In ‘Young, Rich, & Black,’ so much of Zora’s personality was tied to her activism. Here, we see her without pretensions. She is still a headstrong, playful, passionate dreamer, but she is also a little insecure, a lot uncertain, feeling as though she lacks direction—going through all the motions of instability that one’s early 20s bring. In this novel, Zora engages in a lot of inner work and reflection. She's struggling to figure out who she is and who she wants to be. Zora and Deuce’s relationship had the same vibe as before but a completely different dynamic.
This novel is a *DEFINITE* must read. I recommend it without reservation. I read it in a single sitting, and I can’t wait to read it again. I'm always in awe of Nia Forrester’s gift and grateful that she shares her writing with us <3
December 13, 2020
I started this book in August of 2019 and stepped away from finishing it for over a year because it just seemed a little too dragged out for my liking. In my honest opinion, this book didn’t need to be 400+ pages long. I have read books that deservingly needed to be over 400 pages long (and had storylines that were so gripping that I wished they were longer than those 400+ pages), but this book wasn’t one of them. I liked the growth in Deuce that was illustrated in this book and I appreciate the effort to lay out the complex feelings of religious differences and how they could possibly impact a relationship as well as the internal battle Zora had with following her heart and pleasing her family. But the story wasn’t great enough to make me never want to put the book down until I finished it; never great enough to tug at my heartstrings; never pulled me into the story to where I felt like I had an emotional investment in the characters and their stories. These are some of the elements I look for in fiction books and I felt none of it with this book. Nia’s first book, Commitment, gave me all of the aforementioned and more and I loved that book and is the reason why I wanted to read more of her books. But I have to say I have been left feeling more underwhelmed than anything else with most of the books I have read so far and am hesitant to read any more. Maybe if some of these stories weren’t unnecessarily dragged out, they would hold my attention a little better.
April 25, 2019
Five-star read! I liked Deuce and Zora in Young, Rich & Black but they solidified their place in my heart with Rhyme & Reason. The blurb is spot on and this definitely isn't a college romance. They've evolved and they're grown with grown-up problems and emotions that threaten to knock them off of their feet on more than one occasion. Amidst the peaks and valleys they must navigate, their love is the one thing they are sure of. There are learning curves but these two prove just how adaptable and committed they are.
April 28, 2019
Loved it
Loved this story. Great catching up with Deuce and Zora and watching them grow up. Would love to read more on them.
Loved this story. Great catching up with Deuce and Zora and watching them grow up. Would love to read more on them.
June 9, 2023
I need more!
Phew 🥹 Favourite book in the entire series.
So many emotions. This might even be my favourite Nia Forrester book.
Phew 🥹 Favourite book in the entire series.
So many emotions. This might even be my favourite Nia Forrester book.
January 12, 2020
When I tell you author Nia Forrester has a complete handle and respect for writing Black Love, it is the absolute truth!!!!
We open with Deuce at a Penn State Alumni get together, nothing out of the unusual, right? Until the hostess states that Zora will be there cue the tires screeching and the fading to black where the spotlight shines on Deuce as he looks as if he has been punched in the gut. What we quickly discover is that Zora and Deuce broke up almost a year ago, so many of us are wondering how did we get here????
Zora walks in looking stunning and sees Deuce, I don't know what kind of reception she was imagining but it wasn't what she expected. And as the story progresses we find that it was Zora who ended the relationship which the reasons why did not begin to be exposed until we get further along into their story.
Love is beautiful but sometimes it can be complicated and as we read Deuce and Zora's story, we also discover that it is not as simple as we would love for it to be. Love has ups and downs, twists and turns, forward and backward, left and right. It is rarely smooth sailing down the open road with no traffic in front or behind us. Love takes time, figuring itself out for the two people in a relationship.
Deuce had moved on with another woman but she was not who he wanted. Zora was trying to move on but the truth of it all was that Deuce was it for her but how will she get him back and how does she convey what really happened with her to end their relationship the way she did. The question is will it be enough for Deuce to want to go back out on a limb for her and wear his heart on his sleeve again for her?
There is death in this book, there is also reconciliation, forgiveness and starting over.
It was great to see Kal and Asha (Snowflake), I just love them too. Kal's parents make an appearance and Asha's best friend Javier aka Javi.
This was a highly emotional read that will take you through it. You will experience every visceral emotion that will cause you to just sigh, talk to the characters, shake your head and your fist and cry. It had everything you would expect for an incredible story.
Well Until My Next Review...Ciao!
We open with Deuce at a Penn State Alumni get together, nothing out of the unusual, right? Until the hostess states that Zora will be there cue the tires screeching and the fading to black where the spotlight shines on Deuce as he looks as if he has been punched in the gut. What we quickly discover is that Zora and Deuce broke up almost a year ago, so many of us are wondering how did we get here????
Zora walks in looking stunning and sees Deuce, I don't know what kind of reception she was imagining but it wasn't what she expected. And as the story progresses we find that it was Zora who ended the relationship which the reasons why did not begin to be exposed until we get further along into their story.
Love is beautiful but sometimes it can be complicated and as we read Deuce and Zora's story, we also discover that it is not as simple as we would love for it to be. Love has ups and downs, twists and turns, forward and backward, left and right. It is rarely smooth sailing down the open road with no traffic in front or behind us. Love takes time, figuring itself out for the two people in a relationship.
Deuce had moved on with another woman but she was not who he wanted. Zora was trying to move on but the truth of it all was that Deuce was it for her but how will she get him back and how does she convey what really happened with her to end their relationship the way she did. The question is will it be enough for Deuce to want to go back out on a limb for her and wear his heart on his sleeve again for her?
There is death in this book, there is also reconciliation, forgiveness and starting over.
It was great to see Kal and Asha (Snowflake), I just love them too. Kal's parents make an appearance and Asha's best friend Javier aka Javi.
This was a highly emotional read that will take you through it. You will experience every visceral emotion that will cause you to just sigh, talk to the characters, shake your head and your fist and cry. It had everything you would expect for an incredible story.
Well Until My Next Review...Ciao!
April 24, 2019
An undeniably beautiful story!
I would have read this book in one sitting if I didn’t have to deal with pesky things like work and life. I didn’t want to put it down but also didn’t want it to end.
There were so many levels to this story. Only a truly great story teller can craft a something with so much depth.
I am often skeptical of reading YA novels. Being a forty something, I only trust certain authors to get it right. Nia Forrester gets it right every time. The characters are not just young and unfazed. They’re intelligent, striving to make something of themselves, and have been or are going through some things that many older adults could only imagine. Yet with all that real world experience they are still trying to figure out life. So not only are we reading love stories, we’re watching these young people try to get themselves together in all aspects of their lives.
I love Deuce’s love for Zora. Never unsure, never really wavering. He was pretty much uncertain about everything else in his life but he knew for sure that Zora was the beginning and end for him.
I sometimes found myself getting frustrated with Zora but ultimately I understood her hesitation about moving too far too fast.
It was great catching up with Kaleem and Asha and seeing how far their lives have progressed together.
But more shocking of all was seeing Chris Sr.’s role in everything. Not to give the story away, but I cannot say enough about how refreshing it was to see the way he stepped up in the situation that was presented. Out of all the male leads in Nia’s books I still find it kind of unbelievable that Chris Scaife is my favorite. I didn’t like him at all when he was first introduced in “Commitment” and I never thought I would like him, but I attribute my change of heart to the master story teller.
This is another in a long line of must-reads by this author. You will fall in love with these characters all over again.
I would have read this book in one sitting if I didn’t have to deal with pesky things like work and life. I didn’t want to put it down but also didn’t want it to end.
There were so many levels to this story. Only a truly great story teller can craft a something with so much depth.
I am often skeptical of reading YA novels. Being a forty something, I only trust certain authors to get it right. Nia Forrester gets it right every time. The characters are not just young and unfazed. They’re intelligent, striving to make something of themselves, and have been or are going through some things that many older adults could only imagine. Yet with all that real world experience they are still trying to figure out life. So not only are we reading love stories, we’re watching these young people try to get themselves together in all aspects of their lives.
I love Deuce’s love for Zora. Never unsure, never really wavering. He was pretty much uncertain about everything else in his life but he knew for sure that Zora was the beginning and end for him.
I sometimes found myself getting frustrated with Zora but ultimately I understood her hesitation about moving too far too fast.
It was great catching up with Kaleem and Asha and seeing how far their lives have progressed together.
But more shocking of all was seeing Chris Sr.’s role in everything. Not to give the story away, but I cannot say enough about how refreshing it was to see the way he stepped up in the situation that was presented. Out of all the male leads in Nia’s books I still find it kind of unbelievable that Chris Scaife is my favorite. I didn’t like him at all when he was first introduced in “Commitment” and I never thought I would like him, but I attribute my change of heart to the master story teller.
This is another in a long line of must-reads by this author. You will fall in love with these characters all over again.
June 3, 2019
Beautiful Ending ❤️
I’m not going to lie I was beginning to get extremely nervous for Deuce and Zora. I really love the way that Nia F. not only developed their characters but also their relationship with each other. Seeing them grow into young adults and have to start really asking themselves those tough questions as far as career, love, and where does religion fall in all of that. I feel like when we’re young it’s hard to see how you’re sometimes mishandling relationships or situations and how much of a major role that communication plays in all of that. One of their biggest problems in the beginning I feel like was the stuff that really mattered they never talked about. They just assumed and figured eventually it would be sorted out. Like when Zora ended their relationship but basically never even told him why. Also when he finally expressed to her that he would do anything for her but he feels like she fights for everything and everyone but never for him or “them.” Zora’s journey in becoming her own woman and finding her own way was so beautiful and inspiring. It’s hard to be faced with expectations on how your life should be and how you should live and never really
have a chance to figure these things out for yourself. So even though I don’t think they should’ve ever broken up I still feel like it was meant to be and they both needed that time to grow. Absolutely loved this story 😩❤️
I’m not going to lie I was beginning to get extremely nervous for Deuce and Zora. I really love the way that Nia F. not only developed their characters but also their relationship with each other. Seeing them grow into young adults and have to start really asking themselves those tough questions as far as career, love, and where does religion fall in all of that. I feel like when we’re young it’s hard to see how you’re sometimes mishandling relationships or situations and how much of a major role that communication plays in all of that. One of their biggest problems in the beginning I feel like was the stuff that really mattered they never talked about. They just assumed and figured eventually it would be sorted out. Like when Zora ended their relationship but basically never even told him why. Also when he finally expressed to her that he would do anything for her but he feels like she fights for everything and everyone but never for him or “them.” Zora’s journey in becoming her own woman and finding her own way was so beautiful and inspiring. It’s hard to be faced with expectations on how your life should be and how you should live and never really
have a chance to figure these things out for yourself. So even though I don’t think they should’ve ever broken up I still feel like it was meant to be and they both needed that time to grow. Absolutely loved this story 😩❤️
April 24, 2019
Totally Amazing
Nia took her writing to another stratosphere with this book. I went through so many emotions while reading this story, laughter, sadness, happiness, a little disappointment and some anger. Deuce's growth from young man to grown man was so awesome. It was good to see Zora come to terms with her religion, her culture , her relationship with her dad and her love for Duece and the state of their relationship. The two Chris Scaife's interaction was great. Loved that CS Sr. was there for his son and ex during her illness and that there was no crazy jealosness from St's wife Robyn. Kal and Ash💜💜💜. Kal letting go of his pride and allowing Duece to be his sponsor for his Olympic training after the announcement of Ash's pregnancy total growth to GROWN MAN status. Nia I so loved this book from the first word to the last. 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ all the way.
Nia took her writing to another stratosphere with this book. I went through so many emotions while reading this story, laughter, sadness, happiness, a little disappointment and some anger. Deuce's growth from young man to grown man was so awesome. It was good to see Zora come to terms with her religion, her culture , her relationship with her dad and her love for Duece and the state of their relationship. The two Chris Scaife's interaction was great. Loved that CS Sr. was there for his son and ex during her illness and that there was no crazy jealosness from St's wife Robyn. Kal and Ash💜💜💜. Kal letting go of his pride and allowing Duece to be his sponsor for his Olympic training after the announcement of Ash's pregnancy total growth to GROWN MAN status. Nia I so loved this book from the first word to the last. 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ all the way.
April 25, 2019
Rhyme and Reason is truth. Take away the wealth and it could be the story of young lovers. Period. This I KNOW. But it's more than that, its truth. It's how people break up and make up and mess up, while still in love. That always touches me in Nia Forrester books, she does not allow perfection in her characters. They can be in love and still feel attractions... even give in to them. Yea. But this book is also family, loss, struggles and reality. There is love... faith, compromise. Also, more importantly Deuce and Kal are what I know Black Men, young black men ARE in 2019. And that's so damn GOOD. Thank you Nia, for that we LOVE you as an artist. There is so much I could say but all I can say is Rhyme and Reason is #Truth abd that's EVERYthing. #Cillasbookmaniacs
April 21, 2019
The combination of Chris & Chris / Deuce & Zee is an amazing & thrilling ride!
This series will change your life! We all experienced his dad ' s evolution and now the young beautiful couple from Young, Black & Rich grow up together and decide their future. We watch as this humbled Prince of a guy figures out some hard lessons in life and emerges as a "beast" of a man under his father's tutelage... Zora matures right before our eyes also along with Kal & Ashe. As someone indicated: The only man in the book universe that comes close to Chris Scaife Sr is Chris Scaife Jr. ! #THISSERIESISEPIC!
This series will change your life! We all experienced his dad ' s evolution and now the young beautiful couple from Young, Black & Rich grow up together and decide their future. We watch as this humbled Prince of a guy figures out some hard lessons in life and emerges as a "beast" of a man under his father's tutelage... Zora matures right before our eyes also along with Kal & Ashe. As someone indicated: The only man in the book universe that comes close to Chris Scaife Sr is Chris Scaife Jr. ! #THISSERIESISEPIC!
August 29, 2021
My Favorite in the Afterwards Series
Lawd, I'm an emotional wreck (in a good way!) Deuce and Zora...whew! Zora got on my damn nerves half the time, but she was authentic in her bullshiggidy, and I genuinely liked her. Deuce has the soul of a man years older and wiser than his twenty-two, but I guess with parents like Chris and Sheryl, you have to grow up quick.
You will swoon; you will cuss; you will cry. The emotional high will remain indefinitely. We need a new story about my new favorite couple. Although you could technically read this as a standalone, I highly recommend that you read Young, Rich & Black first to get the back story on this couple's beginnings.
Lawd, I'm an emotional wreck (in a good way!) Deuce and Zora...whew! Zora got on my damn nerves half the time, but she was authentic in her bullshiggidy, and I genuinely liked her. Deuce has the soul of a man years older and wiser than his twenty-two, but I guess with parents like Chris and Sheryl, you have to grow up quick.
You will swoon; you will cuss; you will cry. The emotional high will remain indefinitely. We need a new story about my new favorite couple. Although you could technically read this as a standalone, I highly recommend that you read Young, Rich & Black first to get the back story on this couple's beginnings.
April 22, 2019
Dayum, Dayum, Dayum...
I’m not sure what exactly I was expecting from Rhyme & Reason, but I got it and so much more. I knew Nia would bring her ‘A’ game, even though there’s a time or two when she’s felt that she hasn’t. I have to admit the the snippets and teasers had me all over the place, but I’m thoroughly satisfied with everything that happened in the story. I never imagined that I would ever feel anything but anger or possibly contempt for Sheryl; however, Nia forced me to actually like her. I’ve always loved Duece and Zora’s union and can’t imagine either of them with anyone else, and yeah, Sheryl nailed it because this couple is just the younger version of Chris snd Robyn Scaife, Sr. I know there’s more to come from Duece, Zora, Kal, and Asha and I’m fiending for my fix of them. Great writing once again, Nia Forrester 🙌🏽🙌🏽🙌🏽🙌🏽🙌🏽
T
I’m not sure what exactly I was expecting from Rhyme & Reason, but I got it and so much more. I knew Nia would bring her ‘A’ game, even though there’s a time or two when she’s felt that she hasn’t. I have to admit the the snippets and teasers had me all over the place, but I’m thoroughly satisfied with everything that happened in the story. I never imagined that I would ever feel anything but anger or possibly contempt for Sheryl; however, Nia forced me to actually like her. I’ve always loved Duece and Zora’s union and can’t imagine either of them with anyone else, and yeah, Sheryl nailed it because this couple is just the younger version of Chris snd Robyn Scaife, Sr. I know there’s more to come from Duece, Zora, Kal, and Asha and I’m fiending for my fix of them. Great writing once again, Nia Forrester 🙌🏽🙌🏽🙌🏽🙌🏽🙌🏽
T
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